About This Pub
Ah, Louis Marchesi – it's one of those pubs that just feels like a proper slice of Norwich history, tucked away in this old Grade II listed building where you can imagine tales from the past unfolding over a pint. I love how they've kept that authentic, old-fashioned British pub vibe while adding a few modern touches, like their selection of local gins and rotating real ales that make every visit feel fresh. The staff are an absolute gem, always chatting away and making you feel right at home, and the food doesn't disappoint either – think hearty dishes that pair perfectly with a drink or two. It's brilliant for catching up with mates, whether you're enjoying live music on the weekend or soaking up the sun on their bijou roof terrace. But, let's be honest, it does have its downsides; evenings can turn a bit chaotic with the noise from crowds, and I've heard a few grumbles about drinks not always tasting quite right or long waits at the bar when things get busy. Plus, the toilets aren't always as spotless as they could be, which is a shame in such a characterful spot. Overall, it's a solid choice for a night out if you're up for a lively atmosphere, but maybe plan ahead for quieter times if you fancy a more relaxed pint.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The atmosphere is absolutely charming, with its historical Grade II listed building that really transports you back in time – perfect for a cosy catch-up over drinks.
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The staff are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, always ready with a smile and great recommendations on local ales, ciders, and gins.
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They've got a fantastic selection of drinks, including rotating local real ales and some top-notch gins from Norfolk – it's a treat for anyone who loves exploring regional brews.
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The food is spot on; proper quality pub grub served up by their chef, with options like fish or chicken dishes that hit the spot, especially if you're popping in for a meal.
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It's a welcoming spot for events, with live music, bands, and even a roof terrace for sunny days, making it ideal for a lively night out or a relaxed gathering.
Cons
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It can get quite noisy in the evenings, especially when crowds roll in, which might make it tough for a quiet chat – though that's part and parcel of a buzzing pub scene.
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Some drinks, like the red wine mentioned in a review, might not always hit the mark, coming across as a bit off or unusual.
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On busier nights, queues at the bar can build up, so you might end up waiting a while if they're short-staffed.
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The toilets could use a bit more attention to keep everything up to scratch, as it's not always as clean as you'd hope.
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The place has a mix of vibes depending on the time; it might feel more like a nightclub with live bands on weekends, which isn't everyone's cup of tea if you're after something mellow.
Contact Information
17 Tombland, Norwich NR3 1HR
+441603763099
Pub
Opens at 16:30
Opening Hours
Monday (Today) | 16:30 - 23:00 |
Tuesday | 16:30 - 23:00 |
Wednesday | 16:30 - 23:00 |
Thursday | 16:30 - 23:00 |
Friday | 12:30 - 00:00 |
Saturday | 12:30 - 00:00 |
Sunday | Closed |
Recent Reviews
Wow! Wandered in on a Friday night randomly. There was an incredible band playing (extremely loud in the pub itself) so we sat outside and listened. Staff really friendly. Our red wine was ..... odd ...... like Vimto.
Timing was everything, between 2pm and 5pm you can have a nice meal and a chat, 5pm the office walers pile in and are noisy, if you like hustle and bustle great, but it came with a bunch of girls who were in competition to be noticed and were annoyingly high pitched and drowned out everyone else's conversations, shame as the only option was to leave - the pub and staff are fantastic and I will be back a little earlier next time
Mainly a night club venue with live bands at the weekends.We enjoyed there 'bijou' roof terrace on a sunny day. Had a enjoyable bottle of Sauvignon Blanc from Chile and excellent fish or chicken dish from the Mains menu.
Friendly staff, tasty food, toilets could do with a clean up.
Great multi room music venue in the heart of Norwich with a lovely, welcoming atmosphere. A couple more bar staff on busy nights might not go amiss though. Not sure if the long queues at the bar are the norm there or if I just happened to catch them on a short staffed night!
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