Chris and Ami Thornton have a busy year ahead. Their twin boys Jack and Nate were born eight weeks ago and shortly after they took ownership of Longworth House.
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Yes, the Longworth House, designed by prominent architect Frederick Burnhardt Menkens in 1892 and considered one of Newcastle's most significant - and attractive - heritage buildings.
And then there's their son Harry, 3, who now knows how to ride a scooter.
The owners of the hatted Restaurant Mason who also operate Mason Catering are, however, taking it all in their stride. This is a business decision and one that will, chef Chris Thornton hopes, pay off in the future.
"We’ve only bought the business side of Longworth House so as far as any physical changes go, the only thing we will really do is a clean-up inside and maybe some styling. The space is incredible so it really takes care of itself," he told Food & Wine.
Brides-to-be who have booked the venue for their special day need not panic. It's business as usual.
"We just want to get in there and get the ball rolling and make sure our focus is solely on the customers that we already had booked, both in the venue and externally. Rowanne [Sarrouf] has stayed on as our Longworth co-ordinator and she’s been great in assisting with the transition," Thornton said.
The decision to buy was based on convenience but came about by chance. Mason Catering had previously operated out of a leased Mayfield premises.
"It came completely out of the blue," Thornton said. "We’ve always said we would love to have our own place so we can provide our guests with a complete experience. One thing led to another and a few short weeks later we are here.
"We didn't want to keep paying two rents and, being so close to the restaurant, it is going to be much easier for both venues to work together and help each other."
Mason Catering will still service Squires Vineyard, Mindaribba and Wallalong House. Head chef Kyle Whitbourne and his team at Mason Catering are a well-oiled machine, allowing the Thorntons to focus on developing the business and raising their young family.
"It also means that I can do what I enjoy most, and that’s cooking at the restaurant," Thornton said.
Many people have been asking about Longworth House's Menkens Bar, and if it will remain open to the public. The answer is yes - but be patient. Thornton is looking at opening a gin bar at the venue later in the year and has "some wicked ideas he is sneakily excited about".
"It is always a gamble when you commit to a location as you instantly increase your overheads and, like anything in our industry, there’s no guarantees it will succeed," Thornton said.
"But I have incredible confidence in our product and our team so when the opportunity came up it was a bit of a no-brainer. We now have the opportunity to give our guests an entire experience.
"I think we’ve built a level of trust in our brand and the product we provide that will continue to grow. If this goes well, it will eventually make our lives easier. If not, I’ll have to answer to the wife."
