How It All Began
And How We Got To Where We Are
Our Mission
To be the best steakhouse in Norfolk
In 2019 we opened as “Steak in the Stix at The Ratcatchers”.
The Mission was to be the best Steakhouse in Norfolk, and the Vision was to “Bring a slice of the city to the sticks”.
Today the mission remains the same but the vision has developed.
Our Vision
Meat. Bread. Pasta.
In 2023 Lydia joined Michal as a partner in the business and together they fine tuned their vision. The Ratcatchers is a stylish, modern and cosy environment, but instead of bringing a slice of the city, the pair wanted to put a spotlight onto the amazing produce Norfolk has to offer.
It became more than just serving the best steaks, it is about connection, an understanding and respect for where the beef comes from and Meat Bread Pasta was born.
Our Ethos
Great food starts with great ingredients
Six simple words, built on one belief: great food begins with great ingredients.
We proudly produce everything on our menu from scratch in our kitchen, baking our own bread daily, hand rolling pastas, doing all our own butchery and utilising every part of the Norfolk Beef into ragu, jus, tallow and more.
The People
We are an independently ran business, with a core team of just 3
Michal, Lydia & Jacek
Head Chef
Michal
Michal’s cooking is built on fresh, honest food, made with care and precision. He champions local Norfolk produce, working closely with farmers and suppliers who share his respect for quality.
With a particular passion for meat and butchery, Michal has worked closely with Alex from Clarkes Farm, to refine his butchery skills ensuring every cut is handled with attention and purpose.
His drive to open his own restaurant came from his passion of cooking food that people simply love to eat.
Michal brings that same dedication to every dish, overseeing each plate from kitchen to table. Every ingredient, and every detail reflects his belief that exceptional food comes from care, skill, and a genuine love for what he does — creating meals that not only satisfy the appetite but also leave a lasting impression.
Front of House
Lydia
Lydia has been part of The Ratcatchers story since 2019, starting front of house and growing into her role as co-owner. Her background in hospitality and love for great service shape every detail of the guest experience.
With warm welcomes & genuine conversations, Lydia leads the front of house with the belief that thoughtful, authentic and personable service provides the best experience. Its not fast dining, it is intimate, careful and considered.
Her focus is simple, to create a space where guests feel welcome, cared for, and never rushed, ensuring everyone leaves happy, full, and already planning their next visit.
Sous Chef
Jacek
Jacek has been with The Ratcatchers since day one, and for over 10 years, he’s been Michal’s right-hand man in the kitchen. Every plate that leaves the pass carries his attention to detail — from presentation to precision, nothing is overlooked.
He is the mastermind behind all things sweet at The Ratcatchers, crafting our dessert menu and delicate afternoon tea cakes with care and creativity. His love of bread has also shaped one of our signature touches: fresh focaccia, baked in-house every day, fragrant and still warm from the oven.
For Jacek, the kitchen is about craft, consistency, and a deep pride in every dish — and it shows in every bite our guests enjoy.
The Restaurant
Stylish. Modern. Cosy.
Every corner of the restaurant, bar and outside space has been
carefully thought out to offer the most comfortable dining experience.