North Norfolk is a dream destination for food lovers, offering everything from fresh seafood on the coast to cosy countryside pubs serving locally sourced dishes. Whether you’re after an award-winning fine dining experience, a relaxed pub lunch, or just the best fish and chips by the sea, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Public transport in North Norfolk isn’t always reliable, and many of the best food spots aren’t easily accessible without a car. If you want to enjoy a leisurely meal, perhaps with a drink or two, it’s worth planning your journey in advance. This guide takes you through some of the best places to eat across North Norfolk, so you can sit back, relax, and focus on the food.
North Norfolk’s coastline is famous for its seafood. Brancaster Staithe is one of the best places to enjoy it, with stunning views over the salt marshes and an abundance of fresh local seafood. The area is known for its crab and lobster, caught just offshore and served in many of the restaurants along the coast.
This coastal gem is a favourite among both locals and visitors. The menu showcases the best of North Norfolk’s seafood, with dishes such as freshly dressed Cromer crab, Brancaster mussels and lobster caught just a stone’s throw away. The restaurant has a relaxed yet chic atmosphere, with large windows and an outdoor terrace that offers breathtaking views of the marshes. It is the perfect spot for lunch or an evening meal as the sun sets over the coastline.
For a more refined dining experience, Titchwell Manor is the place to go. This award-winning restaurant combines elegance with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes regularly to reflect the best produce available, but you can always expect expertly prepared seafood alongside other creative dishes. The setting is warm and welcoming, with a mix of modern style and traditional charm.
Burnham Market is often called Chelsea-on-Sea thanks to its boutique shops, charming village atmosphere and high-quality dining options. It is a fantastic place to visit for a day out, whether you are exploring the independent shops, stopping for coffee or enjoying a long, leisurely meal at one of its standout restaurants.
Socius is a classy modern restaurant that has gained a reputation for its small plates and relaxed but sophisticated atmosphere. The menu is designed for sharing, with dishes that highlight the best of Norfolk’s seasonal ingredients. Options often include fresh seafood, locally reared meats and vegetarian choices full of flavour. The restaurant itself is contemporary and welcoming, with an open kitchen that allows diners to see the chefs at work. It is an ideal place for a long lunch or an evening of good food and great company.
No Twenty9 is a relaxed yet elegant dining spot that brings together great food, a fantastic drinks selection and a beautifully designed setting. The restaurant is set in a charming Georgian building with a sleek interior and a stunning garden that is perfect for summer dining. The menu features a mix of classic and modern dishes, using high-quality ingredients sourced from local suppliers. Whether you are in the mood for seafood, a hearty meat dish or a fresh and flavourful vegetarian option, there is something for everyone.
No food tour of North Norfolk is complete without tasting Cromer Crab. This local delicacy is known for its sweet and tender meat, thanks to the chalk-rich seabed along the coast. Many restaurants and seafood shacks serve it fresh, either dressed with a simple squeeze of lemon or prepared in creative dishes that highlight its delicate flavour.
Rocky Bottoms is a family-run seafood shack that focuses on fresh, locally caught shellfish. The owners, a local fishing family, catch the crabs themselves before cooking and serving them in their relaxed coastal eatery. The menu features freshly dressed Cromer crab, Brancaster mussels and lobster, all prepared with minimal fuss to let the natural flavours shine. The setting is simple but charming, with indoor and outdoor seating where you can enjoy your meal with views of the Norfolk countryside. It is the perfect place for a laid-back lunch after a morning exploring the coast.
The Stiffkey Red Lion is a cosy pub with a strong focus on local produce. The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring that only the freshest ingredients make it onto the plate. Their seafood dishes are a highlight, with options such as pan-fried sea bass, fish pie and Cromer crab cakes. The pub itself has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to stop for a meal after a long walk along the coast. There is also a fantastic selection of local ales and wines to complement the food.
