If you’re looking to spice up your dining routine, why not try some of the new restaurants in Durham?
We’ve coverted the top resturatants in Durham before but this post is all about giving you somewhere new to try!
The city’s latest crop of restaurants isn’t just about the food (though that’s awesome too!). Think cool atmospheres, top-notch service, dishes that will make you say “wow!”, and an energy you won’t find in the old haunts. Let’s discover the spots that are changing the way you dine in Durham and making every meal an adventure.
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Quick Navigation – New Places to Eat in Durham
Explore the Best New Restaurants in Durham
1. Coarse
If you’re looking for one of the most exciting and newest Durham restaurants, Coarse is a place that should be on your list. This intimate eatery is creating a buzz with its focus on seasonal British tasting menus. We love the creativity on display – expect unexpected flavour combinations, dishes that push the boundaries of familiar ingredients, and beautifully composed plates. It’s clear that the chefs here take genuine pride in highlighting fresh, local produce, and their passion shines through in each course.
While the space itself is on the smaller side, the atmosphere is friendly and unpretentious, and the service is warm and knowledgeable. We found the tasting menu to be fantastic value, especially considering the quality and flair on offer. Don’t miss their signature dish, a seasonal take on a classic British dessert – it perfectly showcases their playful yet refined style. Coarse also boasts a well-curated wine list, offering some interesting pairings to complement your meal. It’s easy to see why Coarse is quickly becoming one of Durham’s must-try spots for adventurous eaters seeking a special occasion meal without completely breaking the bank.
- Best for: Modern British fine dining
- Dish to Order: Seasonal dessert
- Address: Reform Place, North Road, Durham, DH1 4RZ, United Kingdom
- Rating: 4/5
- Price: ££££
- For table reservations, please visit: https://www.coarse.restaurant/
2. Faru
Faru instantly sets itself apart in Durham’s dining scene with its hyper-seasonal, nature-inspired tasting menus.
Want the full monty? Read our full review of Faru.
Forget familiar dishes – here, expect a celebration of the freshest local produce, transformed with an almost artistic sensibility. The intimate atmosphere, with low lighting and minimalist decor, allows the food to take centre stage. Each meticulously crafted dish is a small masterpiece for the eyes as much as the tastebuds, showcasing unusual ingredients and unexpected flavour pairings. The service was impeccable – the knowledgeable staff effortlessly guided us through the complex flavours and intricate preparation of each course, enhancing the overall sense of discovery.
While Faru offers an unforgettable culinary journey, it’s definitely a special occasion spot with prices to match. If you’re a foodie seeking a truly unique dining experience that celebrates the beauty and bounty of the seasons, Faru is well worth the splurge. For those who appreciate the marriage of artistic presentation and pure, unadulterated flavours, this isn’t just a meal, it’s an immersive exploration of what can happen when talented chefs let the freshest ingredients lead the way.
- Best for: Experiential fine dining
- Dish to Order: Changes with the season, trust the chef!
- Address: 32 Claypath, Durham DH1 1QT, UK
- Rating: 4/5
- Price: £££££
- For table reservations, please visit: https://www.faru.co.uk/
3. Barrio Comida
If you’re looking to add some spice and energy to your Durham dining scene, Barrio Comida delivers on both fronts. This lively spot specialises in authentic Mexican flavours with a focus on fresh, vibrant ingredients. We loved the selection of tacos – they’re the perfect size for sharing and trying several – and the margaritas are a must-order if you enjoy cocktails. The atmosphere is upbeat and fun, making it ideal for group dinners, a lively night out with friends, or even shaking up a regular date night with some extra energy.
The service is friendly and efficient, and the prices are surprisingly reasonable considering the quality of the food. Portions are generous, so come hungry! While you might spot some familiar favourites on the menu, Barrio Comida does a great job of introducing some less common regional dishes and interesting flavour combinations. Expect bright salsas, punchy marinades, and exciting specials that reflect the freshest seasonal ingredients available. For those seeking a social dining experience centred around fresh, flavourful Mexican fare in a vibrant setting, Barrio Comida is one of the best new places to eat in Durham.
- Best for: Casual Mexican, group gatherings, lively experience
- Dish to Order: Tacos, guacamole, and a margarita
- Address: 34 Church St, Durham DH1 3DG, UK
- Rating: 4/5
- Price: ££
- For table reservations, please visit: https://www.barriocomida.com/
4. The Rabbit Hole
The Rabbit Hole invites you on a culinary journey into the rich world of Cantonese cuisine, where tradition meets contemporary refinement. From the moment you step inside, the elegant atmosphere sets the stage for a special dining experience. Expect expertly crafted dim sum – each delicate parcel a burst of flavour and a testament to the chef’s skill. The menu also delves into a wider range of dishes, showcasing both familiar classics and lesser-known regional specialities, always showcasing pristine ingredients and thoughtful preparation.
