At Sense, located at 80 Claypath in Durham, diners can indulge in an authentic Chinese dining experience that has garnered rave reviews. Many patrons describe the food as some of the best they’ve encountered in England, with a particular emphasis on the Sichuan-inspired flavors that create a culinary adventure for the palate. Highlights include the deep-fried Egg Yolk Wings, which perfectly balance texture and flavor, and the Beef Fillet with Silk Tofu in a spicy sauce that exemplifies traditional Sichuan cooking. Customers frequently commend the prompt and friendly service, describing the staff as welcoming and attentive, enhancing the overall dining ambiance. The restaurant's cozy setting attracts a diverse crowd, including local Chinese students, adding to its authentic charm. Although the drink menu is limited, the BYOB option allows guests to tailor their dining experience, making it feel even more personal and enjoyable. Overall, Sense stands out in Durham’s food scene for its commitment to quality, authenticity, and warmth. As one customer aptly summarized, it’s a place you’ll regret not discovering sooner, with many returning to explore the diverse menu further. Whether you're a fan of spicy delights or simply in search of comforting Chinese cuisine, Sense is certainly worth a visit.
Amenities and More
Service options
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves late-night food
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Photos
Reviews For Sense
Soewai Wai
Apr 24,2025
I want to give 10stars actually. The tastiest ever Chinese food I have eaten in England. On spot! I regret I only decided to go there only on my last night in Durham. The boss/manager/cashier is very friendly and helpful. He said the chef is from SiChuan.
carlos g palmieri
Mar 21,2025
The best restaurant in Durham, and some of the best Chinese food you’ll find in England, seriously. If you like great spicy food and super friendly service, this is the please. BYOB
Kamila Webb
Mar 19,2025
Great food, been there a few times, always a pleasure. Friendly staff, food is ready quickly and it’s always delicious!
Matthew Bray
Mar 17,2025
Amazing food, really authentic, very reasonable prices and substantial portions; make sure to get a few plates to share! Have been really lacking somewhere like this in Durham and so glad it's here. Definitely coming back soon
darren morton
Feb 21,2025
Food really good and waiting staff are nice . Think this place seem to be used by lot of Chinese students. Not much of drinks menu .No desert menu. But it nice relaxing place .
Keith Moore
Feb 21,2025
Incredible food, the service is really good and their menu is great. You can also ask for pictures of the food if you’re unsure of what to get. I’ll for sure come again.
Caleb Foo
Feb 20,2025
great chinese restaurant in the middle of durham town honestly really recommend having the pork fried rice combo (soft fluffy rice with slightly sweet cut-with fork pork) ordered: egg fried rice, salted egg fried chicken, mapo tofu w fish, red braised pork belly taste: 9.5/10 service: 8/10 vibes: 6/10
Martyn Kelly
Feb 16,2025
This restaurant was recommended to us by a Chinese student. It is popular with expat Chinese students because it serves authentic food. Don't go along expecting the staples of Chinese takeaway menus. If you go with an open mind you are in for a treat. The chef is from Sichuan, so a lot of the food is very spicy (that's not a criticism ... just a friendly warning). There are, however, items on the menu from several regions of China. We'll definitely be going back.
Reviews For Sense