SUNDERLAND CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF RESTAURANT WEEK…

ONE of the most successful and anticipated events on the Sunderland calendar is set to return, marking its tenth anniversary.

Sunderland Restaurant Week will once again run across the city from September 5 to 13, with scores of restaurants, cafes, pubs and bars signed up to take part.

And this time round the celebration of all things food related is particularly special, as it marks a decade since it was launched across the city.

Organisers Sunderland’s BIDs – which includes the City Centre BID and the Seafront BID – has seen the week expand beyond all recognition since its early days, reflecting the fast-growing food and drink scene in the city.

While each event has seen the addition of new eateries, the BID has also praised the “magnificent seven” – restaurants which participated on day one.

Italian favourites Angelo’s, Asiana, Gatsby, Port of Call, House of Zen, Marina Vista and Signatures were part of the very first event – and not only have been regularly taking part over the years but are all signed up for this September’s event.

Despite a small break during the pandemic, Sunderland Restaurant Week has continued with its twice-yearly events, serving up food to more than 193,000 diners – and bringing in more than £6m to the local economy.

More than 50 venues are taking part, offering deals ranging from £10, £15, £20 to £25, covering everything from breakfast to brunch, lunch and dinner.

A number of eateries are also part of the BIDs’ Healthy Plates initiative, where visitors can enjoy healthier options without compromising on taste or flavour.

Roberta Redecke, Head of Business Services at Sunderland’s BIDs, said Sunderland Restaurant Week – which is also supported by Nexus – is always an exciting time of year.

“It’s incredible to think that we have now notched up ten years,” she said.

“Not only has Sunderland Restaurant Week brought a real boost to the local economy, but it has also showcased to the region and beyond how many amazing places to eat and drink the city has to offer.

“It has made a huge difference to so many city businesses, bringing in customers at times when otherwise they might be quiet.

“And it has also created a great legacy – introducing diners to new experiences or reminding them about old favourites – which they have then continued to return to across the year.”

To take advantage of the offers available this time round, diners need to download a voucher from www.sunderlandbid.co.uk/restaurant-week