Sunderland’s most recent Restaurant Week proved a huge hit with diners – giving a boost of nearly £500,000 to the local economy.
The event, which takes place twice each year, saw more than 16,500 visitors tuck into the special deals available across the city centre and beyond this time around.
Following the success, organisers Sunderland BID – in conjunction with Sunderland City Council released the top 10 venues with the largest number of visitors.
In number one spot was The Botanist in Keel Square, followed by Rumour Has It at Green Terrace. Other restaurants on the list include Babaji, Asiana and Mumbai Silk – with The Scullery, Tarantinos Steak Seafood Restaurant, Signatures Italian, House of Zen and Goa also proving popular.
“Restaurant Week was a huge success, with a fair uplift in reservations and an increased flow of walk-ins too,” said Nathan Ramsay from The Botanist. “Running a £20 two-course menu was definitely the right choice for us. It allowed new and existing guests to visit our restaurant with the option of either ordering their favourite dishes or venturing out and trying something a bit different to the norm. Being part of Sunderland Restaurant Week is always something we sign up to as it helps to expand our customer base, along with being able to showcase the wonderful food we have to offer at great value.”
Sharon Appleby, chief executive of Sunderland BID, said: “Sunderland is really building a reputation as a food destination, thanks to the growth of restaurants in the city but also through events such as The Food and Drink Festival, our monthly Sunniside food markets, and of course Sunderland Restaurant Week. This week is so popular and provides a huge boost to the city’s food and drink outlets, not just for the duration of the event, but throughout the year.”
Cllr Beth Jones – cabinet member for communities, culture and tourism at Sunderland City Council – said: “It’s fantastic to see another successful Restaurant Week, with so many Sunderland businesses taking part. Our city is home to an incredible array of restaurants and cafés that our residents take great pride in. Supporting local businesses is essential, and Restaurant Week provides a perfect opportunity for people to discover new venues while enjoying special offers. I hope this event continues to be part of Sunderland’s calendar for years to come.”
