China Chef - Carte

Smokehouse Railway Street

➤ 1 Railway Street, DL14 7LR, County Durham, United Kingdom

Carte • Tea • Western • Burgers • Barbecue

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"We visited this smokehouse due to the reviews whilst in the area on holiday, and were not disappointed! There are only 4 tables, so we booked via their Facebook page, and the staff were very friendly and welcoming. We had the biggest platter on the menu so we could sample as much as possible, and everything was absolutely gorgeous. We felt it was excellent value for money and really good quality. The platter was huge so we couldn’t finish it all, but they gave us boxes to bring the rest home and it’s all finished now. Special little family run place that is definitely worth a visit. It’s quirky, different, independent and fantastic quality. We managed to park right outside too."

The Bay Horse

➤ 28 West Green, DL5 6PE, Darlington, United Kingdom

Carte • Wine • Steak • Cakes • British

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"Our party of 3 were handed crumpled lunch menus and though I requested a wine menu apparently there isn't one. I asked what was available and from the three first mentioned chose a Rioja at £21. It was acceptable. I chose a 16 oz rump steak. On being asked how I wanted it cooked I suggested that the chef would know how best to cook his product and that this would be ok with me. I was met with a blank stare. After two more tries I was told I had to choose myself so chose medium rare. When it arrived weighing no more than 10 oz, gristly and rather thin, it was dry and cooked hugely beyond well done. I can honestly say this was the worst attempt at a steak I can recall. My fellow diners restrained my desire to complain even though their meals (a steak pie and a thai red curry) were mediocre. No one bothered to ask if our food was ok. After a coffee we left. I am surprised that this place is still trading."

The Pollards

➤ 104 Etherley Lane, DL14 0BF, County Durham, United Kingdom

Carte • Fish • Meat • Steak • Cocktail

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"I recently attended a family gathering with a party of 12, split between two tables. Despite previous issues trying to book a party of this size, we were fortunate to secure a reservation at this restaurant. However, our experience was marred by several issues. One member of our group received the wrong dish, which was only rectified after everyone else had finished eating. Additionally, a chicken dish had blood veins running through it, causing us to question its safety. When we brought this to the attention of the waitress, the manager tried to explain that this was normal for chicken breasts. This response did not feel professional or satisfactory in addressing our concerns about food safety. We did not receive an apology or any form of compensation for the inconvenience, leading us to decide not to return or recommend this restaurant for future special occasions. We will be looking for a better dining option moving forward."

George And Dragon

➤ 4 East Green, DL5 6PP, Darlington, United Kingdom

Carte • Fish • Steak • Coffee • British

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"Arrived 4-45 on a 18/11/22 without booking got a table for 2. Very pleasant attentive staff. Drinks order taken delivered promptly even though they where very busy. 3 different menus to choose from we choose 2 courses for 12-95 or 3 courses for £15 -95. Starts mains ordered. After a short wait starters arrive nicely presented, well prepared very tasty. Mains arrived after a short wait after finishing starters everything is freshly prepared cooked so a short wait is good. Main courses where nicely cooked very nicely presented. Everything was very nice tasty. We found space for a desert each they where both very tasty. A great meal in nice surroundings, pleasant attentive staff. Great value for money. This is available 12 till 5."

Red Alligator

➤ Auckland Road, DL14 6SP, County Durham, United Kingdom

Carte • Pub • Steak • Vegan • British

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"First time visiting The Red Alligator after a few recommendations and I definitely wasn’t disappointed! Sunday carvery was exceptional (and very affordable) The meat was cooked perfectly and there was a fabulous selection of veg. It wasn’t really busy when we arrived and we were served by two lovely, polite and very helpful young members of staff quite quickly. After stuffing ourselves silly, we sat for a while letting our food digest, before ordering the best cornflake tart and custard Iv had since I was at school!! Would definitely recommend this lovely pub if you are in the mood for an excellent Sunday lunch."