With the perfect storm of the Covid pandemic and the cost of living crisis, it has been an incredibly tough few years for the hospitality industry.

In recent months there have been widespread closures across the country, with places in Norfolk such as Frank's Bar in Norwich and the Blue Boar Inn in Great Ryburgh closing.

Here are five simple things that you can do to help Norfolk's restaurants, pubs, cafés and bars survive. 

Eastern Daily Press: Farmyard, run by Andrew Jones and Hannah Springham, is one of the independent restaurants that offers gift vouchersFarmyard, run by Andrew Jones and Hannah Springham, is one of the independent restaurants that offers gift vouchers (Image: Copyright Simon Finlay 2017)

1. Buy gift vouchers 

If you are stuck on what to get a loved one for their birthday or another occasion, then consider buying them a restaurant gift voucher.

Many places across Norfolk offer this and it will give them a much-needed boost over the quieter winter and spring months. 

READ MORE: My Makan Malaysian restaurant opens at Westlegate in Norwich

2. Give proper notice if you need to cancel

If your plans change last minute and you have booked a table somewhere then call up to cancel as soon as possible.

Every cover counts at the moment so if they were fully booked they may be able to fill it with someone on a waiting list or take a walk-in. 

3. Think of independents as well as chains

If you always go to chain restaurants then perhaps consider going to an independent once in a while to keep your money well and truly in Norfolk.

Most of the time the locally-run options are cheaper and you can try something you won't get anywhere else in the country.

Eastern Daily Press: Cheese restaurant Fizz and Fromage in Hoveton has a big social media followingCheese restaurant Fizz and Fromage in Hoveton has a big social media following (Image: Contributed)

4. Follow and support them on social media

This is something you can do that doesn't cost a penny and don't underestimate how much following restaurants and bars on social media helps.

Also post pictures to your own Instagram account and tag them if you enjoy a meal.

READ MORE: Delivery company saves Norwich restaurants £33,000 in first six months

5. Ordering takeaways directly from the restaurant 

The major platforms often take a significant chunk of money from restaurants, biting into the already tight margins.

Consider ordering directly from the restaurant, so the business keeps more and you will often spend less too. 

In the city, Norwich Urban Collective works with a number of independents and just takes a flat delivery fee.