Bread & Meat – Cambridge’s Beloved Roast Meat Sandwich Spot
Honest, excellent roast meat sandwiches and poutine in a relaxed Cambridge eatery – a local favourite for lunch and casual dinners.
Tucked away on Bene’t Street in central Cambridge, Bread & Meat is a no-frills, independent eatery known for its honest, excellent food. Famous for generous roast meat sandwiches on sourdough, plus poutine, salads, craft beer, and great coffee, it’s a local favourite for lunch and casual dinners. Open daily, it draws crowds with its relaxed vibe, ethical sourcing, and consistently delicious, unfussy fare in a compact, welcoming space.
A brief summary to Bread & Meat
- 4 Bene't St, Cambridge, CB2 3QN, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-8 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-8 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-8 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-8 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Arrive close to opening time (11:30am) to avoid queues, as the place fills up quickly and stays busy throughout the day.
- Come hungry – the roast meat sandwiches and poutine are generous portions, perfect for a proper lunch.
- Check the daily specials and ask about vegetarian and gluten-free options, which are thoughtfully included on the menu.
- If the dining room is full, consider takeaway and enjoy your meal in nearby Parker’s Piece or the Backs for a picnic-style experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Bread & Meat location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bread & Meat
A Sandwich Institution in the Heart of Cambridge
Nestled on Bene’t Street, just steps from the historic colleges and bustling market, Bread & Meat has carved out a loyal following as one of Cambridge’s most beloved independent eateries. Far from a typical sandwich shop, it’s a place where quality ingredients and simple, satisfying cooking take centre stage. The menu is straightforward but far from ordinary: thick-cut roast meats, slow-cooked to perfection, piled high on excellent sourdough bread, served with a side of crisp fries or poutine. It’s honest, hearty food that feels like a proper meal, not just a quick bite.What’s on the Plate
The star of the show is the roast meat sandwich, available with a rotating selection of meats that might include beef, pork, or lamb, all cooked on-site and served with a choice of sauces and accompaniments. Alongside, the menu features proper poutine – crispy fries smothered in cheese curds and rich gravy – plus fresh salads and daily specials that showcase seasonal, locally sourced produce. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are thoughtfully included, ensuring there’s something for most dietary needs. Everything is cooked in-house, giving the food a homemade, generous character that stands out in a city full of cafes and pubs.Atmosphere and Vibe
Inside, Bread & Meat is compact and unpretentious, with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that invites you to linger over a sandwich and a drink. The space is simple but well-kept, with a focus on comfort rather than design flair. Staff are known for being attentive and quick, keeping the pace brisk even when the place is packed. Whether you’re grabbing a takeaway or squeezing into a seat at one of the small tables, the mood is convivial and low-key, making it ideal for students, locals, and visitors looking for a satisfying, unfussy meal without the formality of a sit-down restaurant.Drinks and Daily Rhythm
Beyond food, Bread & Meat offers a carefully chosen selection of craft ales, wines, and ciders, as well as excellent coffee and tea. This makes it more than just a lunch stop; it’s a place where you can enjoy a pint or a glass of wine with your sandwich, especially in the late afternoon and early evening. Open every day from late morning until early evening, it’s busiest around lunchtime, when queues often form outside the door. Arriving closer to opening time is wise if you want to avoid the biggest crowds, but even at peak times, service is typically fast and efficient.Practicalities for Visitors
Bread & Meat is easy to reach on foot from anywhere in central Cambridge, sitting in a quiet side street just off the main tourist routes. There’s no need to book; it’s first-come, first-served, with both eat-in and takeaway options. The compact interior means space is limited, so larger groups may find it more comfortable to take their food elsewhere. Opening hours are consistent through the week, with slightly later closing on Fridays and Saturdays, making it a reliable option for a casual dinner after sightseeing. With its focus on quality ingredients, ethical sourcing, and a relaxed, welcoming feel, it’s a standout choice for anyone wanting a genuinely good sandwich in Cambridge.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Senate House Hill
0.1 km
Historic Senate House Hill in Cambridge offers stunning views, iconic architecture, and a vibrant academic atmosphere at the heart of the university city.
