YOU don’t have to look far from home to find delicious local produce, from independent suppliers, to adorn your table. Although these specialities are available any time of the year, they become extra-special now, with the festive season coming up. Whether you want to treat yourself to something a bit different, or show friends and family what delights are available in the region, shopping locally has never been more tasty and exciting.

The Pasta Shop Darlington 

The Northern Echo:

The Pasta Shop Darlington is an authentic, family-owned Deli shop on 10 Woodland Road, specialising in fresh pasta takeaway dishes, crafted using the techniques of Italy’s master pasta makers, and a rich assortment of imported Italian foods and raw pastas for those looking to bring the experience home. The Pasta Shop offers two ways to enjoy from home; both through their takeaway menu, and their cook-at-home menu, meaning you can recreate the dishes you tried and loved. If you would like some help in getting your pasta just perfect, The Pasta Shop offers courses to assist you to make handmade gnocchi, tortellini, ravioli and more. Their classes also have a children's option, for those young, aspiring chefs! Why not ask about about The Pasta Shop's catering option? For creative flavours in pasta, sandwiches, pasta bake or salad, then contact the pasta shop today. Opening hours are Monday - Thursday: 10am - 2:30pm, Friday: 10am – 5pm; closed Saturday and Sunday. Call 07366 333 739 or pop in to 10 Woodland Road, Darlington, DL3 7PN

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The Canny Cheesecake Company   

The Northern Echo:

Founded by ex-army chef, John Burrows, who began baking just as a hobby, The Canny Cheesecake Company was born once people got a taste for what he could produce. The Canny Cheesecake co. create delicious, pure artisan cheesecakes which are available at local farmers markets and other outlets. They offer many sizes and flavours, which are always in stock, such as their new decadent Black Forest, Strawberry Daiquiri, and Blueberry & Lemon. All cheesecakes are freshly made and freshly frozen, ready to take home - from their freezers to yours - from just £1.50. A range of sizes are available and family cheesecakes are freshly made to order. The Canny Cheesecake co. have no gelatine, no preservatives, no colourants, and no additives within their products, and use locally-sourced ingredients. For a pure and simply delicious treat, contact The Canny Cheesecake co. on 07432 589588 or find them on Facebook to see where they may be visiting near you, and maybe you can grab yourself a free sample!


Rosalind’s Larder 

The Northern Echo:

Starting off as a small business using the surplus of fruit and vegetables from their allotment in Middlesbrough, Rosalind's Larder has grown and evolved to become a loved business within the North-East that offers a range of condiments. Rosalind is passionate about taste and flavour, and often uses unusual combinations of fruit, herbs and spices to give her customers a great taste experience. Rosalind Larder's cocktail preserves only use the best top-shelf spirits that are locally produced, and her traditional jams and marmalades are full of good-quality fruit. The chutney range - from mild to hot and spicy - is suitable for everyone, as it complements a range of palates. Rosalind's Larder also includes Italian-inspired Giardiniera (spiced fruits), Italian biscotti, and soft amaretti, which are naturally gluten free. Rosalind can provide you with bespoke hampers and can also provide bespoke labels and decorations for your special events. All you need to do is contact her on the Rosalind's Larder Facebook page, or email to discuss your requirements rosalindwaugh@rosalindslarder.com or rosal09@hotmail.co.uk


Matthews Cheese Specialists   

The Northern Echo:

Matthews Cheese Specialists offer an abundance of cheesy treasures, with more than 100 English and continental cheeses - and have been doing so for more than 70 years. With award-winning customer service, which comes in the form of proven know-how and advice, Matthews Cheese Specialists are there to help. They offer everything from UK cheeses in England, Scotland, Wales, and even locally-sourced in Northumberland's Doddington Farm.  However, they also have cheeses from further afield, in Norway, Holland, Switzerland and Spain. They can give you the finest parmesan from Italy and the tastiest Brie from France. They can provide treats that will brighten your cheeseboard this Christmas, to ideal components for cooking a festive treat. So, whatever you’re after - from fancy goat's cheese, to the traditional farmhouse or even a Blue Stilton - then make your way to Matthews today. They have exceptionally good prices, and can be found Monday – Saturday, 9am to 5.30pm, at Unit 23, Grainger Arcade, Newcastle, NE1 5QF. Or call them on 0191 2324265. 

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