While some venues on Wearside have still not been able to reopen their doors due to the required social distancing, others reopened over the summer and were getting back on their feet only to be hit by the tightened local lockdown restrictions. Here’s some of the businesses which are currently closed – and how you can still support some of the independents until they can reopen.
1. Panda Buffet, Holmeside
The popular buffet put out a statement saying "Due to new Government recommendations we will be closing the restaurant for the foreseeable future. Staff and public safety is paramount to us so we are doing our part to help keep everyone safe. We would like to thank you for your understanding and look forward to welcoming you through our doors again as soon as possible." The buffet says it will be serving bottomless soft drinks when it does open to make the dining experience better. Photo: JPI Media
2. The Dun Cow
Due to the historic features and small corners of The Dun Cow, the number of people allowed in would be limited with social distancing. It hasn't reopened yet, but a post on its Facebook page says it will open when it's safe to do so. Photo: JPI Media
3. Port of Call, Seaham
Around £250,000 was ploughed into transforming the former Bank pub in North Terrace into Port of Call when it opened its doors in March 2018. It’s a sister site to the successful Port of Call in Park Lane, Sunderland, which is still operating. The owners of the Seaham site put an announcement out about the closure saying they hope it will only be temporary. A statement released by Port of Call in Seaham on October 19, reads: “Tonight, we’ve made the tough decision to close our doors for what we hope will be a short while. We’ve tried our best to adapt and evolve and will continue to do so despite the challenges we all face at this difficult time." Photo: JPI Media
4. Alexandra Steakhouse, Grangetown
The owners of this popular steakhouse announced its temporary closure after a difficult year due to the pandemic. A statement, posted on Sunday, October 11, said: “We want to thank our customers who have still been visiting us and we are doing our absolute best to keep you all safe." The team will be reviewing the situation weekly pending any further updates from the Government. Photo: google maps