Darlington’s Stable Hearth pizzeria earns award nomination

Stable Hearth Neapolitan Pizzeria, on Duke Street, has now been shortlisted in the top ten of The Northern Echo’s Best Restaurant and Gastropub competition, where readers vote for their favourite venues across County Durham and Darlington

The nomination follows the pizzeria’s recent national success, with the family-run restaurant, owned by Nicholas and Gemma Thexton, being named “Best Pizzeria” at the Italian Awards for the sixth time running.

Nicholas and Gemma Thexton with staff and their latest award at the Stable Hearth in Darlington. (Image: Stuart Boulton)

Owner Nicholas, 49, said being shortlisted in the top ten for The Northern Echo award means a “great deal”.

He said: “Knowing we’ve been nominated by local people is great to see.

“It means we must be doing something right, and it’s really nice to have that support from the area.”

The restaurant has built a strong reputation since opening in 2018, with a loyal customer base and a focus on authentic Neapolitan pizza made using local, high-quality ingredients.

Mr Thexton said: “We stick to true Neapolitan pizza and doing things properly.

“It’s about using good produce, good quality ingredients, and always trying to improve. That’s what we focus on every day.”

Despite its continued success, Mr Thexton said it can be difficult for North East businesses to gain national recognition.

Nicholas and Gemma Thexton with staff and their latest award at the Stable Hearth in Darlington. (Image: Stuart Boulton)

He said: “We’re a well-established restaurant in the region, but nationally you can sometimes get overlooked if you’re not in places like London or Manchester.

“So it’s great to be involved in something like this, and it’s good for Darlington to have places like this getting recognition.

“Good luck to all the finalists involved. Whether you win or not, it’s something to be proud of, and it’s great for the towns involved.”

To vote for Stable Hearth, you simply need to cut out a coupon printed in The Northern Echo this week and next.

You have until Wednesday, April 22, to vote for your favourite and return it to: The Northern Echo Best Restaurant and Gastropub 2026, Local iQ House, 1 Dalston Road, Carlisle, CA2 5NP, before April 22.

Votes will be counted shortly after voting closes.