This summer, for the first time since opening Ardallan Kitchen, I stepped away completely; no emails, no prep lists, just a week in Provence with my family. It was a chance to rest, reflect, and revisit a place that first shaped how I think about food. This post shares the story of that trip, what it stirred up, and how it’s quietly influencing what we’re serving back home in Gateshead.

At Ardallan Kitchen, we’ve chosen not to serve bacon—opting instead for a breakfast rooted in North East tradition. Discover why our Ardallan Breakfast features house-made floddies, local sausages, and sourdough toast, offering a unique and thoughtful take on the classic full English.

Kenzie joined Ardallan Kitchen as a kitchen porter fresh out of his GCSEs. Now, with a distinction in his Level 2 Commis Chef apprenticeship, he's stepping up to Level 3. Discover his journey, lessons learned, and what’s next in his culinary career. Read his inspiring story about passion, teamwork, and the art of making perfect hollandaise.

Discover the story behind Ardallan Kitchen—a cozy, independent bistro nestled in a historic Gateshead building. Join us as we share behind-the-scenes insights, introduce our dedicated team, and explore how we’re adapting to keep serving up great food and creating cherished memories. Whether you're a long-time friend or new visitor, we’re excited to welcome you to our journey!