A new café has opened in a Norfolk market town offering a cosy atmosphere and fresh homemade food.

The Dial House Café, in Downham Market, launched today (December 20) and offers a  menu of breakfasts, lunches and afternoon teas.

Diss Mercury: The Dial House Café has opened in Downham Market offering afternoon teasThe Dial House Café has opened in Downham Market offering afternoon teas (Image: The Dial House Café)

Diss Mercury: The Dial House Café has opened in Downham MarketThe Dial House Café has opened in Downham Market (Image: The Dial House Café)

The family-run business is led by chef Yosita Nongna, 45, from Thailand.

Ms Nongna moved over to London in 2006 and worked as a chef in restaurants for 15 years - but this is the first place of her own.

Diss Mercury: The Dial HouseThe Dial House (Image: The Dial House)

In June 2021, she moved to Norwich with her husband, Rafiek Versmissen, 41, and two sons Felix, seven and Joshua, 21, and took over The Dial House.

Her eldest son, Joshua, helps Yosita in the running of the café, alongside their cat, Biff, who helps to greet visitors.

Diss Mercury: Joshua helps Yosita in the running of the caféJoshua helps Yosita in the running of the café (Image: The Dial House)

Diss Mercury: The Dial House Café has opened in Downham MarketThe Dial House Café has opened in Downham Market (Image: The Dial House Café)

The menu ranges from £5 to £15, offering English breakfasts, crêpes, club sandwiches, sharing boards and much more.

Like many, the family's move out of the big city was prompted by the coronavirus lockdowns and their desire to enjoy the space and lifestyle of the countryside.

After seeing the need for a café such as theirs in Downham Market, the family created the intimate setting of just 12 seats.

Diss Mercury: The Dial House Café has opened in Downham MarketThe Dial House Café has opened in Downham Market (Image: The Dial House Café)

The family's aim is to be "Downham's best-kept secret".

"We are aiming for a comfortable and stylish environment while being relaxed and intimate with a countryside farmhouse theme"

Diss Mercury: The Dial House Café has opened in Downham MarketThe Dial House Café has opened in Downham Market (Image: The Dial House Café)

The Dial House is located in Railway Road, Downham Market. It is open 8am-3pm Monday-Friday, 8.30am-4pm Saturday and 9am-4pm Sunday. 

Over Christmas, the café will be open as usual, only closed on Christmas Day.

There is no parking on site.