25 minute read
Well nested
Taking
flight While it’s tempting to fly the nest and explore some more as the country comes back to life, we’re honing in on what it means to be home, with Chris Wood and Jack Brown, the brains behind Heaton’s new neighbourhood restaurant
William Blake
A genuine love for the North East, paired with a solid friendship formed through the foundations of working in food, is what brings Chris and Jack together for their new venture, Nest. A collaborative concept born from a shared understanding that great food and indulgent dining doesn’t need to be a daunting experience. Nest is the new neighbourhood restaurant you need to know about, setting up sticks (quite literally) on Chillingham Road in Heaton. It’s a small, 33-cover site set within a mid-40s terrace, with big plans to become a home from home for food-lovers across the North East and from afar. Luxe settles in for a virtual cuppa with Chris and Jack as plans progress and Nest starts to take shape. I quickly discover that the pair are as passionate about pointing out all that our region has to offer as we are. An ethos instilled in both of them, having worked at numerous venues across the North East over a decade or so in the hospitality trade here. It’s been quite the journey, navigating through a global pandemic and ensuring all decisions are made mindfully and cautiously to get the very best results ahead of opening, but it was perfect timing for a pair destined to work together. “It’s a real love story isn’t it Jack?,” Chris laughs as we start from the beginning. “Put it this way, his WhatsApp profile picture is a photograph of me and him, not his better half,” he adds. Jack smiles: “We met in 2011 at Eshott Hall in Morpeth. Chris was already working there and I came in around two years later. “Following that, we ended up going to the Apartment Group together and then we went on to open up the Crowne Plaza in Newcastle. “So, unintentionally, we’ve kind of gone through these three stages of our career together with different companies. From our initial meeting at a luxury country house hotel in Northumberland, we went on to work at numerous Apartment Group venues, before setting up at the Crowne Plaza, which was a totally different beast. It was a big brand and a monster of a hotel. “So I guess we’ve kind of been through it all together; and I don’t want to get too romantic about it, but it’s been quite the journey.” “Fast forward to today and Jack has taken me down this route to Nest, so I’ve got him to thank for that,” Chris adds. We joke as I try hard not to over-romanticize the story. A chef and a front of house manager riding the wave of the food world, then settling down to take to their nest. Nest is a concept - or a ‘brotherhood’ of a business - that has been bubbling away for some time now. Both well established in their roles within the hospitality industry in the region, it was about waiting for the right moment to really get their heads together and bring their ideas to life. “After Crowne Plaza, I was made redundant and we kind of went our separate ways,” Jack starts. “I started doing a bit of consultancy work for an interior designer company in the region. I refitted a town centre bar in Durham for Ramside Estates. When I left that project, Marc - owner of interior design business Space ID - and now one of our business partners, approached me and said, ‘I’ve got some clients who have this dream of opening a venue, but never know where to go with it, do you fancy coming along and steering them in the right direction?’ “So we evolved this hospitality consultancy business and I needed someone who could do the kitchen side of things and I thought, ‘I know just the man for the job!’. “Before we knew it, we were back working together, consulting for a few different venues, but it got to the point where we kind of just thought, ‘Why don’t we do this for ourselves and really get the opportunity to be creative?’ “I guess it’s an exhibition of our own talents,” Chris adds. “We wanted our place to showcase our own talents and love of good food and wine. “Between our associates and contacts, we’ve got everything covered to really make it work. Space to Operate is the consultancy business that owns Nest - we’re a one-stop-shop covering everything from marketing, brand design, interior design and planning, to health and safety, operational support, recruitment, menu development and legislation.” Backed by their business partners, who have been working behind-the-scenes to help get things up and running ready for launch, Chris and Jack are confident that they’ve covered all bases with the birth of Nest. “We have two partners, Marc and Nick; Marc is an interior designer and Nick is a builder - he’s a dentist by trade, but he has a building firm,” says Jack. “They’ve helped us set the business up, but once it’s up and running, myself and Chris will take the reins and be fully operational. We’ve got the formula to make it work, and we’ve got a great support network around us too.” Nest takes everything the duo know and love about the industry to create something really special. Something that steers away from the formalities of ‘fine dining’ and quite literally invites customers in as a friend. A place to relax and feel comfortable, but equally, a place to enjoy honest, humble
dining with real creative flair. “We want to offer a really special experience that isn’t one you can only afford once a year,” Chris explains. “We want to give people an opportunity to eat a £200 meal, but because we’re in a small unit with small overheads, we’re able to offer that really indulgent experience for a very reasonable price. “It’s approachable and it’s accessible. Maybe you’ll be able to come and see us once a month - or certainly three or four times a year. We want to create a community where people can come together to enjoy that luxury experience, but in a really casual way.” “The reason we called the restaurant Nest is because it really hones in on everything that we want to be,” Jack adds. “A nest is a form of home, a place where you gather yourself - and that’s what it’s all about. We want people to come in and know Chris and I, not necessarily when they walk through the door, but certainly will when they leave. “We want to create a comfortable environment where you feel like you could be sitting in your own living room, or a friend’s kitchen. Quality food, wonderful wine and a laid-back, buzzy soundtrack to go with it. Our price point is £45 per head for a 7-9 course tasting menu. It’s very reasonable, but there’s no compromise on quality.” I get a sneak peek of the menu as Chris talks us through each dish and the meaning behind it. There’s a real emphasis on nostalgia and familiarity, so you’re not only getting delicious, locally-sourced produce crafted in a really spectacular style, but you’ll be tucking into dishes that mean something to both the chef and the customer. “The menu is built around pretty simple, nostalgic flavours that really take you back. You’ve got rhubarb and custard, you’ve got lamb and peas - we’re trying not to alienate people - it’s stuff we all know and love,” says Chris. “It’s in no way intimidating. It’s real, but it’s great quality.” “We really want people to come to us and have a wonderful experience, but not feel like it’s a once in a lifetime event,” Jack adds. “I’m not going to be walking around with a big chef’s hat on meeting and greeting everyone,” Chris starts. “But I do want people to feel like they can come to the pass and have a chat and ask questions. If I’m busy, do you know what, give me your number and I’ll text you the recipe - I’ve got no secrets. I just want people to feel like it’s very, very approachable in all aspects; not just the food and the comfort of the interior, but also with Jack and I.” So, what can we expect to see on the menu? “You’ll find things like the ‘Nesting Egg’, which is a Jerusalem artichoke, truffle and butternut squash dish,” Chris explains. “Or our favourite dish - the scallops with pork belly, curried carrot, carrot bhaji and coriander. Anything from roasted celeriac mousse to a rhubarb and custard dessert to finish,” he adds. The Nest offering is not just a collection of the best seasonal produce, the menu tells a story - it’s an exhibition of the things that make Chris tick in the kitchen. “Each dish has a meaning behind it,” Jack says. An incredibly well-thought-out wine flight will accompany the menu, featuring some of the finest wines and wine suppliers the duo have come across in their vast career. “We’ve got seven drinks on the wine flight, including a little, tongue-in-cheek shot at the end - it just goes perfectly with the last dessert. We’re pitching that at around £38, which is a fantastic offering. “We’re not going for the standard wines you’d expect to see, we’re trying to steer people away from their comfort zones, but at a price where they feel like they can try something new. We want people to trust us, experiment a little and be wowed by it.” Nest will feature a really striking yet incredibly welcoming interior to match the food and hospitality. Think natural stone and woodwork, dark decor with flickering candles to create a laid-back and cosy, yet buzzy vibe. “Once we’ve smashed the place to pieces and we find out what’s behind the plasterboard and what’s underneath the floorboards, we can then make some firm decisions on the design, but currently, the theme is very much focused around polished concrete features and natural, earthy materials,” Jack explains. “There will be a lot of wood, naturally, to tie in with the name. Manipulated willow chasing around the