The Old Schools
0.2 km
Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
Bridge of Sighs
0.5 km
A Victorian Gothic covered bridge spanning the River Cam, linking history and beauty at St John's College, Cambridge.
Duke House
0.6 km
A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
Magdalene Bridge
0.7 km
Historic cast-iron bridge over the River Cam, linking Cambridge’s academic heart with its ancient trading past.
Reality Checkpoint
0.7 km
A colorful Victorian lamppost marking the boundary between Cambridge's academic bubble and the real world, standing proudly at Parker’s Piece.
The Rush
0.8 km
Explore The Rush, a tranquil nature reserve in Cambridge, where lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife create an idyllic escape from city life.
Kettle's Yard
0.8 km
Discover Kettle's Yard, Cambridge's unique art museum blending contemporary art with a serene home-like setting perfect for inspiration.
The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and the English Martyrs, Cambridge
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking architecture and serene atmosphere of The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and the English Martyrs in Cambridge.
Westminster College
0.8 km
Historic theological college blending Victorian architecture with contemporary faith education in Cambridge's academic heart.
Lets Go Punting Cambridge
0.8 km
Experience the charm of Cambridge from the water with Lets Go Punting, offering serene boat tours past historic landmarks and lush landscapes.
Scott Polar Research Institute (Polar Museum)
0.8 km
Uncover the history of polar exploration at the Scott Polar Research Institute, a captivating museum in Cambridge dedicated to the icy frontiers of our planet.
Jesus Green
0.9 km
Explore the beauty of Jesus Green in Cambridge, a lush park perfect for picnics, strolls, and family fun amidst picturesque riverside views.
Lammas Land
0.9 km
Experience the natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere of Lammas Land, Cambridge's beloved park along the River Cam.
Castle Mound
0.9 km
Experience the stunning views and rich history at Castle Mound, a must-visit historic site in the heart of Cambridge.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Corpus Clock
0.1 km
A mesmerizing gold-plated clock with a mechanical grasshopper that devours time, blending art and science in the heart of Cambridge.
King's College Visitor Centre
0.1 km
Gateway to King's College's rich heritage, offering souvenirs and visitor services in a historic Cambridge setting.
Cambridge Alumni Tours
0.1 km
Uncover the rich history and architectural beauty of Cambridge with informative guided alumni tours through this iconic university city.
King's College, Cambridge
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Gothic splendor and rich academic heritage of King's College, home to the iconic chapel and world-famous choir in Cambridge.
University of Cambridge Museums Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique, ethically sourced gifts inspired by Cambridge’s museums, supporting heritage and culture in the heart of the city.
Remember Cambridge
0.1 km
Discover Cambridge’s timeless charm and hidden stories on engaging walking tours led by passionate local guides.
Corpus Christi College
0.1 km
Discover the intimate charm and historic legacy of Cambridge’s only college founded by townspeople, featuring medieval courts and the iconic Chronophage Clock.
Map of Cambridge
0.1 km
Discover the historic charm and vibrant culture of St Mary's Passage, a timeless lane at Cambridge’s heart.
St Catharine's College
0.1 km
Discover historic charm and tranquil courtyards at St Catharine's College, a Renaissance gem in the heart of Cambridge.
Great St Mary's
0.1 km
Discover Great St Mary’s, Cambridge’s historic university church with stunning Gothic architecture and panoramic city views from its iconic tower.
King's College Chapel
0.1 km
Experience the breathtaking Gothic grandeur and rich history of King's College Chapel, home to the world’s largest fan-vaulted ceiling and renowned choir.
Cambridge Market Square
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Cambridge’s culture and commerce at Market Square, a historic open-air market with global flavours and local crafts.
House of Wizard
0.2 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles and fantasy treasures in the heart of Cambridge’s Market Hill.
Market Hill
0.2 km
Market Hill is Cambridge’s historic marketplace, alive with centuries of tradition, vibrant stalls, and rich community spirit at the city’s core.
University Museum Of Zoology
0.2 km
Explore the rich diversity of animal life and evolutionary history at Cambridge’s University Museum of Zoology, home to iconic specimens and free entry.
Essential places to dine
Bread & Meat
0.0 km
Savor Cambridge’s top roast meat sandwiches and comfort food in a relaxed, ethically minded eatery at 4 Bene't Street.
