Here’s a guide to some of the independent venues in and around Sunderland that are worth checking out, in no particular order.
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Brunch hotspots to try in and around Sunderland Photo: national world
. Love Lily, Marine Walk and Herrington Country Park.
Love Lily is possibly Sunderland's most-popular brunch spot - and with good reason. Its menu is a real kaleidoscope of choices, from classics such as Eggs Benedict to American pancakes topped with everything from Reese's Pieces to Lotus Biscoff. After huge success at Roker, where queues regularly form, they recently launched a new site at Herrington Country Park. Photo: Stu Norton
. Pop Recs, High Street West
Pop Recs has proved a huge asset to the city after transforming once-derelict buildings at the bottom of High Street West. Its cafe serves up consistently good, creative dishes including brunch choices such as Turkish eggs and salad plates, available daily. Photo: national world
. Flamingo, Seaham Marina
With its pretty as a picture interior and unspoilt views of the North Sea, Flamingo is a great dog-friendly spot in Seaham. Expect superfood smoothies, protein shakes, bagels, nourish bowls and more for sit in or take away. Photo: national world
9. The Social & Kitchen, Pallion.
The Social & Kitchen has really upped the food game at the former Pallion Workmen's Club with a creative menu. It recently launched a brunch menu with options including full English, with a vegan and non-vegan option, French toast, pancakes and more. Photo: Stu Norton
10. Good Apple Cafe, Derwent Street, Sunderland city centre
Sunderland's longest-running vegan cafe, Good Apple Cafe, in Derwent Street, has some great choices. Its brunch menu runs from 10.30am to 2pm with options such as scrambled tofu and gluten-free choices. The cafe is open Tuesdays to Saturdays. Photo: Stu Norton