The Mexican-inspired restaurant was supposed to open on November 26 but it was postponed due to "urgent adjustments" being made.

Clark Wilson, General Manager Taco Bell at Restaurant Brands, says the team has planned an epic opening day to mark the new opening date and launch the brand in true Taco Bell fashion.

"Taco Bell is a culture-centric brand; around the world it has attracted social media memes and casts of international celebrity mentions," he explains.

"It's a brand that brings people together and encourages the social experience of food, and we are pleased to bring this experience to the Jesmond community.

"For launch day, we expect to welcome hundreds of excited fans. We've prepared an unforgettable day of fun and activities to keep everyone entertained, including a GIF booth, giant interactive games and a temporary taco tattoo station, as well as heaps of giveaways with one lucky person scoring a year of free tacos as a grand prize."

Features of the Jesmond restaurant include:

Russel Creedy, Restaurant Brands Group CEO, has this to say: "A total estimated spend of $65 million has been committed across New Zealand and Australia over the next five years. The expansion includes a minimum of 40 restaurants across NSW and ACT and will generate over 2,000 jobs in the two states. We are delighted to be starting our journey in Jesmond and look forward to launching in Blacktown shortly after."

BAO UPDATE Bao Brothers After Dark will be trading for five days throughout December, with Tuesday being Industry Night (show your payslip and receive 15 per cent off your bill). Seven-day trade will commence in 2020. Jessica Gregory has joined the team as restaurant manager, having previously worked at Subo and EXP. Flagship store "Bao Brothers 2.0" at The Corner, Charlestown Square, is opening soon.

FRESH APPEAL Bells at Killcare on the Central Coast is renaming its restaurant 'the wild flower bar and dining' and chef Sean Connolly is overseeing the culinary changes being made. More to come.

SEASONAL FEAST Slow Food Hunter Valley's end of year Terra Madre Celebration & 30 Years of Slow Food Manifesto dinner is on Tuesday, December 10, at Reader's Cafe and Larder, East Maitland. Amorelle Dempster will be preparing a seasonal Middle Eastern banquet using produce from local farmers.

SWEET SURPRISE Chocolaterie Fenelon has opened at 8/450 The Esplanade, Warners Bay. Handmade chocolates just in time for Christmas...

NEW ADDITION Congratulations to Frank and Emma Fawkner on the birth of their daughter, Olivia, a sister to Hugo. An early Christmas present for the couple behind EXP. restaurant and Fawk Foods Kitchen & Bakery.

VEGAN SUCCESS Newcastle Vegan Market returns to The Station this Sunday with plenty of new stallholders, an interactive mural and guest speakers. Organiser Dylan Weir is expecting "about 5000 people".