No trip to the Norfolk coast is complete without enjoying a proper portion of fish and chips. Whether you prefer to eat them straight from the paper while strolling along the beach or sitting down in a cosy seaside café, there are plenty of excellent options.
Cromer and Cley-next-the-Sea are must-visit destinations for seafood lovers. From fresh Cromer crab to classic fish and chips, the area offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxed meal at a seafood shack or a cosy pub lunch, you will find plenty of fantastic options along this stretch of the Norfolk coast.
Holt is a charming Georgian market town known for its independent shops, cafés and historic buildings. Just outside the town, you will find one of Norfolk’s best traditional pubs.
This classic coaching inn is full of character with exposed beams, a cosy fireplace and a large garden that is perfect for summer dining. The menu features traditional pub favourites with a refined touch, such as slow-cooked beef, pan-fried sea bass and Norfolk venison. Every dish is made using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring the best flavours. The Kings Head is a great place to stop for a hearty meal after exploring Holt’s boutique shops or taking a walk through the surrounding countryside.
Binham Blue is one of Norfolk’s most famous cheeses. It is produced at Copys Green Farm in the small village of Binham and is a favourite among cheese lovers. This creamy, semi-soft blue cheese has a rich flavour without being overpowering. It is available at farm shops and delis across North Norfolk where it pairs beautifully with freshly baked bread, local chutneys and a glass of English wine. If you enjoy artisanal cheeses, this is a must-try.
Fakenham is known for its historic market and racecourse, while nearby Snettisham is a pretty village with a strong reputation for good food. The area is home to both fine dining restaurants and welcoming country pubs where you can enjoy a relaxed meal with friends and family.
For an intimate dining experience, The Old Bank is a fantastic choice. This Michelin-recommended restaurant is set in a beautifully restored former bank building, creating a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere. The menu changes regularly to reflect the best seasonal produce available, with dishes that are carefully prepared and full of flavour. Expect creative and beautifully presented plates that make the most of local ingredients, whether it is fresh seafood, tender meats or vibrant vegetarian options. The Old Bank is perfect for a special meal in a welcoming and refined setting.
If you are looking for a more traditional pub experience, The Rose and Crown is an excellent choice. This historic inn has been serving food for centuries and has earned a reputation for its hearty meals, warm hospitality and relaxed atmosphere. The menu includes classic pub dishes made with a Norfolk twist, such as slow-cooked lamb shank, locally caught fish and handmade pies. There is a children’s menu too, making it a great place for families. The pub’s cosy interior with wooden beams and open fires makes it especially inviting in the colder months, while the outdoor seating area is ideal for enjoying a summer meal.
Whether you are looking for a cosy pub near the coast, a countryside inn with space for little ones to play or a restaurant with a children’s menu filled with fresh local ingredients, there are plenty of great options.
The Dun Cow is a great spot for families looking for delicious food in a welcoming and laid-back setting. Overlooking the salt marshes, it offers a relaxed environment with beautiful views. The menu features a range of locally sourced dishes, including fresh seafood and hearty British classics. Families will appreciate the spacious dining areas and friendly service. This pub is also dog friendly, making it ideal for families bringing their four-legged friends along.
The Jolly Sailors is well known for its wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood and excellent children’s menu. It is one of the most family-friendly pubs in North Norfolk, with a large beer garden and outdoor play area, making it perfect for little ones to enjoy while parents relax. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with plenty of space both indoors and outdoors. Whether you are stopping for lunch after a beach day or looking for an easy-going evening meal, The Jolly Sailors is a fantastic choice for families.
Some of the best places to eat in North Norfolk are tucked away in small villages or along the coast. Public transport is not always reliable, and some spots can be difficult to reach without a car.
That is where we can help. We are a dependable, family-run taxi service based in Stalham, available all day and night to take you wherever you need to go. Whether you are heading to a seaside restaurant for fresh seafood or a countryside pub for a cosy meal, we will get you there comfortably and safely.
North Norfolk has so many fantastic places to eat. Plan your trip, book your table and let us take care of the journey.
