Indulge in Culinary Delights: The Finest Restaurants in Cambridge
Cambridge, a city renowned for its architectural beauty, natural splendour, and academic prowess, also shines as a culinary destination. Beyond punting along the River Cam or exploring the remarkable Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge offers a diverse selection of top-notch restaurants.
Whether you crave Italian pasta, Middle Eastern falafel, or classic English dishes, Cambridge’s culinary scene boasts remarkable diversity and culinary excellence. After you’ve explored the city’s best attractions, consider this your guide to refuelling at the very best restaurants in Cambridge right now.
TRINITY
Trinity stands as a revered culinary gem in Cambridge, with a reputation for culinary excellence. Renowned for its seasonal tasting menus, the restaurant showcases the artistry of head chef Daniel Clifford, who skilfully transforms locally sourced ingredients into exquisite dishes. The elegant and intimate ambiance at Trinity provides the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience, making it a coveted destination for discerning food enthusiasts and special celebrations in the heart of the city.
PINT SHOP
Pint Shop, a beloved Cambridge institution, offers a warm and convivial atmosphere where guests can savour a wide array of craft beers and gins. This establishment, known for its extensive selection of local and international brews, combines the best of a traditional pub and a modern dining experience. Alongside their exceptional drink offerings, Pint Shop presents a tantalising menu featuring hearty British dishes with a contemporary twist. With its characterful setting and a commitment to showcasing the finest produce from the region, Pint Shop stands as a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
THE OLD BICYCLE SHOP
The Old Bicycle Shop, located in a historic building dating back to the 1800s, is a delightful restaurant in the heart of Cambridge. The venue exudes charm and character, with its vintage decor paying homage to its former life as a bicycle shop. It has a reputation for serving scrumptious food and a vast selection of craft beers, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists. The menu features a variety of delectable dishes, ranging from traditional British classics to modern culinary creations, all prepared with a focus on quality and flavour. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot for brunch, a leisurely lunch, or an evening of great food and drinks, The Old Bicycle Shop offers a unique and inviting experience in the heart of Cambridge.
THE ANCHOR PUB
The Anchor Pub, located on the scenic River Cam in Cambridge, is a quintessential English pub with a rich history. Known for its riverside views and extensive selection of ales, it’s a favourite spot for beer enthusiasts. The pub offers classic British pub fare, including pies, fish and chips, and vegetarian options. With its historic charm and ideal location, The Anchor is a must-visit destination to experience the essence of Cambridge.
THE RUPERT BROOKE
Nestled in the heart of Grantchester, The Rupert Brooke is a charming and historic pub named after the renowned poet. This idyllic countryside pub offers a delightful garden and terrace, perfect for al fresco dining. Guests can savour traditional British pub food with a modern twist, and the pub is celebrated for its Sunday roasts. With its picturesque setting and literary heritage, The Rupert Brooke is an inviting destination for a relaxed meal in the scenic outskirts of Cambridge.
STEM + GLORY
Stem + Glory is a beloved vegan restaurant in the heart of Cambridge, dedicated to serving innovative plant-based dishes. The restaurant’s diverse menu includes nourishing bowls, savoury burgers, vibrant salads, and delightful desserts. Stem + Glory is committed to sustainability and sources high-quality, seasonal ingredients for its creations. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply curious about plant-based cuisine, this restaurant offers a unique and delicious dining experience that caters to a range of dietary preferences. Enjoy the creative flavors and ethical dining at Stem + Glory.
THE PETERSFIELD
The Petersfield is a delightful neighbourhood pub and restaurant located in the heart of Cambridge. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, it offers a range of British and international dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re stopping by for a hearty brunch, a leisurely lunch, or a cozy dinner, The Petersfield provides a welcoming space to enjoy delicious food and a selection of fine ales, wines, and spirits. The pub’s friendly staff and charming ambiance make it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike, creating a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary pub dining in Cambridge.
THE CLARENDON ARMS
The Clarendon Arms is an enchanting gastropub nestled in the picturesque village of Clarendon, just a stone’s throw from Cambridge. This hidden gem boasts a delightful menu featuring a fusion of British and European flavours. It’s renowned for its creative and expertly prepared dishes that utilise the finest locally sourced ingredients. The charming setting, complete with an idyllic garden, makes it an ideal spot for intimate dinners, special occasions, or leisurely Sunday lunches. The Clarendon Arms takes great pride in its fine selection of wines, craft ales, and cocktails, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience that seamlessly combines traditional pub values with contemporary gastronomy.
RED LION AT GRANTCHESTER
The Red Lion in Grantchester is an iconic English pub that has charmed visitors, including famous poets and writers like Rupert Brooke and Virginia Woolf, for over a century. Nestled by the tranquil River Cam, this historic pub exudes character and warmth. Its picturesque garden is the perfect setting to enjoy classic British pub fare made from locally sourced ingredients. From sumptuous roast dinners to hearty sandwiches and ploughman’s lunches, the Red Lion offers a quintessentially British culinary experience. You can savor your meal while taking in the scenic views of Grantchester Meadows. With its timeless ambiance and rich literary heritage, the Red Lion is not just a pub; it’s a cultural and culinary treasure.
