La Spaghettata: Authentic Italian Dining in Historic Durham
Durham’s longest-standing independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic, hearty Italian dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting since 1996.
La Spaghettata is Durham’s longest-running independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic Italian dishes since 1996. Located on the first floor of 66 Saddler Street, it offers a homely atmosphere with a menu featuring classic Italian favorites, fresh seafood, premium steaks, and options for vegan and gluten-free diets. Known for generous portions and reasonable prices, it is a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking traditional Italian cuisine in a cozy setting.
A brief summary to La Spaghettata
- First floor, 66 Saddler St, Durham, DH1 3NP, GB
- +441913839290
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Tuesday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Wednesday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Thursday 5 pm-10:30 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-2 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-10:30 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-2 pm
Local tips
- La Spaghettata operates mainly on a first-come, first-served basis; however, phone reservations are accepted for groups of 10 or more.
- Try the daily specials to experience the chef’s seasonal creativity and freshest ingredients.
- The restaurant offers vegan and gluten-free options, so notify staff of dietary needs when ordering.
- Visit during weekday evenings for a quieter dining experience compared to busier weekends.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
La Spaghettata location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about La Spaghettata
A Heritage of Italian Flavors in Durham
La Spaghettata has been a staple of Durham’s dining scene since 1996, proudly holding the title of the city’s longest-running independent Italian restaurant. Nestled on the first floor of a historic building on Saddler Street, this restaurant has built its reputation on delivering authentic Italian cuisine that honors traditional recipes and cooking methods. The establishment’s longevity reflects its commitment to quality and a loyal following among residents and visitors alike.Menu Highlights and Culinary Craftsmanship
The menu at La Spaghettata showcases a wide range of Italian classics crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Diners can enjoy fresh seafood dishes, premium steaks cooked to perfection, and an array of pasta specialties prepared with authentic recipes. The restaurant also caters to diverse dietary preferences, offering vegan and gluten-free options. Daily specials highlight the chef’s creativity and seasonal produce, providing a fresh twist on familiar flavors.Atmosphere and Dining Experience
La Spaghettata offers a warm, homely atmosphere that invites guests to relax and savor their meals in comfort. The interior is cozy and welcoming, reflecting the restaurant’s family-owned roots and independent spirit. The service is known to be attentive and friendly, enhancing the overall dining experience. While primarily operating on a first-come, first-served basis, the restaurant accommodates larger groups with phone reservations, maintaining a personal touch in guest relations.Location and Setting in Durham’s Historic Core
Situated in the heart of Durham’s historic center, La Spaghettata benefits from the city’s rich cultural backdrop. The restaurant’s location on Saddler Street places it within easy reach of Durham Cathedral, the castle, and the scenic River Wear. This setting makes it an ideal spot for a meal after exploring the city’s landmarks or enjoying a leisurely stroll through its cobbled streets.Value and Popularity Among Diners
La Spaghettata is celebrated for offering excellent value for money, with generous portion sizes and reasonable prices. Its authentic Italian flavors and consistent quality have earned it a strong reputation, although some recent feedback notes variability in food quality. Despite this, the restaurant remains a favored choice for those seeking a genuine Italian dining experience in Durham.Community and Tradition
As a family-owned establishment, La Spaghettata embodies a spirit of tradition and community connection. It has been recognized by notable restaurateurs and featured in prominent publications, underscoring its significance in Durham’s culinary landscape. The restaurant’s commitment to authentic Italian cooking and local sourcing reflects a blend of heritage and contemporary dining values.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Market place
0.1 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Durham Town Hall
0.1 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Framwellgate Bridge
0.2 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
0.4 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Kathedra
0.5 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Durham Viaduct
0.6 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham
0.6 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham Band Stand
0.8 km
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Durham Obelisk
0.9 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Maiden's Bower
1.0 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
1.2 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Ludworth Tower
8.2 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
21.4 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
21.4 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
21.4 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
Umbrella alley
0.1 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
Durham Castle
0.1 km
Explore over 1000 years of history in this Norman castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and vibrant university residence in the heart of Durham.
