DINING
11th( new entry) Elif Turkish Cuisine( Yarm & Norton)
This year’ s highest new entry in our poll, Elif has quickly won admirers in both Yarm and Norton. Created by Hasan and Lyndsey alongside Ersin and Fiona, the restaurant brings authentic Turkish flavours and warm hospitality to the Tees dining scene. Traditional dishes and vibrant flavours have helped Elif make an immediate impact.
Top Three Tees Teas Bob Makin( Behaviour) 1. The Glasshouse 2. Cena 3. Bay Horse( Hurworth)
13th( 15th) Miller & Carter( Nunthorpe)
Still relatively new to the local scene but already firmly established with diners, Miller & Carter continues to build its reputation as one of the region’ s premier steak destinations. Proudly branding themselves“ Masters of Steak”, the team serves up expertly prepared prime cuts with a strong field-to-fork ethos.
14th( re-entry) Umi Japanese Bar & Restaurant( Middlesbrough)
Umi Japanese makes a welcome return to the rankings with its blend of authentic cuisine, stylish interiors and immersive dining experience. From ramen bowls and sushi to bao buns, donburi and ice cream mochi, Umi continues to bring a taste of Japan to the heart of Middlesbrough.
Top three Tees teas Harriet Spalding( Mandale) 1. Muse 2. Cena 3. Crathorne Arms
16th( 11th) The Blackwell Ox( Carlton-in-Cleveland)
The Blackwell Ox returns with its unique combination of traditional pub classics and authentic Thai cuisine. Set within a cosy country inn complete with roaring log fires, it continues to offer something refreshingly different. Real ales, guest beers and flavours from across the globe ensure broad appeal.
12th( new entry) Manjaros( Middlesbrough)
The birthplace of the now-famous Manjaros brand storms into the top 20. Sitting proudly on Linthorpe Road, this Middlesbrough institution continues to attract huge crowds with its Afro- Caribbean fusion flavours and signature spices. From the iconic Manjaros Parmo to Chicken Rasta Pasta, it remains one of Teesside’ s biggest dining success stories.
Top Three Tees Teas Grant Glendinning( Etc.) 1. Café Lilli 2. Elif 3. Vadah
Top three Tees teas Martin Liddle( CF Fertilisers) 1. Muse 2. Bay Horse( Hurworth) 3. La Terraza
15th( 17th) Vadah( Stockton)
Vadah’ s rise confirms its perennial status as Teesside’ s leading Indian restaurant. Overlooking Stockton’ s riverside development, this award-winning venue blends traditional Indian flavours with a sophisticated fine-dining edge. Chef Kaysar Ahmed’ s innovative approach continues to impress voters.
Top Three Tees Teas Nina Harding( Anglo American) 1. Café Lilli 2. Elif 3. Little Lotus
Top three Tees teas Matthew Chan( Middlesbrough College) 1. Peppermill Bistro 2. The Seaview 3. Blackwell Ox
17th( 19th) Coco & Rum( Saltburn & Middlesbrough)
Saltburn’ s thriving food scene is represented again by Coco & Rum, which continues to build a loyal following with its distinctive flavours and relaxed coastal atmosphere – including its second eaterie on Linthorpe Road.
Top three Tees teas Claire Meadows( Tees Components) 1. Cookfella’ s 2. The Masham 3. Baker Street Kitchen
The voice of business in the Tees region | 29