Newcastle's 'best Sunday dinner' pub to stay open as owner speaks out on its future
The owner of the place championed for serving up 'the best Sunday dinner in Newcastle' has spoken out on its future, after news of it being put up for sale caused concern amongst its loyal customers.
A staple of the Newcastle drinking and dining scene for the last decade, The Earl of Pitt Street opened its doors in late 2014, after the premises previously occupied by The Greyhound had a £400,000 makeover. Nearly a year on from its launch, the much loved gastropub received glowing praise in a ChronicleLive review for its 'sparkling menu' and has cemented itself as a real favourite with locals and visitors to the city over the last 10 years, with it always seeing plenty of trade during Restaurant Week and every weekend for its sought after Sunday roasts.
So reports last week that it had gone up for sale came as big surprise to all the people who love The Earl of Pitt Street. It is on the market for an undisclosed sum, with Marslie McGregor, the Business Agent at Christie & Co who is handling the sale, commenting: "We anticipate a good level of interest in this property.
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"Ideally situated a stone’s throw from St James’ Park, The Earl of Pitt Street is a fantastic opportunity for a new owner to acquire a well-renowned business and expand upon its existing success. Equally, it could prove a solid acquisition for an expanding regional operator looking to grow their portfolio."
Given the huge response to the news Earl of Pitt Street and the concern expressed, the man in charge, Mark Lagun, has now spoken out to offer some assurance over its future, taking to Facebook to write: "Message to all customers and friends who have expressed shock and disappointment at the potential sale of The Earl. I fully expect us still to be trading as normal this time next year. This is NOT a fire sale, more of a water test. A full policy change is possible with your continued support."
In the comments they also urged people that the Earl of Pitt Street 'isn't just for Sundays,' as a customer responded: "If you enjoy the world famous Sunday lunch then pop along on a Thursday to Saturday too" and another replied: "Phew!! I was gutted when I saw the news but great to hear you’ll still be at the helm, Captain Mark! Top team, top food, top vibes"