Where to Eat in Cambridge, UK

Hungry for a Cambridge culinary adventure? You’re in the right place. From farm-to-fork menus to sustainable foodie start-ups and the city’s best-loved bakery, these are the locations set to tickle your taste buds

While Cambridge might not be recognised as the birthplace of some globally famed dish or the latest culinary craze, the city is home to a buoyant foodie scene. Having experienced in recent years an influx of artisan bakers, creative chefs and independent makers, the honey-hued high street has welcomed an explosion of flavours. Follow us as we visit an old-school bakery, top-notch watering hole and beguiling bistro.

restaurant

Fitzbillies

Even those who have never visited Cambridge are familiar with Fitzbillies, aka the best place in the city to snag a Chelsea bun. Founded in 1920 by brothers Ernest and Arthur Mason, the bakery was rescued from folding in 2011 by food writer and presenter Tim Hayward and partner Alison Wright. Having successfully rejuvenated the business, the pair have now opened a smaller, grab-and-go outpost in the north of the city. We still recommend swinging by the original Trumpington Street store, though, partly for its history, but largely so that you can enjoy an afternoon tea with your sweet treat. Not visiting anytime soon? No problem. You can get a box of the sticky buns delivered straight to your front door.

Address

51-52 Trumpington St, CB2 1RG

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Pint Shop

Old-school boozers are increasingly rivalling design-driven restaurants, with their no-nonsense attitude, first-class menus and swanky interiors. Step forward, Pint Shop. Located just a short stroll from Cambridge Market, this Grade II-listed building has become a favourite among free-wheeling students looking for great grub and a stellar cocktail offering. Come hungry, to feast on feel-good favourites such as Scotch eggs, lamb chops and Jamaican jerk chicken. It would be rude not to take a peek at the drinks menu, especially when it stocks 50 different gin labels - the pink grapefruit is refreshingly zingy.

Address

10 Peas Hill, CB2 3PN

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The Senate

This traditional French bistro is the sort of place you plan to quickly pop into but end up staying for the entire evening. Make it your choice for a romantic meal with your main squeeze and work through the sharing menu. Highlights include cheeseboards, patatas bravas and a platter of cured meats. Visit on a balmy evening to snag an outdoor seat, where chequered tablecloths and vistas of the stunning St Mary's Church make for sublime dining.

Address

1 St Mary's Passage, CB2 3PQ

old-bicycle-shop-exterior

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Old Bicycle Shop

In 2013, the UK’s oldest bicycle shop, Howes Cycles – Charles Darwin’s favoured spot for a new pair of wheels – sadly closed its doors for the last time, following an impressive 173 years of trading. Today, the landmark has been transformed into one of Cambridge’s coolest restaurants. The design pays tribute to the building’s past, with bare-brick walls clad with saddles and handlebars, and wooden tables strewn with chain-cog candle holders. From the all-day vegan- and vegetarian-friendly menus, the brunch selection is our favourite. Head down before 3pm to enjoy the likes of scrambled tofu, smoked salmon and poached eggs.

Address

104 Regent St, CB2 1DP