Tia’s Mexican Cantina, a new restaurant set to open at The Gate in Newcastle city centre this summer, will feature vibrant Mexican-themed artwork created by local artist Lee Ferry. The restaurant, a sister venue to the one in Claypath, Durham, is expected to open in late summer, taking over the former Bar Bannatyne space.
Local Artist Brings International Flair
Lee Ferry, who runs Custom Artwerk in Stanley, County Durham, has been commissioned to design large-scale Mexican-themed images for the restaurant. His previous commissions include work at the British Embassy in Kuwait, and he is known for creating the Selfie Wall at The Riverwalk in Durham, which features colourful angel wings, balloons, and a rainbow umbrella.
Restaurant owners Steven Martin and Gabriel Petre, of Kaleido Ltd, chose Ferry after being impressed by his unique style. “I saw some of the work Lee had done in other places and it absolutely blew me away,” said Steve Martin. “I had noticed the paintings at Riverwalk at Durham and then looked him up and just thought he was the perfect fit to create some original artwork for us. We would always try and give work to other companies in the region if we can, so choosing Lee was really easy for us.”
Artwork Preview and Excitement
Ferry has shared initial sketches of the Mexican-inspired art, expressing enthusiasm for the project. “I’m really excited about this project,” he said. “A lot of the work I do is for private clients so a great deal of it doesn’t get seen by the public. The fact that I’m now going to have this new work where lots of people in the restaurant will see it every day is something I’m really looking forward to.”
Restaurant Details and Menu
Tia’s Mexican Cantina will seat 140 customers and offer a menu of Tex-Mex dishes, cocktails, and premium tequilas. Popular options from the Durham branch, which celebrates its 30th birthday this year, include enchiladas, chimichangas, fajitas, and slow-cooked ribs. A signature dish is the Tia's Rose, a whole sliced onion deep-fried in a secret-recipe batter, served with garlic mayo, sour cream, or red pepper jam. A signature drink is the frozen margarita.
The Newcastle branch will have an extended licence, opening daily from 11:30am until late, with hours extending to 3am on Fridays and Saturdays with music.
