OpenMexico 70
312 High St W, Sunderland SR1 3ET, United Kingdom
Welcome to Aperitif restaurant
Aperitif Restaurant is a delightful culinary gem nestled in the heart of Sunderland. Located at 7 High St W, it offers a cozy yet trendy atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for lunch or dinner. With a price range of £20-£30, it caters to various diners, from families to solo adventurers. The extensive menu features Italian classics like the Spaghetti Carbonara, Frutti de Mare Risotto, and a range of scrumptious pizzas. With exceptional service and a vibrant ambiance, Aperitif stands out for its commitment to providing a fantastic dining experience.
Welcome to Aperitif Restaurant, a hidden gem in Sunderland where culinary excellence meets a warm, inviting atmosphere. Located at 7 High Street West, we specialize in delightful Italian cuisine, offering everything from delectable pasta dishes like our Carbonara and Penne to mouthwatering seafood options such as Surf and Turf. Indulge in our impressive selection of cocktails, wines, and craft beers, perfect for a casual lunch or a cozy dinner. With wheelchair accessibility and a family-friendly environment complete with a kids' menu, there's something for everyone. Join us for a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of great food and hospitality!Services, Amenities and More
Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Great wine list
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Happy-hour drinks
Healthy options
Late-night food
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Photo Gallery
View Menu Photos
Reviews Overview
Most Liked
Diners rave about Aperitif's impressive cocktail selection, citing the creativity and quality of each drink as a highlight. The friendly and attentive staff stand out, providing exemplary service that leaves a lasting impression. Many guests love the cozy yet upscale atmosphere, perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a leisurely meal. The surf and turf dish garners a lot of appreciation, especially for the generous half-lobster serving, which has become a fan favorite. People often mention how quickly they can grab a meal before heading to the nearby theatre, emphasizing the efficiency without sacrificing quality.
Most Disliked
Despite its many strengths, some diners mention the limited space inside Aperitif, which can make it feel cramped—especially during peak hours. A few guests noted that the service could feel a bit rushed, particularly when dining before a show. It is essential to reserve a table to avoid long wait times, especially on busier nights. Some customers also felt they didn’t get enough attention to the specials, which can be a letdown for those wanting to try unique offerings. The average portion sizes have also received mixed feedback, where some found them satisfactory while others hoped for a bit more.
User Reviews
KH
Kaiz H.
We were visiting Sunderland for a work event, and opted to try Aperitif. Absolutely fantastic service with such a lovely atmosphere. The food was exquisite, from their Frutti de Mare pizza, and their sublime Pasta options. The entire wait staff and even the owner himself were so friendly and helped nurture a wonderful setting for such a nice evening out. Recommend this to anyone that is looking for a place to eat in Sunderland. Can’t wait to visit again on my return back to the north east. Thank you Aperitif for your high level of excellence. Keep raising the bar!
HT
Hobi T.
Been here multiple times throughout the year. Staff are always very friendly and really welcoming. Food is amazing and the awards speaks for itself. Best to pre book as it’s always very full. Especially when the theatre has a show on.
SR
Shannon R.
We went before the theatre and the service was quick. We were in and out within 1 hour. Service felt a bit rushed to begin with as we were asked multiple times if we were ready to order even though we had only been at the table a couple of mins. This is in the ideal place to grab some food before a show. Food was tasty. Portions were average (could have been better). We weren’t shown the specials board which other tables were given to view. The restaurant itself is quite small with tables packed inside (not much room to move around the tables). There is no room for waiting as it has a very small (1 person) entrance way. Staff were helpful and friendly.
OM
Olga M.
We've been here twice and it was spectacular each time! Fast service, beautiful cocktails and delicious food! Surf and turf is served with half of the lobster and it's so good!
SS
Susan S.
Brilliant restaurant, the steak was absolutely beautiful, 100% up there with the best we've tasted. Great atmosphere, the staff are very attentive. Sat 9 of us within 20 minutes after being let down from a new opening just around the corner. They made my sons birthday the best.
AF
Alex F.
You couldn't fault this place. Absolutely amazing food with friendly staff all round. The best lobster I have had for a long time. Steak was cooked perfectly and lamb was beautiful too 😁. One of those places where you're dancing in your seat because the food it's so good 👍
JS
Joyce S.
Well what an amazing find - I’ve gone to the theatre for many years and didn’t know this little gem was here. We called on the off chance - without a booking, but luckily they could fit 2 of us in. Well the staff, the food and the service were absolutely fantastic. In and out and in time for Chicago. Certainly will be back next time we are in Sunderland. Thank you to everyone for looking after us so well. 5 star rating for sure.
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Location & Hours
Opening Hours
MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
Aperitif restaurant offers a price range of £20–30, making it a great spot for a casual yet upscale dining experience.
Aperitif provides a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and toilet facilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy a meal here.
Yes, Aperitif is family-friendly, offering a kids' menu, high chairs, and a welcoming atmosphere for children.
It's best to make reservations at Aperitif, especially during busy times like weekends or when the theatre has shows.
Aperitif features an extensive menu with 61 dishes, including pasta, pizzas, steaks, and delicious desserts like tiramisu and cheesecake.
Yes, Aperitif provides both dine-in and takeaway options, perfect for a meal on the go.
Why visit Aperitif restaurant
Visiting Aperitif is a must for anyone in Sunderland craving Italian cuisine with a local touch. The combination of delicious food, friendly service, and vibrant atmosphere creates a memorable dining experience worth repeating. Be sure to make a reservation, especially on show nights, to secure a spot easily. Take advantage of the happy hour options, where delightful small plates and drinks can provide an excellent value for a light meal or pre-theatre snack. Capture the essence of Sunderland’s culinary scene; whether it’s a casual lunch or celebrating a big occasion, Aperitif delivers on all fronts. Don’t miss the surf and turf dish—the lobster is a highlight that many diners rave about. The restaurant's strategic location near the theatre also allows for a celebratory dinner that kicks off a night of entertainment, combining culture and cuisine effortlessly.
