15 perfect restaurants in Durham, United Kingdom

Looking for a flavorful adventure in Durham? Look no further than our top 15 dining spots that promise to tickle your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied. From the cozy and charming to the upscale and modern, you'll find a variety of cuisines that range from southern comfort to exotic fusion. So pack your appetite and prepare for a culinary journey that will leave you wanting more. Whether you're in the mood for BBQ, seafood, or a plate of homemade pasta, Durham has it all. Bon appétit!

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1. Flat White Durham

4.5 (860)

40 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NU, UK

Welcome to Flat White Durham! Located in the heart of Durham City, Flat White is a rustic yet charming café that serves up one of the best (dare we say, "flattest"?) cups of coffee in the city. The baristas here are friendly, knowledgeable, and always up for a good chat about coffee roasts, latte art, or the merits of soy milk. So whether you're a Durham local or a visitor in search of caffeine-fueled adventure, come on in and get your flat white fix at Flat White Durham!

flatwhitekitchen.com

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2. Pizzeria Francesca

4.1 (90)

162 Front St, Chester-le-Street DH3 3DS, UK

Nestled on a quaint little street in Durham, Pizzeria Francesca promises to take you on a culinary adventure to the land of delicious pizzas. A cozy and inviting atmosphere greets you as you step through its doors, making you feel as if you've stumbled upon a secret hideout for pizza enthusiasts. From its thin, crispy crusts to its delicious toppings, Pizzeria Francesca guarantees a slice of heaven in every bite – just make sure to leave some space for their mouth-watering desserts.

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3. Cote Brasserie - Durham

4.7 (144)

87 Elemore St, High Pittington, Durham DH6 1BD, UK

Welcome to Cote Brasserie in Durham, a charming restaurant that will transport you straight to Paris, without the need for a passport or expensive airfare. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and French-inspired delicacies, from escargot to steak frites, and feel fancy without breaking the bank. And don't forget to raise a glass of wine (or two, or three) in a hearty "Santé!" as the locals do.

www.citronvert.co.uk

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4. Little Seoul

4.7 (222)

47 Silver St, Lincoln LN2 1EH, UK

Welcome to Little Seoul in Durham, where the fried chicken is as spicy as the accents and the kimchi flows like the beer. Take a stroll down the bustling streets and marvel at the brightly lit storefronts, with their hangeul writing and neon signage. Don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in Korean BBQ, where you cook the meat yourself and pretend you're a master chef (or at least pretend you know what you’re doing!).

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5. Olive & Bean

4.5 (925)

17-19 Clayton St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 5PN, UK

Located in the heart of Durham, Olive & Bean is a cozy and welcoming café that offers visitors a delicious range of homemade scones, freshly brewed coffee, and light bites. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a sweet treat, this delightful joint is sure to tickle your taste buds and fill your belly. So grab a seat, chat with the friendly staff, and savor the flavors of Durham at Olive & Bean!

www.oliveandbean.co.uk

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6. La Spaghettata

ground floor, 66 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NP, UK

Welcome to La Spaghettata, the Italian restaurant that will have you saying "Mamma Mia!" The cozy and casual atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a date night or a family dinner. Don't miss out on their homemade pasta and delicious pizza, or you might just regret it more than saying "no" to your Italian grandma.

www.fabiosdurham.com

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7. Lebaneat

4.4 (888)

47 N Bailey, Durham DH1 3ET, UK

If you're feeling hungry and in the mood for some delicious Mediterranean food, then Lebaneat in Durham is the place to be. Expect a cozy and charming ambiance, perfect for a laid-back lunch or dinner with friends or family. From savory hummus to crispy falafel, their menu is a feast for the senses, filled with the bold flavors of the Levant.

www.lebaneat.co.uk

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8. The Victoria Inn

4.7 (516)

86 Hallgarth St, Durham DH1 3AS, UK

The Victoria Inn is a charming little place located in historic Durham. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, it's the ideal spot to rest your weary bones after a day of exploring the city. Just don't eat too many of their famous fish and chips or you may be taking a nap right there at the table!

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9. Tia's Mexican & Mediterranean Restaurant

4.7 (400)

84 Claypath, Durham DH1 1RG, UK

Welcome amigos to Tia's Mexican & Mediterranean Restaurant, where Mexican and Mediterranean cuisines collide, and your taste buds will do the tango. Situated in the heart of Durham, this is where you will find spicy enchiladas, kebabs as succulent as the sunshine, and margaritas that could make a donkey sing. So, slip on your sombrero and bring your appetite - it's fiesta time at Tia's!

www.tiasmexican.co.uk

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10. The Garden House Inn

4 (503)

