Zizzi - Durham
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
Tucked into the historic heart of Durham on Saddler Street, Zizzi offers a relaxed taste of Italy in a stylish, modern setting. This popular Italian chain restaurant serves wood-fired Rustica pizzas, fresh pasta, and indulgent desserts in a welcoming space perfect for families, couples, and groups. With plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, plus a lively atmosphere and big windows overlooking the city, it’s a solid choice for a satisfying meal after exploring Durham Cathedral and the River Wear.
A brief summary to Zizzi - Durham
- 43-44 Saddler St, Durham, DH1 3NU, GB
- +441914352102
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-10 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-10 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-10:30 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-10:30 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday lunch (12–5PM) for the best value, when set menus and lunch deals are often available.
- Check the vegan and gluten-free sections of the menu – Zizzi clearly marks these options, making it easy to accommodate dietary needs.
- For a more relaxed experience, aim for early evening or midweek; weekends and late Friday/Saturday nights can be busy and noisy.
- Book ahead if dining with a larger group or on a weekend, as tables fill quickly, especially in the evenings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Zizzi - Durham location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Zizzi - Durham
A taste of Italy in Durham’s old town
Nestled on Saddler Street in the historic core of Durham, Zizzi brings a contemporary Italian dining experience to a city steeped in medieval charm. The restaurant occupies a prominent spot in the city centre, just steps from Durham Cathedral and the River Wear, making it a convenient and inviting stop after a day of sightseeing. Inside, the space is bright and modern, with a relaxed, family-friendly vibe that suits everything from a quick lunch to a leisurely dinner with friends or a romantic evening for two.Wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta
The menu leans heavily on Italian classics with a modern twist: Rustica pizzas with light, crispy bases and bubbly crusts, fresh pasta dishes like truffle cacio e pepe and rich ragùs, and a range of salads and starters. Signature items include garlic bombes, spicy chicken rustica, and hearty meat or vegetarian options, all designed to be generous and flavourful. The dessert selection is a highlight, with rich chocolate mousse, tiramisu, and seasonal specials that make it easy to justify a sweet finish. There’s also a dedicated Bambini menu for younger diners, plus clearly marked vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices.Atmosphere and practical details
Zizzi Durham is designed for comfort and ease, with a mix of booths and tables, highchairs for families, and a layout that works well for both small groups and larger parties. The large windows flood the space with natural light during the day and offer views of the bustling street, while the interior’s warm tones and modern touches create a pleasant, unpretentious backdrop for a meal. Service is generally efficient and friendly, and the restaurant is fully accessible, with step-free access and accessible toilets. Free Wi-Fi and table service make it a practical choice for both casual visits and longer stays.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Market place
0.2 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Durham Town Hall
0.2 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
0.7 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.
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
1.0 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Maiden's Bower
1.1 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
1.1 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
21.5 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
21.5 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
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.
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.
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.
Durham Museum
0.2 km
Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
Durham Market Hall
0.2 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
0.2 km
Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
The Vintage Shop
0.2 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in the heart of Durham at The Vintage Shop in Market Tavern.
Palace Green
0.2 km
Historic green heart of Durham, framed by Norman cathedral and castle, blending medieval power with academic heritage.
The House of Eden
0.2 km
Discover handmade treasures and personalised gifts in this charming boutique nestled in Durham Market Hall’s vibrant heart.
Durham Pointers
0.2 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore Durham’s rich heritage, cultural events, and local insights from the heart of Market Place.
No 59 Old Elvet
0.2 km
An intimate evening bistro on historic Old Elvet street, blending local heritage with contemporary dining in the heart of Durham.
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.
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
0.2 km
Classical scholarship in a medieval setting: Durham's premier centre for ancient languages, philosophy, and Mediterranean studies.
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.
Essential places to dine
Zizzi - Durham
0.0 km
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
The Cellar Door
0.0 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
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.
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.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
0.0 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Turkish Kitchen Meze and grill
0.1 km
Authentic Turkish grilling and meze in Durham's vibrant city centre, where tradition meets modern hospitality.
Restaurant 17
0.1 km
Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
Tapas Factory
0.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
La Spaghettata
0.1 km
Durham’s longest-standing independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic, hearty Italian dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting since 1996.
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.
Notch Durham
0.1 km
Slow-cooked American barbecue and craft cocktails in Durham's vibrant city centre.
Lebaneat
0.1 km
Experience authentic Lebanese flavors with generous portions and diverse dietary options in the heart of historic Durham.
Uno Momento
0.2 km
Generous Italian portions and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of historic Durham’s Silver Street.
PESTO ITALIANO
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of historic Durham at Pesto Italiano.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Circle Vintage Durham
0.0 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
The Mugwump
0.0 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
The Georgian Window
0.0 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
0.0 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
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.
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.
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.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
The Boathouse
0.1 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.1 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and heritage fabrics at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Durham’s historic Saddler Street.
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.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
Discovering Durham CIC
0.1 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Prince Bishops Place
0.1 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
TJ Hughes
0.1 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Library
0.0 km
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
Osbournes
0.0 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
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
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.1 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
The Half Moon Inn
0.1 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
0.3 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
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.
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.
24 North Bailey Club
0.3 km
Durham students’ beloved late-night bar and social club, blending historic charm with lively events on the iconic North Bailey.
The Three Bridges
0.4 km
A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Dun Cow Durham
0.4 km
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Klute
0.0 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Jimmy Allens
0.0 km
Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Fabio's Bar
0.1 km
Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
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)
21.5 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
21.8 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
21.8 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
21.8 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
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly