Food lovers can finally get a first look inside one of County Durham's most eagerly awaited new restaurants after years of delays and a devastating fire.
Jörd, the new venture for former MasterChef contestant Mike Bartley, is now putting the finishing touches to its home on Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland, ahead of welcoming its first diners next month.
The restaurant is opening on Friday, October 16 but it has been years in the making.
Originally announced in 2023, the project suffered a major setback when a fire damaged its intended premises in October 2024, forcing a rethink of the plans.
Jörd has since moved into the former Fox's Tale café further along Newgate Street, where work is transforming the building.
New images show a stylish, intimate dining room with contemporary décor, warm lighting and a view into the open kitchen.
(Image: DURHAM COUNTY COUNCIL)
There are trial evenings planned as chefs refine recipes and front-of-house staff test the service.
First look inside Bishop Auckland's newest restaurant. (Image: DURHAM COUNTY COUNCIL)
Mr Bartley said: "It has taken so long to get to this point, and I am beyond excited to be able to finally open the doors and welcome you in."
(Image: DURHAM COUNTY COUNCIL)
The restaurant's opening will mark the culmination of a journey that has attracted strong support from the community, with crowdfunding backers helping bring the project to life.
(Image: DURHAM COUNTY COUNCIL)
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Their names will be displayed on a dedicated Founder Wall inside the restaurant, recognising the people who backed the venture through its Kickstarter campaign.
The team will spend the coming days finalising menus, testing dishes and preparing the booking system for launch.
Staff and their families are due to attend trial evenings on October 9 and 10, while the October 16 opening is reserved for Kickstarter backers; Jörd will welcome public diners on Saturday, October 17.