Top 10 student budget restaurants in Durham

By Student Cribs | June 14, 2023 | Reading Time: 5 minutes

Picture this: you’ve woken up and discovered that you did in fact buy every single person at Klute a shot of tequila last night and your overdraft has taken a beating. All you have in your cupboard is a tin of Heinz tomato soup and an extremely old onion. Don’t stress hungover student, we’ve compiled Durham’s best budget eats so you don’t have to!

1.     Zen

Of course when you’ve spent your gap yaaah popping between the Thai islands, your standards for Asian cuisine will be pretty high. Zen does a pretty fantastic job of transporting their customers with strong flavours and atmospheric setting. Even better, students get 10% off

2.     Flat White Durham

For all of those who are unable to function without the help of the dark bean, Flat White will satisfy your every coffee need. Pair your latte with an eggy breakfast and you’ll be ready to face the day.

3.   Vennel’s Cafe

Scones, glorious scones! However you pronounce (if you don’t pronounce it gone then you are wrong my dear) Vennel’s is the place to get your pastry fix. You can even see what time it was baked how quaint!

4.    Leonard’s Coffee House

For a sweet treat located in the heart of Durham, Leonard’s has a delectable selection of cakes and coffee that will warm you up on a cold Durham day.

5.     The Cafe on the Green

Durham’s cathedral is definitely a spectacle worth visiting but at The Cafe on the Green you can sit in the sunshine and chomp on some of their delicious dishes whilst also taking in the view. With classic tea and sandwiches, grab a table outside and enjoy!

6.     Golden Fish inn

There is no other place you should be getting your fish and chips in Durham besides the Golden Fish Inn. A classic British favourite, you really can’t go wrong and it’s so reasonably priced you can justify getting extra portions of curry sauce. Fish are friends AND FOOD.

7.     Café Dafte

A little bit further outside of Durham lies a gem of a restaurant, perfect for breakfast, lunch and dinner! Whether you fancy eggs or a lasagne, Cafe Dafte will keep you full with their very generous portion sizes!

8.     Ciao Ciao

Described as ‘a melting pot for Greek and Italian cuisines’, Ciao Ciao’s menu is extensive and delicious. From pizzas to mousakas, this hearty restaurant mixes up with flavours and recipes. The service is 5 star and the food will leave you undoing the top button of your jeans.

9.     Seven Stars Inn

The Seven Stars Inn serves quality traditional British pub food, alongside a collection of ales and lagers. You can eat, drink and even sleep here, making it a go to spot for visiting parents. This one is a little pricier than the others but trust me, the Sunday roast is divine and it won’t break the bank.

10.  Zaps Burrito Bar

Did someone say mexican food? What could be better on a hangover than a monster burrito covered in guacamole, cheese and the knowledge that the calories are worth it. If you fancy getting back on the lash, they serve excellent margaritas in a variety of flavours. Muy bueno!

Hopefully this list will have you salivating and hungry to check out these local Durham food haunts. Happy eating!

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