The Refectory.
Norwich Cathedral, Cathedral Close, Norwich.
Tel: 01603 218322.
www.cathedral.org.uk
Situated within the most austeric of all Norwich buildings, the 900+-year-old Norman Cathedral, The Refectory (meaning ‘Dining Hall’) is much more than simply an excellent place to grab coffee or lunch whilst in the City centre.
Designed by Sir Michael Hopkins and opened in 2004, the Refectory was built within the footprint of the original medieval Refectory, and has won several design awards.
Spacious and airy, with lift access for pushchairs and disabled visitors, the restaurant and coffee shop on the first floor blends seamlessly and sympathetically with its ancient surroundings. The largely wood and glass structure is simultaneously beautiful and very contemporary.
Visitors can appreciate the award-winning surroundings while enjoying tea and coffee, a freshly cooked hot lunch or a sandwich. The peaceful, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere means it is perfect for all comers, from families to friends.
The Refectory supports local suppliers and traders by buying locally sourced, and seasonal, produce. When items cannot be sourced locally, the restaurant-coffee shop is committed to ensuring that they are fair-traded or sourced from ethical producers.
As if the impressive location, inspiring building and tasty fare wasn’t enough to entice you to make The Refectory a regular pit stop, all profits got towards the upkeep of Norwich Cathedral and its work. Wow.
And since the landmark Cathedral spire can be recognised on the City skyline from just about anywhere, not knowing where The Refectory is is no excuse not to try it. In our humble opinion, everyone in Norwich should give it a go. It is after all, perhaps the most established of all local cafes, restaurants and coffee shops - existing in its current form since 2004, but offering hospitality on this site for almost a thousand years…
Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-5pm.
The full lunch menu is served between 12.00pm and 2.30pm. A selection of Paninis is served from 10.30am to 2.30pm. At all other times hot and cold drinks are available together with a range of delicious freshly made sandwiches, cakes and pastries.
