Coarse, Durham

Coarse – Michelin Guide tasting menu restaurant in Durham

A tasting menu restaurant in Durham city centre run by head chef and co-owner Ruari MacKay, who trained under Michelin star chef Terry Laybourne at Jesmond Dene House before going on to head up Bistro 21, The Garden House Inn and The Traveller’s Rest. Coarse offers a single 6 course tasting menu built around local, seasonal ingredients that changes every six weeks, alongside a vegetarian version, with the aim of making tasting menus more affordable, accessible and fun.

The draw: A regularly changing 6 course seasonal tasting menu from a well travelled local chef, with strong word of mouth including glowing reviews from Google diners and a mention in The Chronicle’s Secret Diner column.

Hours:

Lunch, Thursday to Saturday, 12pm to 3pm.

Dinner, Wednesday to Saturday, 5pm to 11pm.

Closed Sunday to Tuesday.

Vibe check: Booking ahead is essential given the tasting menu only format and its reputation. A good choice for a special occasion or a proper food focused night out rather than a casual drop in.