The Bank Restaurant & Bar in Low Fell, Gateshead, has relaunched under new management.
Local businessman and Low Fell resident Kevin Brown is back at the helm of the chic eatery and cocktail bar which he first opened to popular acclaim in 2013.
Kevin, who also owns the grade II listed building on Durham Road, sold the business in 2014 and was deeply disappointed to see it cease trading by the end of the year.
Shortly after the closure, the original management team approached Kevin, and together, they’ve brought The Bank back to Low Fell.
The building which dates back to the 1840s and used to house Lloyds Bank has undergone an extensive refurbishment and now brings a stylish food and drinks destination to Low Fell, with an emphasis on good food in great surroundings at honest prices.
“I was devastated at what had happened to the business after all the hard work that had been put into creating a much needed venue on Low Fell high street,” said Kevin.
“The relaunch is exciting for The Bank, and we have many plans to continue developing our offer into the future, including investment in an outdoor drinks area and hosting special events such as wine tasting evenings and charity fundraisers.
“However, we also aim to stay affordable and true to our roots by bringing a thriving, warm and welcoming venue to the heart of the Fell within a building that is steeped in local heritage. The team and I are excited about the future and really look forward to welcoming customers old and new.”
Original head chef Lee Walker has also re-joined the team to cook up superb quality dishes from locally sourced ingredients in The Bank Restaurant.
The new menu is seasonal, offering customers a varied selection of dishes to suit all tastes with steak a prominent feature, which is sourced from farmers across Northumberland, Durham and Cumbria.
Meanwhile The Bank Bar promises customers a collection of great wines and the best beers from the UK and Europe, along with local craft ales and a comprehensive cocktail menu.
Kevin has invested in a new website and says social media will play a large role in customer engagement.
“We want to reach out and build lasting relationships with our clientele,” explains Kevin.
“The new website is stylish and easy to navigate. It contains information on the current menu, special offers, upcoming events and details on The Bank customer loyalty card, which gives our customers points to spend on future purchases so they can enjoy a tasty lunch or a cheeky cocktail on the house.”
Alan Brown, Kevin’s nephew, has also returned to look after the marketing and finance side of the business allowing general manager Adam Lewis and his team to concentrate on welcoming customers and ensuring they have the best experience possible.
To officially mark the relaunch of the business, Kevin and the team hosted a VIP night on the 19th of October, which saw over 30 local suppliers and members of the media sample the new menu with signature cocktails and live music from Northumberland acoustic solo musician; Gareth Beddard.