It’s time to cosy up with a hot drink! It’s the season of hot chocolates, spiced lattes, whipped cream, and really, really good coffee. Here at VisitNorwich we’ve been tirelessly testing cafes to find the best places for great coffee in Norwich. It’s a hard job, but somebody’s got to do it.
Strangers
With their own roasting house churning out the perfect graded grinds, Strangers is the place to go for the real coffee snobs. Ask them for their recommendation on the best blends, and they’ll be happy to advise. Plus, they do filter!
Photo: Strangers Coffee
Bread Source
Best known for its excellent selection of pastries (we highly recommend the raspberry & pistachio bun), Bread Source also has a great selection of coffees, and savoury food. With three different city centre locations, and a big bakery on the outskirts, you can choose between sitting inside, or taking one to go from the market. Pick up a loaf at the same time!
Photo: Bread Source, credit Hannah Hutchins
Alchemista
Artisanal coffee in very cool mugs. If you choose the right brew, you’ll be served your coffee in a skull mug – great for the ‘gram, and very tasty too. The interior of Alchemista has distinct steampunk vibes, with copper and brass machinery, and exposed brick walls. If you want that cosy drink, go for their twist on a mocha, which comes loaded with cream for the hot chocolate experience, and no skimping on the caffeine.
Kofra
With three branches in Norwich – one in the city centre, one in NR2 and one in NR3 – you’re sure to find a Kofra convenient to you. With a good selection of coffee, some very aesthetic take-away cups, and big windows for people watching, this is a great coffee spot for a well-earned break. They also sell (bottles of) wine!
Photo: Kofra Coffee, credit Hannah Hutchins
The Playhouse Bar
Great for daytimes as well as evenings, The Playhouse Bar has a great selection of herbal teas, £1 mugs of builder’s tea, and a proper coffee machine. Choose filter if you like your coffee basic, or get a frothy coffee of your choice! And, if you’re feeling really indulgent, get the hot chocolate, with whipped cream and marshmallows!
The Little Red Roaster – Norwich Market
The Little Red Roaster has been serving coffee in Norwich since 2002, with a focus on providing ethically sourced speciality coffee. The market stall can be found at Stall 53, Row B.
Cupcake & Co
This tiny cake and coffee shop on Upper St Giles has a great selection of sweet (and vegan!) treats, and exceptional coffee. With limited space inside, you might need to get yours to take-away, but it’s the perfect place to grab a cup on your way into, or out of the city. Get something sweet to go alongside it. Go on, you deserve it. Cupcake & Co also do bespoke cakes for special occasions.
Fika
Almost definitely the smallest coffee shop in Norwich, their coffee still packs a punch! Fika has a limited, but delectable range of pastries (cardamom buns, yes please), and a lovely community feel.
The Greengrocers
A bit further out of town, but worth the trip. The Greengrocers combines a packaging free grocery store with a lovely intimate café. The coffee is wonderful, and there’s a great menu running alongside it – focussing on organic ingredients, and amazing taste. They also do freshly squeezed orange juice!
