There’s only one thing that would make a trip to the Darlington Hippodrome even better – finding somewhere great to eat nearby! I’ve put together a list of 12 places to eat near the Hippodrome, so that you can make a real trip of your show booking. Take a look below to see them in distance order and see where you’d like to book!
Banrai Thai
Distance from the Darlington Hippodrome: 1 min walk (literally opposite the theatre), 105ft
Address: 94-96 Parkgate, Darlington, DL1 1RS
About: If you’re craving bold flavours and a warm welcome in Darlington, Banrai Thai is well worth a visit. This cosy spot serves up classic Thai cuisine packed with colour and spice, from ever-popular Pad Thai to rich Green and Massaman curries, plus beautifully cooked dishes like chilli and lime seabass. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it ideal for both casual dinners and special nights out. Even better, Banrai sits right opposite Darlington Hippodrome, so it’s perfectly placed for a pre-show meal or a post-theatre treat.
Opening times: Tues to Thurs from 5-9:30pm, Fri from 5-10pm, Sat from 12-10pm, Sun from 12-9:30pm.
Check out Banrai Thai’s website here.
Meze
Distance from the Darlington Hippodrome: 1 min walk, 295ft
Address: 113 Parkgate, Darlington, DL1 1RZ
About: Meze serves up vibrant Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine with plenty of character. Try sharing a mixed meze starter before diving into favourites like chicken shish kebabs, Iskender, or hearty moussaka, all packed with rich, fragrant flavours. The friendly team and cosy setting make it ideal for relaxed dinners with friends or family. It’s just a short stroll from Darlington Hippodrome, so it’s perfect for grabbing a tasty Turkish feast before or after a show in town.
Opening times: Tues to Fri from 5:30-9pm, Sat from 5:30-11pm.
Check out Meze’s website here.
Taipan Asia
Distance from the Darlington Hippodrome: 1 min drive (0.2 miles), 5 min walk (0.2 miles)
Address: 10 Crown Street, Darlington, DL1 1LU
About: Taipan Asia is an Asian fusion spot that brings together the best of the East with a modern twist. Think delicate sushi and sashimi alongside fragrant curries and sizzling stir-fries – favourites like Japanese chicken katsu curry, pad-style noodles, sticky glazed pork and inventive sushi platters keep things exciting. It’s the kind of place where you can start with crispy chicken satay or tempura prawns, dive into bold Pan-Asian mains, then top it off with a cocktail in the stylish lounge vibe.
Opening times: Mon, Wed and Thurs from 4-10pm, Fri from 4-11pm, Sat from 1-11pm, Sun from 4-9pm.
Check out Taipan Asia’s website here.
The Pennyweight
Distance from the Darlington Hippodrome: 3 min drive (0.6 miles, parking in Feethams), 6 min walk (0.3 miles)
Address: 8 Bakehouse Hill, Darlington, DL1 5QA
About: The Pennyweight is that comforting sort of place where hearty British pub classics meet that feeling when you step into somewhere familiar. Expect traditional fare, like pies, parmos and battered fish and chips, all served with chips and plenty of deliciousness. It’s casual, friendly and perfect for relaxed meals with mates.
Opening times: Mon to Sun from 11:30am-11:30pm.
Check out The Pennyweight’s website here.
Darlington Market
Distance from the Darlington Hippodrome: 3 min drive (0.6 miles, parking in Feethams), 7 min walk (0.3 miles)
Address: Horse Market, Darlington, DL1 5PN
About: If you fancy something a bit more casual, Darlington Market has you covered. This place is home to a range of independent street food traders. There’s burgers, Greek food, German bratwurst and so much more. It’s the ideal place if you want to pick out a few different bits and share among your group, and will work really well for a more informal evening at the Hippodrome.
Opening times: Hours vary depending on the traders.
Check out Darlington Market’s Facebook page here.
Sortie
Distance from the Darlington Hippodrome: 3 min drive (0.6 miles, parking in Feethams), 9 min walk (0.4 miles)
Address: 4 Houndgate, Darlington, DL1 5SG
About: Sortie is a cosy little gem that’s sophisticated and a great time is basically guaranteed. Specialising in beautifully crafted charcuterie boards brimming with artisan meats, cheeses, chutneys and pickles, it’s the sort of place that turns nibbling into a full-on flavour adventure. Pair your sharing platter with one of their handmade cocktails or a glass of wine for the full experience. The friendly, intimate vibe makes it perfect for a relaxed catch up, date night, or just unwinding with delicious food and drinks in good company.
Opening times: Wed to Fri from 4-11pm, Sat from 12-11pm.
Check out Sortie’s Facebook page here.
