Fat Hippo Durham: Bold Burgers in a Historic Setting

4.4 (1645)

Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.

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Fat Hippo Durham

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.

A brief summary to Fat Hippo Durham

36 Saddler St, Durham, DH1 3NU, GB
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Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 11 am-10 pm
Tuesday 11 am-10 pm
Wednesday 11 am-10 pm
Thursday 11 am-10 pm
Friday 11 am-10:30 pm
Saturday 11 am-10:30 pm
Sunday 11 am-10 pm

Local tips

Try the signature Fat Hippo burger with double patties and chorizo for a true taste of the restaurant’s bold flavors.
Visit during weekday lunchtimes for a quieter experience away from the evening crowd.
Explore the vegan and gluten-free options if you have dietary restrictions; the menu offers thoughtful variety.
Book a table in advance on weekends to secure a spot in this popular city centre venue.

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Getting There

Bus

Take local bus services to Durham Bus Station, located approximately 800 meters from Saddler Street. From there, enjoy a 10-minute walk along pedestrian-friendly streets to reach Fat Hippo. Bus tickets range from £2 to £4 depending on the starting point, with frequent services throughout the day.
Train

Arrive at Durham Railway Station, about 1.5 km from Fat Hippo. A taxi ride takes around 5 minutes and costs approximately £6-£10. Alternatively, a 20-minute walk through scenic city streets leads directly to Saddler Street.
Car

Driving to Fat Hippo is possible, but parking in the city centre is limited. Nearby public car parks such as the Claypath or Milburngate offer hourly rates from £1.50 to £3.50. Expect a 5-10 minute walk from parking to the restaurant.

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Discover more about Fat Hippo Durham

A Burger Haven in Historic Durham

Nestled on the cobbled Saddler Street, Fat Hippo Durham occupies a striking three-storey building that combines the charm of original architectural features with a playful, contemporary interior. This location offers a welcoming retreat for locals and visitors exploring Durham’s historic centre, providing a relaxed space to enjoy some of the best burgers in the region.

Menu Highlights and Culinary Creativity

The menu at Fat Hippo Durham is renowned for its bold, inventive burgers featuring signature beef patties and succulent buttermilk chicken. Standouts include the Fat Hippo burger with double patties, smoked bacon, chorizo, and house-made Fat Hippo sauce, as well as the Little Buffalo with hot honey Buffalo sauce and purple slaw. The restaurant also caters thoughtfully to diverse diets with gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, ensuring all guests can indulge in the ‘good kind of gluttony.’

Atmosphere and Dining Experience

Inside, the restaurant’s quirky décor and lively vibe create a fun and casual dining experience. The multi-level layout offers a sense of space and intimacy, with a friendly, family-oriented environment that welcomes all ages. The vibrant ambiance complements the hearty, hands-on food philosophy, encouraging diners to roll up their sleeves and enjoy their meal with gusto.

Community and Sustainability Ethos

Fat Hippo Durham is part of a wider UK chain committed to quality ingredients and responsible sourcing. The restaurant emphasizes locally managed operations and offers options that accommodate dietary restrictions, reflecting a modern, inclusive approach to dining. Their ethos of ‘the good kind of gluttony’ celebrates indulgence with awareness and care.

Location and Surroundings

Situated just steps from Durham’s bustling marketplace and close to iconic landmarks like Durham Cathedral, Fat Hippo Durham is ideally placed for a satisfying meal after sightseeing. The historic cobbled street setting adds to the charm, making it a perfect stop for a casual lunch or dinner amid a day of cultural exploration.

Practical Information and Visitor Tips

Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM (extended to 10:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays), the restaurant offers table bookings and a lively atmosphere especially during evenings and weekends. With a moderate price range, it is accessible for families, solo diners, and groups alike. The extensive menu and generous portions make it a great value for those craving bold flavours and hearty meals.