Elvet Bridge
0.1 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.
Durham Market Hall
0.1 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
Department of History • Durham University
0.1 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
The Vintage Shop
0.1 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in the heart of Durham at The Vintage Shop in Market Tavern.
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.
Indoor Market
0.2 km
Discover Durham Market Hall, a lively Victorian indoor market where history, local crafts, and vibrant community spirit come together under one roof.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
0.2 km
Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Palace Green
0.2 km
Historic green heart of Durham, framed by Norman cathedral and castle, blending medieval power with academic heritage.
Palace Green Library
0.2 km
Explore Durham’s historic Palace Green Library, a treasure trove of rare books, exhibitions, and heritage in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Museum of Archaeology • Durham University
0.2 km
Explore northeast England’s ancient past in a historic university library at the heart of Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Revolution Durham
0.2 km
Lively lounge and restaurant on Durham’s riverside offering creative cocktails, seasonal British fare, and rooftop views of historic landmarks.
Durham Museum
0.2 km
Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
Essential places to dine
La Spaghettata
0.0 km
Durham’s longest-standing independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic, hearty Italian dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting since 1996.
Turkish Kitchen Meze and grill
0.0 km
Authentic Turkish grilling and meze in Durham's vibrant city centre, where tradition meets modern hospitality.
Fat Hippo Durham
0.0 km
Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.
Flat White Kitchen
0.0 km
Experience Durham’s finest coffee and brunch in a cozy 17th-century townhouse with a modern rustic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
Tango Durham
0.0 km
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
Tapas Factory
0.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
The Cellar Door
0.0 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Zizzi - Durham
0.1 km
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
Restaurant 17
0.1 km
Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
0.1 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Uno Momento
0.1 km
Generous Italian portions and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of historic Durham’s Silver Street.
PESTO ITALIANO
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of historic Durham at Pesto Italiano.
Gussto Tapas Bar - Durham
0.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas in a historic riverside setting at the heart of Durham.
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
0.1 km
Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on Elvet Riverside - where taste meets tranquility.
Lebaneat
0.1 km
Experience authentic Lebanese flavors with generous portions and diverse dietary options in the heart of historic Durham.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
People's Bookshop Durham
0.0 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
The Mugwump
0.0 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
Waceland Durham
0.0 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.0 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and heritage fabrics at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Durham’s historic Saddler Street.
The Boathouse
0.0 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.0 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
Circle Vintage Durham
0.0 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
Elvet & Bailey
0.1 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
Oxfam Shop
0.1 km
Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
The Georgian Window
0.1 km
Discover stylish ladies’ fashion, unique gifts, and elegant accessories in the heart of Durham at The Georgian Window.
Italian Clothes Room Inside Georgian Window
0.1 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
Whittard of Chelsea Durham
0.1 km
Premium tea, coffee, and gifts in Durham's historic Market Place—where expertise meets elegance.
Discovering Durham CIC
0.1 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Cloth
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s hidden basement gem for costumes, vintage clothing, fabrics, and party supplies all in one quirky, creative boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Shakespeare
0.0 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
Blue Eye
0.0 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
Osbournes
0.1 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
The Library
0.1 km
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.2 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
The Half Moon Inn
0.2 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
The Drunken Duck
0.2 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.2 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Fighting Cocks
0.2 km
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
Champagne Bar
0.3 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
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.
Babylon Durham
0.4 km
A buzzing, budget-friendly bar and nightclub in Durham offering lively nights, packed dance floors, and a true local nightlife experience.
The Holy GrAle
0.4 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant craft beer scene at The Holy GrAle, a quirky bar with local brews, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fabio's Bar
0.0 km
Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Jimmy Allens
0.1 km
Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Klute
0.1 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Bohemia Durham
0.3 km
Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
Loft Durham
0.4 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
7even Nightclub
18.7 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)
21.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
21.5 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
21.6 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
21.7 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
21.7 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
21.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
21.7 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
21.7 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
21.7 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
- Casual
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly