Norwich's 10 best budget eats

Exploring The Library

Nestled within the imposing grandeur of a Victorian-era structure, the Library offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant's aesthetic is as bold as its menu, with statement-making wallpaper and vivid carpets providing a remarkable contrast to its historical shell. While its ambiance may not be to every diner's taste, the Library has successfully carved out its own distinct niche in Norwich's dining scene. Value seekers will delight in its affordable lunch offerings (single course £6.95, double course £9.95), while the 6pm to 7pm hour has been earmarked for a special burger deal. At just £9.50, patrons can enjoy a burger complemented by chips, salad, and a drink.

The Library's culinary prowess is firmly displayed in its burgers which boast of a substantial thickness, reminiscent of the volumes that adorn its shelves. Optimally grilled on a wood-fired stove, these burgers strike a harmonious balance of a soft pinkish interior encased in a delicious char. A slight tilt towards leaner meat composition means they are juicy albeit restrained in their fat distribution. Accompanied by commendable skin-on chips, a satisfying sesame bun, and the perfect amount of onion rings, the Library ensures a satisfying meal every time. The offerings continue with Pinocchio's, the Library's Italian sibling eatery, a favorite among locals for its pizzas (pinocchiosrestaurant.net). Pizzas here start at £7.95 for takeaway, and £8.25 for dine-in service.
Visit them at 4A Guildhall Hill, or thelibraryrestaurant.co.uk to learn more about their menus and services.

Vine Thai

The Vine Thai in Norwich

While many pubs now serve Thai cuisine, authenticity often takes a back seat. However, the compact and cozy Vine Thai in Norwich defies this trend, offering an authentic Thai food experience. The culinary maestro behind this establishment, Chef Phaowana Allen, whips up exceptional, flavorful fare that leaves your taste buds tingling. Not just the food, but the Vine also caters to ale aficionados, featuring in the 2011 Camra's Good Beer Guide. A notable emphasis is placed on local Norfolk breweries like Winter's and Wolf across the establishment's four outlets for ale. The Golden Triangle's City Gold (£1.50 for a half) was found to be refreshing and the savory chicken soup, stirred in coconut and galangal essence (£4.95), might just be the finest culinary indulgence you can relish in Norwich.

The charm of Thai food lies in its intricate blend of zesty and umami flavors – a gastronomic interplay that hits the sweet and sour notes in perfect harmony. It's a culinary symphony that is delightful and, yet, defies full description. In the evenings, the under £10 per head budget can only be maintained by opting for a 10% discounted takeaway. On the other hand, the lunch menu offers a range of main courses for £5.95 to £6.95. Emblazoned on the board outside, "Real English pub, real Thai food," speaks volumes about Vine Thai. Despite a few café-bar furnishings and tinplate paintings reminiscent of Thai landscapes, the pub maintains an authentic English feel that harmonizes beautifully with Thai hospitality. Vine Thai comes with my highest endorsement.
Main dishes range from £4.95-£6.95. Dove Street, contact at 01603 627362, or visit vinethai.co.uk

Amaretto

Nestled in Norwich is Amaretto

This upscale deli-kitchen offers a visual and culinary feast for its patrons. Emanating charm and elegance, it is filled with the finest artisan ingredients originating from UK, Italy and Spain. Straying from the aura this space provides, let's shift the focus to their tempting takeaway menu. Their offering during lunchtime consists of a colourful palette of hot and cold dishes - luscious beef noodles, a smoky haddock and potato bake or a spicy vegetable curry as examples. In addition, they offer gourmet sandwiches that are generously stuffed, as well as extra-large slices of pizza. The pizza stands out with a crust that's thin, foldable, and remarkably fresh coupled with a perfectly seasoned tomato sauce. While some might argue about the char on the base, the overall value received for a mere £1.80 per slice is undeniable.

