Norfolk is a rural county with farming at its heart. Known as the UK’s ‘breadbasket’, the area has some of the most fertile soil in the whole country and that, combined with the gifts that the currents of the North Sea bring, means that the region’s chefs are spoilt for choice when it comes to the very best fresh, local produce.
This abundance of goodness has resulted in an amazing 16 of Norfolk’s restaurants making it into the prestigious Michelin Guide, but also a plethora of top-notch eateries throughout the county. So, to help you discover those star choices, as well as the more hidden gems, we have compiled a list of the best places to eat in Norfolk for your delectation. Bon appetite!
River Green Restaurant, Norwich
This award-winning restaurant really pushes the boundaries and expectations of vegan and vegetarian cooking, serving up surprising and inspiring dishes full of flavour. The River Green, which can be found in the picturesque village of Trowse and within walking distance of beautiful Whitlingham Broad, places the emphasis on great local and organic produce to create wholesome, delicious food.
During the day, River Green has an inviting, relaxed café feel, serving up simple, tasty food and drinks to its patrons. Then, during the evenings and on Sundays, it presents a more refined, fine dining menu developed by award-winning vegetarian chef Jan Wise. This is a restaurant run by vegetarians for vegetarians, ensuring every dish is a showstopper and never an afterthought.
Adam & Eve, Norwich
Dating back at least 750 years, Adam & Eve is the oldest pub in Norfolk. It started its long life in the 13th century as a brewhouse for the workmen building the nearby cathedral. An archaeological dig in the cellar revealed the bones of a medieval monk and it is believed that the well in the lower bar dates to Saxon times, so it is little wonder that the pub is said to be haunted too!
With low ceilings and open fires, this inn is a cosy escape right in the centre of the city. The menu offers classic British dishes with a dash of modern flair, while quiz nights, a comedy club, and traditional Sunday roasts have created a community hub hundreds of years after the pub first opened its doors.
White Horse, Holme-next-the-Sea
After a day exploring the sprawling Norfolk coast, nothing quite hits the spot like some proper pub grub, especially when it’s served in a gorgeous Grade II listed building. Beautiful russet bricks and flower beds provide a warm welcome as you arrive at the beloved pub, with outdoor seating inviting you to enjoy the pretty setting as you dine.
In the cooler months, head inside for cosy interiors and a wonderfully well-stocked bar. The menu is a true celebration of local suppliers, whether you opt for a sublime sandwich at lunch or a toothsome helping of venison and mushroom pie in the evening. Oh yes, the White Horse really is the ultimate place to enjoy a Holme-cooked meal.
Meadowsweet, Holt
As you would expect, this Michelin starred restaurant is something really rather special. The finest local produce, be it wild turbot, lobster or perhaps rabbit or quail, is delivered via skilfully prepared tasting menus, with one for lunch and another for dinner service, each consisting of around ten small plates.
Situated within a lovingly restored, listed Georgian townhouse, Meadowsweet’s intimate dining room fills up quickly, so be prepared to book your table well in advance.
Liquor & Loaded, King's Lynn
This quirky burger joint brings American-style burgers and loaded fries to Norfolk. With a lively, gothic vibe, great service, and huge portions, you’re sure to leave satisfied!
Think mouthwatering spicy chicken wings, mac ‘n’ cheese, waffle stacks, meat trays, BBQ pulled pork and dirty burgers and you will be on the right track. As you might have guessed, Liquor & Loaded also offer a range of cocktails, liquors, and milkshakes to wash all that deliciousness down.
Wells Crab House, Wells-next-the-Sea
Freshly sourced and thoughtfully prepared just as it should be, this is seafood at its very best! The team at Wells Crab House delights in being able to tell you exactly which local fisherman caught what is on your plate - crabs and mussels from Andy Frary, lobsters from Billy Ward, and oysters from the Southerland family from just up the coast at Brancaster.
The traditional seafood platter is outstanding and there are exciting fusion dishes to tickle your taste buds too. With just 12 tables, this is an intimate, friendly dining experience and the welcome is always warm! Located in the pretty harbourside town of Wells-next-the-Sea, you can round your seafood feast off with a salt-kissed stroll along the golden expanse of sand right on your doorstep.
Browne’s on Bond Street, Cromer
This traditional, family-run tearoom and restaurant prides itself on serving hearty, delicious food made with the very best that local producers have to offer. Homemade pies and quiches are always a favourite with diners at Browne’s on Bond Street, but it’s their delectable cream teas and substantial Ploughman’s with its huge chunks of local cheese that have become a menu highlight!
If you are looking for great homecooked meals, served in a friendly atmosphere with generous portions, then look no further!
Morston Hall, Morston
Found deep in rural North Norfolk, not far from the coast, this 17th-century house was converted into a restaurant by husband-and-wife team Galton and Tracy Blackiston in 1992. The couple have held their coveted Michelin star for an astonishing 25 years now, as well as four AA rosettes, so understandably a seat at one of their tables is a real treat.
Morston Hall sources some of its ingredients from its very own kitchen garden and the rest comes from local fishermen and producers. The result? Outstanding dishes celebrating the finest produce the county has to offer.
No Twenty9, King's Lynn
At this modern bar and restaurant, practically everything is cooked outside on giant wood-fuelled Green Egg Ovens or on their Asado Grill, producing seasonal dishes with fiery, rustic flavours.
As well as the regular comfortable seating, No Twenty9 also offers an exclusive experience at its Chef’s Bench, where guests can get a bird’s eye view of the chefs at work as they rustle up a culinary storm during a busy service, creating a friendly, interactive vibe. While enjoying all the frenetic action, you will be served from the à la carte taster menu, which includes a range of seafood, game, and vegetarian dishes. Then, why not wash it all down with the ‘Rum Flight’ or chose from their range of 101 rums!
