There will be celebrations in Durham throughout the coming days as people come together to mark Chinese New Year.
Chinese New Year starts on January 22 and celebrations are expected to continue until February 5. Based on a 12-year zodiac cycle, this year is the Year of the Rabbit, with the creature representing the moon and even being an incarnation of the moon goddess and a symbol of purity.
A lion dance procession will kick off celebrations in the city on Saturday January 22 at Millennium Place, before travelling through the city centre. While traditional music, costume and dance performances will be held at Durham Town Hall, as well as Tai Chi, East Asian crafts, and a catwalk show of traditional Chinese costumes.
Read more: Durham to host series of events to see in Chinese New Year in style
They are just some of the events taking place in the city to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit. But others may choose to celebrate Chinese New Year with a nice meal.
That's why we've compiled a list of County Durham's highest-rated Chinese restaurants and takeaways according to locals.
Inshanghai
Where: The Riverwalk Lambton Walk, Durham, DH1 4SL
Topping the list of best Chinese restaurants in County Durham is Inshanghai. The all-you-can-eat buffet continues to receive positive reviews.
After first opening in 2007, Inshanghai became a popular and well-established restaurant, featuring some of the nation's favourite Chinese dishes including chow mein and sweet and sour dishes. It is located on the Durham Riverside, next to Framwellgate Bridge.
Diners who have visited the restaurant have raved about its "amazing" food and value. One reviewer wrote: "I came here as a surprise birthday meal with my best friend and honestly it's by far the best Chinese I've had!! I would love to say thank you to all the staff you're so polite and well mannered, the chefs are doing an amazing job!! Thank you again."
Another reviewer wrote: "First time visiting, very tasty food for an exceptionally low price would highly recommend for value for money along with friendly and helpful staff, will definitely be returning."
The New Wok Inn
Where: Brandon Lane Brandon, Durham, DH7 8PS
The New Wok Inn is a favourite with locals and is also a popular takeaway option with plenty of positive reviews. The restaurant offers traditional Chinese and Cantonese dishes, with a variety of vegetarian and vegan options as part of their menu.
It also has a 4 out 5 rating on TripAdvisor with people complimenting the quality of food and "outstanding" service. Out of 167 reviews, 80 rated The New Wok Inn as "excellent", while 45 rated it "very good".
Sense
Where: 97 Claypath, Durham, DH1 1RG
Sense in Durham city centre offers a variety of dishes ranging from £12-£20 and the food has been described by a number of reviewers as "authentic".
One reviewer wrote on TripAdvisor: "This is a no frills restaurant that serves excellent authentic Chinese food at inexpensive prices. Highly recommended but best to book as it gets crowded." Another reviewer said: "Authentic Chinese - After reading the reviews we thought we would try this one and can highly recommend this restaurant the food was fantastic and the young lady who recommended which to have was brilliant."
China Diner
Where: 5 Sunderland Road, Durham DH1 2LH
"Best fried rice in Durham, bar none." claimed one reviewer of China Diner on Sunderland Road, Durham. They added: "Chow mein, dumplings, and crispy beef also delicious. We've lived in the area for ten years and China Diner remains our go-to for a Chinese takeaway."
Another reviewer said: "We were staying at the Travelodge and popped along here for a takeaway.
"It has to be the best Chinese takeaway we've ever had. We had the combo starter, delicious, tasty crispy seaweed, amazing spare ribs packed with flavour, crisp spring rolls to name a few things. Our chicken chow mein was so fresh, packed with chicken and fresh veg with lovely hick noodles. The crispy chilli beef in a Cantonese sauce was crispy, sweet, tangy, rich and full flavoured.
"I'm so glad I don't stay closer to this place, if I did I'd be there every night and be the size of a house! I'm so looking forward to going back."
New Peking House
Where: 3-4 Front Street Framwellgate Moor, Durham DH1
New Peking House has been praised for its "beautiful" food which is packed with flavour. Another complemented the portion sizes, rating the venue good value for money.
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