NYC meets NRW. Loud mouth New York style sandwich shop on the historic Norwich Market. This Friday we will be hosting Bodega aka Edd at The Garnet, come down and enjoy a special made for us sandwich courtesy of The Big Deal himself.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF?

I’ve been a chef since I was 13, I’ve always loved food since my grandma taught me how to cook. Worked in everything from Michelin star restaurants to butchers to pizza shops. Started the Bodega in July 2022 as a passion project but from the first day it’s been mental and is now my full time gig. This coming year I’m starting a mobile version of the Bodega as well as a doughnut and coffee shop.

WHAT MADE YOU SET UP YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

I’ve been doing consultancy work for the last 7 years helping other people set up restaurants and kitchens. They’re all doing great now and the owners are living easy lives so I thought this time I’d do it for me. Also, I’ve seen the best and worst sides of the hospitality industry. My own businesses have a strong ethos of treating the staff and suppliers fairly and with respect, trying to do my part in bringing about a change in the industry.

WHO IS PART OF YOUR TEAM?

The team at the minute is very small! Just me, Alfie (my new chef recruit), Ria and Jude. But soon to include a few more people.

WHERE DO YOU SOURCE YOUR IDEAS/INSPIRATION?

My inspiration is partly from my travels, partly from Action Bronson shows, and a bit from my grandma. My food isn’t to show off or anything flashy, it’s just good food that I want to eat.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE?

My plan for the future… sandwich’s, doughnuts and coffee. Might put on a rave at some point too.

WHAT'S THE BEST THING ABOUT THE AREA YOU LIVE IN?

I love Norwich. The best thing about it is the people without a doubt, there’s so many interesting people with some great stories for such a small city. The food scene in Norwich right now is the best it’s been for a while, I’ve always gone out to eat a lot so I keep up with what new restaurants are opening and right now there’s the best choice there’s been for years.

Follow Edd for more mouth-watering sarnies here

WHY WE LOVE... BODEGA (ON THE MARKET)