Bistro Italiano is an authentic Italian restaurant in the heart of Durham. The menu offers an array of Italian classics as well as traditional Sunday lunch.
Inside, the interiors strike an elegant yet inviting tone. Soft lighting casts a warm glow over intimate tables, while tasteful décor - rustic touches paired with modern lines - creates a setting that’s ideal for romantic dinners, family gatherings or relaxed evenings with friends. The layout encourages convivial conversation, and the overall design reflects a genuine love for Italian bistro style.
The kitchen team’s passion for traditional dishes shines through in every carefully composed plate, ensuring that each visit feels both refined and warmly familiar. The menu at Bistro Italiano offers a thoughtfully curated selection of classic Italian fare. Starters include caprese salad, bruschetta and parma ham with melon. Pasta dishes feature penne arrabbiata, lasagne al forno and tagliatelle alfredo, and risotto options include chicken, mushroom and shallot, and asparagus and courgette. Pizza flavours include rocket and parma ham, bbq with pepperoni and chicken, and smoked salmon, baby prawns and mussels. There’s also steaks, such as stroganoff, beef fillet stuffed with blue cheese and wrapped in parma ham, and beef with vodka sauce. There’s an array of seafood, from king prawns in garlic and salmon with vodka sauce, as well as chicken dishes like pollo picante and chargrill chicken.
Complementing the menu is a carefully chosen drinks selection, from an Italian-inspired wine list featuring full-bodied reds and crisp whites to classic cocktails, Italian craft beers and aromatic espressos.
Whether you’re seeking an elegant night out or a cosy spot for an intimate meal, Bistro Italiano offers a warm, inviting retreat in Durham’s city centre. It’s a place where traditional Italian cooking meets a genuine hospitality ethos, making each visit memorable.