Durham’s got a serious burger scene. From classic, messy stacks to fancy gourmet creations, this city can satisfy those burger cravings. Whether you’re a local looking for your new go-to spot or a visitor ready to taste the best, you won’t be disappointed.
Whether you want to dine in or have a burger takeaway in Durham, our Durham burger reviews have the answer. Who does the best burger in Durham? Let’s find out and get ready to explore the best of the best!
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Contenders for the best Burger Restaurant in Durham
Detailed Reviews of Durham’s Best Burger Spots
1. Fat Hippo
If you’re a burger fanatic, Fat Hippo Durham is a must-try. This place is all about big, messy, and downright delicious burgers. They’ve mastered the art of indulgent, flavour-packed creations that leave you craving more. Expect juicy patties stacked high with a wild range of toppings and sauces galore. Think classics like the cheesy PB&J (peanut butter and jelly) alongside more adventurous creations that’ll surprise your tastebuds.
From the moment you walk in, a fun, vibrant buzz sets the stage for a satisfying burger feast. The exposed brick and industrial-chic decor add a trendy touch to the space. Service is usually quick and friendly, adding to the overall relaxed experience. While Fat Hippo won’t break the bank, it’s not the cheapest option for a burger restaurant in Durham. However, the generous portion sizes and top-notch ingredients make it well worth the price.
- Best for: Seriously indulgent burgers
- Dish to Order: The Fat Hippo Burger (double patty, cheese, streaky bacon)
- Address: 25 Saddler St, Durham, DH1 3NU, United Kingdom
- Rating: 4/5
- Price: £££
- For table reservations, please visit: Fat Hippo
2. Tango
Tango offers a unique take on the burger scene, drawing inspiration from flavours around the world. You won’t just find the usual suspects on their menu – expect Mexican spice, Indian flair, and everything in between. They boast fresh ingredients and quality meats, creating a satisfying foundation for their adventurous creations.
The restaurant itself has a stylish, modern feel, perfect for a relaxed lunch or a casual night out. Their focus on quality shines through, especially in their well-seasoned, juicy burgers. If you’re up for a bit of a flavour gamble and enjoy trying new things, Tango Durham is worth the roll of the dice.
- Best for: Adventurous burger choices
- Dish to Order: Gaucho Burger (chorizo, caramelised onions)
- Address: 39 Saddler St, Durham, DH1 3NU, United Kingdom
- Rating: 3.5/5
- Price: ££
- For table reservations, please visit: Tango Durham
3. Parma La Familia (FoodPit)
Nestled within Durham’s bustling Food Pit, Parma La Familia offers a welcome departure from the sometimes fussy world of gourmet burgers. Here, the focus is on no-frills satisfaction – juicy, satisfying burgers built for flavour and affordability. Sure, they’re famous for their towering parmos, a local speciality, but don’t let that overshadow their burger selection. We opted for the classic cheeseburger, and it delivered exactly as promised: a great combination of a perfectly cooked patty, crisp lettuce, fresh tomato, creamy cheese, and a tangy sauce, all sandwiched between a soft, toasted bun. The ingredients were all high-quality, and the portion size was perfect for a filling lunch that won’t leave you feeling greasy.
The food hall vibe adds to the casual charm, with communal seating encouraging a relaxed and social atmosphere. It’s the ideal spot for a quick, satisfying bite without breaking the bank. Parma La Familia is certainly a contender for the best burger in Durham.
- Best for: Affordable, classic burgers
- Dish to Order: Cheeseburger
- Address: Walkergate, Durham, DH1 1SQ, United Kingdom (Inside The Food Pit)
- Rating: 3.5/5
- Price: £
- For table reservations, please visit: The Food Pit
4. Turtle Bay Durham
If you’re looking for a burger with a twist, Turtle Bay, Durham, might be your spot. The vibrant, Caribbean-inspired atmosphere sets the stage for a lively meal that goes beyond just the food. Expect energetic music, quirky decor, and a fun buzz throughout the restaurant. Their burgers boast flavours outside the classic bun – think jerk seasoning, spicy mayo, and sweet plantain alongside more traditional options. We found the portions decent, and the cocktails are a major draw, complementing the island vibes perfectly.
While their burgers may not be the most mind-blowing in Durham, the overall Turtle Bay experience is unique. Service is usually cheerful, but be prepared for it to be busy during peak hours. If you’re up for trying unique flavour combinations alongside a buzzing atmosphere, Turtle Bay is a worthwhile contender for your next memorable burger outing in Durham.
