The Blue Bell - Sunderland

We had a meal at this restaurant on Christmas Eve. My husband enjoyed the gammon with a fried egg, homemade chips, and peas, saying it was all delicious. I had the salt and chilli chicken in a warm crispy baguette with fries and a dip, and it was also delicious. This pub is always friendly and the food is consistently tasty. We have been here several times for meals.

Absolutely appalled at this venue. It was booked following a funeral and for a buffet, on arrival we found the place locked and in darkness. My elderly mother in law who was the widow and in frail health was stood outside in the cold and damp and upset and apologetic although this was not her fault. Shameful

I had booked this restaurant for my dad's wake, but when we arrived after the funeral, we found it closed. We had made arrangements for 25 people to cater for, who had arrived in funeral cars. The lack of response from the restaurant has caused immense distress to my mom and the rest of our family, and it has been truly devastating.

Visited the other day at lunchtime with a pal to have a catch up. It’s been a while since I was at the Blue Bell. Certainly pre Covid. In that time the whole place has been refurbished and decorated. A new eating area outside with pergola tables looks really good, although we sat indoors. The young lady behind the bar was welcoming and friendly. A good range of drinks alcoholic non alcoholic were available. Everywhere was clean and tidy and hand gel was available in several places. They’re clearly aware of visitors covid concerns. It’s good to see a proper ‘pub’ that isn’t a characterless chain pub. Definitely a good place to call into for a good pint and friendly staff.

Visited Sunday 18/04/21 at 1300hrs We booked a table outside for Sunday lunch and we were greeted by a member of staff outside the front door who showed us our table We ordered drinks and food together. The drinks came quickly and the food about 15-20 minutes later. The menu was limited to Sunday lunch but we were able to order a hot beef sandwiches with fries which was delicious. The beef was slow cooked and soft with a fresh baguette. There was a generous pot of gravy for each meal along with fries. The food was served in a takeaway container which was expected due to COVID and allowed us to take some home for later. The food was reasonably priced but the drinks were a little expensive for basic pints of strongbow and moretti