Over the years, Cambridge has developed quite the reputation for having exceptional food, and two restaurants are proving the city deserves to be on the food map. Midsummer House and Restaurant Twenty Two won prestigious Michelin stars at the official ceremony last night (March 27).
The MICHELIN Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2023 has given only a handful of restaurants across the UK and Ireland prestigious one, two or three stars to award their exceptional fine dining. Amongst the best known restaurants in the whole of the UK and Ireland, Cambridge also came out trumps.
Midsummer House and Restaurant Twenty Two have been at the top of the restaurant game in Cambridge for some time now, with Michelin stars already under their belts as well as several AA rosettes. These restaurants are used to gaining prestigious awards.
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Midsummer House has been awarded two Michelin stars. Owned by Daniel Clifford, Midsummer House has stood proudly in Cambridge for more than two decades and it has grown to become the only two star Michelin restaurant in the whole of the East of England.
The restaurant is perhaps most famous for its exceptional location. The comfortable Victorian villa stands with its back to the River Cam and looks out on the grazing cows of Midsummer Common from the front, making it the perfect summer dining location (hence the name).
But of course, this exceptional Michelin restaurant is also known for its fine dining which really is at the top of its game. The menu at Midsummer House showcases the finest seasonal produce and offers a contemporary British dining experience of the highest quality.
Michelin said: "Experienced chef-owner Daniel Clifford has run this restaurant for over 20 years and his experience shines through. He, Head Chef Mark Abbott and their team are not the sort to rest on their laurels.
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"Dishes continually evolve and, although they have a classic base, are packed full of personality and originality; this is a kitchen which is not afraid to push the boundaries. Luxury ingredients are generously used, flavours are measured, there’s an appealing range of different textures and many of the dishes are finished off at the table."
Restaurant Twenty Two has been awarded one Michelin star. Owned by husband and wife team, Sam Carter and Alex Olivier, the lovingly restored Victorian townhouse has some truly breath-taking views of the River Cam and Jesus Green. It is best known for its exciting and modern British dining with a menu that is always changing.
Michelin said: "Sam’s food is poised, detailed and very precise; he has all the techniques and his plates are beautifully presented – go for one of the set menus and you’ll leave feeling impressed but also sated. The house has a bright, understated style and the young and enthusiastic service team – who explain the make-up of the dishes in full – keep the atmosphere welcoming and relaxed."
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