Moreover, the baked goods at Amaretto demands a mention. Their signature brownies come highly recommended, priced at just £1.60. Encased in a crunchy outside, a bite reveals an inside soft and moist, reminiscent of a truffle. The smart addition of tart cranberries brilliantly balances the rich and gooiness of the brownie, resulting in a culinary masterpiece.
The deli also offers snacks and other bakery items priced between 90p-£2, with sandwiches and meal deals setting you back £2.25-£4.16. Find them on St Georges Street or call at 01603 767478, Navigate to their website for more

The Window Coffee and The Tea House

Exploring the charming and history-filled cobblestone street of Elm Hill, you'll discover a variety of craft stores, vintage shops, along with a couple delectable spots worth visiting for refreshments. One such place is the appropriately named Window Coffee, where the tiny yet inviting space manages to squeeze in roughly five patrons at its low-set seating area. The master behind the counter, Hayley Draper, is dedicatedly contributing to the "third wave" coffee trend in Norwich. You know that you've stepped into a genuine coffee haven as there's a selection of brewing methods on offer; these include pour-over filter, Aeropress and cafetiere methods. The coffee beans, five different kinds all simultaneously in use, are each carefully roasted just days prior. Their double espresso (prices start from £1.40) is a flavoursome revelation, with a heavy, rust-covered crema and undertones of chocolate, tart cherry and wine derived from the Brazilian beans. When it comes to food, their offerings, though limited, are undeniably excellent. Local culinary marvel Ruth Bunnewell whips up savoury "baskets" (imagine fresh, flavourful stuffed croissants) and delectable cakes. Her heavenly, moist Bakewell tart loaded with fresh raspberries is an instant delight to the palate.

Nestled just a few steps away lies the newly launched Tea House, known for its incredible variety of 27 loose leaf teas sourced from local blender Wilkinson's. One interesting variety is credited to Mrs Kent, an old Elm Hill flower seller. The Tea House has a very relaxed, no-frills feel to it, with cool tunes from Phoenix and Hot Chip playing in the background and interesting pieces of local art adorning the walls, it even boasts two outdoor seating spaces. The menu features cheese scones and sausage butties for breakfast, heart-warming soups, sandwiches made with high-quality bread from local baker Breadwinner, and scrumptious homemade cakes.
You can enjoy snacks for £1.80-£2. Do drop by Window coffee at 25 Wensum Street, you can contact them at 07913 672491, or visit their website thewindowcoffee.com. They serve snacks and sandwiches for as cheap as £1-£3.95. If tea is more your cup, please visit The Tea House at 5 Wrights Court, Elm Hill or call them at 01603 631888.

Frank's Bar

At Norwich's gem, Frank's Bar, sits a bohemian and amiable late-night haunt. Its eccentric decor, ranging from vintage New Order record sleeves to a curious reference of Dictionary of British Sculptors 1660-1851, sets out a vivid ambiance alongside the intriguing soundtrack. The bar has an excellent array of beverages and the exquisite menu is passionately produced using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Notably, the menu takes into account the vegetarians and vegans by offering a variety of colourful dishes.

Embellished within a grand, ornate frame, a specials board proudly announces the day's feature - an aioli platter accompanied by fresh summer vegetables, luscious new potatoes and a delicate quail's egg. Highlights from the eclectic menu include socca, a vegan-friendly chickpea pancake filled with ripe, tangy olives and juicy sun-roasted tomatoes, encompassing the delightful tastes of the Mediterranean. The menu also boasts a regional cheese platter feature that includes Suffolk Gold, Binham Blue, Wissington and smoked Dapple. As a testament to its quality and innovation, one of its signature dishes includes a sundrenched salad served with chargrilled courgette marinated in lemon, fresh peas, and a potent, rich smoked goat's cheese. It's a joyful riot of colour on your plate and a refreshing explosion of flavours in your mouth.

Prices are delightfully affordable, with breakfast and brunch options beginning from £1.50 to £6.95, while sandwiches, platters and main meals range from £5.50-£9.50 not forgetting to mention the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Located at 19 Bedford Street, for reservations you can call 01603 618902, or visit their website franksbar.co.uk for more information.

