A Newcastle restaurant is cooking up a non-traditional Valentines celebration this February, to herald the first in its series of romance-themed events throughout the month.
Blackfriars Restaurant and Banquet Hall is hosting its inaugural Anti-Valentines Chocolate Dinner on Saturday, February 13, for groups of friends, couples and individuals who would like to experience something different to a stereotypical candle-lit table for two.
At the Anti-Valentines Chocolate Dinner, guests will sit down with others at communal tables, to enjoy fizz on arrival, a four course chocolate-themed gourmet dinner, tea and coffee. Tickets are £49 per person and can be booked online at http://www.blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk/events
Blackfriars is also taking bookings for Valentine’s Day on Sunday, February 14, for those couples who would like to celebrate together in a traditional fashion with lunch or an evening meal.
Continuing the theme of romance, Blackfriars’ annual Wedding Fayre will take place on Sunday, February 21 from 12pm – 3pm.
Admission is free, and couples will be treated to complimentary refreshments while they view the medieval Banquet Hall, meet top local florists, cake designers and photographers, and check availability for their big day. To confirm attendance, contact Lee McKinnell, wedding coordinator at Blackfriars, on info@blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk or call 0191 261 5945.
The Wedding Fayre will be closely followed by a particularly romantic date – termed Maiden’s Monday at Blackfriars – onFebruary 29. Tradition has it that ladies may propose marriage on this day in a leap year, and to celebrate, Blackfriars’ staff will be offering a complimentary bottle of bubbly to any fair maiden who gets down on their knee to propose during their meal.
Lastly, throughout February, couples can enjoy a 3 course lunch and a glass of fizz for just £20 per person from Monday toSaturday, excluding Valentine’s Day.
Andy Hook, owner of Blackfriars, said: “This year we decided to expand on our usual Valentine’s Day offering by launching some quirky events to warm up a cold February.
“At our Anti-Valentines Dinner, the emphasis is on enjoying some fabulous convivial food while doing what Geordies do best – chatting with thy spouse and thy neighbour! If you’re not keen on being surrounded by gushing lovebirds on tables for two, then it’s the perfect alternative.”
“We’ve also introduced Maiden’s Monday as a fun way to mark the leap year – and it would be wonderful to see a lady propose at Blackfriars.”
Blackfriars dates back to 1239 and is one of the oldest restaurants in the UK. Its 50-seat Banquet Hall was built to entertain guests and nobles to Newcastle, and it was the celebrated venue used by King Edward III to receive royal Scot, Edward Balliol, in 1334.
For more information about Blackfriars Restaurant, email info@blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk or call 0191 261 5945.
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Blackfriars Restaurant, Friars Street, Newcastle, NE1 4XN.