Miriam Balanescu

Once you’ve glided past the grand old colleges and taken in Cambridge’s charm – all honey-hued buildings, leafy walks and river views – you’ll likely be ready for a proper refuel. Punting might look leisurely, but it works up an appetite. Fortunately, Cambridge punches well above its weight when it comes to places to eat. Whether you’re craving handmade pasta, sizzling falafel or an elevated take on classic British fare, the city’s food scene offers variety, flair and plenty of flavour. And best of all Cambridge is the perfect place to go for a day trip from London, too. Here’s our guide to the very best restaurants in Cambridge. RECOMMENDED:🌤️The best things to do in Cambridge🚣How to spend a perfect day in Cambridge🏘️The best Airbnbs in Cambridge This guide was recently updated by Miriam Balanescu, a writer based in Cambridge. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

When you think of Cambridge, you probably think of the university (where a bunch of very famous and very clever people started out). But you’ll find when you visit that that culture and creativity exists all over the city, from its museums and galleries to its epic food scene. So, if you're looking for a quiet weekend break? This is the spot. Here are the best things to do in Cambridge right now.  How to spend the perfect day in Cambridge? Start your perfect day in Cambridge with a fluffy stack of pancakes at the Old Bicycle Shop. From there, wander up Regent Street and past the historic Downing College, turning left into the magisterial Fitzwilliam Museum, where you’ll want to spend a good few hours checking out their collections. Recharge at The Mill with a pint and pub lunch, before hopping on a punt down to Grantchester. Finish the day with a fancy meal at the city’s finest, Midsummer House or Restaurant Twenty-Two, then watch the sun go down over Mill Road with an after-dinner cocktail at Bar 196. RECOMMENDED: 🚆The best day trips from London 🍝 The best restaurants in Cambridge🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Cambridge🚣 A perfect day in Cambridge ✈️ The best weekend breaks from London Words and original photos by Miriam Balanescu, a writer based in Cambridge. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

What’s the vibe?  Laid-back and delightfully unpolished, don’t expect to have a table to yourself here. Benches are squeezed together in a room probably not much bigger than a garden shed, with the customary soy, chilli and garlic sauces on the tables ready and waiting.   What should I order?  You’ll want to pick a few dumpling dishes to share around – Chinese leaf and edible fungus are our favourites. Make sure to check out the dumpling specials of the day and choose from simply boiled, fried or served in a tangy sweet and sour soup.  📍 Discover more of the best restaurants in Cambridge

What is it? A resplendent river which winds its way through Cambridge’s city centre. It’s where the magic of punting happens – the city’s best-known pastime – and it’s home to the iconic ‘backs’ of the university’s colleges.  Is it worth visiting?  Given that the river weaves around most of the local landmarks, it’s difficult to miss – and, when the sun makes an appearance, it’s one of the city’s prettiest sights. There are plenty of bridges to ogle it from and take photos, from Silver Street to Garret Hostel Bridge (which for some reason has been dubbed ‘orgasm bridge’ by locals).  What can you do there?  Wander around its neighbouring streets and passages. Book onto a punting tour online or try haggling for the best price in-person down at Magdalene Bridge. If you’re opting to see the backs on foot rather than by boat, give yourself a good 40 minutes to walk the whole route.    Where should I eat there?  Head to Galleria for optimal views of the water and tasty Italian, The Mill for traditional pub fare or Garden House for something a little bit fancy. 📍 Discover more of the best things to do in Cambridge

What is it? The former residence of art aficionados Jim and Helen Ede, who filled their home with priceless paintings, sculptures and curiosities and then donated it all – house included – to Cambridge University. Is it worth visiting? Kettle’s Yard is an absolute must for anyone with a shred of interest in the arts or culture. It’s also a contender to be one of the UK’s most unusual art galleries, since it has been kept in pretty much the same nick – bedrooms, bathrooms and all – as when it was actually lived in.   How much is entry? To visit the Ede’s abode, book an appointment in advance. Entry is currently £10.50 or free for students and under 25s and upper floor access is restricted for wheelchair users. Non-permanent exhibitions in the main galleries are free to visit and, unlike the house, you can drop in anytime the mood takes you and are fully accessible to wheelchair users.  Where’s good to eat nearby? Magdalene Street is crammed with food options, from La Margherita to Thanh Binh. Cosy pub The Punter is just around the corner. If you’re just looking for lunch, Kettle’s Yard’s own cafe is also a good shout. 📍 Discover more of the best things to do in Cambridge

What is it? A theatre which lays claim to being England’s oldest university playhouse. It’s also the former stomping ground of Stephen Fry, Emma Thompson, Hugh Laurie and other national treasures.  Is it worth visiting? Don’t come to the ADC expecting West End-level productions. The shows are mostly cheap and cheerful (and are mainly put on by students), though it’s also a safe space in which up-and-comers test out new ideas – making for much more exciting stuff.  Anything else I need to know? Tickets can be booked online or at the door and are in the ballpark of £6 to £12. The theatre is wheelchair accessible and has an infrared audio system. Where’s good to eat nearby? The shiny new Japanese eatery Kibou has just thrown open its doors around the corner, while the bountiful offerings of King Street – Yippee Noodle Bar, The Locker Cafe, Raja Indian and Your Dumplings – are a five-minute walk away. 📍 Discover more of the best things to do in Cambridge