Popular Newcastle bar set to pair fresh oysters with premium cocktails

On Sunday, November 10, Café Mercy will be hosting a one-off “oyster shucking special” as it looks to pair fresh oysters with premium cocktails and wine.

The informal event will be held at its renowned Grey Street venue, in Newcastle city centre, with the oysters prepared by the team at Hjem.

It will see 200 oysters served throughout the afternoon, with guests having the opportunity to enjoy them with Hjem’s own house-made hot sauce and a Scandinavian-inspired pickle.

Martin Waugh, Hjem’s sommelier (wine steward), has given an insight into why the business has chosen to collaborate with Café Mercy for this event.

He said: "We’ve known Neil and the team at Café Mercy for years, and their venue on Grey Street is the perfect place for us to present this type of event.

“It’s a bit of an oyster party—laid-back, with friends, great music, paired cocktails, and serving some of the best local produce."

Read more: Newcastle’s Mother Mercy officially opens its brand new bar following a relocation at Fenwick

Neil Donachie, co-founder of Café Mercy, has expressed his delight at being able to team up with Hjem for this one-off event.

He added: "We're thrilled to collaborate with Hjem for our Oyster Shucking Special.

“At Café Mercy, we pride ourselves on creating experiences that bring people together over great drinks, food, and conversation.

“Partnering with such an incredible Michelin-starred restaurant to serve fresh oysters fits perfectly with our ethos of celebrating quality and artisanry.

“We can’t wait to welcome guests for a laid-back afternoon of cocktails, oysters, and good company."

NewcastleWorld: Essential is our weekly newsletter, delivering the city’s headline highlights to your inbox - sign up

As well as the oysters, guests will be able to enjoy exclusive wines by the glass, including a selection from Hjem’s cellar, some of which have been stored for years and will be served from magnums to add a celebratory feel.

This recent venture is an extension of the close relationship between Hjem and Mother Mercy, the wider group that Café Mercy belongs to.

The pair have previously worked behind the scenes to develop a signature cocktail for Hjem’s recent collaboration with Fenwick.

Organisers of the event have stated that the serving will be limited to 200 oysters so early arrival is recommended to avoid any disappointment.