Restaurant 22

Restaurant 22 has been quietly filling the gastronomic gap between two-Michelin-starred Midsummer House and the ubiquitous chains for 30 years, which perhaps explains why it feels a little dated: occupying an unassuming Victorian terraced house, the tiny dining room has a hushed intimate tone that attracts a loyal following of senior citizens and university professors. Monthly changing menus are fixed-price (with extras), and the food has a certain appeal, with traditional themes and the odd modern flourish – from seasonal favourites such as partridge with sweet potato purée and poached apple to pistachio-crusted monkfish with curried winkle cream. Amuse-bouches and palate cleansers suggest ambitious intentions that the surprisingly up-to-date cooking generally matches. Service from young girls under the eagle eye of the maître d’ is competent if not always confident, and the sommelier’s knowledge of his wine list is impressive.

Restaurant 22 is located just off the River Cam on Jesus Green, sitting in a pretty Victorian heritage house with stained glass windows and brickwork dating back to 1892. Restaurant 22 is the first restaurant of partners Sam Carter and Alex Olivier and is inspired by many of the Michelin star restaurants the pair have worked in over the years. 

Restaurant 22 has a seasonal menu which has been largely inspired by local produce and ingredients. Ever changing to reflect season and supply, you will find a lunch menu, plus a long and short tasting menu. An example of the type of dishes you may find on the tasting menu include St. Austell mussels served with celeriac, lovage and brown bread, and Iberico pork served with Jerusalem artichoke, pear and miso. Smaller dishes include Sandringham venison, Wild Cornish sea bass and Newlyn cod served with parsley. Each dish can be accompanied by paired wines or paired soft drinks. You can also choose to finish your meal with petit fours, plus coffee or tea. The evening service is cosy and intimate, mostly lit by candlelight to enjoy the ambience of the building and its historical features.

Restaurant 22 is also available for private dining in The Chesterton Room. This room seats between six and ten people and is suitable for celebrations and gatherings, as well as meetings. The Chestertoon Room can be privately catered, it is also ideal for small wedding parties. 

Restaurant 22 is centrally located and is within close proximity to a number of local attractions in Cambridge, such as the University, modern art gallery Kettle’s Yard. Restaurant 22 is also a short stroll from the river, perhaps you’ll try your hand at punting or a river cruise