An insiders' small essential list of food and drink venues in Cambridge 2010

This German owned (the clue is in the name) lunchtime cafe is a long running independent, producing a winning formula exceptionally well since 1992.

You almost have to know it is there despite being in the town centre, tucked away on a narrow pavement of Pembroke street, more of a car than a pedestrian thoroughfare. There is always a crowd of people descending on it a lunch, but don't let that put you off. No matter how big the queue, you will not be kept waiting long at all. You may well need this small window of reflection to choose between three delicious vegetarian (sometimes vegan) soups that are boiling away behind the counter. As an accompaniment there are filled baguettes, prepared in front of you in the open kitchen. There are also some very tempting cakes and various other offerings.

For a few extra pennies you can opt to eat in, on one of the multi-coloured tables, and join the excitable intimate lunchtime atmosphere. A place where conversation with strangers is almost inevitable.

Verdict

Trockel, Ulmann & Freunde is an institution and well worth visiting. Do not leave it too late in the day as they often sell out very quickly over lunch.

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