The Wildebeest, Stoke Holy Cross
Tucked away in the pretty South Norfolk village of Stoke Holy Cross, The Wildebeest is the pride and joy of Chef Patron Daniel Smith and Head Chef Fabio Miani, and its growing reputation has gained it an honourable mention in the Michelin Guide.
Guests can choose from their menu du jour, à la carte or taster menu. Wherever possible, their dishes champion locally grown ingredients and suppliers, and you can accompany whatever deliciousness you choose with their own session pale ale.
The Neptune, Old Hunstanton
This multi-award-winning restaurant in Old Hunstanton occupies an old 18th-century coaching inn just metres from the sandy beaches of the Norfolk coast, so it makes perfect sense that one of chef Kevin Mangeolles’ signature dishes should be locally landed lobster.
The Neptune has held its Michelin star since 2009 and, as the name suggests, seafood features heavily on the menu, as does Norfolk pork, fruit from local orchards, and game from nearby estates. This is a fine dining experience but in a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere, making it perfect for cosy celebrations, so take your time and savour every mouthful.
Namaste Village, Norwich
This local’s favourite is housed inside a converted 19th-century Methodist chapel and the owners have utilised the grand interior with its balconies and high ceilings to excellent effect. But Namaste Village is not just aesthetically pleasing, it is a joy for all your senses – the bustling atmosphere, the fabulous, tempting smells, and the exotic tastes all combine to make a truly mouthwatering experience.
This restaurant was the first in Norwich to offer high-end, authentic Indian dishes with dedicated, purely vegetarian and vegan options, made by chefs for whom spices are an art form. And for those who would like to unlock the complex mysteries of Indian cooking, Namaste Village also runs monthly cookery classes - don’t mind if we do!
The Mulberry, Thetford
This hidden gem in the historic town of Thetford, home of the hit comedy Dad’s Army, will have you wishing you could visit Norfolk every week just so that you can come back here again and again!
Boasting a real hands-on approach to cooking (going as far as butchering his own meat and making all stocks and sauces from scratch), The Mulberry’s chef understands that the heart of cooking is simplicity, crafting delicious and honest dishes that instantly pop a smile on your face. The unassuming exterior with its elegant, curved doors hides a Tardis-like, yet cosy, interior. There’s even a walled garden for al fresco dining on warm summer evenings. Perfect!
Crown & Mitre, King's Lynn
The Crown & Mitre is a gorgeous, family-run riverside pub that was established in 1743. So why not settle down at one of the indoor or terrace tables and watch the River Ouse idle by as you indulge in one of their tempting classic pub dishes and sip on a craft ale?
There is a nautical theme on the walls and on the menu too, with luxury fish pie, king prawn spaghetti, and, of course, beer battered fish and chips. The Crown & Mitre provides a warm welcome, hearty traditional fare, and stunning views to enjoy while you dine.
Poppylands 1940s Tearoom, Great Yarmouth
Hidden away in the wilds of the Broads, not far from some great wild seal-spotting beaches, is Poppylands Tearoom. This amazing place is the brainchild of Darren Stride who has worked magic recreating a 1940s-themed establishment complete with lashings of cake and scones, teapots with cossies, and staff in 1940s-era uniforms. A visit here really is like taking a step back in time.
The café also feels like part of a museum or heritage centre. It has its own Anderson Shelter, lots of fascinating World War II memorabilia, and even vintage cars on display. The enthusiastic team run special themed events throughout the year and you can find out more about this fun and unique place on their social media.
The Old Bank, Snettisham
Aga and Lewis King are the husband-and-wife team behind one of Norfolk’s best-kept secrets. The Old Bank presents sophisticated, modern, fresh and imaginative food made with seasonal ingredients, much of which is sourced from the couple’s own allotment.
The restaurant has been listed in the prestigious Michelin Guide since 2019 and it has also been named The Good Food Guide Best Local Restaurant (and that’s counting the whole of the UK).
There are two taster menus to choose from, each with its own thoughtfully selected wine pairing. Dishes include the likes of venison from the nearby Sandringham Estate, as well as delicious Yorkshire rhubarb with blood orange and lemon.
Foundry Arms, Cromer
This friendly, family-run pub has a wonderful reputation for great service and excellent homecooked food. Surrounded by rolling farmland not far from the seaside town of Cromer, the twenty-mile-long Paston Way footpath passes its door, and many a weary, road-worn traveller has quenched their thirst with this establishment’s range of local real ales.
The menu is traditional and oh-so-hearty with all the family favourites making an appearance. The atmosphere is all that we know and love about an old village pub with regular live music, quiz nights, and karaoke creating a memorable dining experience every time.
Stoke Mill Restaurant, Norwich
This is an outstanding restaurant in a unique location inside a beautifully restored, 700-year-old mustard mill beside the River Tas. This historic building was the birthplace of great British favourite Colman’s Mustard back in 1814.
That auspicious heritage is celebrated by the present owners, Ludo and Andy Rudd, who have created a bustling, relaxed, and airy dining room where patrons can enjoy an outstanding dining experience - the restaurant does boast a Michelin star, after all. Whether you choose from the taster menu or sample the a la carte or Sunday lunch menus, you are guaranteed to be treated to a warm, knowledgeable service and some of the finest cuisine in the region.
If you haven’t time for a full meal, you can enjoy something from Stoke Mill’s onsite bakery where homemade loaves of bread, cakes, and pastries are made every day!
So if all these amazing eateries have got your tastebuds tingling, why not take a look at our wonderful range of holiday cottages in Norfolk and begin your next culinary adventure soon?
