A friend sent us a link to this web site that has a database of local council ratings on restaurants in their area in terms of hygiene standards.

How well does your favourite restaurant do? 

Scores on the Doors web site 

He hates this photo!

It is located opposite another member of the Fisher empire, which is the student-friendly retro pub called Mr Lynch.

The opening is on Sunday March 11th, 2007.

Unfortunately I missed the opening but next time I am back in the North East no doubt I will take a wander across to those parts and will write a review once I get a chance to sample the delights. 

I saw this web site in a Sunday paper and thought it if you like Chinese tea and have lots of money to spend then this is your place! I haven't got the first clue about Chinese tea but I am sure they must be good.

Emeyu tea web site 

Wagamama

The site of the former MVC video and music shop has been transform into a bright and airy Wagamama restaurant. The huge clear glass windows at the front revealed a place full of people easting away. The lighting was well done so that was not over-empowering and the crisp interior design made it all very slick and modern inside.

For those like me that get confused all all the different options, here is an easy guide

Brewed - traditional American-style coffee,  percolated, steeped, dripped, or pressed.

Espresso - pressure-brewed one cup at a time through 2oz of ultra-fine grounds.

Cappuccino - espresso, hot milk & froth in equal parts (sometimes sugar added).

Caffe Latte - espresso, hot milk & froth (milk in greater proportion than coffee).

Caffe Mocha - espresso, chocolate & hot milk in equal parts (sometimes whipped cream on top).

Café au Lait (or Café con Leche) - brewed coffee & warmed or steamed milk (milk in greater proportion than coffee).

Demitasse - a small cup the size of a single espresso drink.

Mocha Latte - espresso, chocolate, hot milk & froth in equal parts.

Lungo - normal espresso, but with 4oz of grounds (called an extended espresso).

Double - double water and double grounds - two drinks-worth in one cup.

Con Panna - espresso with dollop of whipped cream.

Espresso Macchiato - espresso with a "stain" of milk.

Latte Macchiato - milk with a "stain" of espresso.

Espresso Granita - espresso frozen, then crushed & topped with whipped cream.

Granita Latte - espresso, milk & sugar; stirred and frozen, then crushed & topped with whipped cream.