THERE is a lot to look forward to over the next few weeks as six new venues in Durham City are set to open their doors very soon.

From a brand new steak and seafood restaurant to a cafe-style restaurant opening in the former Esquires Coffee unit, new names are set to open from next month.

It comes as the region moved towards normality last week as food and drink venues were given the go ahead to reopen outdoors.

It is hoped that by the time the new venues are ready to open, the next step of the Government's roadmap out of restrictions will be completed.

This will include indoor hospitality being allowed to make a return, meaning pubs, restaurants and cafes can welcome customer back with inside table service.

Although no firm dates have been set in stone, likely to be because of restrictions and progress on building work, many have indicated they'll open as soon as they are able to. 

So in the meantime, we've put together this list of the businesses opening soon which you can look forward to - take a look below.

1. The Butcher's Deli

The Northern Echo:

Set to open later in May, The Butcher's Deli on Saddler Street promise customers 'quality meats' mixed with a 'life long' passion for cooking in its very clever social media slogan.

Opposite Gregg's, it is a familiar spot and has already attracted scores of people trying to catch a glimpse of ongoing work. 

2. Cafe Ravika

The Northern Echo:

Opening in the former Esquires Coffee on Silver Street, Cafe Ravika is set to serve coffee, breakfast, lunch, brunch, dinner - and even a options with an 'Asian twist.'

There has been no indication of when it will open, but contractors could be seen on Friday working on the two-storey site. 

3. The Burger Priest

The Northern Echo:

In the new Riverwalk development, The Burger Priest will soon open its second Durham restaurant - with the other site located at the Arnison Centre. 

4. Rib 'N' Reef 

The Northern Echo:

Taking over the former Pysche shop, the owners of Akarsu Turkish Restaurant and Grill are opening up a new steak and seafood destination.

The new restaurant, which is on Silver Street near Framwellgate Bridge, is set to debut in May.

5. Turtle Bay 

The Northern Echo:

Describing itself as the "best Carribean restaurant" in Britain, Turtle Bay is set to open on the second floor of the Riverwalk development later this year.

The Riverwalk is already home to the likes of Cosy Club, The Food Pit, InShanghai and Thai River. 

6. The Curious Mr Fox 

The Northern Echo:

This has been under construction for the past several months, but last week the venue acquired new signs as work looked to be nearing completion.

It is expected to open as a cocktail bar and kitchen and is located on the edge of the Riverwalk development, near Framwellgate Bridge.