LIMONCELLO
Limoncello is a delightful Italian deli and restaurant, known for its authentic and flavourful Mediterranean cuisine. With a diverse menu that includes house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a carefully curated selection of Italian wines, this charming eatery offers a taste of Italy in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re savouring traditional dishes or enjoying fresh Mediterranean snacks, Limoncello provides an unforgettable culinary experience that transports you to the heart of Italy.
THE GELDART
The Geldart is a charming Cambridge pub with a strong focus on providing excellent British cuisine using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. With a delightful selection of dishes that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences, this pub offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for casual dining or enjoying a traditional Sunday roast. The extensive drinks menu, including a wide range of real ales and wines, ensures a satisfying visit to this quintessential British establishment.
SMOKEWORKS
Smokeworks is Cambridge’s haven for lovers of authentic American barbecue. They specialise in slow-smoked meats, tender ribs, and hearty sides that capture the essence of Southern BBQ. The rustic ambiance and well-crafted cocktails enhance the experience, making it a must-visit for those craving genuine American BBQ flavours in the heart of the city.
TU CASA
Tu Casa is a cozy and inviting restaurant in Cambridge that specialises in authentic Spanish cuisine. With a warm and rustic ambiance, it offers a delightful dining experience where you can savour traditional Spanish tapas, flavourful paellas, and a diverse array of handcrafted cocktails. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a relaxed evening with friends or a romantic dinner, Tu Casa brings the vibrant flavours of Spain to your table. The menu is thoughtfully crafted to provide an exquisite taste of Spanish gastronomy, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a culinary journey through the Iberian Peninsula.
MIDSUMMER HOUSE
Midsummer House is a prestigious two-Michelin-starred restaurant housed within a charming Victorian villa. It is renowned for its exceptional tasting menus that showcase seasonal ingredients in the most artistic and delicious presentations. The head chef, Daniel Clifford, curates a dining experience that is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece.
RESTAURANT 22
Restaurant 22 is an upscale culinary destination celebrated for its inventive British and European dishes. The restaurant places a strong emphasis on using locally sourced, fresh produce, ensuring that each plate is a delightful explosion of flavours that reflects the essence of the region.
COTTO
Cotto is an elegant Italian eatery that offers a diverse menu of house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a carefully curated selection of Italian wines. The restaurant’s commitment to using authentic Italian ingredients ensures a genuine taste of Italy in the heart of Cambridge.
ST JOHN’S CHOP HOUSE
St. John’s Chop House is an iconic British steakhouse, renowned for its premium steaks, traditional roasts, and an extensive collection of fine ales. This establishment embodies the quintessential English pub atmosphere while offering a refined dining experience.
THE OAK BISTRO
The Oak Bistro is a family-operated restaurant committed to modern British cuisine with a strong focus on sustainability and the use of locally procured ingredients. Diners can indulge in classic dishes done with a modern twist, all while enjoying the restaurant’s lovely walled garden.
PARKER’S TAVERN
Parker’s Tavern, nestled in the University Arms Hotel, is a sophisticated restaurant that reinterprets classic British dishes with a contemporary flair. The restaurant offers an array of delectable plates set in a stylish and refined ambiance, making it the perfect choice for a special dining experience.
THE GONVILLE HOTEL BRASSERIE
The Gonville Hotel Brasserie is a distinguished venue celebrated for its classic British cuisine, traditional afternoon tea, and an assortment of meticulously crafted cocktails. It provides an elegant setting where guests can savour culinary delights with a touch of sophistication.
THE SENATE BAR AND BISTRO
The Senate Bar and Bistro is a versatile establishment offering a wide range of culinary experiences. From hearty breakfasts and brunch options to an eclectic bistro menu and classic cocktails, it caters to diverse tastes in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
LA RAZA
La Raza is a vibrant restaurant and cocktail bar specialising in Spanish-inspired tapas, flavourful paellas, and a diverse array of handcrafted cocktails. With its lively atmosphere and a menu that captures the essence of Spain, it’s a fantastic place for a memorable dining experience.
GALLERIA RESTAURANT
Galleria Restaurant is located along the picturesque River Cam, offering Mediterranean and European gastronomy. Guests can relish flavourful dishes while enjoying breathtaking riverfront views, making it an ideal spot for a romantic or scenic dining experience.
THE CAMBRIDGE CHOP HOUSE
The Cambridge Chop House is a welcoming, rustic restaurant acclaimed for its delectable steaks, classic British fare, and a thoughtfully curated wine selection. The restaurant embodies the essence of British culinary traditions while providing a warm and inviting ambiance.
LITTLE PETRA
Little Petra is an intimate dining establishment that presents an enticing fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours in a cozy and inviting setting. Diners can explore an array of dishes that bring Middle Eastern culinary heritage to Cambridge.
EFES RESTAURANT
Efes Restaurant is a beloved Turkish eatery renowned for its authentic cuisine. The menu features delectable kebabs, an assortment of meze, and delightful Turkish delights, offering a gastronomic journey to the heart of Turkey in Cambridge.
TRADIZIONI
Tradizioni is an Italian culinary haven that specialises in traditional and homemade Italian dishes. The menu includes an array of delectable pasta, risotto, and pizza options, ensuring an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of Cambridge.
THE PUNTER
The Punter is a well-regarded gastropub providing an extensive selection of both British and international dishes. It is complemented by a wide range