England Guide
The Northeast
Food and drink
1 The Almshouses Palace Green www.the-almshouses.co.uk Bistro meals served in a historic building in the shadow of the cathedral. Opening time: Daily 9am–5pm, July & Aug 9am–8pmPrice: Mains about £6
2 
Bistro 21 Aykley Heads 
0191/384 4354 www.bistrotwentyone.co.uk Excellent Modern British cuisine; courtyard seating in summer and good-value set menus at lunchtime. Opening time: Mon– Sat noon–2pm & 6–10pm, Sun noon–3pmPrice: Two courses from £15
3 Gourmet Spot The Avenue 0191/384 6655 Opening time: www.gourmet-spot.co.uk Fun and innovation are the watchwords here. Expect balloons and liquid nitrogen, salmon with cauliflower foam, venison with chocolate paint and sensational puddings. Opening time: Tues– Sat from 6.30pm
4 Hide 39 Saddler St 0191/384 1999 www.hidebar.com The best of the café-bars, Hide serves a pizza, salad or brunch-style menu during the day, with prices rising at night for a Modern British tour of world cuisine. Opening time: Mon– Thurs 11am–11pm, Fri & Sat 10 am– midnight, Sun noon–4 pm
5 Numjai 19 Millburngate Centre 0191/386 2020 www.durham.thai-food-restaurants.co.uk Authentic Thai restaurant that dishes up plenty of seafood and veggie options, with a river terrace and cathedral views.
6 The Pumphouse Farm Rd, Houghall (southeast of the centre) 0191/386 9189 www.thepumphouserestaurant.co.uk At this Victorian pumphouse, best use is made of locally sourced produce in imaginative and contemporary dishes.Price: Mains £9–23
7 Vennel's Saddler's Yard, Saddler St Named after the skinny alley or "vennel" where it stands, this self-service café dispenses appetizing sandwiches, salads, quiche and pastas in its sixteenth-century courtyard. Opening time: Closes 5pm
8 Court Inn Court Lane Best pub dining in town, a favourite with students and locals, with a classic pub menu and plenty of chips, plus dip-and-share tapas and some intriguing blackboard specials.