Cambridge is a city that needs little introduction. Famed for its centuries-old university, majestic architecture, and postcard-worthy punting days along the River Cam, it has lots to offer locals and international tourists alike; not least of which, its restaurants, cafes and generally-exceptional food scene.
From fine-dining restaurants (worth a trip in their own right) to cozy coffee spots and pubs with surprising food pedigrees, here are a few must-visit spots for your next trip to Cambridge.
Restaurant Twenty Two
Inside Restaurant Twenty Two, Cambridge
At the pinnacle of Cambridge’s fine dining scene, the team at Restaurant Twenty Two are masters of the culinary arts (and have the Michelin star to prove it). This intimate venue, with just enough space to host twenty-two covers, offers a sophisticated menu that evolves with the seasons, ensuring that only the freshest local ingredients make it to your plate. Not that you’ll have seen them presented in the same way before. Both ‘full’ and ‘short’ tasting menus are available, but we’ll advise going for the gold; the cornish crab (with turnip, apple, and jalapeño) and 40-day aged Hereford beef (with broccoli, horseradish and fermented mushroom) are unmissable, and the ‘soft drink’ flight proved the best of my life thus far. At £145 [$184] for four “snacks”, bread & butter that will change your life, and six perfect dishes, you simply can’t get better.
22 Chesterton Rd, Cambridge CB4 3AX
Vanderlyle
Vanderlyle, Cambridge
Those yet to be convinced of plant-based dining’s potential should venture over to Vanderlyle, where cashew & clementine macarons, decadent chocolate & tahini brownies and oyster mushroom milk buns reign supreme. The restaurant works directly with farmers, growers and producers to create ingredient-centric dishes (and regeneratively-grown ingredients where possible. It’s small but extremely popular, with new reservations released a month at a time, on the first Tuesday of every month at 12pm. Definitely one worth planning ahead for.
38 Mill Rd, Petersfield, Cambridge CB1 2AD
The Cambridge Blue
Don’t let its pub status fool you; The Cambridge Blue is home to some of the best burgers in the city – nay, the country. This beloved local haunt offers a relaxed atmosphere, an extensive selection of real ales and craft beers (with up to 14 real ales, 12 keg beers and 7 real ciders on at any one time), and burgers that are juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. It’s the ideal spot for a casual meal with friends or a laid-back evening out.
85-87 Gwydir St, Cambridge CB1 2LG
Fin Boys
Seafood lovers, rejoice; Fin Boys is committed to all things ‘catch of the day’, with a menu that showcases the best of the ocean’s bounty (quite literally moved from sea to plate every day). The focus on quality and sustainability does nothing to hinder the ‘foodie’ nature of the restaurant, either; dishes like homemade Cavatelli with brown shrimps, zucchini, marjoram and dried chilli are delectably creative and classics, like seared tuna, are heightened with the addition of Oscietra caviar and gochujang. As an added bonus, you can take some top-quality fresh fish home to experiment, too.
2 Mill Rd, Petersfield, Cambridge CB1 2AD
Navadhanya
Inside Navadhanya, Cambridge
While Cambridge is not lacking in a decent range of Indian restaurants, nothing competes with Navadhanya. This upscale-yet-incredibly-welcoming restaurant reimagines traditional Indian dishes with contemporary flair, resulting a dining experience that is both refined and deeply satisfying. From rich curries to thoughtfully-heightened seafood dishes, there is truly something for everyone. The scallop Moilee (seared scallops, clamp moilee, mango chilli salsa, dried shrimp and charcoal leaf), which is part of their seven-course tasting menu option, is a revelation and the five-glass wine pairing, at £23 [$29], is fairly astounding value for money.
70 Newmarket Rd, Cambridge CB5 8DZ
Cambridge Wine Merchants
A haven for wine enthusiasts, Cambridge Wine Merchants has a number of locations spread across its namesake city, but we love Bridge Street’s near-riverside location most. This unique spot offers a curated selection of wines from around the world complemented by fresh cheeses, charcuterie, and small plates. It’s the perfect place to unwind, savor a glass of your favorite vintage, indulge in a slice (or two) of Devon Blue, and take a bottle or two of something special away.
31/32 Bridge Street, Cambridge, CB2 1UJ
Sticks n Sushi Cambridge
If, like many-a-tourist before, you’ve spent the day wandering around Cambridge colleges struggling to find somewhere great to eat, I must guide you towards Sticks n Sushi. As the company’s first restaurant outside of London, the Cambridge menu features an array of high-quality sushi, sashimi, and yakitori, prepared with meticulous attention to detail, and its listed-building takeover only adds to the atmosphere, offset with sleek, modern design. A great spot for everything from a business lunch to date night.
2 Wheeler St, Cambridge CB2 3QJ
Jack’s Gelato
Jack’s Gelato, Cambridge
No culinary tour of Cambridge would be complete without a visit to Jack’s Gelato. Beloved for its creamy gelato and unique flavors, this local favorite is the perfect place to indulge your sweet tooth. The flavors change in both locations every day, but there’s always a few vegan options on the menu to enjoy (coconut & ube being a firm favorite). Look out for manuka honey & white miso, salted oreo and mezcal cake when available.
6 Bene’t St, Cambridge CB2 3QN
Thirsty
Part bar, part bottle shop, Thirsty features a rotating line-up of food trucks (all of which park outside), offering an ever-changing menu of street food delights. Whether you’re in the mood for gourmet tacos, wood-fired pizzas, or something else entirely, Thirsty provides a fun, casual way to try new cuisines – and excellent drinks, of course. It’s a lively spot that captures the spirit of Cambridge’s student life with panache.
46 Chesterton Rd, Cambridge CB4 1EN
Little Petra
Little Petra is not to be missed. This humble restaurant offers a taste of Jordanian hospitality (and cuisine, natch) with dishes that are truly authentic, delicious and extraordinarily generous. Get as many people together as possible, to share a taste of everything, but don’t miss the Bamia Okra (slow-cooked in Arabic spices) and the traditional Jordanian lamb moussaka.
60 Hills Rd, Cambridge CB2 1LA
Maison Clement Bakery
For the best baked goods in Cambridge, look no further than Maison Clement Bakery. This French bakery offers a mouthwatering selection of breads (see: baguettes so good you’ll want to bring a basket and beret), pastries and cakes, all made using traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients. It’s a little piece of Paris in Cambridge, and a must-visit for anyone with a penchant for handmade sausage rolls (my people).
28 Hills Rd, Cambridge CB2 1LA
Midsummer House
Midsummer House, Cambridge
Last but certainly not least we have Midsummer House, the two Michelin-starred showcase of all that’s made Daniel Clifford a celebrated leader of “modern British” cookery. Backing onto the River Cam, the Victorian villa-cum-restaurant is a destination in every sense of the word. Expect the unexpected; the Bloody Mary (celery sorbet, lime, and Worcestershire sauce) and Anjou Squab Pigeon (with a mushroom and chocolate purée, bitter leaves, sour cherry, and beetroot reduction) are works of culinary art and, while the tasting menu is an investment at £250 [£318], the lunch menu — at £150 [$190] — is a bit of a steal.
Midsummer Common, Cambridge CB4 1HA