Get your fill of Pastéis de Nata at Jorge’s Restaurant, Norwich
Perhaps the most famous of all Portuguese dishes is the mouth-coatingly moreish yellow custard tart known as pastel de nata. But the best Portuguese restaurant in Norwich don’t just serve warm (delicious) Pastéis de Nata – far from it.
Instead, head to this new-ish restaurant for a celebration of oil-slathered anchovies, crisp and sharp port straight from the Douro Valley and warm mixed seafood cataplana so comforting we dare you not to eat more than your fair share.
Jorge Santos, founder and owner, has had exceptional experience of working with some of the world’s finest ingredients on board a six-star cruise liner. And the whole menu is inspired and influenced by his Portuguese heritage and travels throughout the country. The dishes on offer include local culinary secrets and incorporate only the finest Portuguese produce.
The focus of this small restaurant revolves around small plates at great prices. Tapas dishes are a good size, and I would recommend two or three dishes per person. The menu might seem enormous when you’re trying to choose just three dishes but the best way is to choose three you like, and three other dishes you like, and then suggest them to your partner. That way you get everything you wanted to try! Joking aside, there are plenty of options, from clams and prawns to oxtail and chicken wings, all cooked with or coated in something tangy and delicious.
I’d highly recommend the fresh clams with tomato and garlic, or the spicy, sticky chicken wings that leave the most wonderful taste in your mouth – talk about umami! And don’t worry, there are vegetarian options as standard on offer, but you may want to ask ahead of booking if they are able to cater for gluten-free and vegan options. The kitchen is small and therefore limited.
The evening menu is similar but a little more refined and no less authentic. You’ll find favourites from the lunchtime menu such as the Pica Pau – pork tenderloin with olives and pickled vegetables – but I’d recommend exploring the menu a little further and going for the Espetadas. Call it ‘surf and turf’ or simply opt for the meat or fish options, but they are delicious and just the right amount for one person.
If you really want to push the boat out, the côte de boeuf is a beef-lovers joy. And any of the sides on the menu will compliment the dish perfectly, from sautéed garlic potatoes, creamed spinach, or some simple fries.
There’s desert too. But who needs desert when you’ve got Pastel de Nata?! Whilst we didn’t have space for anything more, we couldn’t resist taking one away for later – well, the car journey home at least!
The Douro Valley, which surrounds the city of Porto, has a food and wine culture that’s up there with the best of them. Which is why it comes as no surprise to see a fabulous selection of Portuguese wines on the wine list, each individually and carefully chosen by the owner and his wife. In fact, you won’t see anything other than Portuguese wines, and I thoroughly approve.
I could sit here all day writing about how quaffable some of these wines are but if you’re looking for a simple yet tasty lunchtime white, why not try the Barrancoa 2018. It’s a perfect match for the seafood on the menu. Prefer a red wine instead? The Rola, an old-vine wine, is a delicious all-rounder with lovely depth and lingering mouthfeel, and will balance nicely with the meat dishes.
Jorge’s offers lunch and dinner and I would strongly recommend you book in advance to avoid disappointment. If you can get a table you’ll be welcomed with a warm friendly smile and consistent good service throughout your dining experience.
Jorge and his wife Eleanor are passionate about supporting the transformation of the Norwich food scene which has been pretty dull for a number of years. However, with the contribution of small eateries like Jorge’s, Norwich is the starting to show positive signs of improvement due to the different cultural influences. Definitely something to look forward to!
Although the location of Jorge’s is city centre-based, it’s perfect for a spot of lunch and shopping, or dinner with a loved one or small group of friends. Whilst there’s no parking directly outside the restaurant, you can easily park in the local multi-storey carpark just a few minutes walk away. Whether you’re going for lunch or dinner, definitely give this lovely restaurant a visit – you’ll find authentic Portuguese food that’s full of bite, depth and flavour.
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