Best Restaurants in Durham

Flat White Kitchen is a beloved café and breakfast restaurant nestled in a beautifully renovated 17th-century townhouse on Saddler Street, Durham. Renowned for serving some of the North East’s best coffee alongside a highly acclaimed brunch menu, it offers a cozy atmosphere with modern rustic décor. Open daily from morning to late afternoon, it caters to a variety of dietary preferences including vegan and vegetarian options.

Zen is a contemporary Asian fusion restaurant located on Court Lane in Durham, offering a refined dining experience inspired by traditional Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Indian cuisines. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and flexible menu options, it caters to diverse tastes with vegetarian and spice-level choices. Open daily from 11am to 10pm, Zen combines authentic flavours with Western glamour, making it a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the heart of Durham.

Akarsu Turkish Restaurant & Grill offers an authentic taste of Turkey in the heart of Durham city. Situated on Silver Street with views of the River Wear, Durham Castle, and Cathedral, this vibrant eatery serves freshly prepared mezes, charcoal-grilled kebabs, and a wide selection of Turkish wines and beers. Casual yet atmospheric, it features alfresco dining in summer, welcoming families and providing a lively, culturally rich dining experience.

Fat Hippo Durham is a vibrant burger restaurant located at 36 Saddler Street, offering a creative menu of hearty beef and buttermilk chicken burgers, alongside vegan and gluten-free options. Set in a quirky, multi-level venue with original features, it provides a casual, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for a satisfying meal in the heart of Durham's historic city centre.

Turtle Bay Durham offers a lively Caribbean dining experience in a vibrant riverside setting. Located at The Riverwalk, this restaurant combines authentic island flavours with a fun, colourful atmosphere. Guests enjoy a diverse menu featuring jerk pit ribs, vegan options, and tropical cocktails, alongside attentive service and a buzzing social vibe. Ideal for casual meals, group celebrations, or a relaxed night out with friends, Turtle Bay Durham brings a taste of the Caribbean to the heart of Durham.

The Kingslodge Inn is a welcoming 3-star inn and restaurant located on Waddington Street in Flass Vale, Durham. Known for its friendly staff, clean and comfortable rooms, and a cozy pub atmosphere, it offers a convenient base just a short stroll from Durham’s city centre. The inn features a well-regarded restaurant and bar, dog-friendly policies, and complimentary breakfast, making it a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers seeking traditional charm with modern amenities.

Nestled in a 13th-century riverside building on Saddler Street, The Cellar Door offers a relaxed dining experience with Modern European cuisine crafted from local, seasonal ingredients. Featuring indoor and outdoor terraces overlooking the River Wear, this restaurant combines historic charm with contemporary flavors in the heart of Durham city centre.

Tango Durham is a lively American-style burger restaurant and bar located at 39 Saddler Street, Durham. Known for its inventive burgers, fresh local produce, and vibrant terrace overlooking the riverside, Tango offers a welcoming atmosphere with a diverse menu including vegan and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. Open daily from 11am to late evening, it’s a popular spot for casual dining, cocktails, and social gatherings in the city centre.

Coarse is a Michelin-recognized restaurant in Durham offering an affordable, informal dining experience with a focus on modern British cuisine. Known for its imaginative six-course tasting menus, Coarse combines technical skill with playful presentations and seasonal local ingredients. The intimate setting features a rustic yet simple décor, creating a relaxed atmosphere where guests enjoy carefully balanced, flavourful dishes and attentive service.

Turkish Kitchen Meze and Grill is an authentic Turkish restaurant located in the heart of Durham's historic city centre, offering a modern interpretation of traditional Turkish cuisine. Situated on the ground floor of a characterful building on Saddler Street, the restaurant specializes in expertly grilled kebabs, meze platters, and seasonal dishes prepared with fresh, authentic ingredients. The warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive service create an ideal setting for romantic dinners, family meals, or gatherings with friends. The menu caters to diverse dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, complemented by a selection of Turkish wines and traditional beverages.