Framwellgate, Peth, Durham DH1 4NQ, UK

At The Garden House Inn in Durham, you'll feel like a fancy pants royalty with all the mod-cons you could possibly imagine, and all the charm an inn can offer. It's like staying at your eccentric great-aunt's house, but with soft, high quality linens and people available to bring you cocktails. Speaking of cocktails, don't miss the nightly happy hour - it's like a mini party, except you're in your jammies and have a book in your lap.

www.vixen-pubs.co.uk

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11. Bells Fish Restaurant

4.5 (814)

Bells Fish & Chips, Finchale Rd, Pity Me, Durham DH1 5RW, UK

Nestled in the heart of Durham, Bells Fish Restaurant is sure to make your taste buds sing with delight. With its quaint and charming exterior, you might think you've stumbled upon a hidden gem of culinary excellence. And let me tell you, dear traveler, you'd be right! From crispy fish and chips to succulent seafood platters, Bells has got you covered. So come on in, take a seat, and treat yourself to a meal that'll have you hoping your stomach has room for seconds.

www.bellsfishshop.co.uk

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12. The Cellar Door

4.4 (630)

41 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NU, UK

Nestled away in the heart of Durham, The Cellar Door is a wine bar that is more than worth your time. It's a step into a cozy, intimate atmosphere, where experienced sommeliers guide you through the carefully curated wine list. Don't be fooled by its name--the single door leading you down to the basement bar is narrow, but you'll find yourself opening up to new flavors and experiences in no time.

www.thecellardoordurham.co.uk

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13. Fat Hippo Underground

4.4 (1285)

36 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NU, UK

Deep beneath the bustling streets of Durham lies a hidden den of deliciousness, known as Fat Hippo Underground. Don't let the name fool you - the only thing that's overweight down here is the burgers! With quirky seating arrangements, eclectic decor and a laid-back vibe that will have you feeling like you're in the coolest speakeasy in town, this is a spot not to be missed.

fathippo.co.uk

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14. Shaheens Indian Restaurant

4.6 (344)

48 N Bailey, Durham DH1 3ET, UK

Welcome to Shaheen's Indian Restaurant in Durham, where the air is filled with the sweet aroma of spices and the sound of Bollywood beats. Get ready to embark on a culinary trip to India, without the hassle of airport security and long flights. The butter chicken is so good, you'll want to lick the plate clean and risk being labeled as a barbarian.

www.shaheensdurham.co.uk

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15. Lola Jeans

4.5 (781)

The Arcade, Front St, Tynemouth, North Shields NE30 4BS, UK

Lola Jeans in Durham is a charming and quirky spot to grab a bite. With its mismatched furnishings and eclectic decor, the restaurant makes you feel right at home. But let's be real, you're here for the mac and cheese stuffed burger. Trust us, it's worth the extra gym time.

lolajeans.co.uk

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Durham, United Kingdom by plane is to fly to Newcastle International Airport and take a 20-minute taxi or metro ride to Durham.

Car

The most convenient way to get to Durham by car is to take the A1(M) motorway and exit at Junction 62. Durham is approximately 260 miles from London and 125 miles from Edinburgh.

Train

Durham is accessible by train from major UK cities such as London Kings Cross, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. The nearest train station is Durham Station located in the city center.

Boat

Although Durham is not accessible by boat due to its inland location, it is possible to take a ferry from continental Europe to Newcastle and then take a taxi or metro to Durham.

Bus

National Express buses provide transportation to Durham from major UK cities such as London, Manchester, and Liverpool. The bus station is located just a few minutes walk from the train station.

More guides

Durham Delight: Your Ultimate 4 Day Travel Guide

Experience the vibrant 12th century architecture of Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the surrounding cobbled streets filled with local shops and restaurants. Take a stroll through the picturesque Durham University Botanic Garden, featuring thousands of plants from around the world, or visit the Bowes Museum, renowned for its art and fashion collections. End the day with a scenic riverside walk along the River Wear, taking in stunning views of the city's famous castle and rolling hills.

Durham Delight: A Romantic 4 Day Getaway

Durham, United Kingdom is a perfect destination for a romantic trip with its picturesque views and charming historical sites. Enjoy a romantic walk along the River Wear and admire the stunning architecture of Durham Cathedral. Savor the local cuisine and cozy up in one of the many charming bed and breakfasts for a truly unforgettable experience.

Families Unite for a Delightful Durham Adventure!

Durham, United Kingdom is an excellent destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a variety of attractions and activities for all ages. Families can explore the historic Durham Cathedral, admire the stunning Durham Castle, and enjoy a leisurely walk along the charming River Wear. With its picturesque scenery and abundance of family-friendly accommodations and dining options, Durham guarantees an unforgettable experience for everyone.

Durham: From Cathedral to Candlelit Dinner

Durham, United Kingdom is a charming and historic town that offers plenty of romantic activities for couples. With its stunning cathedral and castle, Durham is a perfect destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. Couples can also enjoy a romantic stroll along the River Wear or indulge in a candlelit dinner at one of the town's many cozy restaurants.