Middlesbrough restaurant The Birdcage has changed hands

Vicki Busby, Carl Blake and Rachel McLaine, the team behind The Birdcage, confirmed the sale in a social media post on Thursday (September 10).

The owners thanked customers for their support and described running the restaurant as a time filled with “incredible memories”.

Former owners, L-R: Vicki Busby, Rachel McLaine, and Carl (Image: The Birdcage)

They said: “The Birdcage has brought us so much happiness and so many incredible memories.

“We truly hope it brings its new owners just as much happiness as it has brought us, and we wish them every success with their exciting new chapter.

“Your support has meant more to us than we could ever put into words, and The Birdcage wouldn’t have been the same without you.”

Customers have called the restaurant the “best bottomless brunch” venue in the North East.

The Birdcage, Middlesbrough. (Image: TRIPADVISOR)

The trio said they are stepping away from The Birdcage, but staying in Teesside’s hospitality scene.

“It’s certainly not goodbye,” they said.

“The three musketeers are together again in Stockton at The Olive Branch and The Songbird, ready for our next adventure.”

The Olive Branch and The Songbird, both in Stockton, operated as “sister restaurants” to The Birdcage under Vicki, Carl and Rachel before the trio sold The Birdcage to focus on the other two venues.

The Birdcage’s new owners, Lisa and Paul Sargeant, introduced themselves on social media on Friday morning (September 11).

The couple said: “We’re looking forward to meeting you, hearing your stories, and hopefully giving you plenty more memories to add to them.

“The Birdcage is still The Birdcage – but now it’s our turn to put our stamp on it.

“There are already lots of plans, ideas and a few slightly bonkers things in the pipeline. We’ll be sharing them with you very soon.”

The Birdcage will honour all existing bookings and deposits transferred during the handover.

Customers with questions about upcoming bookings should contact the restaurant directly.