La Pharmacie

A PRESCRIPTION for a stylish eaterie serving delicious food in a cool and contemporary atmosphere is just what the doctor ordered for Middlesbrough.

At least, that’s according to father and son team Barry Faulkner senior and junior. For the Boro pub and club supremos have just opened up a brand new establishment designed to bring a whole new brand of style and flavour to the town.

La Pharmacie, formerly The Purple Onion, has opened its doors to welcome discerning customers seeking a delicious bite to eat in stylish surroundings with an atmosphere to match. and just one look at the menu will have your tastebuds tingling. Choose from the likes of home made lamb, chilli and sage burger served on toasted ciabatta with melted goats cheese and tomato relish.

All tastes are catered for - and all ingredients are freshly sourced from local suppliers for their taste and flavour. Barry junior says he and his dad were long time fans of The Purple Onion and when the opportunity came up, they decided to give it a bit of a revamp. The place had an atmosphere all of its own and they were keen to recreate that in the new restaurant.

A new name and a stylish makeover have given the place the look and feel of a brasserie by the side of the Seine was added to their menu - as well as plans to revamp the downstairs cellar bar area, turning it into a plush club venue. “We always loved The Purple Onion when it first opened,” explains Barry junior. “We wanted to bring it back to its former glory. “We’ve given it a whole new look. “We didn’t set out with a theme in mind, but that’s kind of how my dad and I work - we set off and do it as we go along.” They both liked the name La Pharmacie for the restaurant, says Barry and the bar will be the Medicine Bar as, he adds, the two go together well.

Lunchtimes will provide a selection reasonably priced dishes and sandwiches, off peak you can enjoy quality teas and coffees plus a comprehensive selection of cocktails, wines and beers at the bar.
An early bird choice will also be available for those who fancy a bite after work.

“There are no Boulevards in the Boro but now there's an establishment to equal the best Paris has to offer with a menu that provides an exciting choice of up to the minute dishes and some tried and trusted old favourites,” adds Barry.

*La Pharmacie, 80 Corporation Road, Middlesbrough is open Tuesdays through to Saturdays. Lunchtime service starts at 11.30am until 2.30pm and on evenings, it opens at 5.30pm with last orders at 9.30pm weekdays and 10pm on a weekend. Tel: 01642 222250.