windows, hand-crafted furniture, it will all feel very natural, yet very well thought out, with a contemporary, homely feel to it,” adds Chris. “We’ve got an open kitchen with a chef’s table at the top. We want it to feel like people are coming to dine at our house. We just want to spoil people. I’m obviously a bit of a feeder, and Jack more of a liquid feeder, but it’s all about familiarity and getting to know our customers. It’s not an ego thing, we just like to know people by name. It makes it enjoyable for us as much as it is for our diners.” For Jack, Newcastle and Northumberland has always been home, so setting up a business in his personal and professional playground is a real bucket list moment. Equally, for Chris, although he grew up and kick-started his career in Essex, the North East has very much become an adopted home where he has spent much of his professional adult life. “I was born in Bristol but grew up in Essex,” Chris starts. “My dad is still in the West Country, so I’ve got a big affiliation with the area and love any of the produce that comes from there. I was in Colchester up until the age of 22 and then I moved to the North East with my now wife, who’s mum moved from Doncaster to retire in Seahouses of all places. During our second or third visit to the North East we just fell in love with the area. We put our notices in at work, upped sticks and moved here. We got married up here, had another child up here and my career really took off, so the North East is very much where it’s at. “I know the pantry of ingredients that the North East has to offer better than any other area. Yes, I was in Essex for 22 years, but for 16 of those years I was just messing around and not really thinking about my career. I’m much more at home with the produce up here. “My retirement dream is to set up a cider farm in Devon, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Now is time to do some nesting here in the North East.” Chris and Jack assure me that we’re not going to be waiting too much longer for the opening of Nest. “The launch date definitely begins with a J,” says Chris. Alongside its tasting menu, Nest will also offer an indulgent Sunday lunch and daytime deli boards starting from £10. We can’t wait to see you at this new neighbourhood restaurant.
LIVING LOCAL: Low Newton-by-the-Sea
Peaceful strolls, idyllic views and a whole load of history, Nicole Wood takes us on a tour along one of Northumberland’s most attractive coastlines....
Venturing outdoors and discovering the beauty surrounding us on our doorsteps has been something we’ve all enjoyed in recent months. The North East is home to some of the most incredible places, and for me, this quaint little spot sandwiched between Embleton and Seahouses is a hidden gem I’ve fallen in love with over the past year. Low Newton-by-the-Sea is considered by many to be one of the most attractive spots on the Northumberland Coast and although I may be a little biased, I have to agree. If you’re looking to stretch your legs, admire gorgeous views and tuck into some seriously delicious comfort food, then a trip here should be on your summer agenda. Think beautiful cream-washed cottages, quaint little pubs and a beach bursting with natural beauty.
STRETCH THOSE LEGS >>
Dust off those fitness watches and get ready to knock your step goal out of the park. The walk from Low Newton to Craster comes complete with stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities. Scenery aside, depending on how far your feet take you, the walk is an average of 6-8km. Arguably, the beach here is one of the most beautiful locations in Northumberland. Not only is the aesthetic appealing to the eye, but in a time where we need to keep our distance, the area is so vast that even if the car park is full, the chances of feeling crowded is slim to none. Starting in Low Newton, make your way along the pooch-friendly beach and head for Dunstanburgh Castle - you’ll see it on the horizon immediately. Whether you’re geared up in your walking boots or taking the time to feel the sand between your toes, the route allows for ample opportunity to take in the lush landscape of the golden sands, mesmerising waves and rocky outcrops. Once you’ve reached Dunstanburgh Castle, the village of Craster
is approximately a mile further south along the coast. There, you can mooch around the village, take a pit stop at one of the local pubs or cafes and indulge in some much-needed refreshments before heading back. Exercise, food and pretty views, there’s simply no better way to spend a weekend by the sea.
WHERE TO VISIT >>
Whether you’re building sandcastles with your little ones, taking your four-legged companion on an adventure, seeking out some local culture or looking to score yourself a hole in one, you’ll find something that guarantees smiles for all.
