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Cafes & Ice Cream Gastronomy & Hotels

Hot Numbers Coffee

Hot Numbers Coffee is an independent coffee house that has become a cornerstone of Cambridge’s vibrant café scene. Founded in 2011 by Simon Fraser, the café quickly gained a reputation for its focus on high-quality, ethically sourced coffee. Originally established on Gwydir Street, Hot Numbers now has multiple locations in the city.

With its industrial-chic interior featuring exposed brick walls, vintage décor, and art displays, it offers a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere that appeals to coffee enthusiasts, students, and creatives alike. The café frequently hosts live music and art exhibitions, making it not just a spot for a great cup of coffee, but a cultural hub in Cambridge.

What Makes Hot Numbers Coffee Special?

What sets Hot Numbers apart is its unwavering dedication to top-notch coffee, roasted in-house to ensure freshness and flavor. They are meticulous about sourcing beans from sustainable farms around the world, focusing on fair trade and ethical partnerships. Beyond coffee, Hot Numbers offers a delicious range of breakfast and brunch options, all made from locally sourced ingredients. The café’s strong community focus, from its live jazz sessions to art collaborations, makes it a unique and vibrant place to visit.

When visiting Hot Numbers, be sure to try:

  • Sourdough Toast with Avocado and Poached Eggs – A fresh, simple breakfast classic served on their signature sourdough bread.
  • Buttermilk Pancakes – Fluffy and light, served with seasonal fruits or syrup, these are perfect for a sweet breakfast treat.
  • Flat White – As a specialty coffee house, their flat white is made with precision, showcasing their expertly roasted coffee beans and velvety microfoam.

Location and How to Get There

Hot Numbers Coffee has several locations in Cambridge, with its most popular spots on Gwydir Street and Trumpington Street. Both are easily accessible from the city center and major Cambridge attractions. You can reach the Gwydir Street location with a short 10-minute walk from the train station, or by bus from other parts of the city. The Trumpington Street café is close to many of the university’s colleges and museums, making it a convenient stop for both tourists and locals.

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Cafes & Ice Cream Gastronomy & Hotels

Aromi Café

Aromi has quickly become a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike. The café offers a warm, cosy atmosphere with rustic décor, and the smell of fresh pastries and coffee greets you as soon as you walk in. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely breakfast, Aromi’s inviting ambience makes it the perfect place to relax.

The café’s bustling yet friendly vibe, combined with the quality of the food, gives it an irresistible charm. Their combination of excellent coffee, freshly baked goods, and savoury treats makes it a breakfast spot that’s hard to beat. The clean, stylish décor and friendly ambience make it a great place to relax and enjoy a fresh approach to vegan cuisine.

What Makes Aromi Special?

What makes Aromi stand out is its dedication to genuine Sicilian flavours, using traditional recipes and the finest ingredients. Everything is made fresh on-site, from their artisan pizzas to their flaky pastries, offering an authentic slice of Sicily right in the heart of Cambridge. 

At Aromi, some must-try items include:

  • Focaccia with Prosciutto – A classic Italian breakfast staple, featuring light, airy focaccia topped with high-quality prosciutto.
  • Cannolo Siciliano – A traditional Sicilian pastry filled with sweet ricotta cream, perfect for a sweet start to the day.
  • Cappuccino – Pair your breakfast with an expertly brewed cappuccino for a truly Italian experience.

Location and How to Get There

Aromi is centrally located on Bene’t Street, just a short walk from King’s College and the Cambridge University colleges. It’s easily accessible on foot from the city center and is close to major bus stops. For those traveling by train, the café is about a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride from Cambridge Train Station. It’s a great stop for anyone exploring the city.

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Cafes & Ice Cream Gastronomy & Hotels

Stem + Glory

Stem + Glory is a trailblazer in the plant-based dining scene. It first opened its doors in Cambridge and quickly became a favorite for vegans and food enthusiasts alike. Known for its modern, minimalist atmosphere, the café offers a welcoming space for anyone looking to enjoy healthy, innovative meals. 

The clean, stylish décor and friendly ambience make it a great place to relax and enjoy a fresh approach to vegan cuisine.

What Makes Stem + Glory Special?

What sets Stem + Glory apart is its commitment to making plant-based food exciting, flavorful, and accessible to everyone—not just vegans. They focus on sustainability and ethically sourced ingredients, with a menu that emphasizes creativity and nutritional balance. Their dishes are designed to nourish the body while delighting the palate, making healthy eating feel indulgent.

At Stem + Glory, some must-try dishes include:

  • Tofu Scramble – A hearty and flavorful alternative to scrambled eggs, served with greens and sourdough toast.
  • Vegan Full English – A plant-based take on the classic English breakfast, featuring grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, avocado, and vegan sausages.
  • Smoothie Bowls – A refreshing and nutritious option, perfect for a lighter yet satisfying start to your day.

Location and How to Get There

Stem + Glory is located at King Street in Cambridge, a short walk from the city center and the University of Cambridge. It’s easily accessible by foot or bike, and there are nearby bus routes if you’re traveling from farther out. The Cambridge Train Station is about 20 minutes away by foot, or a short bus ride

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Cafes & Ice Cream Gastronomy & Hotels

The Old Bicycle Shop

The Old Bicycle Shop is one of Cambridge’s most unique cafes, offering a contemporary twist on British classics in a quirky, vintage setting. Located on Regent Street, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy delicious food with a creative flair while soaking in some local history.

