City centre cafe expands to Sunderland's historic Quayside Exchange building

ThePlace Café Bar and Bistro, in Silksworth Row, has collaborated with the historic Grade II-listed venue to create ThePlace at the Quayside Exchange.

It’s led to a number of renovations at the East End site, including a revamp of the reception and suites.

Parviz Alizadeh (Ali), managing director of Place Café, said: “The Place Café Bar Bistro has kept us busy over the last few years whilst we developed the brand in Sunderland, however, my team and I decided another challenge was in order and before we knew it, I was in discussions for the running of the Quayside Exchange.

“It’s such rewarding work, but there is so much potential. We are starting right at the beginning and ensuring that the basics are covered first, before we roll out all of the new plans.”

The Quayside Exchange is home to three function rooms and bar The Tempest.

Future plans to build on the site’s hospitality offering will lead to a number of new jobs in the city.