An insiders' small essential list of food and drink venues in Cambridge 2011

Horningsea is a 5 minute drive out of Cambridge through Fen Ditton, or literally a 2 minute hop off the A14 at junction 34. A gastropub that is very slick in every respect. Set off the quiet High Street, the busy owners also provide accommodation and run outside catering. Interestingly I have been to an event that they catered for on a large scale and the food was excellent.

I have eaten here lots of times, and keep coming back for more. The menu is modern and the dishes immaculately presented. The building has character and is pleasant to eat in. There is unfortunately not really any pub feel left. More like a proper restaurant now.

If I think back the only black mark was a particularly bad coffee they once served me. Apart from that a clean slate. Sometimes I feel it is almost too clinical and slick with a slight lack of human fallibility, the customers just oiling the machine. But at least you know that you will not be disappointed with your meal. It all goes back to the pub identity crisis, gastropubs shifting the landscape and changing perceptions. Such is the modern way if you want to 'make a buck' in the pub game.

Verdict

Top notch restaurant food served efficiently in great surroundings. For me, not a place to pop in to for a pint

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