New tapas restaurant opens up in Norwich

East Twenty Six bar and restaurant, Exchange Street, Norwich. Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2015)

Based on Exchange Street, Norwich, East Twenty Six offers a fresh take on traditional tapas. The menu is influenced by foods from the Mediterranean, North Africa and further afield.

It is the second restaurant belonging to Jeremy King, who also runs The Iron House.

Mr King, said: 'We had always wanted to turn the space into another restaurant, but felt the impact needed to come from the boldness of the architecture, as well as the very different style of food of that we offer at The Iron House. Some of the features we wanted to implement include charcoal cooking to make the food smokier and have a more glazed feel to it.

'We have had this building for five years, so it was a long process to get to where we are today.'

East Twenty Six bar and restaurant, Exchange Street, Norwich. Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2015)

Prior to the restaurant's opening, the owners believed it was necessary to extend the property.

After working with local architects, engineers, neighbours and Norwich city college, the plans came to fruition during 2014.

Mr King, said: 'We've made a bigger bar to encourage counter dining, and we increased the size of the building so that hopefully, in the future, we can encourage events such as live music.'

The menu includes a range of small plate fish, meat and vegetable meals, as well as larger sharing plates for friends and family. It also includes a range of sandwiches, snacks and desserts.

East Twenty Six bar and restaurant, Exchange Street, Norwich. Owner JeremyPicture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2015)

• East Twenty Six is open from Mondays to Saturdays, with food served between 11.30am and 11pm.

• Are you opening a new venue? Email kieran.lynch@archant.co.uk