Where to Eat in Norwich in Autumn

Where to Eat in Norwich in Autumn

by Katie Thompson

One of our favourite things about autumn? Cosying up with friends, family or your own precious company in the inviting warmth of a pub or restaurant after a day of exploring our picturesque city. Skin flushed, air crisp, wrapped up as golden leaves crunch underfoot. 

Or how about a tempting tour, both intriguing and delicious? And then there’s the promise of fresh Norfolk produce, elevated into mouthwatering innovations, or the buzz of trying something different, a twist on the traditional- a comforting roast in a working taproom, for example. 

So, when you’re in Norwich this autumn, local or visitor, here for the day or for the weekend, these are the best seasonal spots for food and drink. Take a look at our picks below! 

Image: Brix & Bones

Roasts | Afternoon Teas | Fine Dining | Norfolk Produce | Historic Pubs

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Warming Dishes 

Whether after a stroll along the River Wensum in the glow of golden hour or admiring endless skyline views from the battlements of Norwich Castle, there’s nothing more alluring than a warming meal in one of our fine city’s welcoming eateries. 

At Grosvenor Fish Bar, savour the crunch of crisply fried batter and fluffy chips. As one of the most popular fish and chips shops in Norwich, Grosvenor is not only a go-to for classic cod, but also an array of fish-themed alternatives, from Bass with Sass (mango salsa included) to crispy squid with aioli and Krusty Krab. Take a seat in their cool, wood-panelled restaurant, complete with quirky, chip shop-themed art, or sit outside surrounded by the buzz of the Norwich Lanes, perfect for people watching. 

Another must-visit for street food is, of course, 900-year-old Norwich Market. These multi-coloured stalls are a warren of tempting aromas, sizzling sounds and mouthwatering meals that will make your eyes widen in anticipation. Our top picks include albondigas smothered in tomato sauce at Churros for the People, steaming slow cooked chillis from Papa Mombassa and tangy katsu at Taste of Shanghai. All washed down with a pint of cherry beer from Sir Toby’s as the sun sets. 

The Waffle House is also a Norwich institution. Known for its intriguing menu of sweet and savoury waffles (including vegan and gluten free), this eatery has been a mainstay for over 48 years. There are classics like bolognese and Norfolk mushrooms with creamy cheese sauce, as well as zingy bang bang chicken or specials like pan-friend salmon. Not to mention the ultimate indulgence- chocolate mousse and honeycomb. 

Or when you can’t make your mind up, Yalm is always a good idea. This bustling food hall, with views of our beautiful Art Nouveau Royal Arcade, has eight kitchens to choose from, each one offering a delicious menu of perfected plates. Treat yourself to a burrito from Baha, slurp on ramen from NXXDS or share a selection from Eric’s, On the Bone, Mosaic and Thai by Dee!

Meanwhile, Amelia’s infuses dishes with their Mediterranean and Moroccan heritage. Think Milanese pomodoro pasta, herby couscous and mezzes boasting the likes of zaalouk (grilled tomato and aubergine dip), hearty lentils, fragrant prawns and stuffed sardines. And that’s not forgetting Amelia’s popular slow-cooked lamb tagine. Served with prunes & almond flakes, you’ll be transported to the colourful streets of Morocco.  

And you can’t go wrong with pub grub, either. At the Red Lion Bishopgate, watch the rippling Wensum flow by, weeping willows fluttering in the cool breeze, as you cosy up with a hearty dish of sausage and mash, schnitzel or crab linguine. Feel your mouth water at the sight of sticky toffee pudding drenched in sauce or the bitter caramelisation of a Basque-style cheesecake. All surrounded by our characterful Cathedral Quarter. 

Exciting Experiences 

Here in Norwich, we like to do things a little differently- and that goes for food and drink, too!  

One of our favourite things to do is explore art museum, the Sainsbury Centre. With forward-thinking exhibitions, plus historical and modern pieces spanning sculpture, fine art, installations and more, we love to amble around this Norman Foster-designed space on a late autumnal morning. Especially when it’s paired with lunch in their Modern Life Cafe. Whilst floor-to-ceiling windows let in shimmering sunlight, enjoy a steaming bowl of homemade soup or an enticing roast dinner as you admire the fluid forms of Henry Moore in the Sculpture Park outside. 

