Raval Luxury Restaurant and Bar in the heart of Newcastle and Gateshead

A visit by ex-England captain Alan Shearer has led to a Tyneside restaurant planning a series of team-building events that could see the regions businesses cooking their way out of the economic downturn.

Raval Indian Restaurant in Gateshead is planning to host a series of team-building events for its corporate clients, putting them to work in the kitchen where they will get expert tuition from top chefs.

The idea came after England and Newcastle United football legend Alan Shearer enjoyed a cookery session with a group of friends at the restaurant. Raval, located near the banks of River Tyne with spectacular views over Newcastle, opened on a Sunday afternoon for a private fixture with the former player-turned-TV pundit.

Under the watchful eyes of Raval chefs, Shearer cooked a three-course meal for guests including wife Lainya and former team mate Steve Harper and his wife Lindsay.

Restaurant manager Avi Malik said: “It was such a huge success that we immediately saw the potential for businesses in the region. We have a high percentage of corporate clients at Raval and a number of them have already expressed an interest in team-building sessions.”

With one of the region’s most prestigious music venues, the Sage Gateshead, on its doorstep, and the lavish Hilton Newcastle-Gateshead a short stroll away, Raval is fast becoming a magnet for visiting celebrities.

Famous diners include Cliff Richard and Hank Marvin, girl group the Saturdays, rock band The Stranglers and politicians Vince Cable and Oliver Letwin.

Source: Tandoori Magazine