Dunstanburgh Castle Culture seekers should check out Dunstanburgh Castle - an iconic castle ruin, once one of the largest and grandest fortifications in northern England - standing magnificently on a remote headlined in Northumberland. Dunstanburgh Castle can be reached via a beautiful 1.3 mile walk along the coast from the nearby village of Craster. The site is steeped in history and is an ideal trip for those who are keen to learn about the local area. Discover the inhabitants of the many rock pools, enjoy the incredible walks surrounding the castle or watch out for the beautiful wildlife as birds soar above the shore. If you’re a National Trust member, then entry to Dunstanburgh Castle is free with a valid membership card. nationaltrust.org.uk/dunstanburgh-castle
Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Course Golf enthusiasts are in for a treat. A walk from Low Newton, across Embleton Bay and over the sand dunes will bring you to the impeccable greens of Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Course. Sitting in the shadow of Dunstanburgh Castle, the course wraps around the magnificent Embleton Bay boasting spectacular views from every angle. Designed by Open Championship winner and renowned course architect, James Braid, Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Course offers an 18-hole layout, gorgeous greens, picturesque views and plenty of tests and challenges for all golfers courtesy of the testing sea winds. dunstanburgh.com
Low Newton-by-the-Sea and Embleton Bay Ocean air and sandy strolls, there’s nothing quite like a day at the coast. Popular for water sports, avid walkers and bird watching, this gorgeous beach welcomes visitors all year round. Surfing is a popular motive for those who attend here. With the right weather conditions, the bay provides an excellent brake for surfers. Another popular reason many visit the area is for its spectacular wildlife. The area around Low Newton is well-known for its excellent bird watching opportunities. Set up camp on the beach or head up behind the sand dunes and get ready to witness the incredible wildlife, from seabirds, shorebirds and wildfowl, there’s much to be seen. Finally, many flock to this idyllic location to spend the day with their loved ones, playing in the sand and tiring those legs.
THE JOLLY FISHERMAN >>
For tasty dishes that are fresh, local and seasonal, pay The Jolly Fisherman a visit. Think stunning sea views, delicious home cooking and perfectly poured pints. Go here for a traditional pub experience steeped in character and charm - expect low beamed ceilings, charming decor and comfortable seating. Browse the menu and discover a wide selection of fresh catches including their famous crab soup, rib-eye steak, confit Dunstanburgh Castle and Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Course
of duck and much more. The best part? They carefully source the best produce from local suppliers. Enjoy the perks of this country pub in their spectacular beer garden or head inside this May when the time allows. Dogs are welcome in the bar and outside area, but unfortunately not within the restaurant. thejollyfishermancraster.co.uk
SOMEWHERE TO STAY >>
Newton Hall For being such a small place the Villages of Low Newton and High Newton have a variety of places for you to lay your head. From self-catering cottages to gorgeous hotels, there’s plenty of places to cosy up for an evening or two including the gorgeous Newton Hall. Located in one of the UK’s most beautiful places, Newton Hall is nestled in the heart of Northumberland, approximately a three-minute drive from Low Newton. The spectacular location of this charming venue offers guests the best of both worlds - tranquil countryside and breath-taking coastal views. The accommodation is individually designed to put the luxe into a luxury hotel, with irresistible charms including four-poster beds and private roof terraces, this stunning hall is kitted out for those who like to sleep in luxury. Think gorgeous boutique bedrooms, seriously sophisticated suites - whatever it is you’re looking for, it’s guaranteed you’ll find it here. newton-hall.com
WHERE TO SHOP >>
Situated in a remote part of Northumberland's coast, Low Newton is a short journey away from any local shops. There is a village shop in Embleton to the South and in Beadnell to the North, both of which are a couple of miles away. In Craster, there is a small village shop, but the nearest large supermarket or shopping amenities are located in Alnwick which is approximately 10 miles away.