The knowledgeable staff provide attentive service without feeling intrusive, happily offering guidance through the menu and wine list. While The Rabbit Hole is undoubtedly a fine dining experience with prices to match, we found the quality of the food, the beautiful presentation, and the overall ambiance well worth the investment. If you’re looking for an elevated Cantonese dining experience in Durham, celebrating special occasions or simply treating yourself to a night of culinary exploration, The Rabbit Hole should be at the top of your list.
- Best for: Cantonese fine dining, special occasions
- Dish to Order: Dim sum tasting platter
- Address: 17 Hallgarth St, Durham DH1 3AT, UK
- Rating: 4/5
- Price: ££££
- For table reservations, please visit: https://www.therabbitholedurham.co.uk/
5. Notch Durham
If you’re looking for a satisfying American-inspired dining experience in the heart of Durham, Notch delivers the goods. Think hearty portions, BBQ flavours, and a good selection of burgers and steaks. The vibe is casual and relaxed – perfect for a laid-back night out with friends or a family gathering where everyone’s sure to find something they’ll enjoy. The service is friendly and upbeat, and while it can get busy, the staff make an effort to keep things running smoothly and check in on tables without being overbearing.
While Notch may not be reinventing the wheel with its concept, we found the food well-executed and the portions generous for the price. Their BBQ options are a crowd-pleaser, and if you’ve got room, their milkshakes are a classic American treat. It’s not the spot for an intimate, adventurous meal, but if you’re craving familiar comfort food in a fun setting, Notch absolutely hits the mark and adds a solid option to Durham’s casual dining scene. It is welcome addition to our list of new restaurants in Durham.
- Best for: Casual American eats, groups, comfort food cravings
- Dish to Order: BBQ ribs
- Address: 96 Elvet Bridge, Durham DH1 3AG, UK
- Rating: 3/5
- Price: ££
- For table reservations, please visit: [They don’t seem to have a website for reservations]
6. The Turkish Kitchen
The Turkish Kitchen transports you to a world of vibrant flavours and warm hospitality. Don’t expect anything overly fancy here – the focus is on fresh ingredients, classic Turkish recipes, and generous portions. From sizzling mixed grills to flavourful meze platters, the menu offers something for everyone. We especially enjoyed their selection of vegetarian dishes, packed with bold spices and satisfying textures. The atmosphere is bustling and friendly, making it a great choice for lively gatherings with friends or family outings. It’s certainly one of the cheeriest new restaurants to try in Durham.
While service can occasionally be slow during peak hours, the staff more than make up for it with genuine warmth and enthusiasm. For a taste of authentic Turkish cuisine in the heart of Durham, The Turkish Kitchen offers fantastic value and a memorable dining experience. Its focus on fresh ingredients, generous portions, and vibrant atmosphere make it a solid newcomer to the Durham food scene and a welcome addition to our list of new restaurants in Durham, especially for fans of Middle Eastern flavours.
- Best for: Authentic Turkish flavours, casual dining, groups
- Dish to Order: Mixed grill platter (to share!)
- Address: 28 Elvet Bridge, Durham DH1 3AA, UK
- Rating: 4/5
- Price: ££
- For table reservations, please visit: https://turkishkitchendurham.co.uk/
7. Whitechurch
Whitechurch delivers a sense of relaxed refinement in a warm and inviting space. Their approach centres on celebrating local produce, elevated through thoughtfully composed dishes and a careful selection of drinks. We loved how the menu changes seasonally, offering a sense of discovery and freshness with each visit. Dishes are beautifully presented, highlighting the quality of the ingredients and the chef’s skill. Flavours are balanced and interesting, showcasing classic combinations alongside more unexpected but delightful flavour pairings.
While there’s an air of sophistication, the restaurant doesn’t feel overly formal. The knowledgeable staff are friendly and provide attentive service without feeling intrusive. This approach does come with a slightly higher price tag, but we found the value well-justified by the quality of ingredients, the attention to detail, and the overall memorable dining experience. Whitechurch stands out as a special spot for celebrating local flavours with a touch of culinary creativity. If you’re seeking a dining experience that feels contemporary yet unpretentious, and truly showcases the bounty of the region, Whitechurch delivers beautifully and is a strong contender in Durham’s thriving culinary scene. It is also a real contender for the best Sunday Lunch in Durham!
- Best for: Seasonal dining, local flavours, upscale-casual
- Dish to Order: Depends on the season – ask your server!
- Address: Stockton Road, Durham DH1 3SP, UK
- Rating: 4/5
- Price: £££
- For table reservations, please visit: https://whitechurchdurham.com/
8. Akarsu Turkish Restaurant
Akarsu Turkish Restaurant brings a taste of Turkey’s vibrant cuisine and warm hospitality to the heart of Durham. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a lively atmosphere, the tantalising aroma of grilled meats, and colourful displays of fresh mezes. This is a place for celebration, where generous portions and classic Turkish dishes are meant to be shared. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, eager to guide diners through the extensive menu and suggest dishes that highlight both familiar favourites and lesser-known Turkish specialities.
