North East - Scotch Eggs & Second-Hand Furs: Mrs Mustard and Ding Dong Vintage, Durham

Today I managed to persuade Mama C to take a break from her mountain of work and join me for a late lunch and some browsing in Durham. Neither of us had visited the city for a while and we were initially disappointed to see that one of our favourite lunchtime eateries, Hide, had disappeared. Our disappointed was short-lived however as Mrs Mustard, the self-styled 'totally scrumptious food emporium' now occupying the prime spot on Saddler Street, proved the perfect place for ladies that lunch!

The decor at Mrs Mustard has a lovely run-down, antique feel and although it was quiet as we were rather late, there was still a cosy, welcoming atmosphere. The lunch menu offers a selection of small and large plates, Mama C and I opted for two small plates priced at £5 each, plus a side of Hand-Cut Chips (£3), perfect for sharing!

Both dishes we had were simple, British fair with a twist and used fantastic, fresh ingredients. The Black Pudding and Garlic Portobello Mushrooms on Toast were delicious, particularly with the addition of Mrs Mustard's home-made Mulled Wine Mustard and the Smoked Trout Scotch Egg and Tartar Sauce was honestly out of this world, made even better when accompanied by Tarragon and Mascarpone Mustard!

  We rounded off a yummy lunch with a Kahlua Baked Custard with Dates and Caramelised Sugar to share...who knew you could improve on Creme Brulee!

 After our lovely lunch Mama C took me to her latest discovery, Ding Dong Vintage at The Gates. If you're a vintage lover like me then this place is heaven! An Aladdin's cave of vintage clothes, accessories, jewellery,  shoes and knick knacks Ding Dong Vintage has an overwhelming array of retro goodies! I fell in love with their fabulous selection of vintage furs and am now saving the pennies for a Champagne coloured Mink fur bolero...I didn't take a picture because I don't want anyone to steal it away!

For more info about Mrs Mustard visit http://www.mrsmustard.co.uk/

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