The Bodega, a New York-style sandwich shop on Norwich Market, has won the Street Food Vendor award at the Norfolk magazine Food & Drink Awards 2024. 

The Bodega is known for its substantial sandwiches filled with fresh local ingredients.   

This summer, the business took part in approximately 18 pop-ups, events and festivals, with a view to attend an event every weekend from spring to the end of summer across next year.  

The judges said The Bodega excels with its well-run operation and passionate team.   

Owner Edd Watkinson’s enthusiasm and inventive menu shines through, with superbly flavoured and visually impressive sandwiches.   

The strong social media presence and growth plans for event catering reflect a clear, successful business strategy.  

Following The Bodega’s win, Edd said: “It’s incredible. To be acknowledged by some incredible chefs who judged it, and in front of the best chefs in the county means a lot to us.  

“We’re all so lucky that we just love what we do, that’s the only reason we do it!  

“To be able to have recognition from people, that means a lot.” 

Finalist: The Chocolate Bar Baker  

A chocoholic’s haven, The Chocolate Bar Baker originally started making handmade cakes before diversifying to create chocolate bars in the four years since launch.  

The family business toured the country while serving desserts from a street food trailer before settling in its permanent location on Norwich Market. It became a limited company last year.   

The judges were impressed with The Chocolate Bar Baker’s range and the ability to cater events. It combines excellent branding with a passionate approach, providing delicious, reasonably priced treats.  

Finalist: The Durban Grill  

The Durban Grill is a mobile South African street food van catering for events, weddings, private functions and more.  

It specialises in traditional Zulu and South African recipes, including the use of exotic meats such as ostrich, buffalo and crocodile. It also uses local suppliers for some ingredients, and regularly attends pop-ups across the county.   

The judges said The Durban Grill stands out with its unique, flavourful menu and clear growth plans.   

They added that the street food van has strong potential for further success.  

Finalist: Yellow Door Eats  

Established in 2020 during lockdown, Yellow Door Eats is a family-run, wood-fired pizza catering company based in Hethersett that is passionate about supporting the community.  

Every pizza is made from Yellow Door Eats’ own 48-hour proofed dough. Fresh, quality local ingredients provide the toppings, and the business has even recently started growing its own herbs and vegetables to use.  

The judges commented on the excellent food offering and the strong commitment to the local community. They were impressed to learn about their growth journey so far. 

To find out more about all of the Norfolk Food & Drink Awards 2024 winners, please click here.  

Keep an eye out for details of next year's awards at norfolkfada.co.uk