Great St Mary's Church has been a central part of Cambridge for centuries, dating back to the medieval period. While the church itself may not have a specific history of food, it has witnessed the evolution of Cambridge's culinary scene. As a central location in the town, the area surrounding Great St Mary's Church has been a meeting place where scholars, locals, and visitors alike have enjoyed various foods, ranging from traditional British cuisine to the more cosmopolitan offerings brought by students from around the world.
The city of Cambridge, including the vicinity of Great St Mary's Church, reflects the UK's wider food heritage, incorporating elements of regional agricultural produce. Market Square, just a stone's throw from the church, has historically been a place where fresh local produce, bread, and other goods were sold. As a result, the church has been surrounded by centuries of culinary traditions, from the simple hearty fare of the past to the diverse international cuisine found in Cambridge today.
1. Fish and Chips (Non-Veg) - A classic British dish featuring battered and fried fish served with chips (french fries).
2. Traditional Afternoon Tea (Veg) - Enjoy a selection of teas accompanied by scones with clotted cream and jam, finger sandwiches, and pastries.
3. Cornish Pasty (Non-Veg) - A savory pastry stuffed with meat and vegetables, traditionally from the Cornwall region but loved nationwide.
4. Cream Tea (Veg) - A lighter version of afternoon tea focusing on scones, served with jam and clotted cream.
5. Ploughman’s Lunch (Veg option available) - A cold meal with cheese, bread, pickles, and sometimes ham.
6. Sticky Toffee Pudding (Veg) - A classic British dessert made with moist sponge cake, dates, and toffee sauce.
7. Eton Mess (Veg) - A dessert of crushed meringue, whipped cream, and strawberries.
8. Jacket Potato (Veg) - A baked potato with various fillings such as cheese, beans, or coleslaw, offering a comforting meal.
9. Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie (Veg) - A meat-free version of the traditional shepherd’s pie, made with lentils or soy mince and mashed potatoes.
10. Welsh Rarebit (Veg) - Toasted bread topped with a savory sauce made from cheese, mustard, and ale, then broiled until golden.
The Eagle
Address: 8 Bene't Street, Cambridge CB2 3QN
Famous Food: Fish and Chips (Non-Veg)
Michaelhouse Café
Address: St Michael's Church, Trinity Street, Cambridge CB2 1SU
Famous Food: Afternoon Tea with Scones and Seasonal Cakes (Veg)
Fitzbillies
Address: 51-52 Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RG
Famous Food: Chelsea Buns (Veg)
Pint Shop
Address: 10 Peas Hill, Cambridge CB2 3PN
Famous Food: Seasonal British Plates, with Vegetarian Options (Veg option available)
The Cambridge Chop House
Address: 1 King's Parade, Cambridge CB2 1SJ
Famous Food: Traditional British Puddings (Veg options available)