With taste buds that have a limited acceptability range eating out means scrutinizing the menu. The omelette is disappearing from many English resturants. In France and Spain it is no problem at all with omelettes readily available. One place that is etched in my memory is the restaurant by the boating lake at the Palace of Versailles. A pleasant meal, nice wine followed by an outstanding sorbet on a hot summers day in relaxing surroundings is not easily forgotten.
At the Wig & Pen by the side of Norwich's Norman Cathedral omelettes eaters can order a massive four egg creation with whatever at a very reasonable price. There is a full and varied menu to cater for all tastes. It is aptly named as the law courts are close by. A short distance down the street is the 13th century Maids Head Hotel which boasts that Queen Elizabeth I slept there in 1578. My Mother was born in a house in the small street by the side of the hotel.
The 16th century Wig & Pen opens on to St. Martins Plain accommodating tables and parasols in good weather. Is it good or bad to mention Morris Dancing has been held on the plain in recent times ? Inside there is a beamed bar and a real fire. It has a beer garden, not seen. A good range of local beers and is listed in CAMRA Good Beer Guide.
For me it is the pleasant and relaxing atmosphere that makes the Wig & Pen and ideal place to go for a lunchtime or evening meal or drink.
Wig & Pen 6 St. Martins Palace Plain, Norwich.
Norfolk. NR3 1RN.
Telephone: 01603 625891
Peter Thorndyke
