- Play Hard
- 25th Apr 2025
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We’ve discovered a hidden gem of fine dining inside Rockliffe Hall
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Do you like the finer things in life? TERRA at Rockliffe Hall is serving a French Bistro dining experience that you have to try.
The French Bistro experience brings tradition, elegance and a hint of Parisian passion to County Durham – something that’s never been done before.
But this incredible culinary offering ends on Saturday 31st May. So, if you haven’t experienced it yet, now’s your chance to book a table and enjoy an evening that brings the finest food from France straight to your plate.
A TASTE OF FRANCE IN THE HEART OF COUNTY DURHAM
So, what exactly is The French Bistro at TERRA? Think classic French dishes, rustic charm, cosy vibes and wine flowing from carefully selected French vineyards. It’s inspired by those little Parisian spots where food is simple, full of flavour and always paired with the perfect glass of vino.
Dinner is served from Wednesday to Saturday, from 6:30pm to 9pm and everything is built around quality produce and a real love for food.
The French Bistro at TERRA has already made its mark as one of the most memorable dining experiences in County Durham. Why? Because the entire team at TERRA is working hard work create something unforgettable. The chefs, the sommeliers, the front-of-house staff… everyone contributes to a seamless, joyful experience.
As Head Chef Adam Molloy puts it, “We want every guest to leave happy, fulfilled and feeling valued.”
That same passion drives how they prepare. “We always taste the foods and wines as a team,” Adam explains. “So everyone is knowledgeable and passionate about what they’re doing.” And that knowledge doesn’t just stay in the kitchen – it’s shared with you throughout your evening.
Brought to you by Adam under the guidance of Culinary Director James Close, we caught up with Adam to find out more about The French Bistro at TERRA.
WHAT INSPIRED THIS FRENCH BISTRO TWIST?
“Parisian bistros are a real favourite to visit, and we wanted to be able to bring this amazing food and wine to the resort. We wanted to provide a casual, fun, and fast-paced environment where guests can relax and enjoy the simple and delicious food that the bistros of France are known for.
“The spa café (with a little bit of love) proved to be an ideal location. We’ve added a champagne trolley and a wine station to give it that lively bistro feel.”
SIGNATURE DISHES WORTH TRAVELLING FOR
If you’re wondering what to expect from the menu, Adam says they’ve stuck closely to the spirit of French bistros while adding their own elevated touches.
“The Steak au Poivre is probably the most recognisable dish on the menu, but the bouillabaisse is the stand-out. It dates back to the 19th century, traditionally a simple ‘fish’ soup. We’ve recreated it with the best fish and shellfish we can find and a rich, deep shellfish sauce.”
If you’re a first timer for French cuisine, Adam has some dishes to recommend:
“I’d start with Jamon Noire de Bigorre – an amazing French ham served simply by the plate, perfect with champagne. Then I’d recommend our Pâté de Campagne, a rustic terrine made in-house each week. For the main, definitely the Steak au Poivre. And you can’t skip dessert – the millefeuille is a must. Light pastry with rich vanilla crème pâtissière.”
WHY ARE YOU SO PASSIONATE ABOUT FRENCH FOOD?
“French produce is some of the best in the world. Whether it’s quails from Brittany or asparagus from the Loire Valley, we work with suppliers who bring in the best, at peak seasonality.”
And speaking of seasonal surprises, there’s more to come before The French Bistro wraps up.
“Asparagus will be making an appearance very soon. This time of year is amazing, as nature really begins to wake up again.”
WHAT DISH WILL YOU MISS THE MOST?
“It’s got to be the Toulouse sausage with braised puy lentils. The sausage is packed with flavour and the lentils—cooked with mirepoix, bacon and herbs – are delicious. Then we finish it with a sharp Dijon sauce… honestly, I could probably drink it by the cupful.”
Bon appétit!
Rockliffe Hall, Hurworth on Tees, Darlington, County Durham DL2 2DU
Rachael Ellis
Creative Solutions Manager
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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