From sophisticated fine dining spots fit for special occasions to quaint village pubs that serve up the iconic local staple that is the chicken parmo, Teesside is practically bursting at the seams when it comes to dining out options. And with all the mouth-watering choice, it can feel nigh on impossible to choose where to visit next.
Follow these five local foodie Instagram accounts to discover the best of the independent food scene in Teesside. From personal experience, their recommendations will never steer you wrong…
Olivia @thenorthernist
If you’re not already following Olivia, you’re seriously missing out. Her gallivants around Teesside’s finest spots in her pursuit to help Teessiders and tourists alike find the best places to eat and explore locally are a must-see.
As a digital comms expert, Olivia carries her expertise over into her blog where she keeps her finger on the pulse of what’s going on in the region, including food and lifestyle features.
When she’s not working on her next stitching project or scouring for her next enamel pin to add to her collection, you’ll likely find her baking up a storm. Take these Sea Salted Millionaire’s Cookie Cups for example, which look the perfect balance of sweet and savoury.
Best of all, IMO? It’s got to be Olivia’s bespoke TS Food & Drink Map. It includes top recommendations across Teesside, all in one downloadable, colour-coded(!) map to help you find a range of different options across restaurants, pubs, cafes, bakeries, and more. You spoil us, Olivia!
Katie @whatkatesate
A teacher by day, Katie uses her foodie Insta account as an outlet to connect with like-minded people and elevate the voice of local independent businesses with her platform.
If you’re thinking of spending the day in Saltburn any time soon, it can’t be without heading over to Katie’s page first for some inspo gathering – she has a Highlight dedicated to Saltburn Indies, including Seaview Restaurant that will transport you to the Balearics on a sunny day, or The Sitting Room for the ultimate hot chocolate and seriously cosy vibes.
She even serves up the occasional B&M and Aldi haul – because who actually goes in those stores and leaves with only what they need?
Mr & Mrs Eats @teessideeats
If you’re not already acquainted, let me introduce you to Mr & Mrs Eats! This dreamy duo are a married couple based in Teesside who love to eat and travel together.
Whether you’re in Yarm, Ingleby Barwick, or Middlesbrough, Mr & Mrs Eats have documented their visits to some of the noteworthiest bars and restaurants in the area to see what all the fuss is about. Their handy Highlights are bound to take the guesswork out of where to visit next.
Planning a trip further afield? You’re in luck! These two even have foodie diaries from their visits across the country, including Leeds, Newcastle, and York.
Sophie @theteessidefoodie
Eating her way through Teesside and occasionally beyond is Sophie, AKA @theteessidefoodie. From hunting down the best Sunday roasts on offer locally to day trips scoping out fresh seafood in Tynemouth, Sophie shows us where’s worth adding to our eating out lists.
Alongside her restaurant reviews that – if you’re anything like me – will give you a major dose of food envy, Sophie uses her blog to document her baking projects from time to time. How stunning does this No Knead Sun-dried Tomato Bread look? You can find the full recipe on Sophie’s website.
Lauren @lunchingwithloz
I don’t think there’s a single piece of food on this page that doesn’t look OUTSTANDING. A self-confessed pizza enthusiast, Lauren tours Teesside seeking the best dining out spots in the area, and you only need to glance at her feed to see she’s absolutely nailed it.
Lauren also has the sweetest, most cuddly-looking pup named Doug who makes the occasional appearance on her Stories, which is just the cherry on top if you ask me. Good food and Golden Retrievers – name a better combo!
I hope you’ve found this guide to some of my favourite Teesside-based foodie Instagram accounts useful. Give each of them a follow for all the food inspo and your feed will thank you for it! 