Celebrity TV chef Si King, known for his appearances on the Hairy Bikers, has revealed plans to open a new hospitality venture named ‘PROPA!’ at Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland. This project aims to revive the nostalgia of enjoying a pie and pint before a match, enhanced with a gourmet twist.
Alongside venture partner Richard Marsden, the managing director of Building Design Northern (BDN) Ltd—developers of Sheepfolds Stables—Si King intends to offer a restaurant and ‘grab and go’ service specializing in hearty British comfort food at reasonable prices. Located in the existing stables buildings, the restaurant is expected to open by late 2024 or early 2025, with fit-out works already underway.
The venue will feature a takeaway facility with external seating, an overhead canopy, and a fire pit, serving a variety of comfort dishes representative of the local food culture. The menu will highlight homemade pies, such as steak and ale, corned beef, and cheese and onion, alongside other comforting options like sausage casseroles, stottie sandwiches, and traditional dishes unique to the region.
In addition to the main menu, a diverse breakfast selection will include items like sourdough specials and Full English breakfasts, with vegan and vegetarian choices available as well. Si King stated, “This offering is designed to resonate with both locals and visitors, especially those going to games, remembering the classic pie and pint experience.”
The restaurant is also committed to working with local charities to minimize food waste, aiming to distribute excess food to the community rather than letting it go to waste. Si emphasized the importance of creating wholesome comfort food using high-quality local ingredients, preserving traditional regional recipes.
Sheepfolds Stables, which opened in August 2024, has quickly become a popular venue for food, drink, and entertainment, welcoming tens of thousands of visitors within its first few months. The introduction of PROPA! complements existing offerings and plans to collaborate with local operators while enhancing the dining experience with unique pairings, such as combining pies with local ales, including Si’s own Hairy Bikers IPA.
BDN Ltd’s Richard Marsden expressed excitement about PROPA!, noting its location near the Stadium of Light and its potential to attract football fans. He acknowledged the overwhelming popularity of Sheepfolds Stables and indicated that the new venture aims to provide high-quality, affordable food and drinks daily.
Sheepfolds Stables, an impressive £4 million project dating back to 1884, showcases a blend of heritage and modern hospitality, reimagined by BDN Ltd to overlook the River Wear.