The focus at Akarsu is on bold flavours and fresh ingredients. While you might find dishes you recognize, we loved that they also showcase regional delicacies, encouraging guests to step outside their comfort zone and experience something new. The quality shines through in every bite, and the value is fantastic considering the portion sizes and the obvious care that goes into the food preparation. If you’re seeking a convivial dining experience that celebrates the warmth and flavour of Turkish cuisine, Akarsu offers a welcoming and delicious adventure. It’s a strong addition to Durham’s diverse and growing food scene, offering a unique and memorable dining experience.
- Best for: Turkish flavours, groups, adventurous eaters
- Dish to Order: Mixed grill for sharing
- Address: 21 Silver St, Durham DH1 3RB, UK
- Rating: 4/5
- Price: ££
- For table reservations, please visit: https://www.akarsuturkishrestaurantdurham.co.uk/
9. The Curious Mr. Fox
The Curious Mr. Fox invites you into a world of charming ambience and whimsical flavours. With its split-level spaces, floral decor, and views overlooking the cathedral, it’s definitely a spot for those seeking something a bit different. The menu focuses on modern British cuisine with unexpected twists, showcasing playful combinations and intriguing presentations. We enjoyed their creative takes on classic dishes, often incorporating locally sourced ingredients with flair. Don’t skip the cocktails – the mixologists here clearly have a sense of fun and the drinks are both delicious and beautifully presented. It is certainly one of the more esoteric new restaurants in Durham!
Service can be a bit inconsistent, though always friendly. On busier nights, it might take a while to flag down your server. While the prices are on the higher side for Durham, the unique atmosphere, careful execution of the dishes, and focus on interesting flavours do make The Curious Mr. Fox a worthwhile splurge. It’s a great place for date nights, special occasions, or simply when you’re in the mood for a dining experience with a touch of quirky elegance. Want one of Durham’s best burgers, then The Curious Mr Fox is well worth a closer look!
- Best for: Playful fine dining, unique atmosphere, cocktails
- Dish to Order: Seasonal tasting menu (for adventurous eaters)
- Address: 35a The Riverwalk, Durham DH1 4SL, UK
- Rating: 4/5
- Price: ££££
- For table reservations, please visit: https://www.thecuriousmrfox.co.uk/
10. Manakeet
Manakeet offers a vibrant exploration of India’s diverse regional cuisines. The décor is sleek and modern, creating a sophisticated backdrop for the colourful, beautifully plated dishes that arrive at your table. The menu takes diners far beyond the familiar “curry house” standards, featuring street food specialities, lesser-known regional dishes, and interesting takes on traditional favourites. We loved the willingness to play with spice levels and offer a range of flavours, ensuring there’s something for adventurous eaters and those with milder preferences.
The staff are knowledgeable and happy to offer guidance on the extensive menu. Their passion for Indian cuisine is infectious, making the dining experience feel educational without being pretentious. Portions are generous, and the focus on quality ingredients means you get fantastic value compared to more basic curry houses in Durham. If you’re searching for a delicious and immersive dive into the exciting world of Indian cuisine, Manakeet offers a contemporary approach and a commitment to freshness and flavour. It’s a fantastic addition to Durham’s food scene, showcasing the richness and diversity of Indian cuisine in a modern and welcoming setting. If you like spice, this is one of the new places to eat in Durham you should definitely try!
- Best for: Adventurous Indian cuisine, great for sharing
- Dish to Order: Share a few small plates for variety
- Address: 23 Claypath, Durham DH1 1RG, UK
- Rating: 4/5
- Price: ££
- For table reservations, please visit: https://www.manakeet.com/
FAQ
Durham’s restaurant scene is bursting with exciting newcomers. Coarse is a Michelin-recognized fine dining with fresh, seasonal British menus. Barrio Comida offers vibrant Mexican flavours and a lively atmosphere, whereas Faru is famous for its experiential tasting menus focused on hyper-seasonal ingredients.
Yes, there are. It’s difficult to give a precise number since new spots open all the time. However, Durham’s dining scene is experiencing a boom period with numerous options for those seeking something new, fresh and exciting.
Traditionally, Durham hasn’t been known for a specific cuisine. However, its growing culinary reputation is driven by diverse options, fresh local produce, and restaurants offering cuisines from around the world.
Fame is subjective, but some spots with long-standing reputations include Coarse and Faru.
Fine dining experiences come with a price tag. Some of the higher-priced spots in Durham include:
Coarse, The Curious Mr. Fox, Faru, Manakeet and The Rabbit Hole.