Woolf & Social restaurant in Norwich closing in December

Woolf & Social in Nelson Street, off Dereham Road, is shutting at the end of 2023 with bookings being taken up until Christmas Eve.

It was opened by friends Francis Woolf and Felix Rehberg in 2015 and it has received widespread acclaim, including being named the best local restaurant in the East by the Good Food Guide. 

Woolf & Social restaurant in Nelson Street Norwich Picture: Instagram/Woolf & Social (Image: Instagram/Woolf & Social)

A statement released by the pair said: "This is a decision we have taken thankfully not through necessity but through choice.

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"We are still profitable, despite the numerous challenges our industry has faced and continues to fight. 

L-R Felix Rehberg, with his daughter Aubree as a baby, and Francis Woolf at their restaurant Woolf & Social in 2016 Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Archant)

It continued: "As costs increase, we are finding it harder to keep our prices within reach of everyone, which is the whole concept of the restaurant.

"The main reason for this decision, however, is more personal. Francis has been working as a chef for a very long time, sacrificing evenings and weekends, putting in long hours and nurturing the restaurant with every spare moment.

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"He is now at a stage where he wants to spend more time with his family and focus on other projects - without the Woolf there is no Woolf & Social."

Woolf & Social has received local and national acclaim for its food Picture: Instagram/Woolf & Social (Image: Woolf & Social)

In the lengthy statement, the pair thanked their staff past and present and local suppliers.

They also acknowledged the amazing support from customers, many of whom have been regulars since the start - some even dining there every week or month. 

Speaking about the future, the statement continued: "Francis is not hanging up the apron for good, expect more from him and Woolf & Social in other forms.

"This is not the end for 21-23 Nelson Street either, something new will be gracing the scene, although we are yet to decide exactly what that will be."