New Grainger Market Trader Set to Open with £1 Matcha

The Rice Kitchen, an Asian-inspired food spot is set to open in Alley 4 of the Grainger Market this February, marking another exciting addition to the historic Grade I listed building’s growing offer.

Owner Jade Gu will offer visitors a range of traditional recipes that she learned while growing up in China, including onigiri, matcha and inari.

After moving to the North East to study Accounting and Finance at Newcastle University, Jade, 27, is now preparing to open her first business in the Grainger Market next month. She joins a host of businesses that celebrate traditional Asian culture, including Tian’s Gifts, Dumpling and Bun and Chinese Noodle and Burger.

Speaking ahead of the opening, Jade said: “I have loved the Grainger Market since I first visited. It’s a truly unique place that I’m really looking forward to being a part of.

“In many parts of Asia, rice is a staple food. When I came to the UK, I noticed that many supermarkets even have dedicated sections for sushi. British food culture is incredibly diverse, and people in Newcastle are particularly open and welcoming to different cultures.

That inspired me to open a rice-focused restaurant in Newcastle — which is also where the name of my restaurant comes from.

“I'm really looking forward to sharing traditional recipes with customers. I want to celebrate my culture, family recipes and the area that I grew up in.”

To celebrate the opening of the Rice Kitchen and the launch of Jade's first business on February 21, she will be offering a host of offers, including £1 matcha drinks and prizes.

Cllr Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council, said: “We are delighted to welcome Jade and her new business to the Grainger Market, further enhancing the diverse mix of traders who proudly call this iconic market home.

“These are exciting times for the Grainger Market as the improvement works draw to a close. As we look to the future, it is fantastic to see a truly inclusive offer — where long-established traders such as butchers, greengrocers and cobblers sit side by side with vintage clothing stores, specialist gift retailers and food businesses showcasing flavours from around the world.

“I look forward to visiting The Rice Kitchen and sampling some of the delicious dishes on offer.”