One of the key players in the multimillion pound Riverside development that’s changing the face of Sunderland, it came to prominence more this summer with the opening of Keel Crossing.
18 months after the dark horse came to the fore, here’s a rundown of all the food and drink experiences at this hospitality hotspot.

1. Vito's Osteria
Vito's Osteria opened with the firm intention to raise the bar for Italian dining in the city - and this year it was named in OpenTable's Top UK 100, based on diners' reviews. Expect quality Italian classics like carbonara (made the proper Italian way without cream), burrata, a range of other homemade pastas and its bestseller, lasagne. | Sunderland Echo
2. PROPA!
It's been a super busy year for PROPA! which opened its doors in December 2024, bringing proper comfort food to Sheepfolds. Si King's pie shop goes from strength to strength with great-quality ingredients, sourced from the locality, and an ever-changing menu. | Sunderland Echo

3. Spey Snug
A bit of a hidden gem, the Spey Snug is a unique space tucked behind the Back of the Pit bar. It's available to book for whisky experiences and features award-winning single malts from Speyside Distillery, juniper gins and premium cigars supplied by Hunters & Frankau. A £12 per head deposit is used as a bar tab. | Sunderland Echo
4. Mine
Mine joined the fold this summer in the Back of the Pit bar. It helps plug the gap for breakfasts at the site, with classic full English, breakfast baps, soups and toasted sandwiches. By night, and on match days, it still operates as a bar. | Sunderland Echo