In what is a rather unexpected collaboration, but could be the stuff of dreams for some, Auntie Bessie’s and Northern Monk have joined forces.
The UK’s leading frozen food producer and the Leeds-based brewery are already hugely successful and well-loved companies in their own rights, with thousands of fans nationwide – but now, the two have decided to come together to launch a collaborative range of ales inspired by British comfort foods.
And the flavours are, shall we say are… interesting?
Grabbing headlines left, right, and centre over the last few days, the four ales in the new range include tipples combining the flavours iconic British sweet treats such as Apple Crumble and Sticky Toffee Pudding, and come after the success of the Jam Roly Poly Pale Ale exclusively last year.
Image: Northern Monk
But it’s not all about dessert, as the one brew that’s sure to catch the eye of us northerners the most focuses on the main course itself – the Roast Dinner Brown Ale.
Yes, you heard that right. If you wouldn’t consider yourself to have much of a sweet tooth, then how does a beer resembling the heartiest and most comforting meal you have all week sound? Like we said, it won’t be for everyone, but for others, it could be a match made in heaven.
According to Northern Monk, the Roast Dinner Brown Ale is a “rich, hearty and satisfying beer” that has, believe it or not, actually been brewed with Yorkshire Puddings and roast potatoes.
Northern Monk’s founder, Russel Bisset, said working with Aunt Bessie’s has been an “honour”.
“Aunt Bessie’s is a truly iconic Northern brand,” Mr Bisset said.
“There’s nothing quite like a Sunday Roast with all the trimmings, and on a weekend where we’d usually be getting together with our families for a traditional Sunday Dinner, we’ve teamed up to bring you something a little different.”
Each of the Aunt Bessie’s x Northern Monk brews are now available to buy online here, and are also exclusively in Morrisons branches nationwide.
Keep your eyes peeled.
Featured Image – Northern Monk
Eats
Luxury Leeds steakhouse to undergo huge £1.2 million renovation
Leeds restaurant The Cut & Craft has announced further expansion plans for the spring.
Swanky all-day dining restaurant and bar, The Cut & Craft, is expanding its popular Leeds site, investing a whopping £1.2 million to create a new adjoining elegant bar, lounge and private spaces.
Located within the former historic Collinson’s Cafe, the renovation will transform the former neighbouring Paul Smith store, to extend the existing brand offering.
The extension will celebrate the original beauty of the space, whilst acknowledging the legacy of Wallace Hartley - a talented musician who played at Collinson’s Cafe in the early 1900s before his role as bandleader on Titanic during its maiden voyage.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Grade II-listed building’s features including its iconic glass dome, stained glass and circular central bar will remain, with the addition of two beautifully designed private dining rooms.
The extension is due for competition this spring and will transform the existing venue into a space with seating for an impressive 370 covers.
Oscar Akgul, CEO at The Cut & Craft said: “Planning for this new chapter began within the first year of opening. By year two, it was clear that we required additional space to serve the city’s appetite for The Cut & Craft’s signature hospitality.
Image: Supplied
“The brand’s deep affinity with the Victoria Quarter and the heritage of the building played an essential role in the decision to grow here.
“We want to thank our regular guests and everyone who has joined us at The Cut & Craft Leeds since opening and we look forward to entering this exciting new chapter with you all.”
This iconic Leeds pub is selling 25p pints for the weekend alongside a 70’s-inspired menu
Clementine Hall
Whitelock's Ale House in Leeds are turning back the clocks for four days only.
Ever fancied giving time travel a go? Well now's your chance, as a historic Leeds pub are looking back to time gone by for the weekend.
Whitelock's Ale House are collaborating with Double Diamond beer, an iconic British pale ale made popular in the 70's and now somewhat having a resurgence.
From this Thursday 26 February until Sunday 1 March 2026, pints of Double Diamond will be available for just 25p.
Yep, you can't even get a Freddo for 25p these days let alone a cold, refreshing pint.
Guests will be able to grab their first pint of Double Diamond for 25p along with a nostalgic specials menu from the Whitelock's kitchen.
And if you know anything about their food, it's always class so this specials menu will be absolutely no exception.
The specials menu includes a french onion quiche, a coronation chicken sandwich, gammon, pineapple, egg and chips and to top it all off, a raspberry Swiss roll with custard.
You can get three courses for just £30 and you can either pre-order or order individually when you're there.
This is set to be a real blast from the past, so rally your mates together and prepare for a trip down memory lane and for what could be the cheapest pint of your life.
You can find out more and book your table at Whitelock's Ale House here.
Emily Sergeant -
18th August 2023 
