Bridge, The

Paul O'Hara's name has been synonymous with many of the North East's finest restaurants and, after six years of working for acclaimed chef Terry Laybourne, he's upped sticks and settled down in the quaint little village of Whorlton, three miles outside the picturesque market town of Barnard Castle, County Durham.

So, if you enjoy the sophistication of dining in the city and happen to live in the countryside around Barnard Castle, then here's your opportunity without having to travel too far. The Bridge Restaurant and Bar gives you the chance to sample what chef Paul calls, "a fusion of the creativity and excitement of the city, with great quality, freshly available local produce". Set amid some stunning scenery, customers can choose to sit indoors or relax in their spacious outdoor dining area.

Start a meal with grilled Mowbray black pudding, crispy onions and olive oil crushed potatoes, while smoked salmon is served with rocket and horseradish salad, and hazelnut terrine and marinated beetroot could accompany Hunter House goat's cheese. The fillet of local roe deer venison with bashed neeps and tatties is a well-praised main, or you could opt for the roast breast of chicken with Lyonnaise potatoes, wild mushrooms and béarnaise sauce. Their wine list has been specifically put together to complement the depth of flavour their menus deliver.

Finish with sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce, dark chocolate brownie with Jack Daniel's ice cream, or a selection of cheeses, artisan biscuits and chutney. Apart from regular dining, The Bridge holds what it calls a specialist evening every month, guests are served champagne on arrival followed by a four-course meal with accompanying wines.