If there was any doubt about how popular jacket potatoes could be at The Hoppings, the build-up to Friday's opening made it crystal clear. TikTok sensation SpudBros, who have elevated the humble potato to epic heights, joined the food outlets at the Newcastle fair for the first time and were immediately in demand.
Brothers Bring Viral Business to Town Moor
Brothers Jacob and Harley Nelson from Lancashire, whose baked potato business exploded across the UK on social media during the pandemic, recently opened a SpudBros Express franchise in North Tyneside. Huge queues greeted them at The Hoppings, where they will serve throughout the fair's 10-day run.
Even before their 2pm opening to the public, families from among the fairground workers had turned up as they set up in the early hours of Friday morning, eager to be the first to try the famous potatoes. Some young fans even brought along potatoes for the brothers to sign. By the fair's official opening time, more visitors flocked, building another queue.
Geordies Embrace the Spud Trend
"We're buzzing, we've never done anything like this before," said Jacob. Despite never knowing what to expect in a new location, the brothers have been delighted by their warm welcome in the North East. "The people around here are amazing - they love it," said Harley, adding: "The Geordies are unbelievable, one of my favourite sorts of people."
The brothers and their team serve a range of fillings for their jacket potatoes. Garlic chilli chicken has overtaken cheese, beans, and 'chewna' (tuna and mayo) as the current customer favourite, according to Jacob. The pair seem set for a busy week ahead. "I think the more north you get, the more they love a baked potato!" he added.
The Hoppings: More Than Just Potatoes
The Hoppings, which this year features the record-breaking 'world's tallest Elevate85' ride, boasts around 400 attractions, including numerous food options throughout the site and in its Feast Street food arena. The arena has an American country twist to both its menu and live music programme.
The Hoppings will be open daily from 1pm on weekends and 2pm mid-week until 11pm. Its final day, June 28, will close at 7pm.
