A family-run restaurant is looking to expand after "steady growth" despite the hospitality sector struggling amid the cost of living crisis.

Harry's Soul Train was started by couple Donna Newby and Marc Ward, from Tuckswood, in 2020 and is named after their son Harry who works alongside them.

In May 2022, the pair opened Harry's Soul Station restaurant inside the former Fat Percy pub in Adelaide Street in Norwich. 

Norwich Evening News: Harry's Soul Train was launched in 2020Harry's Soul Train was launched in 2020 (Image: Harry's Soul Train)

And after a successful first year in NR2, the couple is hoping to take on new staff and expand the business.

"We're seeing really steady growth year on year and couldn't ask for better landlords in Colin and Will who own the Fat Cat group," Ms Newby said.

"We're starting to see a lot of momentum and are looking to expand our team so we can think about looking at new premises.

"Right now we're working 60-hour weeks and don't have the time to think about it but we hope with growing a good team we'll be able to in the near future."

READ MORE: Cat cafe with friendly felines, cakes and alcohol to open in Norwich

Norwich Evening News: Harry's Soul Station opens in Norwich - pictured are Molly, Marc Ward, Donna Newby and Keira.

Along with their food offerings and pub-style atmosphere, Harry's has hosted a range of community-focused events that have included live music from local musicians which Ms Newby said was part and parcel of growing their own community.

She said: "We have really, really lovely customers and we're starting to notice regulars coming in with their families.

"Going forward we definitely want to host more community events and grow our live music scene as well using art from local Norwich artists to decorate the restaurant."

Norwich Evening News: Visitors enjoying their breakfast at Harry's Soul StationVisitors enjoying their breakfast at Harry's Soul Station (Image: Brittany Woodman/Archant)

But Harry's has been hit similarly to other service industry businesses during the cost of living crisis which has seen pubs and restaurants in Norfolk call time like never before.

Ms Newby said the "trends have certainly changed" during her 20 years in the industry.

She added: "We used to be able to look at the books and think 'ok we can expect a good week here and a slower one there' but now it's completely different - nothing has any rhyme or reason to it anymore."