Netflix star Charlie Hunnam visits Durham Malaysian restaurant

The Newcastle-born star’s appearance earlier this year put Chilli Padi in the spotlight, shining a light on a restaurant that has quietly built a reputation for authentic Malaysian cuisine, warm hospitality and dishes bursting with spice, colour and flavour.

Tucked away within the striking surroundings of Aykley Heads House, Chilli Padi has added a splash of Malaysian colour and spice to Durham’s dining scene.

The restaurant continues to attract attention from food lovers seeking authentic South East Asian flavours beyond the usual takeaway favourites.

Originally building a strong reputation in Newcastle, Chilli Padi expanded into Durham with a simple promise: authentic Malaysian cooking, traditional recipes and fresh ingredients inspired by the country’s famously diverse food cultures.

The menu is a tour through some of Malaysia’s best-loved dishes, blending Chinese, Malay and Indian influences.

A picture of some of the food on offer at Chilli Padi in Durham. (Image: TripAdvisor)

A menu full of Malaysian flair

Popular dishes include:

–          Beef Rendang – a slow-cooked Malaysian classic that diners repeatedly praise for its rich flavour and tender meat.

–          Singapore Vermicelli Noodles – Warmly spiced noodles packed with prawns.

–          Kueh Teow Goreng – stir-fried flat noodles in a richly flavoured sauce.

–          Roti Canai – served with curry sauce, a popular Malaysian Street food staple.

–          Salt and Chilli Prawns – one of the standout dishes highlighted by reviewers.

–          Spicy King Prawn You Tiao -featuring prawn-stuffed Chinese dough fritters with Chilli Padi mayonnaise.

–          KangKung Bulacan– a traditional morning glory vegetable dish stir-fried with spicy shrimp paste.

What reviewers say

Customer feedback paints a picture of a restaurant that has quickly won over local fans.

TripAdvisor reviewers have given Chilli Padi Durham an average rating of 4.7 out of 5, with one customer describing the restaurant as a “hidden gem”.

Another reviewer took to the site to compliment the friendly service and flavour-packed noodle dishes, saying the venue brought “Malaysia to Durham along with plenty of huge prawns.”

Another visitor, who was already familiar with the restaurant after visiting the Newcastle branch, said the Durham restaurant more than lived up to expectations, describing the beef rendang as “tender and full of flavour.”

Housed in the historic Aykley Heads House, Chilli Padi offers a setting that combines character with contemporary dining.

Reviewers have noted the building’s quirky artwork and welcoming atmosphere, while customers regularly highlight the friendliness of staff.

The restaurant is open Tuesday to Sunday and offers dine-in, takeaway and delivery options.