WHERE TO EAT >>
The Ship Inn When the mood for comfort food strikes, head for The Ship Inn. This cosy, whitewashed country pub has everything you need after a day at the coast. The independent business is renowned in the area for its local and fresh produce. The team here pride themselves on cooking fresh, simple food to an extremely high standard and boy do they do it well. Using only local ingredients, their menu is small and changes regularly, but one thing remains the same and that’s the incredible taste. With a variety of vegetarian options, home-cooked dishes and the freshest seafood straight from Newton Bay, you’re in for a treat. Think fresh sandwiches and crisp salads on summer days, swallow fish smoked haddock in the evening and warm hearty soups after a long winter’s walk. shipinnnewton.co.uk
POSH POOCHES
with Alfie, helped by Elysia Fryer
Summer daze
The sun has got its hat on and our pooches are ready to play. Yes, that’s right, summer has rolled back around just like that. For our canine companions, not a lot changes when it comes to their ‘eat, sleep, walk, repeat’ schedule but as the weather gets warmer and the days get brighter, our pooches know they’re in for extra garden time, sandy paws and lots of weekend adventures. As we prepare for what we hope is going to be a summer to remember, Alfie is leaping into summer with hopes of late night beach strolls, family outings in the countryside and plenty of paw-dipping moments. With that in mind, our Luxe pooch has picked out some cool kit for staycations, he’s enjoying a much-needed catch up with nephew, Henry, and he’s planning in some tailwagging action for your poochy diaries. You don’t want to miss this. Stay safe, have fun and enjoy your summer like never before paw-pals.
Alfie loves:
Time to pack up for a perfect poochy getaway... DOGCO Thoroughbred Blue Waterproof Car Boot Bed £89, dogco.uk
CHARLEY CHAU Charley Chau Deeply Dishy Luxury Dog Bed £140, charleychau.com
RUFF AND TUMBLE Classic Dog Drying Coat £28.95 - £46.95, ruffandtumbledogcoats.com
Alfie, your Luxe pooch x
SOPHIE ALLPORT Sophie Allport Fetch Dog Toy £12, sophieallport.com LISH LONDON Dixie Tartan Tweed Dog Collar £55, lishlondon.com LISH LONDON Phillipp Grey Harris Tweed Pet Carrier £245, lishlondon.com
MADE.COM Kyali Pet Feeder & Storage in Natural Walnut £79, made.com
A date for your dog’s diary
Get ready for a tail-wagging weekend...
The North East Dog Festival will be returning in 2021 for humans and hounds alike with a spectacular outdoor weekend festival in the heart of the North East. Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 September are the dates for any dog lover’s calendar. The festival will take place at Northumberland College’s Kirkley Hall Campus in Ponteland, a specialist animal and land-based training venue which is perfect for the scale of this poochy event. Local business Durham Animal Feeds has jumped on board as a partner and Lee Hornsby, company director commented: “We are absolutely delighted to be sponsoring the 2021 North East Dog festival. After the year we’ve had, we think a huge celebration of the dogs that’ve been there to keep us all happy, healthy, active and accompanied throughout the crazy times we’ve all been through is a must!” Thanks to the many local dog training clubs and in partnership with activity sponsor My Pet HQ, dogs will be able to try their paw at everything from agility to flyball, gundog scurries to hoopers. Tricks at the ready! There is also the chance to win prizes in games like Fastest Recall and Temptation Alley. The Vets On The Meowve Wellness Tent will welcome expert speakers on topics ranging from dog behaviour to first aid and much more. Three charity dog shows will have classes in everything from Most Handsome Dog to the Best Biscuit Catcher, with lots of amazing prizes thanks to supporters Borthwicks Boarding, Grooms by Emily and Spotty Dog Design. This festival is one not to be missed among the doggo community. Whether you’re looking to show off your pooches’ skills, gain some advice or simply enjoy the canine happenings, the whole weekend is guaranteed to put smiles on faces. Think tummy rubs, treats and lots of happy faces. Tickets are available to buy now via: northeastdogfestival.com
Luxe Pooch Q&A
My name is Henry. I’m a cheeky Working Cocker Spaniel pup that loves nothing more than chasing birds, snacking on apple and chicken and having snuggles with my family at home. I’m full of energy and my idea of a ‘luxe’ weekend is visiting my uncle Alfie in North Yorkshire.