- Best for: Burgers with Caribbean flavours
- Dish to Order: Jerk Chicken Burger
- Address: 92-93 North Rd, Durham, DH1 4SE, United Kingdom
- Rating: 3.5/5
- Price: ££
- For table reservations, please visit: Turtle Bay
5. Whitechurch
Whitechurch offers a refreshing take on the pub burger experience, showcasing its commitment to quality ingredients and creative flavours. Unlike greasy, forgettable offerings, their burgers are built with care. We sampled the signature Whitechurch Burger, and it exceeded expectations. The patty was perfectly cooked, showcasing a juicy centre and a crisp exterior. The addition of bacon jam, a first when compiling our Durham burger reviews, added a sweet and smoky element, complemented by a tangy cheese and their flavorful house sauce. It all came together on a perfectly toasted brioche bun, making for a balanced and satisfying bite. While they aren’t exclusively a burger joint, their focus on quality ingredients extends to their burgers, making them a strong contender in Durham.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a mix of rustic charm and modern touches. The friendly staff make you feel welcome whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor. Do note that Whitechurch’s focus on quality comes at a slightly higher price point than a standard pub, but ultimately it’s worth it for the elevated burger experience and welcoming atmosphere they provide.
- Best for: Quality pub burgers
- Dish to Order: The Whitechurch Burger
- Address: 88-90 Church St, Durham, DH1 4SD, United Kingdom
- Rating: 4/5
- Price: ££
- For table reservations, please visit: Whitechurch
6. The Curious Mr Fox
If you’re looking for a burger experience that steps outside the box, The Curious Mr Fox should be at the top of your Durham eats list. Their dedicated burger shack is where creativity and quality collide. We tried their namesake “Curious Burger,” which lived up to the hype. The perfectly cooked patty was piled high with unique toppings like crispy onion rings, a tangy blue cheese sauce, and a sweet fig jam. This combination of flavours delivered a symphony of sweet, savoury, and funky deliciousness. Their focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients shines through, making each bite burst with flavour. Even their classic options boast a level of care often missing in standard burger joints.
The Curious Mr Fox offers an unpretentious yet vibrant atmosphere that invites you to kick back and savour your meal. The service is friendly and efficient, adding to the overall relaxed vibe. Another key point is value—the portions are generous, promising a satisfying meal at a reasonable price. For those seeking unique flavour combinations and a buzzing atmosphere, and you don’t want to take a chance on where to get a good burger in Durham, The Curious Mr. Fox is the perfect choice.
- Best for: Creative and gourmet burgers
- Dish to Order: The Curious Burger
- Address: 37 Silver St, Durham, DH1 3RD, United Kingdom
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Price: ££
- For table reservations, please visit: The Curious Mr. Fox
7. The Boat Club
The Boat Club boasts one of Durham’s most stunning settings – a riverside locale perfect for soaking up the views. Their partnership with the Tomahawk Steakhouse suggests a focus on high-quality meat, including tempting burger options. Their vibrant ambience feels tailor-made for a social, drink-focused outing, with indoor and outdoor seating offering unique river vantage points. While their burgers themselves were decent, they lacked that extra ‘wow’ factor found in truly memorable burger joints. The well-cooked patty and fresh toppings were enjoyable, but the overall experience didn’t quite justify the slightly higher price point compared to other dedicated burger spots in the city. Service seemed a bit slow on our visit, something worth noting if you’re planning a special occasion or are in a hurry.
If you’re looking for a place where a lively atmosphere and beautiful views are as important as the food itself, The Boat Club is worth a look. Their burgers offer a satisfying meal, but might not be the pinnacle of Durham’s burger offerings for dedicated burger enthusiasts. It is also worth noting that the Boat Club is a great venue for Sunday Lunch options!
- Best for: Drinks with scenic views
- Dish to Order: Try their classic burger
- Address: Baths Bridge Court, Court Ln, Durham, DH1 3RY, United Kingdom
- Rating: 3/5
- Price: £££
- For table reservations, please visit: The Boat Club
8. nkdBIRD
If you’re a fried chicken enthusiast, add nkdBIRD to your Durham dining bucket list. However, if you’re on a dedicated quest for the city’s best burgers, it might not be your top destination. While they offer a few burger options, their true strength shines in their perfectly fried, flavourful chicken sandwiches bursting with creative combinations. Think tangy sauces, crunchy slaw, and just the right amount of spice, all piled onto juicy, tender chicken. The atmosphere leans casual and relaxed, with a street-food vibe that adds to the unpretentious, fun experience.
We ordered the signature “Nkd’s OG” chicken sandwich to test their burger-adjacent skills. While the chicken was well-cooked and juicy, the toppings and overall experience lacked the same impact and specialness of the truly exceptional burgers found elsewhere in Durham. nkdBIRD delivers excellent fried chicken sandwiches at a fantastic value for money. If you’re strictly after the best burger in Durham, you might have better luck with one of the city’s dedicated burger joints. However, nkdBIRD offers a tasty and exciting alternative for fried chicken lovers who wouldn’t mind branching out with a juicy chicken burger experience. You won’t find a better specialist chicken burger restaurant in Durham.
