Capriccio - County Durham

This is one of my favourite places to eat in Durham. No, it isn't swanky and the menu is not the most extensive, but the food is prepared freshly for each order and always delicious. The pizzas are made in the traditional Italian style, thin crust but not stingy, with just the right amount of topping. The pasta dishes are delicious and not just bulked out with extra pasta. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable about Italian cuisine because, well, they are Italian. Genuine Italians, born and bred in Italy. If you want British /American versions of Italian food, you'll be better off at Pizza hut. But if you want good Italian food at a decent price, I highly recommend it. They stop serving at 4pm but I find that if you arrive about 3pm you won't have to wait very long and the staff will be more than happy to let you linger until they have finished setting up for the next day.

We sat out on the street to take in the atmosphere and enjoy the great weather. I had scrambled egg on toast and an Americano coffee. Good friendly service at a fair price.

*AVOID THIS PLACE* The welcome was unfriendly if not downright dismissive, and the rather expensive flat white tasted like diluted instant coffee at best. I took it back to request a refund, which was denied and met with hostility. In addition, the man serving us did not wear a mask, which made us feel uncomfortable, and the bathroom was dirty. Disgraceful customer service, a complete waste of money, and an awful experience overall. Would never go back and would not recommend to anyone else.

Popped in initially just for a coffee to escape the weather but after a warm greeting we decided to get a pizza to share and certainly weren't disappointed. The anchovy pizza was delicious and washed down with a lovely pint of perroni whilst watching the world go by. Great location and excellent service.

If you are worried about COVID-19, this restaurant is not a good choice for you. The staff are not vigilant about wearing face masks, following the example set by the owner who also does not seem to care. Only two staff members were wearing masks, one properly and the other wearing it below their chin. Interestingly, the staff member who was wearing the mask properly was ridiculed by the others as if he was foolish. The lack of adherence to proper mask-wearing is concerning due to the small and crowded interior of the restaurant. Additionally, the low-quality and cheap food is not worth taking the risk.