Tucked away on Rose Lane inside Norwich’s historic Old Tudor Hall, Peppermint Perk has quietly opened its doors and is already making a strong impression on the city’s independent food and drink scene. Owned and run by Shane and Nicola Grady, the café blends quality coffee, homemade food and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere in a space that feels both comforting and characterful.
Norwich has no shortage of coffee spots, but Peppermint Perk stands out for its sense of care. Everything here feels considered, from the choice of ingredients to the layout of the space. The café has been designed as somewhere people can truly settle in, whether for a relaxed catch up, a few hours of remote working or a simple takeaway on the move.
The building itself adds to the charm. Located within the Old Tudor Hall, Peppermint Perk makes thoughtful use of its historic setting, pairing original features with rich green tones, soft lighting and leafy plants. There is a subtle nod to the much loved sitcom Friends, giving the space a familiar and comforting feel without tipping into novelty. It feels like a place designed to be lived in rather than rushed through.
At the heart of the café is its coffee. Peppermint Perk serves barista coffee from local roasters Green Farm Coffee Co, ensuring quality and consistency in every cup. The menu covers all the favourites including lattes, cappuccinos and flat whites, alongside seasonal specials that keep things interesting. The coffee offering feels confident and well judged, appealing to both casual drinkers and those who appreciate carefully sourced beans.
Beyond coffee, the drinks menu is equally inviting. Indulgent hot chocolates sit alongside freshly brewed teas and refreshing cold drinks, making the café an easy choice whatever the time of day. Earlier this week, Paris from Norfolk Enquirer popped by on Tuesday the third of February and sampled one of the indulgent hot chocolates. It left a lasting impression, rich, comforting and perfectly balanced, and quickly became a highlight of the visit.
Food plays an equally important role at Peppermint Perk. Homemade soups are prepared by Nicola’s dad using vegetables grown in his own allotment, adding a personal and meaningful connection between kitchen and garden. The soups change with the seasons and feel nourishing and thoughtfully made, ideal for a warming lunch in the colder months.
Sweet treats are supplied by Buckley Bakes, bringing a selection of homemade cakes that sit proudly on the counter and tempt passers by. These are the kind of cakes that feel generous and comforting rather than overly fussy, perfect with a mid morning coffee or an afternoon break. Toasties are also available, adding to a menu that is simple but satisfying.
The atmosphere inside Peppermint Perk is one of its greatest strengths. The café feels relaxed and friendly, with plenty of space to unwind without feeling crowded. Free Wi Fi makes it a practical option for those working remotely, while the layout encourages people to linger rather than rush off. It is easy to imagine regulars quickly forming here, drawn back by the warmth of both the space and the service.
Shane and Nicola Grady have clearly created more than just a coffee shop. Peppermint Perk feels rooted in community values, supporting local suppliers and celebrating home grown produce, while offering a space that invites people in rather than simply serving them. There is a sense of pride in what they are building, and that care shows in every detail.
As a brand new opening, Peppermint Perk already feels like it belongs in Norwich. It combines quality coffee, homemade food and thoughtful design with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that encourages people to slow down and enjoy the moment. Whether stopping in for a quick takeaway, settling in with a laptop, or meeting friends over cake and coffee, this new addition to Rose Lane is well worth discovering.
Peppermint Perk is open now and quietly becoming one of those places people recommend with a smile.
Location: 19-21 Rose Ln, Norwich NR1 1PL
Follow them on Instagram here @peppermint_perk