I rave about Fat Hippo a lot; whether it's here on Hello Freckles, sharing the love on twitter, uploading another burger photo on instagram, or I'm recommending it to a friend or colleague who's looking for somewhere to eat. Given the hype over the past couple of months, it's safe to say I certainly wasn't the only one excited to find out about their new restaurant opening in Durham. I headed along last night ahead of their official opening today, to give you a sneak peek of what to expect.If you've not been to Fat Hippo before (how?! If you're from the North East you've no excuse... those of you further afield, Fippo as it's often affectionately abbreviated, is only up here in Jesmond, Newcastle and Durham...but the Hippo Burger van does some traveling to food events and festivals - keep your eyes out!) then be prepared for some good-old-fashioned-roll-up-your-sleeves-and-get-it-all-over-your-face food. Seriously. Put down that knife and fork, pick up that burger and get your hands dirty.
Nestled within the cobbles on Saddler Street, Fat Hippo Durham welcomes you into a Grade II listed building, packed with character and really cool decor. From the cute, cosy lights downstairs, to the minimalist wooden seating and tiled floor upstairs (and a beauty of a mirror on the staircase to the toilets - which I'm told was there when the guys moved in to start renovating and getting everything burger-ready) it's got a great atmosphere, in a perfect location in the heart of the city center.
Offering all the usual culprits; Fat Hippo, American, Candy Man (my favourite) The Hangover to name a few, alongside Filthy - a new addition to their ever popular menu. I had a little taste of this last night and it's a good 'un. Don't fancy changing up your order too much, try Filthy Fries - think Dirty Fries but with different sauce.
Durham; I'm sure you'll get to know my usual order (Candy Man with sweet potato fries) soon enough... I can't wait to go back. Don't worry Underground, I'll still be visiting when I'm out in Newcastle!
What's your burger of choice? Will you be visiting Fat Hippo Durham?