Smokeworks
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Experience authentic American barbecue with smoky meats and craft beers in a lively Cambridge setting at Smokeworks.
Aromi
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Experience authentic Sicilian cuisine and stone-baked pizzas in a vibrant, historic Cambridge setting with a lively Mediterranean atmosphere.
The Cambridge Chop House
0.0 km
Historic British steakhouse with iconic King’s College Chapel views, seasonal local dishes, and a vibrant atmosphere in central Cambridge.
Pint Shop
0.1 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cambridge blending historic charm with an exceptional craft beer selection and creative British cuisine.
Sticks'n'Sushi - Cambridge
0.1 km
Experience innovative Japanese and Nordic fusion sushi in Cambridge’s historic heart, blending tradition with vibrant social dining.
Honest Burgers Cambridge
0.1 km
Savor fresh British burgers and handmade rosemary chips in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Corn Exchange district.
Market House
0.2 km
Historic Market House blends modern British-Asian cuisine with vibrant social spaces in Cambridge’s iconic Market Square.
Trinity Restaurant
0.3 km
Cozy Cambridge eatery famed for expertly crafted British pies served with mash and seasonal vegetables in a charming historic setting.
The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie
0.3 km
Sophisticated British brasserie in central Cambridge with vibrant decor, hearty food, and attentive service for all-day dining and celebrations.
Bill's Cambridge Restaurant
0.3 km
Eclectic British dining with vibrant charm in the heart of historic Cambridge’s Green Street.
Garden House - Restaurant & Bar Cambridge
0.4 km
Modern British dining with seasonal East Anglian flavors, open-flame grilling, and riverside views in the heart of Cambridge.
d'Arry's Restaurant, Liquor Loft & Cheesemonger
0.4 km
Experience Cambridge’s vibrant blend of restaurant, wine bar, and cheesemonger with generous portions and exceptional cheese in a quirky, characterful setting.
KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar Cambridge
0.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine and vibrant ambiance in Cambridge’s stylish KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar, where sushi artistry meets elegant design.
Charlie Chan Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Cantonese dining in Cambridge with a rich history and a diverse menu of classic Chinese dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Podarok
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Discover unique gifts, quirky handbags, and beautiful jewellery at Podarok, Cambridge’s independent boutique in the Arts Quarter.
Indelibly Cambridge
0.0 km
A compact, well-curated King’s Parade shop for Cambridge-themed gifts, prints and locally made keepsakes—perfect for quick souvenirs with local character.
Nomads
0.0 km
Discover authentic handmade jewelry, textiles, and artisan crafts at Nomads, Cambridge’s vibrant gift shop celebrating global and local craftsmanship.
Ark
0.1 km
Compact independent gift shop on historic Peas Hill serving market crowds, theatregoers and locals with curated Cambridge keepsakes.
Parade
0.1 km
Discover unique Cambridge souvenirs at Parade Gift Shop, perfectly located on historic King's Parade with stunning views of King's College.
Iris and Violet Cambridge
0.1 km
Discover vibrant, curated womenswear and lifestyle pieces in the charming heart of Cambridge at Iris and Violet boutique.
Souvenirs And Gifts
0.1 km
Authentic Cambridge souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of Market Hill.
Samuel Smiley
0.2 km
A charming gift shop on Cambridge’s historic Trumpington Street, offering unique local treasures and a warm shopping atmosphere.
Sugarmark!
0.2 km
Capture Cambridge's charm with Sugarmark!'s iconic mugs, apparel, and prints from the heart of Market Hill—perfect souvenirs blending heritage and style.
Oliver Bonas
0.2 km
A feel-good British lifestyle store in Grand Arcade offering colourful fashion, curated homeware and choice gifts across a spacious ground-floor shop.
Menkind Cambridge
0.2 km
Discover unique gadgets and men’s gifts in the heart of Cambridge’s Lion Yard Shopping Centre, blending modern fun with historic charm.
Giles & Co
0.2 km
Compact Trinity Street giftshop specialising in Cambridge-branded clothing, personalised keepsakes and locally sourced presents with friendly, knowledgeable service.
