Blog | Published on: 19th November 2025
When the winter chill rolls in, it’s the perfect time to wrap up, head out, and spend quality moments with the people who matter most. From cosy catchups over drinks to delicious meals to warm the soul, Tees Valley offers plenty of welcoming spots to enjoy delicious food, good company, and the season’s simple pleasures. This winter, get out there and make the most of it.
We’ve got some recommendations for you:
Alessi’s
📌Saltburn-by-the-Sea
Nestled away in Saltburn, Alessi’s invites you to savour authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, candle-lit atmosphere. Located on Dundas Street East, this family-friendly restaurant offers a delightful array of traditional Italian dishes, with plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options to suit different dietary needs. As the season approaches, Alessi’s is getting into the festive spirit by decorating the restaurant and creating a cosy, welcoming winter vibe. It’s well worth checking out.
Central Park
📌Middlesbrough
Situated in the centre of Middlesbrough, on the doorstep of its namesake, Central Park Bar & Restaurant offers a warm and lively setting to enjoy everything from pizzas and pastas to burgers, steaks and kebabs. A much-loved spot for more than 30 years, it’s known for its friendly atmosphere and varied menu. A bonus parmo never goes amiss from here, either!
SALT Street Food Kitchen & Bar
📌Darlington
Salt Street Food Kitchen & Bar in Darlington offers a stylish yet relaxed place to enjoy creative, high-quality street-food dishes and great drinks. The modern venue blends cosy charm with bold flavours, making it a lively spot to meet friends or celebrate. By mixing the best of the rough and ready flavours of street food with the comfort of a roof over your head, it’s a perfect place to enjoy festive get-togethers and indulge in comforting dishes during the holiday season. Take it from them – good food without the pretentiousness.
📌Stockton-On-Tees
A lovely warm pub is a great way to escape the winter blues and damp dark days. The Fox Covert invites you in to do just that on the edge of High Leven. Dating from the days when Ingleby Barwick was just a glint in a 1960s town planner’s eye, and serving hardy farmers a pint or two, it has slowly grown over the years to blend cosy charm with hearty homemade meals and a well-stocked bar. Whether you’re gathering friends or catching up with family, it’s a delightful spot to bask in a festive mood, enjoy good food and raise a glass.
📌Hartlepool
Celebrate Christmas and warm up at Wallis & Co with delicious seasonal dishes, festive high-end cocktails and a warm, welcoming atmosphere right by Hartlepool Marina. They serve up lunch, brunch and dinner six days a week, use high-quality produce, and conjure up fantastic meals for every palate. It’s the perfect spot for get-togethers, whether you’re planning a relaxed meal for two or a festive night out with friends. Book now and make this Christmas one to remember.
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