We're bringing a new outdoor Hjem dining experience to the North East
A new outdoor dining experience is launching in one of the North East’s most picturesque valleys.
Earlier this year, Northumberland’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, Hjem, launched its six-month residency at South Causey Inn in the Beamish Valley, County Durham.
It’s seen the accomplished team take over The Farmhouse at the site, while their new purpose-built restaurant, Freyja, is under construction at Close House in Wylam.
Now, as the weather warms up, they’ve announced a new relaxed, outdoor wine and dining experience at the site called Hjem Vin.
The opening will be celebrated with a special launch BBQ, led by Ulf Nietosvuori, international barbecue master and father of chef-patron Alex Nietosvuori, who will travel from his home in Sweden for the event.
Hjem Vin will offer guests the chance to enjoy a selection of seasonal small plates with accompanying wines in the open air - designed for a more informal style of dining that makes the most of its countryside surroundings, with a covered marquee in place to ensure the experience can continue whatever the weather.
Originally introduced in 2021 at Hjem’s original Northumberland home, Hjem Vin was born out of necessity during lockdown restrictions, but quickly became a favourite for both guests and staff.
Now, as Hjem settles into its stay at South Causey Inn, Alex and co-founder Ally Thompson-Nietosvuori say the timing feels right to bring it back.
Ally said: “We’ve always wanted to revisit Hjem Vin. While it was created to allow us to reopen during restrictions, it quickly became something we genuinely loved - a different way to connect with guests and showcase what we do in a more relaxed setting.
“Being here at South Causey, with the space and the setting, felt like the perfect opportunity to bring it back.”
The launch BBQ on May 17 will see Alex and his father cooking together over fire, with a menu that celebrates bold, simple flavours and the best seasonal produce.
Main dishes are set to include hot smoked salmon, agave and lemon; pulled pork; chicken thigh and barbecue sauce; sirloin on the fire; and slow cooked pork belly.
Meanwhile, an array of sides will offer the likes of spicy roast potatoes, cream corn, mac and cheese, grilled sweetcorn and chilli beans.
Alex said: “Cooking with my dad for this feels really special. It’s where everything started for me - simple food, cooked over fire, no fuss, just good ingredients.
“To bring that into Hjem Vin and share it with guests is something I’m really looking forward to.”
Ulf, who competed in national and international BBQ competitions for many years and runs a BBQ catering service, said: “Cooking like this is where it all begins - good ingredients, fire, and people coming together. It’s not about overcomplicating things, it’s about flavour and feeling. I’m looking forward to coming to the North East to share this with Alex and Ally’s guests.”
Hjem Vin will continue beyond the launch event opening between 12pm and 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays with a changing menu.
Bookings for the launch event and Hjem Vin weekends will open online at 10am on April 24. Visit southcausey.co.uk/event/hjem-at-south-causey-inn/ to book.