Welcome to the heart of Chester-le-Street, where culinary creativity meets community spirit at REfUSE. This charming café, located at 143c, Front St, Chester-le-Street DH3 3AU, is not just a place to grab a bite; it's a vibrant hub making a difference by turning surplus food from supermarkets into delightful dishes. Here, every meal tells a story, from American-themed feasts featuring tantalizing chicken wings and stuffed potato skins to exquisite evening bistro nights with a menu that evolves alongside sustainable practices.
REfUSE operates on a unique "pay-as-you-feel" model, encouraging guests to enjoy their meals while appreciating the value of their contributions. The café's commitment to sustainability resonates through reviews from patrons like Anthony, who praised the friendly staff and reasonable drink prices, and Lesley Smith, who raved about the delicious pork meatballs and innovative quiches.
But it's not just about fulfilling hunger; it’s about building community. Graeme's experience of indulging in impressive dishes crafted from ingredients that would otherwise end up in a landfill shows that dining here is an adventure. “What a great concept!” he exclaims. This ethos is further reflected in the café's inclusive atmosphere, with a cozy kid's corner and opportunities for hosting events that foster connections.
As you step inside, prepare to be captivated by the eclectic vibes and a menu that boasts seasonal produce. Whether you're enjoying a zingy citrus mousse or a hearty Korean meal during one of their themed nights, your dining experience at REfUSE is bound to leave a lasting impression. It's a place where people can gather, share, and contribute—one flavorful experience at a time.
If you’re in the Chester-le-Street area, do not miss the chance to visit this delightful café. As Debra Wright highlights, bringing your own drinks and enjoying thoughtfully prepared dishes in a warm, welcoming environment is an experience you don't want to miss. REfUSE is more than a café; it’s a movement towards intentional eating, community building, and sustainability. Join the journey, and indulge in the delightful offerings that prove eating well doesn’t have to come at the expense of our planet.
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Anthony
30/07/2025
Lovely place, some of the food you can tell has been reheated if you come a little later in the morning. Staff are always super nice and even though they're set prices for drinks I think they are priced better than most other places. This time was the first time seeing they had a little veg and bread section which was the same as the food you order where you pay as you feel. Great idea. I feel like the venue could definitely host more events if staff and ideas are suggested, would be good to see more from this place and also other places like this.
Graeme LearnSomethingNewEveryday
15/07/2025
Had a great American themed meal of Chicken wings, Stuffed potato skins, Philly Beef sandwich, Cheesecake and Banoffee Blondie. What a great concept of intercepting and using food that supermarkets discard and turning it into interesting and exciting meals. Run by staff and volunteers for the community. This is our third visit and we will be back again soon. Highly recommend.
Lesley Smith
14/07/2025
17Jan'24 - lunch n a drink today, absolutely beautiful food, pork meatballs with penned and a spinach red pepper and feta quiche, with roast potato and sald, followed by some cake. Love this place, great value for drinks and cakes and mains are pay as you feel. Can't wait for the next restaurant night - Korean!! Another restaurant night, Greek tonight, and another great menu, executed well, and all from fresh produce destined for landfill!! Highly recommended.
Djuna
02/07/2025
We love this initiative. The cafe has a great vibe and it’s great they have a little corner for kids!
Debra Wright
19/05/2025
First time visit to enjoy an evening bistro night with a large group. Take your own drinks! Had a lovely potted prawn starter, jerk chicken and dessert of citrus mousse. Will return and recommend it! Great staff and volunteers.
Briony Gardner
18/05/2025
Popped in today with the dog for a cuppa and am so glad I did! I was blown away by just how friendly and welcoming the staff were, and Charlie definitely enjoyed the cuddles. I'll definitely be back for lunch soon now I know what a gem this place is, and their committment to reducing food waste makes it even better.
Dawn Pratt
15/05/2025
Fantastic really good quality food coconut curry very professionally done even got some to take home. Well done to all the volunteers doing a grand job saving food from landfill.
Karen Tindale
14/05/2025
Really enjoyed my visit. Nice relaxed atmosphere. Great concept with avoiding unnecessary waste. Loved the decor and the fact it felt spacious. Not cramned on top of each other. Friendly staff. Food snd coffee was good.