Tees Business Tees Business issue 19 | Page 35

The voice of business in the Tees region | 35 Proud - Hardwick Arms' Rachel Johnson and Paul McCairns with Garry Wells (right) of Wells Solutions. "We’re very proud of what we have created and have received some wonderful feedback since we opened.” involved,” says Garry. “The project involved a full refurbishment and we worked pretty much to a plan as the overhaul took place. From how it looked before to how it is now is a total transformation. “The next part is completing the Hardwick Arms Bar and Summer Café and we’re looking forward to taking the success of this phase into phase two. We will be repurposing some of the original woodwork from the old bar and restaurant areas in a way that will add a little bit of that feel and history for the people who have been regulars over the years.” Almost everything of the old room has disappeared, save for the bar, which has undergone a makeover of its own. One or two of the tables have also been restyled with a trendy distressed theme. The floors, ceilings, electricals and fixtures and fittings are all newly installed. The Herd and Herb name, explains front of house manager Paul McCairns, came from the desire to provide local quality food from the “hoof” as well as pescatarian and vegetarian choices - together with the fact that herbs run through the food and the drinks menu. It has a double-edged meaning too. Diners will spot Herbie the heron standing elegantly in the corner of the lounge and cocktail area, adding to the whole ambience of the space. “The menu is probably best described as modern British cuisine with a mix of the flavours of the world,” explains Paul. “The restaurant was designed with space in mind and to reflect an international edge. “When the bar and Summer Café opens in August, it will have its own menu that will be a complement to the restaurant.” The Herd and Herb restaurant is currently open Wednesday to Sunday, noon to 11pm, but will open six days a week once the bar and Summer Café phase is complete in August. The bar and café are available to hire for private functions. The hotel is open seven days a week. For more information visit theherdandherb.co.uk or call 01740 622305. NOW OPEN! The fully refurbished Hardwick Arms Hotel, Restaurant, Bar and Cafe. For reservations call 01740 622305 1 North End | Sedgefield | TS21 2AZ