June culinary updates to whet your appetite
The Burleigh Arms enters new chapter
The Burleigh Arms has appointed a new head chef, Sam Sturman, to build on the pub’s recent successes.
Having earned two AA Rosettes as well as national recognition under the direction of owner Tom Arnold, the arrival of Sam marks a natural progression for the gastropub.
Joining from The Bull Inn, Troston, where he led the kitchen to two AA Rosettes and a place in The Good Food Guide’s best pubs in Britain, Sam has also trained in some of the UK’s most respected Michelin-starred restaurants, including Midsummer House in Cambridge and Morston Hall in Norfolk. His cooking is firmly produce-led, combining technical precision with a lightness of touch that allows ingredients to take centre stage.
“Sam shares our belief in doing things properly and never standing still,” said Tom Arnold. “This is about continuing to improve, refining what we do and making sure there’s always something new.”
“The Burleigh already has a great reputation,” Sam added, “so for me it’s about building on those foundations and evolving that, making every part of the experience feel considered. It starts with the ingredients, but it’s also about how everything comes together – flavour, presentation and the overall feel when you’re here.
“We want people to leave having enjoyed their time with us, and to feel like they want to return.”
For more information or to book, visit burleigharmscambridge.co.uk
Cambridge fields to college fork
Hughes Hall, a college of the University of Cambridge, has demonstrated how going local can yield delicious results.
Working alongside suppliers such as Cambridge Organic, the Hughes Hall kitchen team rustled up a three-course meal as part of their annual Green Week in mid-March, using ingredients sourced within 20 miles of the college.
Mark Harrison, head of domestic operations at Hughes Hall, explained the reasons behind the initiative: “Many of our students come to the UK for the first time and are unaware of the incredible range of ingredients grown right here in our region.
“Cambridgeshire has a unique agricultural identity. As a largely fenland county, it’s one of the most productive areas in the country, and we’re proud to showcase the quality and character of the food grown on our doorstep.”
The event was an example of how local institutions and local food producers can work together to create deliciously sustainable and self-sufficient food systems, which strengthen community ties, support regional economies and also reduce the environmental impact.
Cambridge Organic now hopes to repeat this type of initiative as part of its work with the Procurement for Good project – a UK initiative funded by the Economic and Social Research Council. The project aims to improve sustainable food procurement across
public institutions.
Local business leader triumphs at Women in Food & Drink Awards
Amy Nicholas, director of Morgans Butchery, has been named Retail Innovator of the Year at the Women in Food & Drink Awards 2026.
Held at Hilton Bankside, London, the awards brought together leading professionals from across the sector to recognise innovation, leadership and excellence in food, drink, retail and hospitality, shining a spotlight on women who are making a significant impact and driving positive change.
Amy was also awarded highly commended in the Woman of the Year category, recognising her outstanding leadership and contribution.
Morgans Butchery is a family- run rural business based at Baythorne Hall, on the border between Suffolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire, known for championing high-welfare British meat, working closely with trusted local farmers and educating customers about where their food comes from. Since taking over the business in 2022, Amy has played a key role in transforming Morgans from near bankruptcy into a thriving, community-focused shop.
“To win Retail Innovator of the Year is an incredible honour, and being highly commended for Woman of the Year is something I’m genuinely proud of,” said Amy. “This recognition means so much to our whole team and our community who have supported us every step of the way.”
For more information about Morgans Butchery, visit morgansbutchery.co.uk
Cambridge street food truck named national award finalist
A Cambridge-based street food business has been selected as a finalist in the British Street Food Awards 2026.
Papas Locas, known for its authentic Canadian poutine and bold, globally inspired comfort food – from burgers to signature chicken and imaginative desserts – was chosen from more than 3,000 applicants to compete in the Southern heats at the end of May.
The British Street Food Awards, now in their 16th year, bring together top traders, with finalists competing for both Judge’s Choice and People’s Choice awards. Winners from each regional heat progress to the UK finals, with the opportunity to represent the UK at the European Street Food Awards.
For Papas Locas, the selection marks a significant step from local recognition to a national stage. “We’ve built this around doing poutine properly; there are no shortcuts. To bring poutine to a national stage like this is massive for us,” said Anthi Panagiotopoulou, co-founder of Papas Locas.
Preorder and find weekly pop-up and event schedules at papaslocas.co.uk
Dates for your diary
12 June
Taste of Latin America
Bull & Bass Restaurant at Hilton Cambridge City Centre has just launched a new series of supper clubs. For June, there’s a colourful celebration of Latin American flavours, from smoky grills to zesty citrus and fragrant spice, designed to awaken the senses. Book at bit.ly/48Wrtfp
20 June
Cambridgeshire Vegan Festival
Vegan Events UK will be bringing its festival celebrating the best of vegan living to Peterborough for the first time this month. Held at the Vivacity Bushfield Leisure Centre, discover world street food and ethical brands and network with the vegan community. Tickets are only available in advance at veganeventsuk.co.uk/buy-tickets