ASK Italian Durham: Contemporary Italian Dining in the Heart of the City
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist in Durham’s vibrant city centre, featuring vegan options and local Durham Gin.
ASK Italian in Durham offers a welcoming and modern Italian dining experience located in the bustling Walkergate area. Known for its stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and a diverse menu catering to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets, it’s ideal for casual meals, family gatherings, or private events. The restaurant features a warm ambiance with rustic Italian décor, a private dining area, and locally sourced Durham Gin on the drinks menu, blending authentic Italian flavors with local charm.
A brief summary to ASK Italian
- Unit 4 Walkergate, Durham, DH1 1SQ, GB
- +441913832567
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-10 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-10 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Try the vegan pizza with house vegan mozzarella for a delicious plant-based option.
- Book the private dining area upstairs for groups of up to 50 guests to enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Sample the locally distilled Durham Gin in one of their signature cocktails to support local producers.
- Visit during weekdays or Sunday evenings for a more relaxed atmosphere away from weekend nightlife crowds.
- Check out the gluten-free pasta and pizza options if you have dietary restrictions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
ASK Italian location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about ASK Italian
A Vibrant Italian Escape in Durham’s City Centre
Nestled in Unit 4 Walkergate, ASK Italian Durham brings the essence of Italy to a lively urban setting. Positioned within the city’s shopping and entertainment district, it offers a perfect retreat after exploring Durham’s historic landmarks such as the Cathedral and Castle. The restaurant’s interior combines rustic Italian design elements with a contemporary, fresh aesthetic, creating a cozy yet stylish atmosphere that suits both casual dining and special occasions.Menu Highlights and Dietary Inclusivity
The menu is a celebration of Italian classics, featuring stone-baked pizzas crafted with hand-stretched dough, fresh pasta dishes, and indulgent desserts. Notably, ASK Italian caters thoughtfully to diverse dietary needs, offering dedicated vegan and gluten-free options, including vegan cheeses and wines. Signature dishes like Burrata & Pancetta Carbonara and Luganica Sausage & ‘Nduja Frilly Tagliatelle showcase the kitchen’s commitment to authentic flavors with a modern twist.Community Connection and Local Flavors
ASK Italian Durham emphasizes community engagement by partnering with local charities such as Durham Food Bank, ensuring that a portion of proceeds supports local causes. The bar menu includes locally distilled Durham Gin, highlighting the restaurant’s dedication to blending Italian culinary traditions with regional specialties. This connection enriches the dining experience, making it both authentic and locally grounded.Private Dining and Social Gatherings
The restaurant features a private dining area upstairs, accommodating up to 50 guests, ideal for celebrations, business events, or group dinners. This space is designed to maintain the warm, inviting ambiance of the main restaurant while providing privacy and exclusivity. Whether planning a festive Christmas meal or a casual get-together, ASK Italian offers flexible options tailored to group needs.Accessibility and Ambience
ASK Italian Durham is wheelchair accessible and equipped with disabled toilets, ensuring comfort for all guests. The venue also offers outdoor seating when weather permits, allowing diners to enjoy al fresco meals in the heart of Durham’s vibrant cityscape. The atmosphere balances lively social energy with relaxed dining, suitable for families, couples, and solo diners alike.Operating Hours and Convenience
Open daily from 11:30 AM, the restaurant closes between 9:00 PM and 10:30 PM depending on the day, with extended hours on weekends. Reservations are welcomed but walk-ins are accommodated, making it convenient for spontaneous visits. The location within a busy shopping district ensures easy access to amenities and public transport, enhancing the overall visitor experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Durham Town Hall
0.1 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Market place
0.1 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Framwellgate Bridge
0.3 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
0.3 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Durham Viaduct
0.5 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham
0.7 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Kathedra
0.7 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Durham Obelisk
0.8 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Durham Band Stand
0.9 km
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Maiden's Bower
0.9 km
Explore Maiden's Bower, a serene Bronze Age cairn nestled in Durham's Flass Vale, where ancient history meets tranquil woodland beauty.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
1.4 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Ludworth Tower
8.3 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
21.2 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
21.2 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
21.2 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Durham Market Hall
0.1 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
The House of Eden
0.1 km
Discover handmade treasures and personalised gifts in this charming boutique nestled in Durham Market Hall’s vibrant heart.
Durham Pointers
0.1 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore Durham’s rich heritage, cultural events, and local insights from the heart of Market Place.
The Vintage Shop
0.1 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in the heart of Durham at The Vintage Shop in Market Tavern.
Umbrella alley
0.2 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
Dun Holm House - Student Accommodation Durham
0.2 km
Modern riverside student living in Durham with top amenities, vibrant community, and unbeatable access to university and city life.
The Riverwalk
0.2 km
A vibrant riverside shopping and leisure destination in Durham, blending retail, dining, entertainment, and scenic charm.
