Restaurant 17
An intimate, basement restaurant offering classic European dishes with excellent service and a relaxed, 50s rock'n'roll vibe.
Highlights
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Restaurant 17
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An intimate, basement restaurant offering classic European dishes with excellent service and a relaxed, 50s rock'n'roll vibe.
"Food was superb. The sea bass stood out - probably one of the best I've had."
Bring Cash for Tips
Tips cannot be added to card payments, so be sure to bring cash to show appreciation for great service.
Consider Reservations
With only 6-7 tables, making a reservation is recommended, especially during busy times.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
European
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+44 191 384 9050
Address
17 Elvet Bridge, Durham, DH1 3AA, United Kingdom
Website
restaurant17.co.uk/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intimate and Relaxed Ambiance
A cozy, basement setting with a subtle 50s James Dean rock'n'roll theme provides a romantic and relaxed vibe.
Superb European Cuisine
Dishes are classic, fresh, and cooked to perfection, with standouts like the sea bass. Small but well-informed menu.
Exceptional Service from Staff
Knowledgeable and friendly staff, particularly Gary, provide attentive and personal service, enhancing the dining experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Tips
Tips cannot be added to card payments, so be sure to bring cash to show appreciation for great service.
Consider Reservations
With only 6-7 tables, making a reservation is recommended, especially during busy times.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
To avoid potential inconvenience and early closing, consider visiting during less busy times.
Be Prepared for Close Seating
The intimate setting means tables can be close together and there are no windows.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Tips
Tips cannot be added to card payments, so be sure to bring cash to show appreciation for great service.
Consider Reservations
With only 6-7 tables, making a reservation is recommended, especially during busy times.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
To avoid potential inconvenience and early closing, consider visiting during less busy times.
Be Prepared for Close Seating
The intimate setting means tables can be close together and there are no windows.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Restaurant 17 offers a delightful dining experience with its intimate ambiance and a small but excellent menu. Diners rave about the perfectly cooked, fresh dishes and the exceptionally attentive and friendly service, particularly from staff member Gary. While the cozy, windowless setting and close tables might not suit everyone, the reasonable prices and overall quality make it a highly recommended hidden gem.
"We ate a delicious meal here to celebrate our daughters graduation. Everything was cooked to perfection. We were convinced the chef was french as the dishes were classic , fresh and tasty. The vibe in this basement restaurant was really relaxed and ambient. Our host was Gary was on top form. He gave us perfect meal perfect recommendations, was a good laugh and had great chat. What's not to like?"
Laura J Aitcheson
"We had an excellent dinner for two. The menu choice was impressive. The food was perfectly cooked and beautifully presented. Service was polite and attentive. Highly recommended!"
Gordon Bell
"Food was superb. The sea bass stood out - probably one of the best I’ve had.
Service was attentive interior was lovely and intimate — small and tucked away, felt like a hidden gem"
Lara Rivlin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The restaurant has a relaxed and intimate ambiance with a subtle 50s James Dean rock'n'roll theme, described as cozy and romantic.
Yes, reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small seating capacity of only 6-7 tables.
No, tips cannot be added to card payments. It is advised to bring cash for tipping.
Diners praise the fresh, perfectly cooked dishes, with the sea bass being a particular highlight. The menu is small but well-curated.
Some diners mention the lack of windows and tables being a bit close together. It's also advisable to visit during off-peak hours.
Yes, it's recommended for special occasions due to its intimate setting, fabulous food, and personal service.
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20 Best Food Restaurants In Durham
The menu here is small, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be disappointed. The pulled pork sandwich is tender and delicious, but it’s perfectly paired with some amazing macaroni and cheese. This restaurant has become a fast favorite for many people in town and there are lines out of its doors on most days.
Durham: A Historic Day Out In Northern England
For a special dinner with riverside views, look to the European menu of Restaurant 17 or the converted cellar and locally-sourced menu of Cellar Door.
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