This year the markets have expanded with a brand-new Alpen style bar called Moosenwirt and an added section in Old Eldon Square, where you can find Laura’s Fudge. But the majority of food and drink can be found at Monument.
Most of the stalls are run by local sellers
Most of the stalls are run by local sellers, such as Meat:Stack, with their American style cheeseburgers, or head to Hatch 76 for loaded duck fries and wraps. There are also some traders that you may recognise from Grainger Market. For example, Redheads’ mac and cheese have a stall, as do Acropolis which do great Greek food including gyros and spanakopita. I can personally recommend the halloumi wrap.
Geordie Bangers are selling their handcrafted sausages, where my girlfriend got the loaded Banger dog and described it as the best sausage she’s ever had. Alternatively, you can also find the German specialities of bratwurst and currywurst at the Grill Tower. For another Christmas classic, you can also get hot chocolate with Baileys or brandy from the Cadburys stall, or go to the North Shore Coffee Co. stall for Nutella or Biscoff ones. There is, of course, other festive favourites like mulled wine, hot cider, and roasted chestnuts.
Banger Dog, described as the best sausage she’s ever had
The markets are also a great place to look for presents for any foodies in your life. You can find local beers from Firebrick Brewery and infused liqueurs from Riverside Craft Spirits, while the north east’s top cheesemonger Matthew’s Cheese Specialists have a great range of cheeses to choose from, including fruity, smoked and pickle flavours. You could even pair them with a spicy chutney or piccalilli from Calder’s Kitchen.
If that is not enough, there will be even more food and drink at the Jesmond Food Market Christmas special on Saturday 17th at the Armstrong Bridge at Jesmond Dene. Additionally, every Sunday, including during the run up to Christmas, the Quayside is host to its much-loved market, with yet more local traders and street food!
