Awesome Franks rolls into Jesmond

A North East food entrepreneur is preparing to open a new gourmet sandwich shop in Jesmond, Newcastle, this summer, with big plans to grow the site into a versatile, family-friendly venue.

Awesome Franks is the latest venture from Alex Walker, co-founder of Scream for Pizza, who has transformed the former Richard Granger Wines unit at West Jesmond Metro into an artisan deli. 

The shop, which is named after Alex’s son and his love for superheroes, will showcase elegant sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients and bread from Northern Rye, with creative fillings including salt and pepper squid and Northumberland crab.

Supported by Mincoffs Solicitors, which handled the licensing, the venue will also sell deli goods and branded flour.

Alex, who honed her baking skills at The Bertinet Kitchen Cookery School following her departure from Scream for Pizza earlier this year, said: “I have had my eye on this building for a long time. 

“So, I jumped at the opportunity to take over the space and bring my vision for Awesome Franks into reality. 

“I’m really driven to create a space that serves the whole of the West Jesmond community, adding positively to what is already an exceptional hospitality scene.”

Alex also plans to open Frank’s Imaginarium at the venue in 2026 – an immersive play café and learning space for families – alongside a private hire event space for community and hospitality events.

Matt Foster, licensing and gaming partner at Mincoffs Solicitors, who supported Alex in acquiring the licence for Awesome Franks, added: “It’s easy to see that Awesome Franks is a real passion project for Alex and we were delighted to support her in getting everything she needs in place for launch.

“The venue is in a great location and has lots of potential, so it is sure to be a popular destination with residents of all ages.

“We wish Alex the best of luck with the opening of Awesome Franks and look forward to seeing the venue expand further in the coming years.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →