The Blyth Boathouse, owned by the Port of Blyth, has officially reopened, welcoming Aegean, a new Mediterranean restaurant, as its latest tenant.
Operated by experienced restaurateur Georgios Manidakis, formerly the owner of the much loved Casa Antonio in Longbenton, the venue brings a fresh dining concept to the
waterfront. Located on Quay Road at the Port of Blyth’s South Harbour Terminal, the
restaurant combines Italian and Greek-inspired dishes with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Inspired by his roots in Crete, Georgios has created a menu focused on simple, high-quality
Mediterranean cooking. Diners can enjoy fresh seafood, grilled meats, vibrant salads, and
homemade sauces, all prepared using traditional techniques and carefully sourced
ingredients.
The restaurant makes the most of its distinctive waterfront setting, with large windows
offering panoramic views out to the coast. An outdoor riverside decking area provides
additional space for al fresco dining during the summer months, making it one of
Northumberland’s most scenic and unique places to dine. The venue also sits alongside the
Energy Central Learning Hub, a state-of-the-art education and skills facility which brings
additional visitors, students, and events to the area.
The Port of Blyth was pleased to play a key role in the restaurant’s opening, supporting the
transformation of the space through key building works that helped bring Aegean’s vision to
life and create a high-quality dining environment.
Georgios Manidakis, Owner of Aegean, said: “The inspiration came from the sea and the
location itself. Being based at the Port of Blyth, so close to the water, reminds me of home
in Crete. I wanted to bring those authentic Mediterranean flavours and that relaxed lifestyle
feeling to Blyth.
“The Port is a busy, thriving place and, coupled with investment transforming the town,
there is a real buzz here. It gives the restaurant a character you do not find elsewhere and
allows us to serve both the local community, visitors to Blyth and businesses based here.”
Martin Lawlor OBE, Chief Executive of Port of Blyth, commented: “We are delighted to see
the Blyth Boathouse reopen and begin a new chapter as Aegean. This investment adds to
the growing offer at the Port and supports the wider regeneration of Blyth. We’re proud to
have played a role in bringing this exciting new venue forward and wish Georgios every
success.”
Support from Business Northumberland, including through the Northumberland
Employability Network and Work Smart Live Well service, played a key role in helping the
business recruit a strong local team ahead of launch. The restaurant is also working with the
Energy Central Learning Hub to provide opportunities for students to gain valuable work
experience to support the young workforce.
John Hildreth, Head of Business Northumberland, the business support service for
Northumberland County Council, said: “It is fantastic to see Aegean open its doors at the
Port of Blyth, contributing to the town’s ongoing regeneration, supported by the £95m
Energising Blyth programme. Developments like this enhance the local offer and
demonstrate the strength of our business community. It’s always encouraging to see
independent businesses choosing to invest in Northumberland, and we’re proud to have
supported the team on their journey.”
Aegean is well positioned to support the growing Energy Central cluster at the Port of Blyth,
which is home to more than 50 businesses operating across the offshore wind and
renewable energy sector. As the area continues to develop as a hub for clean energy
innovation, the venue provides a valuable space for informal lunches, meetings, and events
for businesses at the Port.
Aegean is currently open for lunch and dinner, with bookings available by phone on 01670
641403 and walk-in’s welcome.
To find out more about support available to your business in Northumberland, please visit
businessnorthumberland.co.uk or contact [email protected]