Speaking of roasts, take note of Redwell. Two words. Giant yorkies. Plus, the fact that you’ll be tucking in in the brewery’s working taproom, festooned in fairy lights, on long, communal tables that immediately invite you into the throes of our city’s community. This is a unique and immersive experience accompanied by truly tasty food- and it would be wrong not to pair your roast with one of Redwell’s own brews, right? 

Make an evening of it at Bowling House– ideal for feasting with friends before a friendly competition of retro bowling (their shorter alleys make it a more even playing field- and nail-bitting one), electro darts and hitting the high notes at karaoke! Bundle onto one of this electric venue’s cosy booths and take your pick of sharing plates like slow cooked BBQ ribs, gooey macaroni cheese and finger-licking nachos to fuel the hours in the company of loved ones. 

And if you’re searching for an unforgettable afternoon tea, we’ve got that covered too. At The Assembly House, you’ll be awed by three tiers of tempting treats. Their themed teas are legendary in these parts, whether it’s the spiced and syrupy flavours of Autumn Whimsy or the rich chocolate delights of Halloween’s offering. And that’s without mention fluffy finger sandwiches, buttery pastries and, of course, crumbly fruit and cheese scones.  

Or for an Italian twist, try Saporita, whose golden tiers are punctuated by street food-inspired delicacies like gnocco fritto, arancini and cannoli. 

Tasty Tours 

Another exciting way of uncovering the flavours of Norwich is with a tour!  

With a wealth of knowledge as a Beer and Cheese Sommelier and an International Food & Drink Judge, you’re in safe hands with Cheryl Cade (tours from £28pp). Together, you’ll traverse Norwich’s best food and drink spots- whether you’re in the mood for beer, cheese, gin or sausage rolls! Her tours are packed with tempting bites to eat, sips of our city’s spirits and morsels of gripping history. We love Cheryl’s Winter Spirits tour, full of seasonal nibbles and spirits to warm you up (November – February, £45pp). 

Or if pubs and pints are more your thing, check out Norwich Pub Tours (£20pp, excluding drinks). Taking place once a month, you’ll get to know the stories behind the city’s fascinating pubs– from the Adam and Eve, our oldest, to The Gardeners Arms, more commonly known as The Murderers! Along the way, you’ll be regaled with even more history and fun facts. Plus, this wouldn’t be a pub tour without a pint or two, perhaps even by a roaring fire!

Savour Norfolk Produce 

Norfolk is a county known for its local produce– from freshly caught seafood to handpicked strawberries to malting barley. 

At Benedicts, you can savour elevated local ingredients with seasonal menus. Influenced by flavours plentiful in autumn, this Michelin Guide-standard restaurant offers tasting and a la carte menus where every aspect is considered. Think Norfolk venison carpaccio, accompanied by pickled pear, black garlic and puffed rice, followed by savarin with Norfolk plums.  

Similarly, The Last showcases Norfolk produce, blending modern British cuisine with French flair. Found in a former shoe factory in Norwich’s Creative Quarter, you can expect BBQ oyster mushroom shawarma, sourced by Norfolk Spore, and Norfolk Black chicken supreme served with an indulgent truffle and leek risotto. 

Meanwhile, Brix & Bones champion the skill of open-fire cooking, smoking, salting and charring delicious Norfolk-reared meats and locally foraged herbs. Embrace the heat of this intimate dining experience- you can even bag yourself a seat at the Chef’s Counter to see Head Chef George Wood at work, accompanied by a curated wine list from friendly sommelier Brian Sullivan- there’s no judgement here! 

Also spotlighting our county’s moreish produce, WinePress at the Maids Head Hotel blends tradition and heritage with fresh flavours and mouthwatering dishes, inspired by Norwich-born Head Chef Alastair Grand’s love of local ingredients. Plus, their bar is fully stocked with a wonderful selection of Norfolk and Norwich spirits, beers and wines.  

And at Jarrolds’ Wine Bars, take a seat as you graze delectable platters of Norfolk cheeses and charcuterie whilst sampling local wine from Chet Valley and Winbirri vineyards. Cleaned your plate? Peruse the food hall’s brimming shelves, where you can take a piece of Norfolk home to indulge in later- from preserves and condiments to chocolates, coffee and gin!