Cambridge, a city renowned for its prestigious university and historical significance, is also a hidden gem for food enthusiasts. My recent trip to this vibrant city was not only a journey through centuries-old architecture and lush green landscapes but also a culinary adventure that left my taste buds craving for more.
In this blog, I will take you through six of the best dining spots I discovered, complete with detailed descriptions of their locations, special offers, prices, the food I savored, my personal experiences, recommendation ratings, and nearby attractions.
1. The Eagle Pub
Location: 8 Benet St, Cambridge CB2 3QN, United Kingdom
Overview: Steeped in history, The Eagle Pub is one of Cambridge’s most iconic dining spots. Known as the place where Watson and Crick announced their discovery of the DNA double helix, this pub combines historical significance with excellent food.
Special Offers and Prices: The Eagle offers a traditional British menu with specials that change weekly. Prices are reasonable, with main courses ranging from £12 to £20. They also have a lunchtime deal that includes a main course and a drink for £15.
What I Tasted: I opted for the classic fish and chips, a British staple. The crispy batter and perfectly cooked fish were complemented by chunky chips and mushy peas. For dessert, I had the sticky toffee pudding, which was rich, moist, and utterly delightful.
Experience and Feelings: Dining at The Eagle felt like stepping back in time. The wooden interiors, dim lighting, and historic memorabilia made the experience uniquely charming. The food was comforting and delicious, a perfect blend of tradition and taste.
Recommendation Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nearby Attractions: Just a short walk from The Eagle is the Fitzwilliam Museum, home to a world-class collection of art and antiquities. The Corpus Clock, a modern yet striking timepiece, is also nearby and definitely worth a visit.
Booking Platform: Reservations can be made through their website or popular platforms like OpenTable.
2. Fitzbillies
Location: 51-52 Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RG, United Kingdom
Overview: Famous for its Chelsea buns, Fitzbillies is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. This bakery and café have been serving Cambridge since 1920 and is beloved by locals and tourists alike.
Special Offers and Prices: Fitzbillies offers a variety of baked goods, sandwiches, and hot meals. Prices are moderate, with cakes and pastries ranging from £3 to £5, and mains from £10 to £15. They also offer afternoon tea specials for around £20 per person.
What I Tasted: I couldn’t resist the famous Chelsea bun, which was sticky, sweet, and packed with currants. I also tried their avocado toast with poached eggs, a delightful blend of creamy avocado and perfectly cooked eggs on freshly baked bread.
Experience and Feelings: Fitzbillies has a warm, inviting atmosphere with a mix of modern and vintage décor. The smell of freshly baked goods wafts through the air, making it impossible to leave without trying something. The food lived up to the hype, especially the Chelsea bun.
Recommendation Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nearby Attractions: King’s College Chapel, one of the most iconic buildings in Cambridge, is just a short walk away. The beautiful University Botanic Garden is also nearby, offering a peaceful retreat amidst lush greenery.
Booking Platform: Reservations for afternoon tea can be made through their website.
3. Midsummer House
Location: Midsummer Common, Cambridge CB4 1HA, United Kingdom
Overview: As a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Midsummer House is the epitome of fine dining in Cambridge. Located on the banks of the River Cam, it offers a dining experience that is both luxurious and memorable.
Special Offers and Prices: The restaurant offers a tasting menu for around £155 per person, with a wine pairing option for an additional £95. It’s a splurge, but worth every penny for a special occasion.
What I Tasted: The tasting menu featured a series of meticulously crafted dishes, each more exquisite than the last. Highlights included the roasted scallops with caviar and the venison with blackberry and chocolate. The dessert, a caramelized white chocolate with passionfruit, was the perfect ending to a flawless meal.
Experience and Feelings: Dining at Midsummer House is an immersive experience. The elegant interiors, attentive service, and breathtaking views of the River Cam create a magical ambiance. The food was exceptional, each dish a work of art that delighted all the senses.
