Popular South Shields Sea Change vegetarian and vegan cafe announces Sunderland Museum branch plan

Sea Change Cafe was set up in Ocean Road in South Shields in 2019 by AutismAble, offering training and employment opportunities for adults with disabilities and learning difficulties.

The venue became much-loved for its friendly staff and inventive food and drink, offering vegan and vegetarian options which appeal to everyone, quirky takes on North East classics, and affordable options during the cost-of-living crisis.

Sea Change also showcases local art, and hosts live music and craft beer nights.

The cafe was hit by difficulties earlier this year, however, with a £20,000 backdated energy bill and monthly costs spiralling by 400%.

But the team were overwhelmed when a crowdfunder smashed its £20,000 target and led to a flood of support.

Now bouncing back, the cafe announced on Facebook this morning it was due to sign a lease at the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens.

The team said: “We are beyond excited to share some amazing news with you all!

“Thanks to the incredible support from Sunderland City Council and Sunderland Culture, we are opening a SECOND Sea Change Cafe at Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens!

“This new location is an incredible opportunity for us to continue our mission of providing supported employment opportunities for neurodivergent individuals.

“We can't thank you enough for supporting us on our journey, and we can't wait to welcome you to our new space very soon!

“Keep your eyes peeled for more updates over the next few days! (Subject to agreement on lease terms).”

The Sunderland Museum news comes after AutismAble set up a project with Pop Recs in 2023.

The Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens cafe has had a number of guises in recent years.

Holmeside Coffee took over the former Eden cafe in 2018, but announced in October 2020 it was closing at the site for ‘personal and practical reasons’ stressing the decision was taken before the onset of the pandemic.

The cafe closed in January 2021 and reopened that summer as Bennelli’s, a classic Italian cafe serving up the likes of cannelloni, panini and gelato.

Sunderland Culture’s website lists Bennelli's  as closed and adds: “We are working hard to bring you a new café offer very soon.”