From authentic Italian cuisine and Asian-inspired street food to fine dining and gastro-delights, foodies in Norwich are often spoilt for choice.
We asked our readers on social media what their favourite restaurants are - here are just some of their answers.
1. Benoli
Benoli is tucked away at the bottom of Timber Hill on Orford Street in the city centre.
Since opening in July 2019, the restaurant become a favourite for Italian lovers in Norwich.
Chef and owner Oliver Boon and his kitchen team have worked in some of the country’s top restaurants and have been heavily influenced by Italian food while travelling.
Its menu caters for meat and fish eaters, as well as vegetarians and vegans, and it is well known for its fresh handmade pasta.
2. Farmyard
The Farmyard bistro is located on St Benedicts Street and features in the Michelin Guide 2021.
As its name suggests, the business focuses on providing quality, local produce – straight from the farmers and growers.
At the heart of the restaurant is an open kitchen with a charcoal oven, which adds plenty of flavour to the various meats and fish.
It is owned by chef Andrew Jones and his wife Hannah Springham who also own The Dial House.
3. The Wine Cellar
The Wine Cellar is one of Norwich’s “hidden gems”, according to our readers, and located on Guildhall Hill.
The restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a large selection of wines, along with a classic, evening food and dessert menu.
On its website the restaurant describes itself as a “piece of gourmet heaven born from an ethos of gorgeous wine, great food, and generous service”.
One Norwich Evening News reader wrote: “The Wine Cellar never disappoints on food, service and atmosphere. Perfect for either an intimate meal or fun times in a group. Great menus and plenty of wine to choose from.”
4. Bishop's
Bishop’s Dining Room and Wine Bar is a small and intimate restaurant situated on St Andrew’s Hill - one of the oldest lanes in Norwich.
Bishop's is another of the city centre’s selection of fine dining restaurants.
It offers a taste of “real Norfolk food” with locally sourced food and seasonal menus.
Food critic Jay Rayner said in The Observer: “The simplest things done well and with proper attention to detail. All of which describes Bishop’s.”
5. Blue Joanna
Blue Joanna is in the heart of Norwich’s Golden Triangle.
The bar and restaurant opened on Unthank Road in 2015 and offers an Asian inspired menu, cocktails, vinyl records and live music.
Described as a “delight for foodies”, its menu also includes options for vegetarians and the gluten-free.
It has become a hugely popular choice for those looking for a laid-back atmosphere and tapas-style food.
6. Roger Hickman's Restaurant
Top Norfolk chef Roger Hickman is the namesake of the Roger Hickman restaurant located on Upper St Giles Street.
This restaurant is another which features in the Michelin Guide; offering a “chic” setting and creative dishes using high-quality produce.
Hickman earned his culinary stripes at this address when it was home to Adlard’s.
On the Michelin Guide website, it writes: “Personally run restaurant in a historic part of the city, with soft hues, modern art and romantic corners. Service is attentive yet unobtrusive. Cooking is modern, intricate and displays respect for ingredients’ natural flavours.”
7. Trattoria Rustica
Trattoria Rustica opened in 1995 in a 16th century building on Princes Street, nestled between medieval Elm Hill and the Cathedral.
Foodies can enjoy an authentic dining experience at this cavernous restaurant with vaulted ceilings and red checkered tablecloths.
It has been owned and run by the same family for more than 25 years.
The restaurant offers an extensive menu of inspired Italian specialties - freshly cooked and served in a traditional family style.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here