TEESSIDE ’ S BEST RESTAURANTS
9th ( 15th ) Santoro , Yarm
Opened way back in 1979 , family-run Santoro is one of Teesside ’ s most longestablished restaurants – and it ’ s enjoying a new surge in popularity in our annual poll , having returned to the top 20 last year . Menu highlights at the Yarm High Street stalwart include seafood pancake thermidor , rack of lamb and aubergine parmigiana , plus an enticing range of steaks .
11th ( 20th ) Café Central Park , Middlesbrough
Arguably one of Teesside ’ s most iconic restaurants , Central Park first opened its doors nearly 40 years ago . A go-to place for a classic parmo , the popular Linthorpe Road eatery – right opposite the main entrance to Albert Park – has been providing Italian-inspired food coupled with great service since December 1985 .
12th ( new entry ) Café Sapore , Hartburn
Within its stylish and relaxed surroundings , this modern cafe-bistro is the perfect venue for coffee , breakfast , lunch or dinner . Another hidden gem of a restaurant , Café Sapore ’ s menu features a tantalising choice of Mediterranean , European , British and international food . And its owners promise that all ingredients are sourced from quality local suppliers such as QFS , Country Valley Foods , Hodgsons Fish and Roseberry Coffee Co .
My Top 3 Nicky Jolley ( HR2day ) 1 . Lebaneat 2 . Bambudda 3 . The Orangery
13th ( re-entry ) The Peppermill Bistro , Billingham
Tucked away on Station Road , this hidden gem offers an eclectic menu that combines European and British cuisine with a twist . The ambience is cozy and intimate , perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends . One of its must-try dishes is the stuffed chicken breast .
I want mussels - The Vane Arms is the highest new entry in our poll .
10th ( new entry ) The Vane Arms , Thorpe Thewles
Making its first appearance in our top 20 and our highest new entry , The Vane Arms promises delicious , home-cooked food in a location that ’ s a favourite for live sport followers . Situated on the Village Green , its high-quality bistro-style dishes offer a twist on traditional pub classics .
My Top 3 Kirsten Donkin ( PD Ports ) 1 . Café Sapore 2 . Cena 3 . Seaview
My Top 3 Bob Makin ( Behaviour Interactive ) 1 . Bay Horse 2 . Cena 3 . Oak Tree
14th ( new entry ) Umi , Middlesbrough
Customers love this Japanese bar and restaurant for its sushi , ramen , donburi , seafood and vegan options . Favourites on the menu at the Linthorpe Road eatery include bao buns , gyoza , tempura and a stunning range of sushi .
15th ( new entry ) Labaneat , Yarm
As its name suggests , this High Streetbased restaurant is focused on Lebanese cuisine but also offers its growing band of customers mouthwatering Mediterranean and Middle Eastern options . Menu favourites include baba ghanoush , halloumi , falafel and kofta meshwi – chargrilled skewers of seasoned minced lamb with onion and mixed peppers .
My Top 3 John McGee ( Durata ) 1 . Vane Arms 2 . Chadwicks Inn 3 . Muse
54 | Tees Business