We compared Norwich mince pies with Co-op's award winner

The Co-op was crowned as offering the best of the big brands nationally by Which so we lined up some of the best that Norwich has to offer for a taste test.

Henry Durand delivered his verdict.

Co-op - £1.50 for two

This pie certainly lived up to its billing as a festive powerhouse.

Sensationally constructed, filled to the brim with mincemeat and complimented by a rich sauce, the Co-op was a worthy winner of this year’s Which rankings. 

Henry Durand with the Co-op mince pie voted the UK's best of 2023 by Which (Image: Newsquest)

Pottergate Pantry - £1

Aesthetically, Pottergate Pantry’s mince pie was wonderful, featuring a perfectly crafted pastry star so often synonymous with this famous treat.

This commitment to pastry was evident and perhaps left me wanting a bit more mincemeat. Nevertheless, particularly in terms of price point, this was a great effort.

Pottergate Pantry owner Carl Forder (Image: Denise Bradley/Newsquest)

Two Magpies, Timberhill - £2 

Two Magpies’ effort showcased all the hallmarks of a traditional mince pie.

Its fullness and savoury edge ensure it’s ideal for those seeking a mince pie with a classic feel.

Two Magpies in Timberhill (Image: Newsquest)

Marmalades, Royal Arcade - £1.75

Whilst on the thinner side, Marmalades’ entry proved delicious, and a true competitor to the Co-op’s award winner.  

They also provide the impressive option to add cream to your mince pie. A perfect option for those of you with an extra sweet tooth.

Marmalades has been a key part of the Royal Arcade for many years (Image: Newsquest)

The mince pie from Marmalades impressed (Image: Newsquest)

Bread Source, Bridewell Alley - £2.20 

Bread Source stepped outside the box, implementing a crumble topping rather than a traditional pasty lid.

This provided an enjoyable consistency when combined with its scrumptious fillings.

Bread Source has bakeries across Norfolk, including at Norwich Cathedral and in Magdalen Street and Bridewell Alley (Image: Rosie-Mills Smith)

Bread Source has a crumble topping on its mince pie (Image: Newsquest)

Brownies & Coffee, Guildhall Hill - £3

This innovative entry combined its namesake and a mince pie, establishing its own festive brownie hybrid.

Whilst certainly more of a brownie than a mince pie, if you’re a lover of both this twist on the festive classic is certainly worth a try.

Brownies and Coffee owner Jonathan Lummis (Image: Brittany Woodman/Archant)

The mince pie brownie offered a different type of festive treat (Image: Newsquest)

The Verdict

While the Co-op’s entry stood strong, every Norwich contender proved unique and delicious, with traditional favourite Marmalades competing strongly with its national rival.