Norwich is home to an impressive collection of independent restaurants, cafés and bars, but hidden within the city’s creative quarter is a venue that many people have surprisingly yet to discover. The Last Wine Bar & Restaurant has been a fixture of Norwich’s food and drink scene for more than 30 years, combining exceptional food, fine wines, rich history and warm hospitality in one of the city’s most characterful buildings.
Located on St George’s Street, just moments from Norwich Playhouse and the University of the Arts, The Last Wine Bar & Restaurant occupies a former Victorian shoe factory that dates back to the city’s industrial heyday. In fact, the building was once described in 1909 as the largest boot and shoe factory under one roof in the kingdom.
The venue’s distinctive name is rooted in that history. A “last” is the mould used in shoemaking to shape boots and shoes, deriving from the Old English word “laest”, meaning footprint. Today, while the machinery and production lines are long gone, the building continues to leave its mark on Norwich, albeit in a very different way.
Stepping inside, guests are greeted by a space that effortlessly blends historic character with modern dining. Exposed brickwork, warm lighting and inviting interiors create an atmosphere that feels both elegant and relaxed, making it equally suited to a casual lunch, celebratory dinner or evening drinks with friends.
The Last Wine Bar & Restaurant entered a new chapter when it came under the ownership of Sebastian Taylor. After building an impressive hospitality career that culminated in ten years at The Ritz in London, Sebastian returned to his home city determined to breathe new life into one of Norwich’s most cherished venues.
That experience is evident throughout the restaurant. While maintaining the welcoming charm that regular customers have always loved, Sebastian has introduced a level of service and attention to detail that elevates the overall experience without losing the venue’s approachable personality.
One of the things that makes The Last Wine Bar & Restaurant stand out is its versatility. Rather than offering a single dining space, the venue is divided into three distinct areas, each with its own atmosphere and appeal.
Taylors at The Last offers a more refined dining experience and is particularly popular for afternoon teas, special occasions and leisurely lunches. The Bar & Bistro provides a lively and relaxed environment where guests can enjoy everything from a glass of wine and small plates to a full à la carte meal. Meanwhile, the Jazz Cellar has become a favourite destination for wine tastings, private events and live music evenings, adding another layer of character to the venue.
Regardless of where guests choose to sit, the same commitment to quality runs throughout the entire business.
The Last Wine Bar & Restaurant places a strong emphasis on working with local suppliers and producers wherever possible. Norfolk is home to some of the finest ingredients in the country, and the team are passionate about showcasing them through carefully curated seasonal menus.
Fresh produce, quality meats, locally sourced ingredients and regularly changing dishes ensure there is always something new to discover. Whether enjoying the Menu du Jour or exploring the à la carte offering, guests can expect food that celebrates both flavour and provenance.
Of course, wine remains at the heart of the experience. As the name suggests, The Last Wine Bar & Restaurant takes its drinks offering seriously. An extensive wine list sits alongside expertly crafted cocktails, premium spirits and carefully selected beers, providing something for every occasion.
The knowledgeable team are always happy to guide guests through the menu, offering recommendations and pairings that help elevate each visit. It is this attention to detail that transforms a simple meal into a memorable dining experience.
Location is another reason for the venue’s continued popularity. Situated in the heart of Norwich’s creative quarter, The Last Wine Bar & Restaurant benefits from being surrounded by culture, entertainment and some of the city’s most vibrant independent businesses.
Whether stopping by before a theatre performance, enjoying a relaxed weekend lunch or celebrating a special occasion, it has become a destination that appeals to both locals and visitors alike.
Perhaps what makes The Last Wine Bar & Restaurant so special is that it never tries too hard. It simply focuses on delivering excellent food, outstanding service and a welcoming atmosphere within a building steeped in Norwich history.
For those who have yet to visit, it may well be one of the city’s most overlooked dining destinations. Combining heritage, hospitality and a genuine passion for quality, The Last Wine Bar & Restaurant remains one of Norwich’s true hidden gems.
Location: 70-76 St Georges St, Norwich NR3 1AB
Website: https://thelastnorwich.co.uk/