After arriving in the city via a Grand Central train on Thursday night, James and the rest of the Breakfast Show team went for a curry at Spice Empire because of recommendations from listeners.
“We went to Spice Empire, other restaurants are available, but this one, my god, was fantastic,” he said.
“What a recommendation.”
Big Weekend, BBC Radio 1’s flagship event, is held in a different location each year.
When Sunderland last hosted the Big Weekend, the line-up included Gwen Stefani, Foo Fighters and The Black Eyed Peas.
This year’s line up is yet to be announced.