County Durham: South Causey Inn to host Hjem Vin barbecue

Restaurant Hjem, currently enjoying a six‑month residency at The Farmhouse at South Causey Inn, is relaunching Hjem Vin – a relaxed, open‑air dining experience featuring seasonal small plates, carefully paired wines, and a more informal approach to fine dining.

Ally Thompson‑Nietosvuori, co‑founder of Hjem, said: “We’ve always wanted to revisit Hjem Vin.

Ulf Nietosvuori will be taking charge of the BBQ at the launch of Hjem Vin (Image: SUPPLIED)

“While it was created to allow us to reopen during restrictions, it quickly became something we genuinely loved – a different way to connect with guests and showcase what we do in a more relaxed setting.

“Being here at South Causey, with the space and the setting, felt like the perfect opportunity to bring it back.”

Hjem Vin was originally created during lockdown in 2021 at Hjem’s Northumberland location.

Ulf Nietosvuori will be taking charge of the BBQ at the launch of Hjem Vin (Image: SUPPLIED)

Hjem Vin became a firm favourite with guests and staff alike for its relaxed atmosphere and attention to detail.

Set in the grounds of South Causey Inn, the revived concept will officially relaunch on May 17, with a special launch barbecue.

The event will be led by Ulf Nietosvuori, an international “barbecue master”.

Alex and Ally at The Farmouse – Hjem_s temporary home at South Causey Inn (Image: SUPPLIED)

Ulf is traveling from Sweden for the occasion.

Guests will be treated to a menu centred around bold, simple flavours and top‑quality seasonal ingredients.

Dishes will include hot smoked salmon with agave and lemon, pulled pork, chicken thigh in barbecue sauce, fire‑cooked sirloin, and slow‑cooked pork belly.

Sides will feature spicy roast potatoes, cream corn, mac and cheese, grilled sweetcorn, and chilli beans.

Restaurant Hjem is currently enjoying a residency at The Farmhouse at South Causey Inn (Image: SUPPLIED)

Alex Nietosvuori said: “Cooking with my dad for this feels really special.

“It’s where everything started for me – simple food, cooked over fire, no fuss, just good ingredients.

“To bring that into Hjem Vin and share it with guests is something I’m really looking forward to.”

Hjem Vin will offer diners the chance to enjoy open air dining outside The Farmhouse (Image: SUPPLIED)

Ulf Nietosvuori, who has competed in national and international barbecue competitions and runs a BBQ catering service, said: “Cooking like this is where it all begins – good ingredients, fire, and people coming together.

“It’s not about overcomplicating things, it’s about flavour and feeling.

“I’m looking forward to coming to the North East to share this with Alex and Ally’s guests.”

Following the launch, Hjem Vin will open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 12pm to 5pm.

The menu will be regularly refreshed and designed to pair perfectly with a thoughtfully curated wine list.

A covered marquee will ensure the experience remains enjoyable in all weather conditions.

Hjem Vin offers a more informal counterpoint to the restaurant experience while maintaining the team’s dedication to quality, seasonal produce, and hospitality.

Bookings for the launch barbecue and Hjem Vin weekends will open online at 10am on April 24.

Reservations can be made via southcausey.co.uk/event/hjem-at-south-causey-inn/.