Buddy’s Bar & Grill is a brand-new bar and grill opening in Norwich, inspired by the golden age of American diners, speakeasies and social clubs.

With a menu built around flame-grilled classics, traditional cocktails and craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere, Buddy’s wanted to feel like a neighbourhood staple from day one.

THE CHALLENGE

As a brand-new establishment, Buddy’s faced a few key challenges:

Zero brand recognition – They needed a strong identity that would instantly feel familiar and inviting.
Competitive market – Norwich has plenty of dining and drinking spots; Buddy’s needed to stand out.
Authenticity – The owners wanted a brand that felt rooted in history, as if it had been around for decades, but that also resonated with modern cult food brands.
Versatility – The branding had to work across signage, menus, social media, and merchandise.

THE SOLUTION

We created a bold and engaging visual identity that blends vintage charm with modern appeal, ensuring Buddy’s feels like an established local favourite from the start.

1. STRONG, TIMELESS LOGO DESIGN

The Buddy’s logo is inspired by mid-century American signage—bold, slightly nostalgic, and built to last. The typography is classic yet distinctive, giving the brand a unique signature look.

2. RICH, NOSTALGIC COLOUR PALETTE

A mix of deep reds, warm neutrals, and vintage greens sets the tone, evoking the cosy, familiar feel of an old-school bar & grill. This palette works seamlessly across digital and print materials, reinforcing the brand’s identity.

3. ENGAGING BRAND VOICE & MESSAGING

The tone of voice for Buddy’s is friendly, no-nonsense, and full of personality - just like the restaurant itself. From menu descriptions to social media captions, the copy exudes warmth, humor, and authenticity.

4. AUTHENTIC DESIGN ELEMENTS

We developed a set of supporting design assets, including:

Vintage-inspired custom illustrations
Hand-drawn elements for signage and social media
A mix of bold typography and subtle textures to add depth

5. COHESIVE ONLINE & OFFLINE PRESENCE

From eye-catching menu design to an engaging Instagram presence, this visual identity ensures that Buddy’s brand identity translates beautifully across all touchpoints, making it easy for customers to recognise and connect with the brand.