T.A.O Street Food & Noodle Bar
Distance from the Darlington Hippodrome: 3 min drive (0.6 miles, parking in Feethams), 9 min walk (0.4 miles)
Address: 27 Blackwellgate, Darlington, DL1 5HG
About: This is a lively Asian street food spot that turns casual dining into a flavour adventure. With a menu inspired by Japanese and wider Asian classics, you’ll find crispy takoyaki, fresh sushi rolls, hearty Char Siu pork ramen and even zingy chicken katsu curry and pad thai to mix things up. Bite-sized bao buns and veggie gyoza make perfect starters, while big bowls of noodles or donburi keep you happily full. The vibe is fun and relaxed, so it’s ideal for grabbing delicious, colourful dishes with mates or squeezing in a quick solo feast.
Opening times: Mon to Thurs from 12-9pm, Fri and Sat from 12-9:30pm, Sun from 12-8pm.
Check out T.A.O’s website here.
Cafe Spice
Distance from the Darlington Hippodrome: 3 min drive (0.6 miles, parking in Feethams), 9 min walk (0.4 miles)
Address: 19 Clark’s Yard, Darlington, DL3 7QH
About: Cafe Spice is a welcoming spot where Indian and South Asian flavours shine in every dish. Start with crispy samosas or onion bhajis, then savour classics like creamy butter chicken, fiery vindaloo, or tender tandoori chicken with fluffy rice. Aromatic spices, rich sauces, and carefully cooked dishes keep diners coming back for more, whether you’re sharing plates or enjoying a hearty curry all to yourself.
Opening times: Mon to Thurs from 5-10pm, Fri to Sun from 5-11pm.
Check out Cafe Spice’s website here.
Cherry Tree Kitchen & Bar
Distance from the Darlington Hippodrome: 3 min drive (0.6 miles, parking in Feethams), 10 min walk (0.4 miles)
Address: 8 Blackwellgate, Darlington, DL1 5HL
About: Cherry Tree Kitchen & Cocktail Bar is a stylish spot that’s equal parts relaxed hangout and flavour haven. Think delicious European-style tapas and small plates, perfect for sharing over good conversation, alongside drinks ranging from craft cocktails to fine wines and brunch-style treats – ideal for laid-back afternoons or lively evenings with friends. Choose from tasty bites like herb-seasoned meatballs, chorizo mac & cheese or calamari with garlic sauce, then sip something fruity or bold as the atmosphere shifts from lunch to night.
Opening times: Mon to Thurs from 10am-10pm, Fri and Sat from 11am-1am, Sun from 10am-8pm.
Check out Cherry Tree’s website here.
Babul’s
Distance from the Darlington Hippodrome: 3 min drive (0.6 miles, parking in Feethams), 10 min walk (0.5 miles)
Address: 2 Skinnergate, Darlington, DL3 7NB
About: Babul’s Darlington serves bold South Asian, Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine with a modern twist that’s all about big flavours. From loaded naan and brunch favourites to rich curries, tender tandoori grills and street-food bites like chilli paneer or gunpowder kale crisps, there’s lots to explore on the menu. After all that flavour, kick back with one of their hand-crafted cocktails – fruity, spicy or smoothed out with Prosecco. Whether you’re sharing plates with friends or diving into a classic curry dinner, it’s a fun, flavour-packed experience that keeps diners coming back for more.
Opening times: Mon to Sun from 9am-11pm.
Check out Babul’s website here.
Tapas Bar
Distance from the Darlington Hippodrome: 5 min drive (0.8 miles, parking in Abbotts Yard), 10 min walk (0.5 miles)
Address: 98 Bondgate, Darlington, DL3 7JY
About: This is the kind of place where sharing is not just caring, it’s delicious. Specialising in Spanish tapas and Mediterranean small plates, it’s perfect for grazing with friends over laughter and good conversation. Feast on patatas bravas, tortilla Española, gambas pil‑pil, or indulge in fun bites like crispy padron peppers and cheese-stuffed dates wrapped in bacon. Pair your plates with refreshing cocktails, wine or craft beer, and you’ve got a relaxed, flavour-packed evening where every dish feels like a mini celebration.
Opening times: Mon and Tues from 12-9pm, Wed and Thurs from 4-10pm, Fri from 12-10:30pm, Sat from 12-11pm, Sun from 11:30am-11pm.
Check out Tapas Bar’s website here.
Picco Pizzeria
Distance from the Darlington Hippodrome: 5 min drive (0.8 miles, parking in Abbotts Yard), 11 min walk (0.5 miles)
Address: 20 Bondgate, Darlington, DL3 7JE
About: This little gem is your go‑to Italian spot for stonebaked pizzas. From classic Margherita and spicy Diavola to cheesy Quattro Formaggi and the house Picco Special piled with prosciutto and rocket, every slice feels like a celebration of Italian comfort food. Start with goats cheese bruschetta or bread and olives for a flavour kick, then bring on the pizzas. And don’t forget to finish with a sweet treat if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
Opening times: Mon to Sat from 5-10pm.
Check out Picco Pizzeria’s website here.
I hope this list has helped you find the perfect place to eat near the Darlington Hippodrome! Which one will you be trying?
