Restaurant's Claim to Fame
An Italian restaurant in the North East has a unique connection to England's World Cup hero Jude Bellingham. Romano's in Cleadon, South Tyneside, served both Jude and his younger brother Jobe in the summer of 2023, shortly after Jobe signed for Sunderland and Jude completed his high-profile transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid.
World Cup Heroics
Jude Bellingham has been instrumental for England at the 2026 World Cup. His two goals in the quarter-final against Norway on Saturday night secured a 2-1 victory, with the first equaliser before half-time and the second early in extra time after reacting quickest to a blocked shot from Rogers. This followed his crucial goal against Slovakia at Euro 2024 that kept England in the tournament. England now face fierce rivals Argentina in the semi-final in Atlanta on Wednesday night.
Memorable Evening at Romano's
Customers at Romano's were surprised to see the Bellinghams dining there. Janie Robertshaw, celebrating her daughter Elise's 10th birthday, recalled: 'Everyone waited until they had finished their meal and they were both very polite and happy to accommodate everyone who asked for photos.' The Bellinghams posed for photos with diners, including Janie and her husband Chris.
Staff at Romano's will undoubtedly be cheering for Jude as he aims to lead England to the final. The restaurant's connection to the Bellingham brothers adds a local touch to the national excitement surrounding the World Cup.
