Pine: A Michelin-Starred Culinary Journey in Northumberland

Setting and Atmosphere in the Heart of Northumberland

Pine is uniquely situated in an old cow barn at Vallum Farm, East Wallhouses, just a stone’s throw from the historic Hadrian's Wall. The restaurant’s location combines rustic charm with modern elegance, offering diners views of the rolling Northumberland countryside through large windows. Inside, the space is intimate yet spacious, with seating for around 24 to 30 guests, including a chef’s table that places diners close to the culinary action. The open kitchen design allows guests to watch the chefs at work, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere where the passion of the team is palpable.

Innovative Tasting Menu with Local and Foraged Ingredients

Pine is renowned for its tasting menu-only format, featuring approximately 16 to 18 meticulously crafted courses that showcase the best of Northumbrian produce. The menu changes seasonally, with many ingredients sourced from the restaurant’s own kitchen garden and polytunnels, as well as local farms and foraged finds. Dishes range from delicate vegetable and herb combinations to richly flavored meat and seafood courses, often incorporating wild mushrooms, game, and seafood. Signature dishes include smoky purees, fermented elements, and slow-cooked pork prepared with intense umami broths. The culinary style is a sophisticated blend of Nordic and Northumbrian influences, emphasizing freshness, complexity, and balance.

Exceptional Service and Wine Pairings

The service at Pine is highly praised for being knowledgeable, attentive, and unobtrusive. Each course is presented and explained by the chefs or servers, enhancing the immersive dining experience. Pine’s sommelier curates an exceptional wine list featuring rare and unusual selections from Europe and beyond, including Georgian and Polish wines. Wine pairings are thoughtfully matched to the tasting menu, with options for European, English, or non-alcoholic pairings that complement the flavors perfectly. The high staff-to-diner ratio ensures personalized attention and a seamless flow throughout the meal.

A Commitment to Sustainability and Local Terroir

Pine’s philosophy centers on sustainability and celebrating the local terroir. The team prioritizes minimal waste and eco-friendly practices, sourcing ingredients as close to home as possible. The kitchen garden and foraging efforts underscore a deep connection to the landscape, reflected in the dishes’ authentic flavors. This focus on locality and seasonality not only supports regional producers but also offers diners a genuine taste of Northumberland’s natural bounty.

Memorable Culinary Highlights and Dessert Innovations

Guests often highlight standout dishes such as the fermented pumpkin crumpet, oyster and garden flower tart, and the intensely flavored slow-cooked pork loin. The desserts maintain the same inventive spirit, with layered creations like sharp gooseberry foam paired with sweet woodruff mousse and nutty chicory crumb, or delicately treated berries with pine granita and clotted cream. The final petit four, a dried Bramley apple coated in black caramel, offers a bold and memorable finish. The entire dining experience is carefully paced over several hours, allowing guests to savor each intricate bite.

Recognition and Culinary Excellence

Since opening, Pine has garnered critical acclaim and a Michelin star, recognized for its exceptional quality and creativity. Chef Cal Byerley, formerly of The Forest Side and Simon Rogan’s kitchens, brings technical mastery and a passion for local ingredients to the forefront. The restaurant holds its own among Northumberland’s finest, offering a joyful, life-affirming dining adventure that celebrates both innovation and tradition in equal measure.