A popular Darlington restaurant has got new owners after the future of the venue was announced.
Over the last two years, Thai Terminal One, located at Aviation Way, next to Teesside Airport, has built its brand to become one of the best restaurants in Darlington on TripAdvisor.
After wowing customers with its impressive dishes and customer service to match, the restaurant has been lauded as one of the culinary jewels in Darlington's foodie crown.
But after the owner of the venue, Lee Corner, and his partner Apple Turton, revealed that they would be taking over their new project named 'Taipan', on Crown Street in Darlington town centre, from the start of August - new owners have been sought for Thai Terminal One.
Despite wanting to balance both projects at once, Mr Corner says that he and his partner wanted to give the Taipan venue "all they had" and have stepped away from Thai Terminal One - making Saturday (July 20) their final evening in charge.
Speaking to The Northern Echo, Mr Corner said: "We were overwhelmed with the amount of people that wanted to come to our final evening of service at Thai Terminal One - we have such a lovely relationship with our customers, and to see everyone there, it was emotional.
"Our customers are always at the forefront of everything we do - we have poured everything we have into Thai Terminal One, and given our all, so to be stepping away from it, it's sad."
Despite expressing sadness about stepping away from Thai Terminal One, Mr Corner has highlighted his excitement at building Taipan, which is housed in the former JJ's building in Darlington.
At Taipan, Lee and Apple will be starting a soft launch at the start of August - and hope to ease themselves into the venue gently.
He said: "We can't wait to start Taipan - and welcome new faces and familiar faces to us.
"We wish the new owners of Thai Terminal One all of the success - and hope they can continue our story."
While Thai Terminal One has found someone to run it, an opening date for it to relaunch hasn't been set by the owners - the Walker family.
Putting a statement on social media earlier this month, the Walker family said: "We are excited to announce that Thai Terminal One is now under new ownership.
"The Walker family is honoured to continue the legacy of this beloved restaurant, dedicated to providing the authentic flavours and warm hospitality you've come to love.
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"We are delighted to introduce you to our head chef, Bowie Walker originally from Isan, Thailand. Bowie brings with her a wealth of culinary expertise and a deep passion for authentic Thai cuisine.
"With recipes handed down through her family, Chef Bowie infuses each dish with traditional flavours and innovative twists, using only the freshest ingredients.
"Her dedication to excellence and love for cooking ensure every meal at Thai Terminal 1 is a true taste of Thailand.
"We look forward to welcoming you and sharing our passion for Thai cuisine with you. Opening dates will be released soon keep your eye out."
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