Sunderland Restaurant Week postponed over coronavirus concerns

The discount dining scheme, aimed at driving footfall to Wearside cafes and restaurants, was due to return this week and run until March 29.

Previous restaurant weeks have ploughed tens of thousands of pounds into the economy and organisers Sunderland BID announced last week that they would try and keep it going in a collect or delivery format.

However, after the Government tightened restrictions on Friday, ordering all restaurants, bars and cafes to close for sit-in custom, it was decided that restaurant week should be postponed.

More than 25 businesses were due to take part, offering deals for £5, £10 and £15.

An announcement made on Sunderland BID’s social media platforms reads: “In light of the Government's announcement, Sunderland Restaurant Week will be postponed until September 2020.

“We are continuing to work with the businesses who are now operating as a takeout / delivery service only - and will issue more information on how you can support them on Monday.”

A number of businesses have closed altogether after the Government vowed to pay 80% of wages for at-risk workers to keep people in jobs during coronavirus.

Many are still open for collection, with social distancing measures in place, and delivery.

We’ve rounded up some of the businesses in Sunderland and the surrounding area who have adapted to offer a delivery service here.