Fill your boots in one of these cracking spots
Tucked cosily away in the east of England, Norwich is a charming collection of winding little streets, mediaeval buildings and quirky shops. Sure, it might be best known as the home of Coleman’s Mustard and Alan Partridge, but it’s also got a packed menu of cracking restaurants.
From sashimi and nigiri to burritos and tacos, there’s a bounty of variety in this small city. So, for when you’ve worked up a sufficient appetite after that day of sight-seeing, here’s our roundup of Norwich’s best restaurants. Don your napkin and tuck in.
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At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.
Why go? For Bohemian mismatched furniture and excellent beer.
The Bicycle Shop was a bike shop for 82 years before opening as a rickety, three-floored café and bar. Brunch is a feature here, but there are mains and tapas too, like the rosemary and garlic whole-baked camembert. Chefs kiss.
Why go? For sushi to rival the best in the UK.
Loved by Jay Rayner as well as the foodies of Norwich, this understated Japanese joint is just around the corner from the Norwich cathedral. Inside Shiki, sushi is served on charming three-tiered cake stands and it’s succulent stuff. For the best deal, visit on an all-you-can-eat Tuesday. Mid-range.
Why go? Savour this innovative twist on the age-old fish ‘n’ chip classic.
Grosvenor Fish Bar has been serving fish and chips to Norwich folk for more than 90 years, but you wouldn't know it on a visit there. Thanks to a modern renovation by a Miami businessman and a local chef in 2012, the Grosvenor now offers quirky specials in trendy surroundings (including an underground grotto).
Why go? For telly-famous trifle.
Run by ‘Great British Menu’ star Richard Bainbridge, this small, stylish restaurant is English through and through. Dishes at Benedicts have names like Halesworth Lamb, Blythburgh Pork Loin and everything’s executed beautifully. Benedicts Black Forest Gateau is a highlight. Top-notch.
Why go? When you’re after tacos and tequila. Lots of tequila.
Two-for-one taco Tuesdays are a feature at this Mexican street food restaurant. The look at Jive Kitchen is colourful, with cactus-themed decorations and burritos fatter than your arm. Tequila is also a big thing here – order a margarita, it would be rude not to. Budget.
Why go? For proper Neapolitan pizza.
This indie pizzeria is so serious about its thin-crust pizzas. That passion pays off: Brick makes superbly soft, squishy pizza, with every topping either sourced from Italia or a local supplier. Try the H&M: tomato, mozzarella, Norfolk ham and mushrooms. Budget.
Why go? Great for groups – go here when you want a banquet, Cantonese style.
A charmingly named, family-run Chinese teahouse where the speciality is dim sum. There’s lots of seating inside the Baby Buddha and the menu is extensive: expect excellent cheung fun and lovely fat-steamed dumplings. Mid-range.
Why go? When you feel like tinkling the ivories.
The star at this buzzy Asian restaurant is a painted blue piano. There’s live music every night, plus a fat stack of vinyl. The food at Blue Joanna is punchy and adventurous – think street-food-style barbecue ribs with sriracha slaw, and Korean ‘Blue’ tacos. Mid-range.
Why go? If you’re a veggie on a budget looking for a great lunch.
The upstairs dining area at this falafel bar doubles as a free gallery space for local artists. Drink it all in while enjoying signature falafel plus salad bowls and tagines. Super cheap – it’s also BYOB. Budget.
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