Breakfast in Cambridge - Top Ideas

Where to Have Breakfast in Cambridge – Ideas and Places

If you're visiting Cambridge, living here, or have recently moved, what better way to kick off your day than with a delicious breakfast?

Cambridge has a vibrant breakfast scene, with plenty of spots offering everything from traditional English breakfasts to lighter, modern fare. The spots I will talk about in this article highlight the diverse range of breakfast options available in Cambridge, from traditional English to more contemporary, health-conscious choices. 

Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day. For one, after a night of fasting, breakfast helps replenish glucose, the body’s main energy source, improving concentration and stamina throughout the day. In fact, People who eat breakfast regularly are more likely to make healthier food choices throughout the day and have a more balanced diet!

Whether you’re craving a traditional full English, a vegan feast, or just some excellent coffee and pastries, Cambridge has something for everyone.

Best Cambridge Breakfast Spots

The city’s charming atmosphere and mix of historic and modern settings make breakfast here both a culinary and cultural experience. Each of these breakfast spots offers something unique, from plant-based dishes to iconic local pastries, making them stand out in Cambridge’s breakfast scene. So, let’s get started.

#1

Budget: ££ – Open Hours: Mon-Sat: 8 AM – 6 PM, Sun: 9 AM – 6 PM
Type of Food: Traditional British café with a focus on pastries and breakfast classics.
Dish You Need to Try: Chelsea Bun – Their signature sticky bun, rich with cinnamon and syrup, is a must-have for a sweet breakfast treat.

Known for its famous Chelsea buns, Fitzbillies is a Cambridge institution. Alongside its iconic pastries, you can enjoy a full English breakfast or lighter options like avocado toast and eggs. It’s perfect for a taste of local history combined with delicious food. 

My breakfast suggestions for this place:

  • Full English Breakfast – A classic British breakfast featuring eggs, bacon, sausages, mushrooms, and baked beans.
  • Avocado Toast – Sourdough toast topped with mashed avocado, often served with poached eggs and a sprinkle of chilli flakes.
  • Chelsea Bun – Fitzbillies’ signature item, a sticky, sweet bun packed with cinnamon and sugar, perfect for a sweet breakfast treat.

Address: 51-53 Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RG

#2

Budget: ££ – Open Hours: Mon-Fri: 8 AM – 11 PM, Sat: 9 AM – 11 PM, Sun: 9 AM – 10 PM
Type of Food: Contemporary British with vegetarian and vegan options.
Dish You Need to Try: Vegan Full English – A hearty breakfast with plant-based alternatives like vegan sausages, scrambled tofu, and mushrooms.

The Old Bicycle Shop is a quirky and cosy spot offering a range of breakfast dishes. From their vegan full English to pancakes and smoothie bowls, The Old Bicycle Shop caters to a wide array of dietary preferences while maintaining a creative, vibrant menu.

My breakfast suggestions for this place:

  • Vegan Full English – A plant-based version of the classic English breakfast with vegan sausages, scrambled tofu, mushrooms, and tomatoes.
  • Smashed Avocado & Poached Eggs – Creamy avocado on toasted sourdough with perfectly poached eggs and chilli flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Pancakes – Fluffy pancakes served with a choice of seasonal fruits or maple syrup for a sweet, indulgent breakfast.

Address: 104 Regent St, Cambridge CB2 1DP

#3

Budget: £££ – Open Hours: Mon-Fri: 8 AM – 10 PM, Sat: 9 AM – 10 PM, Sun: 9 AM – 4 PM
Type of Food: Vegan, plant-based cuisine.
Dish You Need to Try: Tofu Scramble – A delicious and protein-packed alternative to traditional scrambled eggs, served with fresh greens and sourdough toast.

Stem + Glory is a plant-based restaurant offering delicious vegan breakfasts. Their menu includes options like tofu scramble, avocado toast, and hearty bowls that will leave you feeling nourished and ready to explore Cambridge.

My breakfast suggestions for this place:

  • Tofu Scramble – A delicious plant-based alternative to scrambled eggs, served with sourdough toast and fresh greens.
  • Vegan Full English – Packed with grilled mushrooms, tomatoes, avocado, and vegan sausages, perfect for a filling breakfast.
  • Smoothie Bowls – Light and refreshing, with a blend of fruits, nuts, and seeds, offering a healthy yet satisfying start to the day.

Address: 50-60 Station Rd, Cambridge CB1 2JH

#4

Budget: £ – Open Hours: Mon-Sat: 8 AM – 8 PM, Sun: 9 AM – 7 PM
Type of Food: Italian-style bakery and café.
Dish You Need to Try: Focaccia with Prosciutto – Freshly baked focaccia bread, generously topped with Italian prosciutto and other Mediterranean ingredients.

If you’re craving something Mediterranean, Aromi serves up freshly baked focaccia, croissants, and other Italian-inspired pastries. Their breakfast menu is perfect for grabbing a quick bite or lingering over a coffee in the heart of the city.

My breakfast suggestions for this place:

  • Focaccia with Prosciutto – Freshly baked focaccia bread topped with high-quality prosciutto and fresh greens.
  • Cannolo Siciliano – A traditional Sicilian pastry filled with sweet ricotta cream, ideal for a quick breakfast bite.
  • Breakfast Croissant – Light and flaky, filled with ham and cheese, perfect for a savoury morning snack.

Address: 1 Bene’t St, Cambridge CB2 3QN

#5

Budget: ££ – Open Hours: Mon-Fri: 7 AM – 6 PM, Sat-Sun: 8 AM – 6 PM
Type of Food: Specialty coffee and artisan breakfast options.
Dish You Need to Try: Sourdough Toast with Avocado and Poached Eggs – A simple yet perfect combination of creamy avocado and rich, runny poached eggs served on sourdough toast.

Hot Numbers Coffee is an independent coffee shop known for its great coffee and relaxed vibe. Their breakfast menu offers everything from freshly baked pastries to sourdough toast with a variety of toppings. It’s a perfect spot for coffee lovers seeking a casual and satisfying breakfast.

My breakfast suggestions for this place:

  • Sourdough Toast with Avocado and Poached Eggs – Simple yet flavorful, with creamy avocado and soft poached eggs on freshly baked sourdough.
  • Buttermilk Pancakes – Fluffy pancakes served with a choice of seasonal fruits or syrup, perfect for a sweet start.
  • Granola with Yogurt and Fresh Fruit – A healthy and refreshing option featuring crunchy granola, creamy yoghurt, and fresh seasonal fruits.

Address 1: 4 Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1QA
Address 2: Dales Brewery, 5/6 Gwydir St, Cambridge CB1 2LJ

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Cambridge is a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant modern life. To help you explore the many facets of this beautiful place, we’ve compiled a series of articles covering various aspects of Cambridge life.