Work set to begin on £750k refurbishment of Fat Buddha at 55 Degrees North

Work is set to begin on transforming the lower level of the Fat Buddha site at 55 Degrees North, the leisure complex in Newcastle.

Chrysalis Leisure, which is developing the site, is investing more than £750k to see the upper level Fat Buddha become the New Buddha and the downstairs be transformed into Antler– an alpine ski lodge inspired bar and restaurant.

Although work is about to begin, the upper level of the restaurant will continue to serve oriental cuisine and remain open.

Fat Buddha has also unveiled a host of new additions to its menu which will run throughout the spring and summer.

Day time specials have been drawn from across the East, including a Korean barbeque pork platter, Hong Kong style king prawns and a range of new noodle and stir fry dishes.

Gary Hutchinson, managing director of Chrysalis Leisure which is developing the site, revealed that the new dishes will form part of the main menu at the Asian restaurant.

He said: “This is a great opportunity for customers to give us their feedback on some of the new dishes and we welcome their input. We are working on a whole new menu for when all the work is complete so diners can really let us know which are their favourites.”

Among the plans are the provision of an exclusive brand of Tank Beer and Alpine-themed home cooked food, along with the creation of an in-house bakery.

At the same time,Antler will feature a regular programme of live entertainment, along with a heated, outdoor alpine garden which will be open year round.

Mr Hutchonson added: “We have been delighted with the response so far to the plans and we are conscious how popular the Fat Buddha is which is why the site is retaining an Asian restaurant.”