Ipswich is set to become the focal point of food and drink culture as several new restaurants and takeaways prepare to open their doors next year. With projections for 2025 labeled as the 'year of food and drink,' the buzz around these establishments is palpable.
Among the newcomers is Slap and Pickle, which will be situated at Tower Street Food Hall. This chain, which originated from a pop-up shop six years ago, will serve mouth-watering options like smash burgers, chicken burgers, wings, and loaded fries. Although precise opening dates remain elusive, anticipation is building.
Moto Pizza, taking over the former Takayama location at 26 Fore Street, is also set to delight local pizza enthusiasts. Known for their bottomless pizza offerings at £18.50 and lunchtime specials for just £13.50, this venue promises to be another great addition to Ipswich’s culinary scene.
Another much-anticipated opening is Bubble Tealicious, which will launch on Tacket Street at the site of the former Artacom mobile phone repair shop. This Colchester-based brand will offer an array of bubble teas along with milkshakes and ice creams, capturing the excitement of sweet drinks among Ipswich residents. Signs indicating their impending arrival are already posted, but again, no official opening date has been confirmed.
Further enhancing the food hall dynamic will be Big Bro Bao, which is shifting from its successful venture at Beach Street in Felixstowe to Tower Street Food Hall. Expanding its reach, this Pan-Asian restaurant will focus on quick service featuring bao buns and various dim sums.
Finally, Tony's Pie & Mash is slated to open its doors at 45-47 Upper Orwell Street, serving traditional London favorites such as pie, mash, and jellied eels, starting January 2025. Founder Tony Bayliss expressed his eagerness to bring this nod to London's heritage to the Ipswich populace, saying, "Bringing the same authentic experience to Ipswich feels like a dream come true."
From new restaurants to food trucks making their mark, Ipswich food trends have also captured attention on social media. Recently, Food Review Club, known for its candid critiques, showcased Jus' Winging It at the Lattice Barn pub following its successful run since March. With nearly one million views on their latest video, they reviewed the delicious chicken wings and innovative new items like mozzarella wedges. "This is one of the elite traders pushing new boundaries and doing new things," praised the reviewer. He even referred to Jus' Winging It as "Maybe it is even Ipswich's best-kept secret."
On the public safety front, Suffolk police are making strides with their pilot program titled Enhanced Video Response. Launching on January 2, 2025, this service aims to provide immediate video access for victims reporting crimes. This innovative approach allows victims to relay details to officers efficiently, improving communication and evidence collection. Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Alice Scott remarked, "The EVR pilot is an exciting step in technological progression, providing greater channel choice to victims when reporting a crime in Suffolk."
Community dynamics are also being shaped by the Ipswich Borough Council. Recently, the council agreed to grant an alcohol license to Foodtwist Stores, located on Norwich Road, even after objections from police concerning prior illegal sales. Owner Philippa Abayomi-Taiwo expressed her devastation over the findings, saying, "Sometimes you think you know so much of what you’re getting yourself Into until you’re in it." The local police outlined serious community concerns including rises in anti-social behavior, but conditions were placed on the license to diminish risks.
The Winter Warmth Campaign, organized by residents of Henley House, has also seen commendable success this season. Residents wrapped Christmas gifts delivered to the Foxhall Centre Lavender Trust, illustrating the caring spirit among the community. A spokesperson from Henley House acknowledged the support received, expressing, "A huge thank you to the Foxhall Centre Lavender Trust for welcoming us."
Lastly, crime-related issues have been pervasive, with Suffolk’s law enforcement making significant strides against gang violence. Between September 23 and November 17, police conducted extensive operations leading to more than 100 arrests and the confiscation of dangerous items, including knives, swords, and crossbows. Superintendent Andy Martin noted, “We have seen some excellent results with dangerous individuals identified, arrested, and, in many cases, charged.” Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore supported the initiatives stating, “I hope this pro-active enforcement sends out a clear message; criminals are not welcome anywhere Suffolk.”