The Assembly House

Norwich's Assembly House

Gracing Norwich with its grand Georgian architecture, the Assembly House is a multi-functional destination for locals and visitors alike. With its reputation as an esteemed wedding location, vibrant cultural and arts centre, and host to multiple art galleries, it's a buzzing hub of activity. Notably, it's also a culinary destination known for its delightful dining options. The Cake Shop and Café, where you can enjoy desserts ranging from £1 to £3.75, showcases the talents of Julia Hetherton, an accomplished patissier. The onsite restaurant, meanwhile, is led by famed Lavender House chef Richard Hughes. Not simply an advisor here, Hughes also shares ownership of the hospitality side of the venue, while the arts programmes are managed by a dedicated charitable trust.

Hughes' passion for the craft of cooking shines through in each dish that is served. With a varying menu that adapts to different times of the day, the dining options include tapas plates ideal for sharing, delectable eggs Benedict, flavour-packed sandwiches, and a hearty baked chicken and ham pancake. Among these, the Assembly House brings to table a 'posh' cheese on toast - a remarkable reinterpretation of a simple dish often taken for granted. Presented with a scrumptious side of pickled onions, a refreshing leaf salad, and a well-balanced apple and raisin chutney, this dish is a testament to the meticulous attention paid to every culinary detail, even the most modest ones. The cheese topping, a well-blended paste of fine Norfolk Dapple cheese, Woodforde's Wherry beer, and tangy Colman's mustard, offers a taste of local flavours for just £5.95. Light meals and sandwiches are also available within a price range of £4.95 to £7.95. For more information, call on 01603 626402, or visit assemblyhousenorwich.co.uk

Mackintosh's Canteen

The Charms of Mackintosh's Canteen in Norwich City

As you step into Chapelfield shopping centre, Mackintosh's Canteen does not immediately stand out from its contemporaries such as Giraffe or Carluccio's. Its modern, clean-cut interiors are chic and slightly generic with a minimalist twist. But once you sample their cuisine, the distinction is clear. Helmed by Henry Watt, renowned for his Norfolk-sourced fare at various Animal Inns locations, Mackintosh Canteen offers a splendid menu that is open all day for your convenience. The dishes vary from traditional ham, egg and chips to a fancy parmesan, orange and fennel salad, each crafted meticulously and available from noon till midnight.

The crowning glory of their menu is the succulent pork loin baguette (£5.95) that is guaranteed to tantalize your tastebuds. This homegrown pork is cooked to perfection with a juicy interior and a caramelised exterior that adds a delicious crunch. The baguette is generously layered with a concoction of minced pork, sage and onion stuffing, accompanied by crackling pieces of pork skin that add an irresistible touch. As a finishing flourish, a dollop of homemade apple sauce is added, that complements the robust flavours of the sandwich beautifully. Coupled with their warm, approachable service, Mackintosh's certainly elevates itself beyond the ordinary.
Sample their sandwiches, salads and main meals priced between £5.95 and £9.95 available on the Downstairs menu. Pay them a visit at Unit 410, Chaplefield Plain or call them at 01603 305280. Explore more details at their site, mackintoshscanteen.co.uk

Clark & Ravenscroft

Nestled in the heart of Norwich lies an intimate deli-cafe, Clark & Ravenscroft. Despite its few tables and quaint backyard courtyard, the real charm lies in their beautifully crafted menu. Offering a hands-on approach, they strive to create dishes built from locally sourced, artisan ingredients which have become their proud signature.

One can savor their gourmet sandwiches or perhaps try a salad boasting of unique flavors like pesto, prawn, pasta with sprinkles of flat leaf parsley or perhaps a Puy lentil salad with garlic roasted tomatoes. Their pork pies, a product from Norfolk's Bray's Cottage, are not to be missed. These delights are priced quite reasonably enough for any budget, ranging from £3.10 to £4.30. To explore their delicacies, drop by at 6 St Gregory's Alley or check their menu at clarkandravenscroft.com.

