Final sneak peek inside Taipan Darlington Crown Street

Taipan Asia will open its doors to a select few customers on Thursday (August 1) from 12pm, as it stages a 'soft launch' style opening at its Crown Street venue. 

Based in the former JJ's bar building and next to the William Stead Wetherspoons pub, the unassuming restaurant gives off a sleek and polished look.

Once open, Taipan will have a champagne bar and two cocktail bars - with owners Lee Corner and Apple Turton set to continue to wow customers with their food after impressing with their Thai Terminal One restaurant near Teesside Airport. 

Taipan Asia in Darlington (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

Despite handing over the reins of Thai Terminal One to another owner recently - the pair are keen to continue their legacy as one of the most inventive and creative restaurants in the town. 

On the eve of the opening, The Northern Echo popped along for a look inside the venue.

From the get-go, it's evident that the high-quality look of the restaurant shines through and stretches throughout, including the tables, feel and décor. 

Taipan Asia in Darlington (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

And this is something that Mr Corner wants in his restaurant - high class without the high-class price. 

He said: "We love going out for food but sometimes the price is too high - we're giving people an experience but for a reasonable price."

While the restaurant has a plush feel to it, the new owners Lee and Apple are keen to serve up food that matches. 

Taipan Asia in Darlington (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

Since announcing it would open at the start of August, the owners have taken the pressure off by going for a soft launch, as opposed to booking out each table for several of the opening nights. 

Mr Corner says this was done on purpose - lending itself to him and Apple wanting to take their time in creating a "perfect experience" for customers. 

It's a long hark away from where Apple started; serving Thai food at Long Newton Village Hall near Stockton. 

She said: "Never in a million years did I think this would happen. 

"Me and Lee couldn't do it without one another. If you serve great food, it doesn't matter where you're based, it will always work if you make food from the heart."

You can find out more information and see the menus for Taipan here.