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INTERVIEW
In the seemingly endless acres of luscious green fields of the Northumberland countryside, Restaurant Hjem sits cosily to make each customer feel right at home. Pronounced ‘yem’, Hjem carries the meaning of ‘home’ in both Swedish and Northumbrian, the origin of its founders Chef Alex Nietosvuori and Ally Thompson.
The Michelin-starred restaurant is the gastronomic and lyrical composition of both Northumberland and Scandinavian values and techniques. The couple sources all produce and ingredients locally to bring the best of Northumberland to the table. Inventive, ambitious and gourmet, the 24-seat restaurant has an open kitchen as the humble backdrop to Chef Nietosvuori’s culinary mastery.
Here, Chef Alex Nietosvuori shares with us his top 5 Northumbria spots for a foodie.
1. 21 Hospitality Group
We love 21 Hospitality Group. Mostly located in Central Newcastle, they have a traditional English pub, serving excellent 'pub grub'. They also have a restaurant on the Quayside and two more restaurants inside Fenwicks, one of Newcastle's largest department stores. Great for a pit stop whilst out and about, or a special trip for a great steak or seafood platter.
2. City Farm
The Ouseburn just off the Quayside is also a great spot. Pubs, bars, restaurants and music venues all in one place....not to mention a City Farm! We love going here and going from place to place to enjoy the different venues. Cookhouse from Chef Anna Hedworth is one of the highlights!
3. Lord Crewe Arms, Blanchland
Lord Crewe Arms, Blanchland: An amazing old building, with rooms and beautiful gardens. Tucked away on the Northumberland moors, it's a bit of a trip to get there but well worth it. Comforting food, well cooked in charming surroundings. A definite day-off go to.
4. Riley's Fish Shack, Tynemouth
Riley's Fish Shack, Tynemouth: Dining on the North Sea Coast! Beautiful backdrop, sand, sea and delicious seafood, fire pits and beers. What more could you ask for?!
5. Solstice, Quayside
Solstice, Quayside: Kenny Atkinson's new restaurant on the Quayside. Fantastic produce served within beautiful surroundings. They only opened earlier this year but have become a firm favourite of the team. A real special occasion restaurant whilst still remaining friendly and relaxing.
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Address: The Hadrian Hotel, Wall, Hexham, Northumberland, NE46 4EE | Website: restauranthjem.co.uk | Phone: (+44) 1434 681232 | Email: reservations@restauranthjem.co.uk | Instagram: @restauranthjem