WE are fortunate to have loads of great, independent eateries on our doorstep - but which ones are among the most popular?
Well these are among the top six in and around Darlington, according to reviews left by people using TripAdvisor.
From a popular Turkish grill to a "perfect" country pub, these businesses have seen some of the highest scores left in recent months.
Incorporating venues from the wider Darlington area, a mix of independent venues in the town and further afield have made the list.
It comes as indoor hospitality venues are marking their third week in business following the easing of lockdown restrictions on May 17.
All businesses in this list are listed as a restaurant currently on TripAdvisor and are in the order of how they rank on the website.
1. SALT - Street Food Kitchen & Bar, Grange Road
This is TripAdvisor's top scoring restaurant as per reviews left on the website with a score of one out of 191.
The restaurant on Grange Road in the town centre, has been given a five-star score based on 271 reviews.
One person said: "Unreal food! The nduja burger and the Korean chicken in bao buns were so tasty, as were the chips where you could choose your toppings - but our favourite part of the meal was the piadina starters. This was our experience of a takeaway so we’ll definitely be visiting the restaurant soon."
Meanwhile another said: "Salt smashed it, fresh & innovative loved every bite can’t wait to visit once lockdown is over best burgers in town."
2. Viraj Restaurant, Kendrew Street
Viraj on Kendrew Street is rated Darlington's second place, with 175 reviews left - and an overall score of five-stars.
Serving up a mix of Indian and Asian dishes, Viraj has been described as "amazing" by locals who have given it a try.
One person said: "Just had the best family Indian Take away we've had for ages. FRESH FRESH FRESH! The food was so fresh, aromatic and wholesome. All the flavours were delicious and not a sign of too much OIL anywhere. Really really superb meal. Thanks for caring Viraj."
Another said: "A beautiful cosy restaurant with fantastic food and awesome service that makes you feel part of the family. 10/10 recommend for any occasion. It is the best Indian in town. Cannot fault it time and time again."
3. The Black Horse, Front Street, Ingleton
In the wider area, The Black Horse in Ingleton has made TripAdvisor's list with 153 reviews - the equivalent of five-stars.
Located on the Front Street, the family pub has been described by delighted fans as the "perfectly-run" English country pub.
One review said: "Been several times and always a great welcome especially from Anth the host, outdoor area works really well and very comfortable, food great, never disappoints."
Another said: "My family and I attended the Black Horse in Ingleton. The food and service was excellent. Thank you to The Black Horse for a lovely evening."
4. Akbar The Great, Bondgate, Darlington
On Bondgate in the town centre, Akbar The Great serves up a mix of Indian and Asian and has had among the most reviews left on TripAdvisor.
Having a five-star rating, there are 479 reviews with the majority of people ticking the excellent box when asked about their visit.
One person admitted they did not like the decor but said they enjoyed the food that was served during a visit before the first lockdown.
They said: "There was lots of space and only some of the socially distanced tables were occupied. Decor was rather too opulent and white my taste. Service was efficient and we didn't wait long between courses.
"The food was very good and my chicken garlic chilli was extremely tasty. Other members of my party were equally impressed with their choices. Based on the food alone, we'll be back."
5. The Raby Hunt, Summerhouse, Darlington
Located near Darlington, The Raby Hunt is also among those with the most reviews left by customers on TripAdvisor.
With a staggering 715 reviews, the Michelin star venue has been given a five-star rating based on the majority of people ticking the 'excellent' box.
One review said: "What an incredible experience we had at this special place. The food is absolutely exemplary, totally worth it’s prestigious 2 Michelin Star rating.
"We’ve dined at a lot of high end restaurants but I have to say that we were blown away by every aspect of our experience including the excellent front of house team."
Another said: "Stunning food accompanied by relaxed informative service , best food I’ve ever eaten, thank you to everyone at Raby Hunt."
6. Meze, Parkgate, Darlington
Meze on Parkgate in Darlington serves up a range of Mediterranean, Turkish and European dishes - and it proves popular.
At five-stars, the restaurant has seen 375 reviews left by people on TripAdvisor with some describing it as "authentic."
One review said: "Food was amazing but portions a bit big for is great service from all staff would highly recommend. Would definitely come back again."
Another said: "Came for a meal last night with friends food was amazing.Booked to go back on Friday can't fault anything. Staff very friendly and welcoming, great value for money."
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