The Cambridge Gift Shop
0.2 km
A compact, friendly gift shop on Rose Crescent offering locally made crafts, stationery and Cambridge-themed keepsakes in a tidy, well-curated space.
The Department of Magical Gifts
0.2 km
Step into Cambridge’s enchanting Harry Potter shop where magic, whimsy, and unique gifts create a spellbinding experience for all ages.
Fantasia
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion at Fantasia, a charming clothing shop in Cambridge that brings nostalgia to life with every exquisite piece.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bath House
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Historic 17th-century Cambridge pub pouring Greene King cask ales and classic grub in a dog-friendly, family-welcoming spot steps from university landmarks.
Eagle
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BrewDog Cambridge
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Experience bold craft beers and innovative food in the heart of historic Cambridge at BrewDog’s lively and welcoming bar.
La Raza
0.3 km
Cambridge's basement gem for Spanish tapas, craft cocktails, and live funk beats—from daytime café to late-night haven.
Ta Bouche
0.3 km
Experience Cambridge’s lively cocktail scene with creative drinks, fresh food, and a vibrant social atmosphere at Ta Bouche.
Bar -OH
0.3 km
Inventive cocktails and live music pulse through this intimate Cambridge gem, blending artistry with electric evenings until the wee hours.
2648 Cambridge
0.3 km
Step into 2648 Cambridge for expertly crafted cocktails in a nostalgic, vinyl-filled setting at the heart of Trinity Street’s vibrant nightlife.
The Anchor
0.3 km
Charming historic riverside pub in Cambridge offering classic British fare, craft beers, and live jazz in a lively yet relaxed setting.
Town and Gown
0.3 km
A vibrant Cambridge pub and intimate theatre where university meets local life in a lively, historic setting with great food and entertainment.
Revolution Cambridge
0.3 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and nightlife hotspot in central Cambridge with rooftop terrace, karaoke pod, and diverse event spaces.
The Mill
0.3 km
Cozy 19th-century riverside pub in Cambridge offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a warm, music-filled atmosphere.
Glitterbomb
0.3 km
A vibrant queer bar in Cambridge’s city center, Glitterbomb celebrates LGBTQ+ nightlife with inclusive club nights and dynamic drag performances.
The Cambridge Tap
0.4 km
Lively craft-beer bar in a converted bank, known for burgers, cocktails and an upstairs room with college views.
The Castle Bar
0.4 km
Lively city centre bar pulsing with late-night DJ beats, sizzling Hot Rock steaks, and Cambridge's infectious student energy until 3am weekends.
The Cambridge Brew House
0.5 km
Classic British pub charm meets craft brewing excellence in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant King Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cambridge Lola Lo
0.1 km
Step into Cambridge Lola Lo, a vibrant tiki-themed nightclub with tropical vibes, lively dance floors, and a stunning rooftop terrace in the city centre.
High Five
0.2 km
Cambridge's electrifying gay nightclub where themed nights, drag glamour, and inclusive dance floors ignite unforgettable evenings in the city heart.
MASH
0.3 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
Vinyl Cambridge
0.3 km
Dance through decades on a glowing LED floor at Vinyl Cambridge's throwback haven—2-for-1 drinks, VIP vibes, and non-stop retro anthems await in the city center.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
1.0 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
80s karaoke bar
1.1 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
Fort St George
1.1 km
Historic riverside pub on Cambridge's Midsummer Common, serving hearty ales and classics with unbeatable Cam views and garden vibes. (162 characters)
Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit at Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club, a lively venue for live music, events, and friendly gatherings in Cambridge.
Cambridge Working Mens Club
1.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Cambridge Working Mens Club, a perfect blend of local culture, music, and community spirit.
The Calling
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Calling, Cambridge's premier event management venue, perfect for unforgettable experiences and fun times.
EBC Shop
1.3 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
Sing Dizzy
2.0 km
Sing Dizzy offers Cambridge a lively karaoke bar experience with costumes, props, and an extensive song list for unforgettable nights of fun and music.
Salisbury Club
2.1 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Rock
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at The Rock, a beloved pub and restaurant in the heart of Cambridge.
The Lounge
18.8 km
A lively nightclub and wine bar on The Broadway, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of St Ives.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Scenic
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
