Norwich: Cook Mama Japanese restaurant opens in NR3

Cook Mama has opened in Fye Bridge Street, close to the bustling Magdalen Street, which has become a destination for foodies in recent years.

The restaurant is the mastermind of Arnold Mbulawa, an experienced chef who has worked at restaurants across the city for more than 10 years.

Arnold Mbulawa, owner of Cook Mama, has more than a decade's experience working in restaurants in Norwich (Image: Cook Mama)

He said: "It is great to open in an area with so many other fantastic businesses nearby.

"It was exciting to serve our first customers and it makes me feel proud to see them enjoying their food."

Cook Mama is located at the former site of the Tuscan eatery The Bridge, which was known for its traditional dishes from the Italian region. 

One of the dishes served at Cook Mama (Image: Cook Mama)

The new restaurant travels east for inspiration, serving dishes like curries, teppanyaki noodles and steaming bowls of ramen which are all freshly prepared in-house.

Mr Mbulalwa said: "We bought the site in spring last year and we spent a lot of time renovating it completely to the high standard we wanted.

"We put a lot of effort into it and hope it is a welcoming space for our guests."

A curry dish served at Cook Mama (Image: Cook Mama)

Mr Mbulawa has worked at a number of restaurants across the city including Rooftop Gardens and Wagamama and has more than a decade's experience in hospitality.

"I have been cooking since I was a young age," he said.

"My family ran two or three restaurants so I grew a love and passion for it.

The restaurant underwent a significant renovation (Image: Cook Mama)

"It is a great feeling to watch people enjoy my food and to see happy customers."

Cook Mama is open from 11am to 10pm Monday to Thursday and 11am to 10.30pm on Friday and Saturday.