The Sunday Times crowned Norwich as the UK's best place to live in 2026, highlighting its vibrant independent shopping scene. The city boasts over 300 independent shops in the Norwich Lanes area. Chef George Wood, who returned to Norwich during the Covid-19 pandemic after living in Australia, London, Sri Lanka, and Japan, opened Brix and Bones, a critically acclaimed restaurant.
According to Daily Express - UK News, Wood described Norwich as a hidden gem with a homely feel, noting that locals are loyal to independent businesses. Brix and Bones is an open-fire restaurant featuring a custom-built grill in an open kitchen, where diners can sit at the chef's table. The menu focuses on sustainable, organic, and locally-sourced produce, changing weekly to reflect seasonal ingredients, including foraged items and fermented foods.
Wood said the restaurant uses only rare breeds, making it a unique experience in Norwich.