The Wallow | Self Service Wine Bar in Norwich

36 Exchange St, Norwich NR2 1AX

About This Pub

Ah, The Wallow, what a gem in Norwich for anyone who loves a good glass of wine without the fuss. I have to say, it's one of those places that really gets it right for wine enthusiasts – you've got this brilliant self-service setup where you can top up a card, grab a glass, and dive into over 50 varieties from around the world. It's such a clever way to try before you buy, and honestly, it adds a bit of excitement to the evening, like you're on a little adventure with your drinks. The staff are top-notch too; they're always there with a smile and a helpful tip, making sure you feel welcome, especially if it's your first time. And don't even get me started on the food – those platters with meats, cheeses, and even vegan options are spot on for sharing, paired perfectly with the wines. They've got that Wednesday happy hour deal which is a lovely perk for popping in mid-week. On the flip side, if you're not keen on fiddling with machines, it might not be your ideal spot, as the self-service vibe could feel a bit novel for some folks who fancy more hands-on service. Plus, it can get cosy downstairs, which is great for a romantic chat but might not suit larger groups on busier nights. All in all, it's a fantastic spot to unwind and enjoy a balanced experience – the highs definitely outweigh any minor niggles, and I'd recommend it for anyone looking for a memorable night out in Norwich.

Pros and Cons

Pros

The self-service wine dispensers are an absolute blast – you can sample loads of different wines before committing to a full glass, making it perfect for exploring new favourites.
They've got a cracking selection of wines from all over the world, hand-picked by the team, and it's all available by taster, glass, or bottle, which feels really accessible.
The staff are genuinely friendly and helpful, always on hand to guide you through the process without being overbearing, and they've got some lovely touches like complimentary drinks for special occasions.
Happy Hour on Wednesdays is a winner, with 25% off wines if you've got a Wallow card – great for a mid-week treat – and the food platters, like the Wallow Board, are delicious and generously portioned.

Cons

It might feel a tad gimmicky for those who prefer traditional table service, as the self-service system isn't everyone's cup of tea, though you can still opt for help if you like.
The downstairs area is cosy and romantic, but it could get a bit snug if it's busy, so you might not always snag a spot for a more private gathering.

Contact Information

36 Exchange St, Norwich NR2 1AX

+441603446676

Wine bar

Opens at 12:00

Opening Hours

Monday	16:00 - 23:00
Tuesday	16:00 - 23:00
Wednesday	12:00 - 23:00
Thursday (Today)	12:00 - 23:00
Friday	12:00 - 00:00
Saturday	12:00 - 00:00
Sunday	12:00 - 20:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Took my friend for her birthday. We had a lovely evening with a Wallow platter to share, which was fab, the staff were all friendly and helpful. Really enjoyed having time to chat and bring able taste the wine before we had the whole glass was great.

Sue Flute

My friend and I had a fabulous evening at Wallow last night. Our table was ready on arrival and the lovely staff showed us how to work the self service wine dispensers. These were so much fun and allowed for samples of each wine to be purchased very reasonably. This meant we were able to try a wide variety of wines without too much impact on our wallets or our heads the next day!! The food was fresh, delicious and locally sourced and the atmosphere was cosy and inviting. We can’t wait to return

Bryony Goodchild

Cosy place. More private and romantic downstairs area with sofas. Good food and competitive prices.

Airė Illek

The Wallow is supposedly all about the fun of serving your own wine. A gimmick? Maybe? But you can still have traditional table service if preferred. It’s nice to find wine from small producers that you probably won’t find elsewhere… and the wine was good. The food was also great, we shared the ‘Wallow Board’ for one and that was plenty after a light meal elsewhere a few hours earlier. And the icing on the cake; the atmosphere and the friendly, knowledgeable staff. Definitely recommended.

Neil

It was our first time here and also my wife's birthday. We received unexpected complimentary Champagne on arrival and were guided through the process of self service and the wines by a very knowledgeable member of staff. Service was good but not intrusive. All in all a really good experience and a proper birthday treat. Highly recommended.

Steve Hunt