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Garden House Restaurant & Bar at Graduate Cambridge

Seasonal grill-focused dining with riverside views in a stylish, sustainable setting at Graduate Cambridge.

4.5

Garden House is a stylish restaurant and bar located within the Graduate Cambridge hotel, offering a seasonal, contemporary menu centered on an open grill kitchen. Overlooking the River Cam, it provides a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience with a focus on local, sustainable East Anglian produce. The venue features a cosy, quirky interior with river views and an outdoor terrace, making it a popular spot for both casual meals and special occasions.

A brief summary to Garden House

  • Graduate, Granta Pl, Mill Ln, Cambridge, CB2 1RT, GB
  • +441223259970
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Tuesday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-9 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on Fridays to enjoy live music in the Garden Bar before dinner.
  • Reserve a table on the outdoor terrace for scenic views of the River Cam during warmer months.
  • Try the Sunday roast, a popular seasonal offering with traditional trimmings.
  • Ask the chef about the open grill dishes to learn about the locally sourced ingredients.
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Garden House location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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Discover more about Garden House

A Culinary Focus on Seasonal, Sustainable Flavors

Garden House is renowned for its commitment to seasonal and sustainable cooking, led by chef Adam Wood, formerly of London's acclaimed Perilla. The menu evolves regularly, showcasing flame-cooked dishes prepared on an open grill that allows guests to watch the culinary craft in action. Ingredients are carefully sourced from local East Anglian producers, including biodiverse farms like Flourish Farm and high-welfare meat suppliers such as Huntsham Court. This dedication ensures fresh, ethically produced food that highlights the best regional flavors.

Inviting Ambience with Riverside Charm

Nestled within the Graduate Cambridge hotel, Garden House offers a warm, inviting atmosphere inspired by the surrounding countryside. The interiors feature layered textiles and patterns that create a cosy yet elegant environment. Large windows frame stunning views of the River Cam and the gardens, where punts glide by, connecting diners to Cambridge’s iconic riverside setting. An outdoor terrace with deck chairs provides a perfect spot for alfresco dining when weather permits.

Versatile Dining Experience and Event Spaces

The restaurant caters to a variety of dining preferences, from intimate meals to larger gatherings. It offers a broad menu with multiple options per course, including starters like native oysters and Cromer crab, mains such as aged rib eye and hogget, and indulgent desserts like Cambridge burnt cream tart. Sharing platters and thoughtfully prepared sides complement the main dishes. For private events, a dedicated dining room is available, ideal for celebrations or business entertaining.

Complementary Bar and Seasonal Entertainment

Adjacent to the restaurant, the Garden Bar exudes a 1930s/40s gentleman’s club vibe with a focus on botanical and herbaceous cocktails inspired by Cambridge’s history. Fridays feature live music, enhancing the lively atmosphere before dinner. The bar and restaurant together create a seamless experience, whether guests seek a casual drink or a full meal.

Community Engagement and Special Offers

Garden House actively supports local initiatives and offers discounts to Cambridge University alumni through the CAMCard program. The venue’s focus on sustainability and local sourcing aligns with community values, making it a favored destination for those who appreciate ethical dining. The restaurant also hosts popular Sunday roasts and refined afternoon teas, adding to its appeal as a versatile culinary hub.

Balancing Style and Substance

While the restaurant’s décor and setting receive high praise for their charm and connection to Cambridge’s character, some feedback highlights variability in service and food execution. Nonetheless, the emphasis on quality ingredients, open-flame cooking, and a scenic riverside location makes Garden House a noteworthy destination for visitors seeking a blend of modern British cuisine and atmospheric dining.

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