Spennymoor care home hosts pop-up restaurants so residents can try food from around the world

A Spennymoor care home is hosting pop-up restaurants to give residents a taste of food from around the world.

Starting in May, the DurhamGate Care Home in Spennymoor has already delighted residents with the flavours of France, Italy, Spain and Greece.

Each event transforms the home into a celebration of international traditions and customs with food, decoration and music. Residents also received personalised postcards to keep as a souvenir, reminding them of all of the different days hosted at the home.

Head chef Karl Aylward specially designs menus, with his dishes from across the globe including French crepes, Italian favourites like lasagne and tiramisu, traditional Spanish tapas, and the flavourful tastes of Greek beef stifado and spanakopita.

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The cuisine is accompanied by traditional music and decorations, making it an immersive cultural experience. The response from residents and families has been overwhelmingly positive, and they have taken to social media to express their appreciation for the care home’s efforts.

Samantha Holden, The DurhamGate’s front of house manager, said: "I am so pleased these days have been such a positive experience at the home, and residents are always excited to find out which part of the world they will get a taste of next.

"Food is a wonderful way to bring people together and explore different cultures. Our international themed days offer more than just a meal, they offer an experience that, for many residents, has reminded them of past travels or introduced them to new culinary delights."

One family member celebrated the Italian-themed festivities on Facebook, and said: "Italian day, and the food was amazing, thanks to Karl the chef and all of the staff that went the extra mile with the whole event."

Councillor for Spennymoor Town Council and former Town Mayor, Ian Geldard, has also shown his support for the initiative, commenting: "Excellent work, Andrew, and the team. What a fantastic place!"

The DurhamGate Care Home is inviting people to its upcoming Open Day on September 21 from 11am until 3pm. Guests will have the opportunity to take a guided tour, meet the dedicated team, and discover the care and lifestyle amenities offered in the care home.