Norfolk Food and drink
Unique Pub-Grub, Fish and Chips, Fine-Dining: The Best Food and Drink in Norfolk
With so many coastal towns, rural villages and the fine city of Norwich all within its region, Norfolk is a breeding ground for great food and drink. With over 10 restaurants featured in the current Michelin guide, Norfolk has a reputation for its fine-dining, usually in some pretty stunning locations too. If getting suited and booted for an evening of eating isn’t your thing, then you may be more interested in Norfolk’s vast range of chippies, family-run restaurants and traditional pubs. Whatever you’re looking for, we hope this guide offers you a little insight into the amazing goodies on offer whilst on your Norfolk holiday.
Fine Dining
The Wiveton Bell, Wiveton
Wiveton is a tiny hamlet on the banks of the River Glaven and mid-way between the popular coastal spots of Blakeney and Cley. The Wiveton Bell is a multi-award winning restaurant that has helped put this picturesque parish village on the culinary map. With one side of the Wiveton Bell a cosy bar with open fire and comfy chairs and the other a dining room with large conservatory doors that open out onto the garden, this place is a truly lovely place to dine. The Bell has a range of menus, including a three course set menu, lunch and evening menus and a young person’s menu. Each is full of fresh, seasonal produce sourced from Norfolk itself, so you can get a taste of the region’s best vegetables, meat and seafood.
The Gunton Arms, Thorpe Market
This posh pub is a recommendation from one of our local team members, Matt, who says: ‘Halfway between North Walsham and Cromer lies a country pub with a difference, just a short walk from nearby Foxes Barn. The Gunton Arms is the brainchild of art dealer Ivor Braka and his artist wife Sarah Graham. From the outside, this is the picture of rural tranquillity – the cosy pub sits next to a 1,000-acre deer park. But once you get inside, you’re greeted by a top restaurant adorned with artworks from some of Britain’s top artists. Tuck into venison from the local park, surrounded by artworks from Tracey Emin, Damien Hirst and Paula Rego. The meat is roasted over an open fire and served in hearty portions, and the staff are always so friendly and keen to make your evening special’. Sounds amazing!
The Neptune, Hunstanton
Having recently been awarded the highest culinary accolade of a Michelin Star, The Neptune Inn near the beach in Old Hunstanton is one for those looking to splurge a little and make a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience part of their Norfolk holiday. Chef Kevin Mangeolles and his wife and co-owner Jacki opened the restaurant in 2007 and have been delivering fresh, modern British cuisine with a twist. The Neptune is only open for a couple of hours every evening, so be sure to book well in advance to guarantee your fine dining experience in this gorgeous setting.
Fresh From The Sea
Grosvenor Fish Bar, Norwich
Okay, so this one might be cheating as Norwich isn’t exactly coastal, but when talking about the best fish and chips in Norfolk, we can’t exclude Grosvenor Fish Bar. Located on Lower Goat Lane in the Norwich Lanes, the queue for Grosvenor is often around the corner and once you’ve tasted their food, it is easy to see why. From traditional cod or haddock and chips, to an array of witty specials, the choice and quality of Grosvenor is unmatched anywhere else in Norfolk. For those looking for something a little experimental, we recommend the High Sea seafood platter or their battered ‘Red Herring’. An ideal way to end a day trip to Norwich, Grosvenor Fish Bar is bound to impress.
French’s Fish Shop, Wells-next-the-Sea
Located on Wells’ iconic quay, French’s is a favourite of all those who visit. French’s has been a family business since it opened 100 years ago in 1921 and has been serving the freshest fish and the tastiest chips to locals and tourists ever since. French’s menu includes all your traditional favourites, including scampi and fish cakes alongside haddock, cod and plaice, but they have also kept up with modernity by including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. By catering to all tastes, picking up a meal from French’s has never been easier.
Bure River Cottage Restaurant, Horning
Serving up a vast seafood menu full of local treats, including the renowned Cromer crab, the Bure River Cottage Restaurant is the place to go if you’re a seafood enthusiast. Set in a relaxed, stylish dining room with space for just 30 guests, this bistro is the ideal location for a romantic dinner. Located near Hoveton and Wroxham, the Bure River Cottage Restaurant is ideal for our guests staying on the Broads.
Fancy a Drink?
The Fur and Feather Inn, Woodbastwick
Home to Norfolk’s own Woodforde’s Brewery, The Fur and Feather Inn near the Broads combines beer, food and brewing history in one. Established in 1981, Woodforde's Brewery has become synonymous with Norfolk, having created such iconic ales as Woodeford’s Wherry and being an official sponsor of Norwich City FC. Awarded various accolades from CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), Woodforde’s is recognised as one of the country’s best ales and for those enthusiastic about such things, a visit to the Fur and Feather is the perfect experience. Book onto a tour of the onsite brewery, or enjoy a fresh pint with a tasty meal in the restaurant, either way is bound to be great fun.
Humpty Dumpty Brewery, Reedham
Humpty Dumpty are a microbrewery based in South Norfolk that have been making their signature beers since 1998. Our cottages in Limpenhoe are closest to the brewery, but it isn’t too far from many of our Norfolk homes down the A47. The brewery offers tours, which the owners say usually come with a fish supper, but you do have to book ahead. However, if you just fancy picking up a few for your holiday, they have a great little on site shop. If you decide you’re a big fan of Humpty Dumpty, they also sell a range of merchandise, including hoodies and fleeces.
