Essex-brand Bourgee opened the first of its brand new ‘Luxe Lounge’ restaurants in November at the Castle Mall’s Timberhill Terrace.
Launched by entrepreneur James Welling and celebrity chef Mark Baumann, who were excited to bring the brand to Norfolk, they commented “We have undergone a lot of change in the last year which has been a difficult time for us all, but we see the launch of Bourgee in Norwich as a significant moment for the brand. A chance for us to show exactly what Bourgee stands for and deliver our vision as a duo with full effect”.
New to the city…
It’s a real gem in the centre of the shopping area in Norwich. The décor inside is thoroughly modern, upstairs you will find an exquisite bar with terrace over looking Timberhill and downstairs sits a collection of tables and booths surrounding an impressive bar, stocked to the ceiling with spirits, liqueurs and mixers. Plus, all the accoutrements you’d expect for a venue with a reputation for producing stunning cocktails and innovative mixology.
Steak or Lobster?
The brand is known as the “affordable luxury” steak and lobster chain, and was founded on the belief that luxury dining can be served at affordable prices. Steak and lobster is Bourgee’s signature and before you decide, a waitress will rock up to your table with a tray displaying a selection of the best beef cuts, along with the catch of the day.
However, for vegetarians like me, lighter bites and vegetarian options are also available, there is something for everyone on the menu. Classic Sunday lunch is also served, as well as afternoon tea and an all-day brunch. Meals can be complemented with a host of wines, cocktails and draught beers from an extensive drink menu.
If you’re happy to experiment, Bourgee is the place to try something a little different, whether mojito mint mayonnaise or lobster and cheese profiteroles I can guarantee it’s pretty different.
First impressions…
Visiting the restaurant with my husband, we were greeted at the door by a friendly member of staff who took our coats and escorted us to our table. We took our seats right by the kitchen so we could see all the action first hand.
First up a warm greeting from the head chef who introduced us to the Bourgee concept and told us all about the produce they used, how the chefs had been trained and most importantly told us that the teams personal approach to food was highly important.
Its really nice when a head chef makes the effort to come out of the kitchen to come and have a chat with his customers.
First up…
After taking some recommendations from him, I opted for a simple starter of Asian Broccoli, Tempura Fried Tofu, Grenadine Onions and Toasted Pumpkin Seeds to start, it was very simple but still very tasty, the broccoli was packed full of flavour.
My husband couldn’t resist the Baked Camembert with Honey Roast Walnuts and Garlic Toasties. He wasn’t disappointed, I could tell as the dish was demolished in seconds!
The main event…
We couldn’t come to a lobster and steak house without trying some lobster. So my husband ordered the Lobster with Caramelised Onion, Garlic butter and Grilled Cheese served with Dauphinoise Potatoes. It was a whole split lobster – which had already been prepared, so no messy fingers!
I chose from the vegetarian section and went with the Wild Mushroom Risotto along with a side of Garlic Bread. It was piping hot with a creamy flavour and a decent amount of mushrooms. Plus, just the right amount to fill me up.
To finish…
Pretty full and defeated, I couldn’t handle dessert but my husband is never one to let the team down. He was blown away with the French Apple Tart with Chocolate Ice Cream and Maple Syrup, it smelt delicious!
We had a wonderful evening at Bourgee, from the modern décor, to friendly staff and quality food we found a little bit of luxury in the middle of the city.
Address: Unit 5 Castle Mall, Norwich NR1 3DD
Phone: 01603 617143
Reservations: opentable.co.uk