If you're a real ale enthusiast, you might want to carry your delightful pick from Clark & Ravenscroft and head towards St Benedict's Street. There, you'll find The Plough (58 St Benedict's Street), a pub exuding the rustic charm while offering a modernized ambiance. The quaint spot, owned by the renowned Grain Brewery, might not offer food, but it encourages customers to bring their own. They're known particularly for their beer which is so crisp and fresh- with prices starting from £2.60 a pint, you'll find that even their best bitter is a treat on the taste buds. Find out more on theploughnorwich.co.uk.

Iron House Brasserie

Iron House - A Norwich Gem

For almost two centuries, the enchanting Iron House, located in Norwich, has been an anchor in the city's food and beverage landscape. Its ongoing evolution has seen it transfigure from a bakery, into a pub, and currently into an elegant brasserie. The recent refurbishment resonates with a contemporary essence featuring chic pale grey walls, a partially glazed roof, and an aesthetic courtyard area. All budget explorers have ample food choices from the all-day menu; morning favourites include brunch, breakfast, and a variety of light meal options such as the delectable eggs Benedict or the potted Cromer crab coupled with soda bread. For a fruity twist, a watermelon salad is an inviting option. Other staples include the Italian bread salad and the grilled halloumi.

A particular morning treat you might relish is the corned beef with a fried egg, modestly priced at just £5.75. The corned beef hash, although slightly too blended for some, comes to life with a healthy spoon of grain mustard. This vibrant infusion paired with a richly flavoured gravy creates an indulgent and hearty meal. A robust dish indeed

. Enjoy all this breakfast goodness from as little as £1.95, and light meals from £5.50. This gourmet haven is situated at 1 St John Maddermarket, 01603 763388, theironhouse.co.uk

Exploring the Delights of Baby Buddha Chinese Teahouse

Dive into the diverse menu of Baby Buddha Chinese Teahouse, offering a plentiful selection from a medley of zesty stir-fry options and rice-based dishes to hearty noodle soups, all for less than £10 per person. Particularly notable, however, is the authentic handmade dim sum crafted with meticulous precision by the Ngai family, which has become a beacon of the Norwich food scene. These treats defy their modest definition as "delicacies", as only a mere two or three pieces suffice to fill your stomach, satisfying even the hungriest of patrons from noon until evening.

Paying a visit to this restaurant offers you a chance to embark on a gastronomic journey filled with enticing options such as chicken claws, or tripe prepared with chilli and ginger, and crispy, savory pancakes made with turnip and pork accompanied by a zingy chilli sauce. Savor the unique texture and flavors of the beef and chive dumplings, tightly packed and served with a dipping sauce that will ignite a nostalgic sense of familiarity. This dip, in fact, is not the typical soy sauce one might expect, but rather its overseas kin - Worcestershire sauce which has been a staple in Cantonese cuisine since the mid-19th century, adding an intriguing twist to this delight.

Prices at the restaurant vary from £2.40-£3.50 for dim sum and £6.50-£9.80 for most main meals. The venue is located at 139 Ber Street. For more information, please contact 01603 490889 or visit babybuddha-teahouse.co.uk

Where to stay in Norwich

Choosing the right accommodation while indulging in Norwich's 10 best budget eats is crucial for an all-encompassing experience of this vibrant city. Opting for a cozy stay in the heart of Norwich ensures easy access to the array of affordable culinary delights the city has to offer. One convenient way to do this is to look for a hotel in Norwich on tophotels.com. The website provides a multitude of options, allowing you to choose from centrally located budget-friendly hotels or charming bed and breakfasts that suit your preferences and needs.

Consider staying at the Blue Boar Inn Norwich, a renowned establishment known for its cozy ambiance and strategic location. Being centrally located, it allows you to conveniently explore the culinary hotspots without breaking the bank. With the tantalizing aroma of local food wafting through the streets, a strategic accommodation choice enhances your gastronomic journey, making it a seamless blend of delicious bites and comfortable lodgings.

If you're keen on exploring beyond the city, consider expanding your stay to neighboring areas. You can find a range of hotels in Norfolk that provide the same comfortable experience, and exposure to additional culinary treasures in the region.