Amble has the reputation of being England’s friendliest port. Nestled on Queen Street, Amble’s new Ukrainian and British cafe restaurant fits well within this pattern: the staff are super friendly, providing great service, in addition to good food.
Liudmyla Vorobiova and her daughter, Veronica, moved to the UK as asylum seekers in 2022. A sponsor in Allendale lodged the family before they eventually settled in Amble.
The restaurant ‘LumiVero’ is named after both ladies. Liudmyla explained in interviews with the Northumberland Gazette that she was keen to give something back to the country.
The decor in the restaurant features traditional placemats and there is a collection of Ukrainian ceramics, vinok headdresses and dolls. Tastefully painted sunflowers, the symbol of the Ukraine, decorate the fireplace.
The food
Ukrainian beetroot soup, borscht is available in vegetarian and non-vegetarian options served with rye bread and sour cream, which is conveniently placed in a small serving dish so anyone who is minding their cholesterol intake can moderate accordingly.
Nalysnyky (Ukrainian crepes) that are rolled tightly around a filling and often baked in rich cream are also a feature.
Crepes are a popular staple in many cuisines throughout Eastern Europe. Nalysnyky can be eaten for breakfast or at other times.
There are a number of savoury and sweet variations of nalysnyky in the Ukrainian kitchen and the menu at LumiVero reflects this.
Ukrainian pancakes, Deruny, are a popular traditional food usually served as main no-meat dish either for breakfast or lunch and sometimes dinner. They are often served as a side dish for a main or with salad.
Lumivero has a variety of salads, including a vegetarian option.
Desserts include Ukrainian chocolate candies and gluten free carrot cake
There are two small tables outside for those who are mitigating Covid risk.
A lot of people go to Amble for traditional fish and chips in the port. You might leave some room for a dessert here…
On Saturday 11 July, LumiVero will hold a musical evening from 6-8pm to raise funds for Ukraine. Tickets are £5 on the door or in advance. For more information, see here.
Friends of Bylines Network
There has never been a greater need for grassroots journalism that investigates the stories that really matter, holds power to account and champions the voices of everyday citizens. We are proudly powered by volunteers but what we do isn’t free.
STAND WITH US for independent, citizen-led journalism that makes democracy stronger, and you will even get some exclusive benefits.
