Couple to open new café, Soupear, in Opie Street, Norwich

The new venture, Soupear, will open at the former Green Eatery restaurant in Opie Street next week.

It is the brainchild of couple Tin Cheung and Yan Lam, who both have several years of experience in the food industry working and teaching in Hong Kong.

It took the couple two months to get the café in Opie Street ready (Image: Newsquest)

Mr Cheung said: "It has always been our fantasy to start our own restaurant.

"We moved here from Hong Kong half a year ago where it is impossible for a young couple to start their own business as the rents are so high.

"We travelled around the UK to places like Bristol, Liverpool and Manchester but after visiting Norwich we fell in love with the place and really liked the vibe here. 

"It feels different to other cities and people here are very friendly and welcoming."

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The new café will serve soups, sandwiches and more (Image: Newsquest)

While living in Hong Kong, Mr Cheung, 30, worked at high-end restaurants while Yan, 29, shared her expertise in baking pastries, cakes and breads through cooking classes.

The pair plan to keep the menu simple at the café, offering freshly made soups, open sandwiches and also intend to serve breakfast dishes.

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Mr Cheung added: "We aim to have a seasonal menu that puts a spotlight on the great local produce in Norfolk and we hope to team up with bakeries, coffee producers and other suppliers in the area.

"It is really exciting to be launching our own place. There have been some challenges but it has been fun to overcome them."

After two months of decorating and renovating the space, the pair hope to welcome customers to Soupear on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Diners can choose to eat in or takeaway and the café plans to open between 8am and 5pm.