These Things Happen take on new head chef as venue celebrates first year on Sunderland seafront

Michael Jameson and wife Zoë had built up a firm following with their Urban Terrace Kitchen Delicatessen in Pallion, which attracted people from across the North East to St Luke’s Terrace with its restaurant-quality deli offering.

After eight years, the pair recently announced they would be closing the deli, with a number of potential operators interested in the site, with the last day of trading on Friday, September 13.

Michael has a long career in hospitality, working for the likes of Marriott group and St James’ Park, as well as his own ventures.

Hearing Michael was closing the deli, city businessman Walter Veti approached him about taking over the reins at These Things Happen.

Michael said it was a great opportunity to take on a new challenge.

“After eight years in the deli,  Zoë wanted to do something different, so we decided to close,” he said. “We felt the time was right and to park it on a high and be remembered for what it was.

“The support we’ve had since announcing it has been overwhelming really. People have been very loyal and supportive over the years, but they understand why we’re doing what we’re doing.”

Speaking about his new role as head chef at These Things Happen, Michael said: “Walter has got the venue just right here with the live music and bar, but he wanted to take the food in another direction.

“I start from September 16, which is Sunderland Restaurant Week, so we’ll be rolling out the menu changes in the weeks after that.

“The new menu will follow my food ethos of breakfast and brunch with healthy, fresh ingredients and a bistro-style lunch. There will also be an evening menu and Sunday lunch.”

This month marks a year since These Things Happen opened it doors after a £1.2million transformation of the former Harbour View Motors site in Roker, which had stood empty for some time.

Businessman Walter Veti's family have owned the site since the 1990s and it has long been their intention to bring something new to the seafront after the motor business closed.

The result is a multi-purpose venue, which offers breakfasts through to late night DJ sets.

Named after a saying Walter and his mates often use amongst themselves, These Things Happen complements the wider regeneration works along the seafront, which is boosting the offering for residents and visitors.

Michael said: “We’ve had some big brands coming into the city recently like The Botanist, but it’s also great to see independents like this coming up and doing well.”

The changes at These Things Happen come as the Echo’s parent company, National World, is hosting National Food and Drink Month throughout September, an initiative backed by UKHospitality, the voice of the sector.

As part of the month, we’ll be shouting even louder about the city’s hospitality venues and asking readers to share their favourites.

Sunderland Restaurant Week

Diners can enjoy some of Sunderland’s newest eateries for less with the return of Sunderland Restaurant Week.

The twice-yearly initiative, which gives people the chance to tuck into dining deals of £10, £15 or £20, returns from September 14-22, 2024.

Sunderland has welcomed a wave of new venues in recent months and newcomers such as The Botanist in Keel Square and I Scream for Pizza and Vito’s Osteria at Sheepfolds Stables are taking part for the first time while it’s a welcome return for local favourites Asiana, Angelos, Ivy House and Port of Call.

Other participating restaurants announced so far include These Things Happen, Pho 179, Keel Tavern, Marina Vista, Rumour Has It, Slice and more.

To take part in Sunderland Restaurant Week, all you have to do is present the voucher for the restaurant you wish to visit.

All the participating restaurants, cafes, pubs and bars offer £10, £15 or £20 deals, with information – and the vouchers - available at www.sunderlandbid.co.uk/restaurant-week