Female Restaurateur Heats Up The Tees Valley Restaurant Scene

July 15th 2014

It's no secret that male entrepreneurs disproportionately own the restaurant industry, but bucking this trend is one enterprising Tees Valley businesswomen.

Julie Volans, Managing Director of Brasserie Hudson Quay, is giving the industry a run for their money with a projected turnover in the first year in excess of £1M.

The new business, based at Middlehaven, on the River Tees quay is contributing its part to the significant transformational changes taking place in Middlesbrough. Once an industrial part of town, Brasserie Hudson Quay brings together a taste of Europe with unrivalled views of landmark artwork Temenos, the famous three-faced clock and iconic Transporter Bridge.

One year from opening Head Chef, Tony Jones now leads a brigade of 9 chefs, 34 new jobs have been created including four apprenticeships and over 30,000 covers have been served all with a strict policy to use as many local suppliers where possible - all contributing to Brasserie Hudson Quay winning acceptance from the Michelin Guide in its first year of business.

"Running a restaurant comes with its own unique challenges. Knowing how to run a restaurant is no guarantee of restaurant success. You need a great team with the culinary skills and creative flair and here at Brasserie Hudson Quay we have that in abundance." said: Julie.

Julie credits the Brasserie's success to the formation of a dedicated team of professionals who are committed to the future of Middlesbrough, and meeting the demand for good quality European food at affordable prices.

"We believe in training young local people, with serious ambition, to a standard of excellence, unparalleled within the Teesside area. We teach them attention to detail and the skills to succeed."

"We have a policy of using as many local suppliers as possible, and our seafood and meat is totally traceable. This care and attention has won acceptance from the Michelin Guide who have confirmed after three inspections we are to be included into the forthcoming edition."

Commenting on the success so far Julie added: "We are exceptionally proud to have received recognition from such a respected organisation. The Michelin Guide remains the key yardstick by which all UK restaurants are judged."

The demanding nature of cosmopolitan living means today's diners need less structure, less formality with more flexible opening times and menus. 

Responding to changing trends in dining, Brasserie offers great value with two people enjoying starters, mains, served with a quality bottle of wine for under £60.00 and a 3-course Sunday lunch only £16.00.

The restaurant business is a notoriously tricky one, with high failure rates and many new restaurants closing within the first year, yet it looks like the future is bright for Brasserie Hudson Quay.