Escape Rooms Durham
0.3 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Elvet Bridge
0.3 km
A medieval stone arch bridge over the River Wear, now a lively pedestrian walkway with cafes, restaurants and stunning views of Durham Cathedral and the city’s dramatic river gorge.
Revolution Durham
0.3 km
Lively lounge and restaurant on Durham’s riverside offering creative cocktails, seasonal British fare, and rooftop views of historic landmarks.
Durham Castle
0.3 km
Explore over 1000 years of history in Durham Castle, a Norman fortress turned vibrant university college at the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Department of History • Durham University
0.3 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
Riverside walk
0.4 km
Explore Durham’s scenic 3-mile riverside loop with historic bridges, cathedral views, and tranquil green spaces along the River Wear.
St Margaret of Antioch Church
0.4 km
Discover Durham’s historic St Margaret of Antioch Church, a Norman gem blending centuries of architecture, art, and vibrant worship near the World Heritage site.
Elvet Waterside
0.4 km
Scenic riverside charm meets historic Durham city life at Elvet Waterside, a tranquil urban retreat by the iconic Elvet Bridge.
Essential places to dine
ASK Italian
0.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist in Durham’s vibrant city centre, featuring vegan options and local Durham Gin.
Rio Brazilian Steakhouse
0.0 km
Authentic Brazilian Churrasco with tableside carving, jungle-inspired ambience, and award-winning service in Durham city centre.
Spice Lounge
0.1 km
Award-winning Indian cuisine with authentic homestyle curries in Durham’s charming Market Place.
Turtle Bay Durham
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours and tropical cocktails by the scenic Riverwalk in Durham’s lively Turtle Bay restaurant.
Pizza Punks Durham
0.2 km
Unleash your creativity with unlimited toppings on award-winning sourdough pizzas in a vibrant riverside setting at Pizza Punks Durham.
Uno Momento
0.2 km
Generous Italian portions and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of historic Durham’s Silver Street.
Tia’s
0.2 km
Authentic Mexican and Mediterranean flavors with a dedicated vegan menu and friendly service in the heart of Durham.
Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill - Durham
0.2 km
Savor unlimited flame-grilled Brazilian meats carved tableside in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere on Durham’s scenic River Walk.
PESTO ITALIANO
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of historic Durham at Pesto Italiano.
Gussto Tapas Bar - Durham
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas in a historic riverside setting at the heart of Durham.
Tapas Factory
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
The Food Pit
0.2 km
Durham’s first street food hall offering diverse global flavors, local vendors, and stunning views of the Castle and Cathedral in a lively, casual setting.
Turkish Kitchen Meze and grill
0.2 km
Authentic Turkish grilling and meze in Durham's vibrant city centre, where tradition meets modern hospitality.
La Spaghettata
0.2 km
Durham’s longest-standing independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic, hearty Italian dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting since 1996.
Restaurant 17
0.2 km
Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gateway World Shop
0.1 km
A charming craft shop in Durham’s historic gateway, offering fair trade pottery, jewellery, textiles, and handmade gifts from around the world.
The Record Shed Durham
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s vinyl paradise in the heart of Market Place, where music lovers find rare records, retro games, and expert media services.
WHSmith
0.1 km
Books, stationery, and local treasures in Durham's vibrant Market Place.
Whittard of Chelsea Durham
0.2 km
Premium tea, coffee, and gifts in Durham's historic Market Place—where expertise meets elegance.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
Discovering Durham CIC
0.2 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Elvet & Bailey
0.2 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
The Boathouse
0.2 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
Prince Bishops Place
0.2 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.2 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and heritage fabrics at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Durham’s historic Saddler Street.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.2 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
TJ Hughes
0.2 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.2 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
Cloth
0.2 km
Discover Durham’s hidden basement gem for costumes, vintage clothing, fabrics, and party supplies all in one quirky, creative boutique.
Waceland Durham
0.2 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Champagne Bar
0.0 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
0.1 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
The Drunken Duck
0.1 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Blue Eye
0.2 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
0.2 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
The Shakespeare
0.2 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
Osbournes
0.2 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.3 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Library
0.3 km
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
The Three Bridges
0.3 km
A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.3 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
The Fighting Cocks
0.3 km
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
Babylon Durham
0.3 km
A buzzing, budget-friendly bar and nightclub in Durham offering lively nights, packed dance floors, and a true local nightlife experience.
The Half Moon Inn
0.4 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
33 Durham
0.4 km
Discover 33 Durham, a cozy speakeasy cocktail bar blending vintage charm with expertly crafted drinks in the heart of Durham city.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Bohemia Durham
0.0 km
Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
Fabio's Bar
0.2 km
Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Jimmy Allens
0.2 km
Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Klute
0.3 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Loft Durham
0.3 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
7even Nightclub
18.5 km
Sunderland’s alternative nightclub with two floors of indie, soul, and rock music, hosting themed parties and vibrant late-night events.
Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
21.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
21.3 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
21.4 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
21.4 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
21.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
The Social Club
21.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
21.5 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
21.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
21.5 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly