A Student’s Guide to Norwich’s Best Hidden Spots in NR2

If you’re new to Norwich, there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself living in NR2. It’s a top area for student housing, for those attending both UEA and NUA. It’s close to the city centre, and it’s packed with little places that are way more exciting than your standard takeaway and corner shops.

NR2 has charm, personality, and most importantly, it has places to eat, drink and hang out, and won’t drain your bank account in one hit. Whether you’re looking for a lazy brunch, a low-key pint, or a cheeky cocktail, this area has you covered.

Here are a few of our favourite local spots, all walking distance, and all with that perfect balance of a great atmosphere and student-friendly prices.

First up, let’s delve into the independent coffee and brunch spots in the area…

Connaught Kitchen: 80 Connaught Road, NR2 3BS

This place is a bit of a hidden gem. Connaught Kitchen is a relaxed café that serves up brunch classics and seasonal specials that feel a bit more exciting than your usual fry-up (although, they do a great one of those too!)

They’ve got a big outdoor deck that’s perfect for sunny mornings, and they often do pop-up evenings with local foodies like The Basil Club, specialising in authentic pizzas and Italian comfort food. It’s ideal for when you want something nice without breaking the bank.

Unthank Kitchen: 117 Unthank Road, NR2 2PE

Unthank Kitchen is one of those places that just gets students. It’s unfussy, good value, and always friendly. Whether you’re after a proper full English, pancakes, or just a decent coffee, you’ll find something here that hits the spot.

The atmosphere’s relaxed, the portions are generous, and no one’s judging if you turn up in your scruffs for a recovery breakfast. It’s an excellent local go-to!

Mitre House: 131 Earlham Road, NR2 3RF

Once a pub, now a cosy café and coworking space, Mitre House is the kind of place that makes you feel instantly at home. Recently taken on by the team at St Thomas Church, it’s all about good coffee, good vibes, and doing a bit of good along the way.

There’s plenty of space to study (you can even book a desk online), making it a great alternative to campus or your kitchen table. They’ve also got a pay-it-forward scheme and profits go back into the local community.

Whether you’re revising, meeting friends, or just need a quiet hour with your laptop and a latte. This one’s a hidden gem!

Kofra: 16 Onley Street, NR2 2EB

Just off Unthank Road, Kofra on Onley Street is a neighbourhood favourite. Small but mighty, this fast-paced little coffee spot is all about quality coffee, attention to detail, and a friendly chat while you wait.

Whether you’re grabbing a coffee to go or pausing for a breather, Kofra’s got that perfect mix of energy and calm. Top-tier coffee, great people, and a lovely little slice of NR2 life.

Grounded: 119 Unthank Road, NR2 2PE

Tucked right on Unthank Road, Grounded is the kind of café that instantly makes you want to slow down. It’s cosy, calm, and smells like heaven thanks to their freshly roasted coffee.

Whether you’re after a quiet moment with a flat white or a mid-morning treat, Grounded delivers on both flavour and feel. The vibe is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed catch-up or a solo studying session with something sweet on the side.

Looking for a spot for dinner with friends? We’ve got you covered…

Blue Joanna: 103 Unthank Road, NR2 2PE

Tucked away in the Golden Triangle, Blue Joanna is the kind of place you tell your friends about after your first visit. It’s small, cosy and completely full of character. Specialising in Asian street food, their list of small plates makes this a great spot to share some dishes with friends. Oh, and there’s a bright blue piano making it the perfect venue for live music.

The food’s all gluten and dairy free, but you wouldn’t know unless someone told you, it’s seriously tasty. Each of their cocktails are £8.50 and a pint is just £5.50. There’s a little patio out front that’s always buzzing in the warmer months. Whether you’re out for a casual dinner or just fancy a midweek drink, it’s a cracking spot.

Harry’s Soul Station – 35–37 Adelaide Street, NR2 4JD

If comfort food with serious flavour is your thing, Harry’s Soul Station is a must. Born from the much-loved Harry’s Soul Train street food, this family-run spot now serves up legendary soul plates, burgers and more.

With hearty portions, great music, and a menu full of favourites, plus weekly specials. They’re open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with cocktails, Prosecco and local brews on hand too. It’s a chilled, feel-good place to fuel up.

Lastly, the pub-classics…

The Warwick Arms – 2 Warwick Street, NR2 3LD

This one’s a bit of a legend in the area. The Warwick Arms is a proper community pub – think comfy sofas, chilled music, and a mix of locals and students all under one roof.

They’ve got everything from pints and craft beers to £5 Espresso Martinis available all day, every day. If you’re hungry, Luca Pizza sets up shop there most evenings, serving up proper wood-fired pizzas. There’s also a weekly quiz night on a Thursday, along with poker, darts, and even a casual running club that starts and ends at the pub.

The Pear Tree Inn – 79 Unthank Road, NR2 2PE

Right in the heart of the Golden Triangle, The Pear Tree Inn is a community pub with loads of character. Family-run and proudly laid-back, it’s the kind of place where you can rock up for a quiet pint and end up having a boogie.

It strikes the perfect balance between cosy and eclectic. Whether you’re in for a chat, a cheeky drink, or just seeing where the night takes you, The Pear Tree keeps it simple and welcoming. A golden spot in the Golden Triangle.

Final Thoughts

Overall, NR2 is a vibrant area with a mix of city and village feel, with little places with big personality. These spots are the kind of places that make living here feel like home, and many of which just so happen to be student-budget friendly too.

So whether you’re grabbing a late breakfast, catching up over cocktails, or just trying to find your new local, NR2’s got a lot going for it. You just need to know where to look!

Looking for your next student home? Get in touch today and find out how our knowledgeable and friendly team can help:

Telephone: 01603 763363

Email: student-enquiries@prolet.co.uk