A much-loved Asian cuisine restaurant in Darlington has announced that it is undergoing a major refurbishment, with plans to end its ‘all you can eat’ tapas menu.
Asianista, on Gladstone Street, shared the news on Facebook yesterday (February 22), that it will be closing for two weeks to undergo significant changes including a new menu, environment and team.
The changes will also include removing the popular ‘all you can eat’ Chinese tapas.
The refurbishment comes just after the towns Restaurant Week, with the restaurant “sincerely apologising” that they can no longer take part.
Running from February 20 to 27, the biannual event gives food lovers the opportunity to explore some of the town's best eateries with exclusive deals and curated menus.
In its Facebook post, Asianista said: “We are very sorry to announce that we will be closing from March 1, for two weeks for refurbishment.
“Our last day of opening will be Sunday, March 1, 2026.
“We will reopen on Monday, March 16, with a brand-new restaurant – new menu, new environment, and new team (with some familiar faces too).
“We sincerely apologise for the short notice and for not being able to participate in Restaurant Week anymore.
“As we prepare to launch our exciting new kitchen and menu, this week will be the final week of our ALL YOU CAN EAT – Chinese Tapas. Don’t miss your last chance to enjoy it!
“We can’t wait to welcome you back on Monday, March 16, to experience our brand-new menu.
“Thank you so much for your continued support, and again, we apologise for the short notice.”
The restaurant, previously known as Bambudda Asian, was taken over by new management in December 2024, with bosses teasing that the revamped venue will offer a modern, fresh take on Pan-Asian cuisine with a “unique dining atmosphere”.
Since the announcement, many long-standing customers have shared their views on the end of the popular tapas menu.
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One person said: “The tapas is the only reason we go. There are so many normal restaurants in the town. I hope you don't ruin a good thing.”
Another wrote: “The Chinese tapas is fantastic. We go virtually every month. Please don’t get rid of it.”
A third added: “Why get rid of the all you can eat menu? This tapas style is the best and very popular. Gutted.”
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