He's the man responsible for bringing some of the biggest names in music to the North East and now he's started an exciting new venture at one of Newcastle's most iconic sites.
Take That. Rihanna. Coldplay, Foo Fighters. Royalty of the music world who all have one thing in common – they took to the stage at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light.
And that in turn gives them all a second link, the relentless work ethic of the former commercial head of SAFC who built relationships with the management of all of these top acts and persuaded them to come to Wearside.
It is that dedication that Gary Hutchinson still exhibits – but this time channelled in a different direction as he takes to the helm of his own empire, Chrysalis Leisure.
It’s hard not to miss the former Fat Buddha site in its prime position at the gateway to Newcastle – but under Gary’s lead it has now been transformed to the city’s first Alpine themed bar/restaurant.
The attention to detail which Gary is known for is very much in evidence at Antler – from the authentic ski gondolas in the outside garden area to the stripped, back, stylish décor which evokes the world of apres ski.
Food reflects the theme – think schnitzels, spatzle and sausages – and in true Gary style, he has pulled off a deal which sees Antler as the only place in the city to offer Krusovice tank beer.
He’s rightly proud of the venue.
“I was always very determined to create something really new for the city,” he said.
“This is such an iconic spot that it was important to open it as somewhere different but at the same time offering the highest standards of food and drink.”
Even though the lower floors have changed, the Buddha is very much still in evidence.
It has now taken over the upper floor, in what was formerly the city’s Royal Arcade and with a menu which Gary believes is the most authentic Asian offering in the North East. He’s appointed renowned chef Walter Pang to oversee the kitchen, who’s impeccable credentials include working in Japan, Miami and at Nobu in London.
While favourites remain, Walter’s touches are very much in evidence and he constantly adding new dishes – and new twists – to the menu.
Given his background, it’s also not surprising that Gary is also showcasing Antler as a venue for events, celebrations and business meetings.
“We’re lucky to be able to cater for anything from small groups of about ten up to 800 people across the site,” he said.
It’s already been a hit with many of the city’s business people who are relocating regular events to Antler. One of the first was Frank Recruitment Group which is now hosting its monthly First Thursday events for staff at Antler.
Rebecca Callaghan, Senior Employee Brand Assistant at Frank Recruitment Group, said the company had already held an event at the venue which was a huge success.
“We’ve developed an ambitious and entrepreneurial environment that rewards success in a fun and supportive way, both in and out of the office,” she said.
“Our monthly First Thursday meetings are a fantastic way for us to recognise the efforts of our sales and support staff, and we can’t think of a better venue than Antler.”
Frank Recruitment Group is just one of the businesses which is now looking towards Antler as the perfect venue for its events.
“We’ve got off to a really great start and I think that’s down to the quality of the product and the versatility of the venue,” said Gary.
“We’re just unveiling a really exciting Christmas package which we think will be very popular – after all where better to celebrate the festive season than in an Alpine setting? “We’ve also taken on board the needs of business during the day and have now launched an express lunch in the Buddha as well as our evening menus.
“And this is just the start – watch this space!”
For more information visit www.antlernewcastle.co.uk or call 0191 261 1066 or email enquiries@antlernewcastle.co.uk. The Fat Buddha remains open on the upper level and bookings can be made at www.fatbuddhancl.com or via info@fatbuddhancl.com. Telephone bookings can also be made via the same number as Antler.
