The top dining experiences in and around Cambridgeshire
Our pick of the best local eateries to enjoy some seasonal delights come rain or shine
Kibou
The perfect dining destination after a day spent lazing on nearby Jesus Green, Kibou Japanese Kitchen and Bar is known for its diverse selection of traditional and contemporary Japanese hot food, sharers and sushi. With undeniably eye-catching interiors, savour an intoxicating array of flavours that are bound to transport you to foreign shores.
Scott’s All Day
This Mill Road neighbourhood pizzeria offers a lively atmosphere and a delicious menu of comforting dishes. Enjoy a fun, laid-back vibe, especially on the weekends when the restaurant comes alive thanks to its bottomless brunch. The restaurant is currently running a two for £20 offer on Tuesdays, whereby you can enjoy two Neapolitan pizzas for £20 when you buy
a drink or side. Available all day!
The Varsity
Housed on the sixth floor just below The Varsity’s iconic roof terrace, Six Brasserie is a premium dining experience offering seasonal, British, locally sourced dishes. The venue provides indoor and terrace-style dining, serving both lunch and dinner. It’s also a popular spot for afternoon tea or to simply grab a refreshing drink. Lunch and dinner highlights include the crispy pork belly served with apple sauce and creamed spinach, and the herb-crusted roast cod with mussel broth. You can also opt for something from the grill, like the herb-buttered, grilled whole lobster or the Beyond Meat plant burger for vegan guests. Expect mouth-watering starters and to-die-for desserts or sundaes, alongside an impressive cocktail menu.
Cafe Foy
A riverside favourite, Cafe Foy comes alive in the summer. Be sure to stop by for Spritz O’Clock between 4 and 7pm from Monday to Friday, and enjoy longer opening hours for the summer months as the cafe won’t be closing until 9pm from Monday to Saturday (7.30pm on Sunday). Spend a serene evening by the river with a cheese/meat board and some small plates, or enjoy the cafe’s range of in-house specials and delicious dining menu from brunch through to lunchtime. Bookings are available throughout the week, but weekends are walk-ins only. These are undoubtedly some of the city’s hottest seats so you’ll need to act fast to snap up a table outside!
The Astronomer
Eddington’s culinary newcomer, this chic and stylish restaurant has a beautiful terrace area overlooking the leafy green courtyard of the Turing Locke aparthotel. For the summer season, the terrace is now open for all-day dining, whether that’s starting your day with a tasty breakfast or ending an evening with some deliciously thirst-quenching cocktails.
Mercado Central
Situated in an atmospheric townhouse on scenic Green Street in the heart of the city, this culinary hotspot offers quality produce inspired by the gastronomic heritage of the Galician and Basque regions of Spain. Paired with a fine wine selection, settle in for a culinary adventure. Best of all, the restaurant is currently offering a new seasonal summer lunch set menu, costing £26 for two courses and £29 for three.
The Maypole
A hidden gem sat between Bridge Street and Jesus Green which has been with the Castiglione family since 1982, this charming pub boasts a spacious covered courtyard area with plenty of heaters to fend off the evening chill. The Maypole is known for its beers, with 16 real ales available on hand pump and a wealth of other beverages. Pair your drinks with a sumptuous menu of Italian delights, including stone-baked pizzas, focaccia sandwiches and pasta dishes, plus delicious burgers.
OUT OF TOWN
Provenance Kitchen, Whittlesford
With flame-cooked feasts, an outdoor bar (in a vintage Airstream van), and a stretch tent to shade you, Provenance Kitchen has it all. Kids can let off some steam in the meadow while the grown-ups enjoy a glass of something cold.
Unico, Newmarket
If Italian fare is your thing, this local favourite on the high street is for you. Make an evening of it by staying after dinner with a cocktail and enjoy one of the restaurant’s popular tribute nights!
Red Lion, Hinxton
This rustic country pub eagerly awaits the return of summer. Find plenty of shaded tables for a summery menu including wild garlic and watercress soup, Cornish mackerel ceviche and rhubarb fool – not to mention its best-selling Pellehaut rosé!
