The award-winning Thai street food chain is set to open its seventh branch this September, having agreed a 15-year lease at the Riverwalk, a mixed-use development at the heart of Durham city centre.

Overlooking the River Wear and with impressive views of Durham’s historic cathedral and castle, the Riverwalk is home to both retail and leisure occupiers, along with 253 units of student accommodation. Clearbell purchased the 250,000 sq ft centre in 2014.

Zaap Thai will occupy a 3,500 sq ft unit, and will join a number of well-known restaurants, including Cosy Club, El Pincho tapas bar, TGI Fridays and Turtle Bay.

The restaurant group currently has branches across locations in Leeds, Sheffield, Nottingham, Newcastle and York, and has plans to open two additional major locations in the next 12 months. Zaap’s menu boasts over 100 authentic dishes, offering eat-in and take-away options, and with colourful décor to transport its guests to the lively streets of Bangkok.

The newest Zaap branch will feature the group’s trademark open kitchen, tuk tuk seating booths, neon lighting and unique graffiti.

Zaap Thai will be a fantastic addition to the variety of great food, drink and leisure operators that already call the Riverwalk their home, with Zaap’s accessible but high-quality offering providing the perfect blend for the Riverwalk’s customers. Providing new and exciting retail and leisure options for our customers is part of our active management programme to ensure that we’re always evolving to their needs, but also supporting the long-term success of The Riverwalk. We’re looking forward to the venue opening in September and bringing an authentic Thai experience to Durham’s residents and visitors.”

Toby Saul, Associate Director at Clearbell Capital

It was a great experience working with associates at Clearbell, Francis & Co and Pudney Shuttleworth to secure this new location for Zaap at the Riverwalk. With its rich history and diverse population, Durham is an ideal fit for our newest location. The restaurant is now set to undergo significant renovations to prepare for the September opening. It’s likely that the extensive menu will mean a completely new and exciting dining experience for our guests.”

Christopher Hammond, Operations Director at Zaap Thai

Zaap Thai is part of the Sukho Group, founded by chef and restauranteur Yupha ‘Ban’ Kaewkraikhot in 2002. The group currently operates nine restaurants, including the Zaap Thai chain and fine-dining brand Sukhothai.