The Orator

Housed within the storied Cambridge Union Society, The Orator brings contemporary British dining to a Victorian gothic setting in the heart of Cambridge City Centre. High ceilings, period detailing and swathes of natural light set a relaxed brasserie mood, while a beautiful beer garden invites unhurried lunches and golden-hour suppers.

The kitchen champions locally sourced ingredients and modern technique, delivering plates that balance British comfort with polished, continental accents. Think burrata with cantaloupe melon, prosciutto ham and a bright pomegranate lift, or beetroot cured gravlax with pickled cucumber and horseradish and fennel pollen cream on sourdough. Larger dishes might feature pan seared duck breast with passionfruit sauce, roasted sweet potatoes and tenderstem broccoli, or a grilled plaice fillet glossed in brown butter and parsley with sautéed green beans, La Ratte potatoes and crisp capers. To finish, a chocolate hazelnut and praline torte with chantilly cream, or a matcha and white chocolate cake with coconut sorbet, keeps things elegant without losing indulgence.

Signature cocktails, beer and wine underscore the easy-going pace, and a light lunch menu runs to classics such as a chicken Caesar sandwich on toasted focaccia with Cantabrian anchovies. With all profits supporting an educational charity, it is dining with a sense of purpose. Book in, settle back, and let good taste do the talking.