Reviews

Success Brings Food For Thought

South Shields Gazette
Saturday 17th July 2004

A NATIONAL magazine has finally recognised what the people of South Shields have known for some time.

Augusts’ BBC Good Food Magazine lists South Shields as one of the best places in the country for seaside fare.

Minchella's, which sells top-quality Italian ices from a kiosk on the elevated walkway at Sea Road was named in the top five places to buy ice cream.

And Colman's takeaway and restaurant on Ocean Road was named as one of the best five placed to get fish and chips, ranked alongside top seafood chef Rick Stein's restaurant.

Richard Ord, whose family has owned Colman's since it was opened by his grand-mother in 1926, said it was about time South Shields received the recognition it deserves.

"This will put South Shields on the culinary map. Hopefully people will read this and realise what we have been saying for a long time, that we are among the best - both South Shields and Colman's.

It's superb to see two places in one small town listed in a national survey."

Mr Ord found out about the honour when several regular customers rang him, excited that the chop had been singled out.

"I'm absolutely delighted. It came as quite a surprise, and it's wonderful for the staff because they have put a lot of hard work in and it's nice to have some recognition."

Asked how he felt to be listed alongside Rick Stein, Mr Ord joked: "I'm sure it's an honour for him!"

By coincidence Colman's stocks tubs of Minchella's ice cream for people to enjoy after their fish and chips.

Michael Minchella, owner of Minchella's had no idea his ice cream parlour had received the accolade.

"I'm off to buy at least five copies! I'm extremely proud and very, very happy"

Minchella's ice creams are made in a small factory behind its other branch in Ocean Road, South Shields.

The company is famous in the borough for its speciality, vanilla ice cream, and also sells different flavours and sundaes.

Mr Minchella said: "We do have a good name for ice cream. The walkway is a lovely setting, with a seating overlooking the sea. I'm absolutely thrilled, I must be honest. But when people come along and try the ice cream and say it's the best around that's and award for me."

Anita Mothersdale, who runs the branch on Sea Road, was less surprised.

She said: "I'm not really surprised, because it is the best shop. It is the best ice cream around here. The ice cream is fantastic - I wouldn't live without it."