Recommendation Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nearby Attractions: Midsummer Common itself is a lovely place for a post-meal stroll. The nearby Jesus Green offers additional green space and is a great spot for a leisurely walk along the river.
Booking Platform: Reservations can be made through the restaurant’s website or through platforms like Bookatable.
4. Trinity Restaurant
Location: 15 Trinity St, Cambridge CB2 1TB, United Kingdom
Overview: Situated in the heart of Cambridge, Trinity Restaurant offers a contemporary dining experience with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
Special Offers and Prices: Trinity offers a set lunch menu for £25 and a dinner menu with prices ranging from £15 to £30 per dish. They also have a pre-theatre menu for those catching a show nearby.
What I Tasted: I enjoyed the roasted lamb with seasonal vegetables and a red wine jus. The meat was tender and flavorful, complemented perfectly by the fresh vegetables. For dessert, the lemon tart with raspberry sorbet was a refreshing end to the meal.
Experience and Feelings: The modern décor and relaxed atmosphere of Trinity made for a pleasant dining experience. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall enjoyment. The food was expertly prepared and beautifully presented.
Recommendation Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nearby Attractions: The restaurant is close to the Cambridge Arts Theatre, perfect for an evening of culture. The nearby Market Square is also a lively spot to explore, offering a variety of stalls and local produce.
Booking Platform: Reservations can be made via their website or through OpenTable.
5. The Cambridge Chop House
Location: 1 King’s Parade, Cambridge CB2 1SJ, United Kingdom
Overview: The Cambridge Chop House is a favorite among meat lovers, offering a menu centered around hearty British dishes and prime cuts of meat.
Special Offers and Prices: The Chop House offers a set menu for £20 for two courses or £25 for three courses. Main dishes range from £15 to £30, depending on the cut and type of meat.
What I Tasted: I opted for the 28-day aged rib-eye steak, served with hand-cut chips and a side of garlic mushrooms. The steak was cooked to perfection, juicy and full of flavor. I finished the meal with a traditional sticky toffee pudding.
Experience and Feelings: The rustic interior and bustling atmosphere of the Chop House provided a warm and inviting dining experience. The food was rich and satisfying, making it a must-visit for meat enthusiasts.
Recommendation Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nearby Attractions: The restaurant is situated opposite King’s College Chapel, making it an ideal spot for a meal after exploring the college. The nearby St Bene’t’s Church, the oldest church in Cambridge, is also worth a visit.
Booking Platform: Reservations can be made through their website or on platforms like ResDiary.
6. The Old Bicycle Shop
Location: 104 Regent St, Cambridge CB2 1DP, United Kingdom
Overview: Once a bicycle shop, this quirky eatery has been transformed into a popular restaurant and bar, offering a unique dining experience with a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
Special Offers and Prices: The Old Bicycle Shop offers a variety of small plates and main dishes, with prices ranging from £8 to £18. They also have a weekend brunch menu and daily specials.
What I Tasted: I tried the vegan jackfruit burger, served with sweet potato fries and a tangy slaw. The burger was flavorful and satisfying, proving that plant-based options can be just as delicious as their meat counterparts. For dessert, the chocolate avocado mousse was a surprisingly decadent treat.
Experience and Feelings: The eclectic décor, featuring old bicycles and vintage memorabilia, created a fun and relaxed atmosphere. The staff were friendly and accommodating, and the food was both creative and delicious.
Recommendation Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nearby Attractions: The restaurant is close to Parker’s Piece, a large green space perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll. The Cambridge University Botanic Garden is also within walking distance, offering a beautiful escape into nature.
Booking Platform: Reservations can be made through their website or on platforms like OpenTable.
Cambridge is a city that offers more than just academic prestige and historic charm; it is a culinary destination waiting to be explored. Each of these six dining spots provided a unique and memorable experience, reflecting the diversity and richness of Cambridge’s food scene.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, I highly recommend taking the time to savor the flavors of this remarkable city.
Tags: Best Restaurants in Cambridge, Culinary Delights of Cambridge