SpudBros, the viral jacket potato stand that has amassed millions of followers on social media, has set up at The Hoppings in Newcastle. The stall, run by brothers Jacob and Harley Nelson from Preston, has been serving up spuds since the fair began, drawing long queues of hungry Geordies.
Queue and Pricing
Upon arriving, the first thing visitors notice is the queue. A switchback system with fences means the line is constantly full, with an estimated 25-minute wait from the edge of the fenced area. Despite the temptation to walk away, especially on a hot day with bass thumping from nearby rides, many persevere.
The prices are slightly higher than their usual operations, with Jacob explaining that the increase helps fund travel and accommodation for The Hoppings. A large spud costs £5, sourced from premium Lancashire farms, and includes garlic butter, with free crispy onions and signature Tram sauce. Additional toppings like cheese, beans, coleslaw, and tuna cost £1 to £1.50, while the garlic chicken, a signature pairing, brings the total to £7.50.
Taste and Value
Despite the higher price, the spud offers excellent value. The garlic chicken provides a perfect balance of spice, with the Tram sauce cooling the heat and cheese binding the toppings to a creamy, fluffy jacket potato with a crispy skin. The portion is filling, making it one of the most cost-effective meals at the fairground.
In summary, for those with spare time at The Hoppings, SpudBros delivers a satisfying meal that lives up to the hype.