The café offers a relaxed, eclectic atmosphere with vintage bicycle parts adorning the walls, giving it a rustic yet modern feel. Its central location near Cambridge University and various tourist attractions makes it a convenient stop for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re looking for a cosy spot for brunch or a casual evening meal, The Old Bicycle Shop is a welcoming place to unwind.

What Makes The Old Bicycle Shop Special?

The café is housed in what was once one of the UK’s oldest bike shops, giving it a distinctive charm. With its eco-friendly ethos and menu that caters to a wide range of diets, including vegan and vegetarian options, The Old Bicycle Shop is known for its inventive dishes that reflect Cambridge’s vibrant culinary scene. Their breakfast options, such as the vegan full English and creative pancake variations, are especially popular.

At The Old Bicycle Shop, here are a few standout dishes you should try:

  1. Vegan Full English – A delicious plant-based take on the classic English breakfast, featuring vegan sausages, scrambled tofu, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and beans.

  2. Smashed Avocado & Poached Eggs – A popular breakfast option with creamy avocado served on sourdough toast, topped with perfectly poached eggs and garnished with spices or herbs.

  3. Pancakes – Their fluffy pancakes come with various toppings, often seasonal fruits or maple syrup, making it a sweet and satisfying choice.

Location and How to Get There

The Old Bicycle Shop is located on Regent Street, Cambridge, close to the city center. It’s easily accessible by foot from most central locations, and nearby bus stops make it convenient if you’re traveling from other parts of the city. You can also bike there or walk from Cambridge Train Station, which is about a 10-minute walk away.

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Cafes & Ice Cream Gastronomy & Hotels

Fitzbillies Bakery

Fitzbillies is one of the most famous and beloved institutions in Cambridge, known especially for its iconic Chelsea buns and rich history that dates back to 1920. Located on Trumpington Street, just a stone’s throw from many of the city’s historic colleges, Fitzbillies has been serving generations of students, locals, and visitors for over a century. 

With its original Art Deco shopfront, mouth-watering baked goods, and cosy café atmosphere, Fitzbillies is a must-see. For anyone visiting Cambridge, a trip to Fitzbillies is a must. It’s not just a bakery—it’s part of the city’s cultural and culinary heritage, beloved by generations of students, locals, and visitors.

Whether you’re grabbing a Chelsea bun to go or sitting down for a leisurely afternoon tea, Fitzbillies offers a quintessential taste of Cambridge life.

What Makes Fitzbillies Special?

  • The Famous Chelsea Buns: Fitzbillies is renowned for its signature Chelsea buns, which have become a hallmark of the Cambridge culinary experience. These sticky, sweet, and spiced buns are filled with currants and smothered in a rich, glossy syrup. The recipe has remained largely unchanged since the bakery’s founding, making them a nostalgic favorite for Cambridge alumni and a must-try for first-time visitors. The Chelsea buns are baked fresh daily, and their gooey, indulgent texture has earned them a legendary status in the city.

  • A Cambridge Tradition: Since its establishment in 1920 by the Mason family, Fitzbillies has become intertwined with the fabric of Cambridge life. Over the decades, it has attracted everyone from students cramming for exams to visiting academics, tourists, and famous alumni. The bakery experienced financial difficulties in 2011 and almost closed its doors, but after a passionate public response—including support from Stephen Fry via social media—it was saved and has since flourished under new ownership.

  • Bakery and Café: Fitzbillies offers much more than just Chelsea buns. The bakery produces a wide range of freshly baked goods, including cakes, pastries, and breads, all made using traditional methods and quality ingredients. Alongside its bakery, Fitzbillies operates a charming café where visitors can enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch, or afternoon tea. The menu includes classic English fare such as full English breakfasts, eggs Benedict, and cream teas, all served in a warm and inviting setting.

  • Celebrating Local and Seasonal Ingredients: Fitzbillies places a strong emphasis on using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Whether it’s in their cakes, pastries, or savory dishes, the bakery’s commitment to quality is evident in every bite. The café’s menu often changes to reflect the best produce available, ensuring that each visit offers something new and fresh.

  • Fitzbillies on Bridge Street: Due to its growing popularity, Fitzbillies expanded to a second location on Bridge Street, offering another spot to grab their famous baked goods and enjoy a delicious meal. Both locations maintain the same level of quality and service, but the original shop on Trumpington Street holds a special place in the hearts of many Cambridge residents and visitors.

Atmosphere and Location

The moment you step inside Fitzbillies, you’re greeted by the aroma of freshly baked goods and the sight of beautifully presented cakes, tarts, and pastries in the window. The café’s interiors retain a traditional charm with a touch of modern comfort. Wooden tables, cosy seating, and an inviting atmosphere make it the perfect place to relax, whether you’re enjoying a leisurely brunch or a quick coffee break. The historic shopfront, with its iconic Art Deco lettering, has remained unchanged over the years, contributing to its timeless appeal.

Fitzbillies isn’t just a favorite among locals—it’s famous worldwide, thanks to its enduring reputation and the high profile of many of its patrons. Stephen Fry is one of its most vocal supporters, but countless other Cambridge alumni, tourists, and food lovers have shared their love for the bakery’s Chelsea buns and its welcoming café.

Fitzbillies also offers online ordering, so you can enjoy their Chelsea buns anywhere in the UK. For those who can’t make it to Cambridge, this is the next best way to experience one of the city’s most iconic treats.