Cambridge for foodies: 10 restaurants you need to try

For your next day trip or weekend away, consider Cambridge – one of the UK’s most beautiful and historic cities. You can spend a day admiring the architecture of its famous colleges, explores its museums and galleries, or go punting on the River Cam. It’s home to a thriving food scene too, with fine dining destinations, cosy cafés and gastropubs to choose from.

Varsity – It might be the oldest restaurant in Cambridge but with its modern look and menu, you would probably never guess. The dining room is sleek and elegant – ideal for lunch or an intimate dinner. Save room for desserts like their Varsity Eton Mess or Black Forest chocolate mousse.

Galleria – Situated at the foot of Magdalene Bridge, The Galleria Restaurant is spread over three floors and boasts two charming riverside terraces. The menu offers something for everyone, from chargrilled steaks and seafood dishes to fresh salads and risottos

Trinity – Promising ‘fabulous food in relaxed surroundings’, Varsity’s sister restaurant opened earlier this year and became an instant hit with local foodies. The bistro-style menu is a real treat for seafood lovers, featuring dishes like sea trout with crab bisque and braised octopus with saffron risotto.

Midsummer House – Daniel Clifford’s multi-award-winning restaurant is the perfect choice for special occasions. Offering a five-course lunch menu and eight courses in the evening, Clifford and his team showcase classic techniques and seasonal ingredients in innovative European dishes.

La Pergola – This family-run gem is based at The Wheatsheaf, a former coaching inn that dates back to the 15^th century. Take the kids for wood-fired pizzas or take a date and linger over wine and antipasti, or a classic carbonara.

The Oak Bistro – Set in a Grade II listed building, The Oak Bistro has two elegant dining rooms and a walled garden for al fresco dining. With its friendly staff and modern British menu, it’s well suited to family dinners, date nights, and special occasions.

Stem + Glory – This popular vegan restaurant serves organic wines and craft beers alongside its delicious plant-based menu. Choose from dishes like kimchi pancakes, a colourful summer Buddha bowl, or their pulled BBQ jackfruit burger.

The Cambridge Chop House – For a traditional British feast, try this buzzy chop house close to the Arts Theatre and King’s College Chapel. Expect expertly grilled steaks and chops, as well as lighter fish and veggie options and proper puddings. They also serve hearty weekend breakfasts – a great way to start the day or banish a hangover.

Alimentum – This award-winning restaurant serves beautifully presented modern European dishes. The lunch menu offers excellent value for money but for a real treat, try the seven course tasting menu with paired wines.

Aromi – Bringing a little bit of Sicilian sunshine to Cambridge, Aromi now has three cafés serving authentic Italian breads and pastries, pizza by the slice, and delicious fresh cannoli. Pop in for a coffee and a panini or grab a gelato to go.

There are lots more foodie gems to discover in Cambridge. Why not take a food tour, grab a Chelsea bun at Fitzbillies, or pop into the Pint Shop for craft beer and spit-roast meats? Visit OpenTable to discover more great restaurants in Cambridge or ask our experts for recommendations on Twitter.