LUXE WALKS >> Bolton Abbey, Roundhay Park and Eccup Reservoir are some of my favourite places to stretch my legs.
POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT >> I love to get the day underway with a puppuccino from our local cafe, followed by a nice long walk somewhere where I can have a good run around and say hello to other tail-wagging doggies.
DOGGY DOWNTIME >> Snuggled up on the sofa watching Dogs Behaving Badly (and taking notes!). I love watching the TV - it’s been a lockdown saviour!
HOUND HABITS >> I was born in lockdown so I’m used to making sure I’m the centre of attention at all times. It works a treat. I also like to chew things I shouldn’t, like mum and dad’s curtains. Delicious.
PUPPY PAMPER >> Belly rubs and a paw massage works a treat for me!
DOG’S BEST FRIEND >> Has to be my cousin Rupert and uncle Alfie. I get so excited when we meet for puppy play dates in the garden.
FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY >> My first walk, what a hoot! I was a little bit nervous at first, but I had so much fun exploring and smelling everything. We went to the woods and there were lots of squirrels for me to chase. Puppy’s paradise.
PUPPY A-LISTER? Scrappy Doo!
A superyacht staycation
Luxe uncovers the ultimate million pound staycation, cruising the stunning South Coast on board the Motor Yacht Chess
As the summer approaches and we all start to think of our first holiday after what feels like forever, there’s no better time to really push the boat out - in more ways than one! The staycation industry has been on the up for some time now, but what might usually make up mini breaks and city getaways between bigger, far-flung holidays, seems to be becoming our main vacations, right here on home turf. This summer, we’re mixing it up a little. We might not be jetting off on a long-haul adventure, but we’re leaving home ‘land’ to experience a beyond luxurious experience with West Nautical. Rather than waiting for the rest of the world to reopen, we’re gaining exclusive access to some of the world’s best anchorages right here in the UK from the luxury of a superyacht. An exclusive charter takes you to beautiful locations along the South Coast including The Isle of Wight, Weymouth, Torquay, The Jurassic Coast, Cowes and Falmouth. Chess is a luxury 25-metre Sunseeker Superyacht and will be available for all-inclusive charters starting in Portsmouth from 28 May 2021.
Why charter? A Superyacht gives staycationers the luxury of privacy and exclusivity. You will be able to reach more remote areas, hidden coves and have once-in-a-lifetime experiences off the beaten track. You have the flexibility to design your own itinerary and embrace spontaneity - something we’re all craving as we gently ease out of lockdown restrictions. You’re well-catered-for on board too. A personal chef will join you on the journey. With over 10 years of professional experience, your chef will tailor all dining to your preferences, ensuring you have plenty of blow-out feasts during your break, taking everything into account, from local produce, to dietary requirements and seasonal flavours. Chess is also equipped with world-class watersports including stand up paddle boards, kayaks and a tender to take you ashore or to visit hidden coves and beaches. Refitted in 2021, Chess is a 25m Sunseeker 82, the largest model available for charter in UK waters. She is situated in the perfect location for charters of the spectacular South Coast and all it has to offer in the summer months. She is also available to cruise further afield in the UK, including Scotland, on longer charters. Chess features a spacious interior and exterior, offering the perfect space to cruise in luxury and style. She can accommodate eight guests over one master, one VIP and two twins that have been refitted to convert into doubles, with up to 12 guests whilst sailing. The main salon has luxurious walnut veneer throughout, leather upholstery and also features a dining table that comfortably sits 12 guests. Her generous exterior decks are made of teak and feature a large bar, sunbathing and seating areas alongside alfresco dining tables and a BBQ - the place to be for relaxing and making the most of the sun with a cold drink in hand. Bliss. She is the yacht we’ve all been waiting for when it comes to exploring the UK’s many beautiful coastal towns and beyond.
