Ryan Riley, founder of Sunderland’s Life Kitchen, and Masterchef finalist Pookie Tredell were among the celebrity chefs showing off their skills in a series of demonstrations for crowds.
Organisers have predicted more than 10,000 people will have visited the two-day event by the time it wraps up on Sunday (August 7).
Check out our photos from the festival’s first day at the coast – see if you can spot anyone you recognise!
5. Seeing how it's done
Demonstrations by celebrity chefs were a big draw for visitors. Photo: IAN McCLELLAND
6. Top drawer talent
Masterchef favourite Pookie was joined by Eat Well for Less host Chris Bavin Photo: IAN McCLELLAND
7. Sweet treats
Wayne Furnell and Angela Hunter from Bishop Auckland-based The Auckland Cake Company. Photo: IAN McCLELLAND
8. A Masterchef at work
Masterchef's Pookie demonstrated the secrets of molecular gastronomy. Photo: IAN McCLELLAND