- Best for: Flavorful fried chicken
- Dish to Order: Nkd’s OG chicken sandwich
- Address: 22 Saddler St, Durham, DH1 3NU, United Kingdom
- Rating: 3.5/5 (for burgers specifically )
- Price: £
- For table reservations, please visit: nkdBIRD
9. Cosy Club
Cosy Club delivers ambience in spades, boasting a unique blend of vintage charm and modern quirkiness that sets it apart. It’s the perfect place for a lively drink with friends, where the stylish surroundings and buzzing atmosphere steal the show. They offer a selection of gourmet burgers, all done to a really high standard. We tried their classic cheeseburger, and while it satisfied our hunger, it lacked the “wow” factor of truly memorable burgers found elsewhere in Durham. The patty was beautifully cooked, and the toppings were fresh enough, but the overall experience felt somewhat average, especially considering the slightly higher price point compared to dedicated burger joints.
Where Cosy Club truly shines is its atmosphere. The eclectic mix of vintage furniture, quirky lighting, and eye-catching décor create a sense of occasion. Cosy Club is worth visiting if you’re looking for a fun and vibrant social setting where drinks and atmosphere are as important as the food itself. They offer several burger options to satisfy your craving, but they may not be the ultimate destination for serious burger aficionados seeking that next-level burger experience.
- Best for: Drinks in a stylish setting
- Dish to Order: Try their Classic Cheeseburger if you’re craving a burger
- Address: 9 Walkergate, Durham, DH1 1SQ, United Kingdom
- Rating: 3/5 (for burgers specifically)
- Price: £££
- For table reservations, please visit: Cosy Club
10. TGI Fridays
TGI Fridays delivers a boisterous slice of Americana right in the heart of Durham. It ticks all the boxes if you’re seeking a high-energy atmosphere with upbeat music, a focus on shareable plates, and hefty portions of classic American dishes. Their burgers offer a taste of familiar favourites, loaded with classic toppings. We sampled the classic cheeseburger, and while it was juicy and satisfying enough, it lacked the originality found in Durham’s independent burger joints. The toppings were standard, and the overall flavour profile leaned towards familiar rather than groundbreaking. Despite this, the service team was genuinely cheerful and attentive, adding to the casual and friendly ‘night out’ vibe.
Overall, TGI Fridays fills a specific niche for those craving a taste of Americana alongside a vibrant, social atmosphere. Their burgers are decent enough to satisfy a craving, but if you’re a dedicated burger enthusiast, you’ll likely find more innovative and memorable options elsewhere in Durham. TGI Fridays excels at offering a lively, party-like atmosphere that feels perfect for celebrations and social gatherings. If a fun, energetic night out with familiar food is your priority, TGI Fridays could be a good fit, even if their burgers may not be the ultimate stars of the show.
- Best for: American-style dining and atmosphere
- Dish to Order: Classic Cheeseburger
- Address: Unit 6, 17 Walkergate, Durham, DH1 1SQ, United Kingdom
- Rating: 2.5/5 (for burgers specifically)
- Price: £££
- For table reservations, please visit: TGI Fridays
11. The Library
The Library proved to be a delightful surprise in Durham’s burger scene. Its chic, contemporary atmosphere sets the stage for an elevated dining experience without being pretentious. While their menu features various tempting dishes, we were thoroughly impressed with their burger offering. We opted for the signature “Library Burger,” which exceeded our expectations. The patty was juicy and perfectly seasoned, showing attention to quality ingredients. It came nestled in a pillowy bun that held up beautifully to the burger’s generous toppings. Fresh, balanced ingredients, including a tangy house sauce, added a bit of delightful intrigue.
The Library delivers a satisfying balance of classic flavours and modern refinement, all within a relaxed setting. The friendly and attentive service was a great addition to the overall experience. If you’re looking for a contender for the best burger in Durham, paired with a stylish ambience and excellent overall experience, add The Library to your Durham dining shortlist.
- Best for: Elevated burgers and stylish dining
- Dish to Order: The Library Burger
- Address: 28 Saddler St, Durham, DH1 3NU, United Kingdom
- Rating: 4/5
- Price: £££
- For table reservations, please visit: The Library Durham
FAQ
This is subjective, but top contenders include Fat Hippo, Tango, Whitechurch, and The Curious Mr. Fox. Each offers a unique style, from classic to gourmet. All are reasonably priced and takeaway if you’d rather stay at home.
Yes, there are a number of quality establishments that offer burger delivery in Durham. You can order for delivery from Tango, nkdBIRD, Fat Hippo and TGI Fridays. You can use a mix of Deliveroo or Uber Eats for all of them.
Yes, Tango and Fat Hippo both have multiple vegetarian burger options. They also both have a vegan menu which runs alongside the main menu.
Fat Hippo run daily specials where, between 5pm and 6pm on weekdays you can get two courses for £17 or three for £19. This is the best value for a burger in Durham City.