Durham's Top Tables to Book Now
Experimental tasting menus, unmissable brunches and cosy riverside cafés - Durham has it all
Faru
29 Silver Street, Durham DH1 3RD
0191 380 5451
faru.co.uk
Having earned a spot in the Michelin Guide, Faru is the debut restaurant of Jake and Laura Siddle, who both previously worked at Kenny Atkinson’s Michelin-starred House of Tides. Diners love the tasting experience here, and the restaurant has recently introduced a new set menu for a more flexible way to dine – but with the same seasonal focus and attention to detail.
Lebaneat
47 North Bailey, Durham DH1 3ET
0191 384 6777
lebaneat.co.uk
A local favourite on Durham’s North Bailey, Lebaneat serves Lebanese food in large portions, and has done for more than a decade. There are plenty of vegan and gluten-free options and we love the mixed grill which means you can enjoy a selection of their finest grilled meats on one plate. Find their smaller outpost on Young Street for takeaways.
The Rabbit Hole
17 Hallgarth Street, Durham DH1 3AT
0191 386 5556
therabbitholedurham.co.uk
The must-visit destination for Cantonese-fusion dining in Durham, this elegant and intimate restaurant, reminiscent of an opulent 1920’s Shanghai supper club, is a real hidden gem on a residential street.
The Cellar Door
41 Saddler Street, Durham DH1 3NU
0191 383 1856
thecellardoordurham.co.uk
A staple of Durham’s Saddler Street, The Cellar Door produces reliably delicious, quality dishes using sustainable ingredients from the local area. Sunday lunch is popular here and the charming fine-dining restaurant also boasts outdoor terraces overlooking the river for al fresco dining.
The Curious Mr Fox
35a The Riverwalk, Durham DH1 4SL
0191 329 3559
thecuriousmrfox.co.uk
With enviable views of Durham Cathedral and the river, locals recommend The Curious Mr Fox for its small plates, sharing boards and afternoon tea, with a good range of cocktails too. A dog-friendly spot in the city, it’s always worth dining al fresco here if you can to enjoy the view of Durham’s cobbled streets.
Brasserie Quartier
38 High Street, Prince Bishops Place, Durham DH1 3UL
0191 452 2211
brasseriequartier.co.uk
This independent, French-inspired restaurant in the heart of Durham serves coffee, brunch, lunch and dinner, and fantastic French wine. Save room for dessert, or the delicious cheese board.
Coarse
Reform Place, North Road, Durham DH1 4RZ
0191 380 5776
coarse.restaurant
At the heart of Durham city centre, Coarse is a tasting menu restaurant with a focus on making fine dining accessible for all, with a well-priced six-course tasting menu made using local and seasonal ingredients which changes every six weeks. Head chef and co-owner Ruari MacKay started his career training under Michelin-starred chef Terry Laybourne, and he has since opened sister venue Isla on the same street.
Whitechurch Durham
29 Church Street Head, Durham DH1 3DN
0191 386 8897
whitechurchdurham.com
Just outside Durham’s centre, this independent eatery is a vibrant and welcoming spot serving brilliant breakfasts, light bites and a popular Sunday lunch. There’s a dedicated kids’ menu too.
Notch Americano
96 Elvet Bridge, Durham DH1 3AG
0191 380 6155
Instagram: @notch_durham
A good spot for al fresco dining on Elvet Bridge overlooking the river, Notch serves cocktails, alongside lunch, small plates and dinner. The smash burgers are hearty and meat lovers rate the pit tray – a chance to try a variety of meats, mouth-watering burnt ends and mac and cheese.
Zen
Court Lane, Durham DH1 3JS
0191 384 9588
zendurham.co.uk
A must-try spot for Thai food, Zen remains one of Durham’s most popular eateries, and the cocktails are great too. The extensive menu features appetisers, ‘Thaipas’ and a good selection of curries and stir fries.
