Andrew Wilkinson, much-admired long-time head chef at Artisan at the Biscuit Factory in Newcastle and a former North East Chef of the Year, is departing the city centre to head up the kitchen at a new riverside venture at Smith’s Dock in North Shields. His new role as executive chef at 31 The Quay is a major draw for the new 80-cover restaurant which, when it opens in June, will showcase local quality produce and riverside views. The owners have pledged to develop skills and training, pay apprentices a decent wage, and focus on employment for locals.
