Industry News

Visitors to the Durham Dales Centre can look forward to a new Italian-inspired café, as a well-established family-run restaurant business prepares to open its latest venture at the popular Weardale destination.

The new café is being launched by Admir Meshi, known as Alberto, and Arsen Shehu, known as Sen, experienced restaurateurs with a strong track record in delivering authentic Italian food and a welcoming, family-led approach to hospitality.

With more than 15 years of experience running a successful Italian restaurant – Buon Appetito in Wolsingham, the family-run business is now expanding into the Durham Dales Centre, bringing authentic food, extended opening hours and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and the local community.

The team behind the new café already operate a well-established Italian restaurant, built on traditional recipes, family values and a strong connection with their local community. Having worked in hospitality previously, opening their own restaurant was a natural next step. Since launching, the business has grown steadily, becoming a popular destination for both locals and visitors. “Our restaurant is a family business, and we focus on what we know best, authentic Italian food made with care,” they explain. “Our menu is built around traditional family recipes, bringing authentic flavours and a distinctive offering for customers.”

Over the years, the restaurant has also played an important role in the local community, employing young people and supporting their development.

The opportunity to take on the café at the Durham Dales Centre came at the right time for the business, offering a chance to expand while building on their experience. The new café will offer a flexible, Italian-inspired menu designed to suit visitors throughout the day, and will cater to a wide range of visitors, including walkers, shoppers, families and tourists exploring Weardale.