The Oak Bistro: A Quintessential Cambridge Dining Experience
A charming, historic British bistro in Cambridge offering refined Anglo-European cuisine, renowned Beef Wellington, and warm, personal service.
The Oak Bistro, located at 6 Lensfield Rd in Cambridge, is a celebrated British bistro known for its warm, intimate atmosphere and exceptional Anglo-European cuisine. Renowned for its signature Beef Wellington and attentive service, it combines a historic setting with a modern dining experience. The bistro offers generous portions, a curated wine list, and a charming internal garden, making it a favored spot for both locals and visitors seeking refined yet approachable dining.
A brief summary to The Oak Bistro
- 6 Lensfield Rd, Cambridge, CB2 1EG, GB
- +441223323361
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 5:30 pm-9:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-2:30 pm
Local tips
- Book your table in advance to secure a spot, especially on weekends, as the bistro is popular and fills quickly.
- Try the signature Beef Wellington for a classic and expertly prepared dish that defines the bistro’s culinary reputation.
- Enjoy dining in the internal garden area, which offers a unique, light-filled experience even in cooler months thanks to glass surrounds and heaters.
- Explore the curated wine list, including special anniversary wines, to complement your meal with carefully selected bottles.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Oak Bistro location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Oak Bistro
Historic Roots and Inviting Atmosphere
Nestled in a Grade II-listed former coaching inn on Lensfield Road, The Oak Bistro carries a rich heritage that blends seamlessly with its contemporary charm. Established in 2009, it has become a cornerstone of Cambridge’s vibrant food scene. The interior exudes warmth and intimacy, enhanced by tasteful décor and a unique internal glass-surrounded garden that allows for year-round dining in a light and airy environment. The bistro’s ambiance strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and comfort, making it ideal for special occasions or relaxed meals.Signature Dishes and Culinary Excellence
The Oak Bistro is particularly famed for its expertly prepared Beef Wellington, a dish that consistently receives high praise for its tender beef encased in delicate, flaky pastry. The menu showcases a refined Anglo-European style, featuring dishes like mushroom risotto, scallops, chargrilled lamb rump, and a variety of fresh seafood options. Each plate is thoughtfully presented with generous portions that satisfy without overwhelming. Desserts such as chocolate fondant and panna cotta are celebrated for their rich flavors and perfect execution.Exceptional Service and Welcoming Hospitality
Service at The Oak Bistro is noted for its personal touch and professionalism. The owner, Philip, and his team are recognized for their warm welcomes and attentive care, ensuring guests feel valued from arrival to departure. The staff’s knowledge of the menu and wine list enhances the dining experience, with many guests appreciating the thoughtful pairing suggestions and the friendly, efficient service.A Curated Wine Selection and Beverage Offerings
Complementing the cuisine is a well-curated wine list, including specially commissioned anniversary wines celebrating the bistro’s milestones. The selection caters to a range of tastes and budgets, with bottles averaging around £35. The beverage menu also features quality coffees and a variety of gins, adding to the overall appeal for diners seeking a complete gastronomic experience.Location and Dining Experience
Situated slightly outside Cambridge’s main restaurant hubs, The Oak Bistro offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle while remaining easily accessible. Its covered courtyard and internal garden provide scenic dining options, especially in warmer months. The bistro’s atmosphere is mature and refined, attracting a clientele that appreciates grown-up flavors and elegant presentation over casual fare. Reservations are advisable due to its popularity.Value and Visitor Recommendations
While prices are moderate to mid-range, reflecting the quality and care invested in each dish, many find the experience excellent value for money. The Oak Bistro is recommended for those seeking a memorable meal with a blend of traditional British and European influences, attentive service, and a welcoming environment that feels both exclusive and unpretentious.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Reality Checkpoint
0.3 km
A colorful Victorian lamppost marking the boundary between Cambridge's academic bubble and the real world, standing proudly at Parker’s Piece.
Hills Road War Memorial
0.5 km
A poignant bronze statue on Hills Road honoring Cambridgeshire’s war heroes, symbolizing sacrifice and the journey home.
Duke House
0.7 km
A charming boutique guesthouse blending historic elegance with warm hospitality in central Cambridge.
Senate House Hill
0.9 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
1.0 km
Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
Paradise Local Nature Reserve
1.1 km
Explore the beauty of Paradise Local Nature Reserve in Cambridge, an ideal escape for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility in a vibrant urban setting.
Newton's Apple Tree
1.1 km
Explore Newton's Apple Tree in Cambridge, a historical landmark that connects you to the legacy of scientific discovery and innovation.
Romsey 'R' sculpture
1.1 km
Explore the Romsey 'R' Sculpture in Cambridge, a vibrant piece of public art that embodies the city's creative spirit.
The Backs
1.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical charm of The Backs in Cambridge, a picturesque park offering stunning views of the iconic university colleges.
Cambridge Science Centre
1.1 km
Explore the interactive exhibits at Cambridge Science Centre, where science meets fun and learning becomes an adventure for all ages.
Cambridge Junction
1.1 km
Discover the artistic heart of Cambridge at Cambridge Junction, a vibrant venue for live music, comedy, and unforgettable performances.
Garret Hostel Bridge
1.2 km
Explore the stunning Garret Hostel Bridge in Cambridge, a picturesque location connecting history, architecture, and breathtaking views of the River Cam.
The Round Church
1.2 km
Explore The Round Church, a captivating medieval Anglican church in Cambridge, known for its unique architecture and rich historical significance.
Christian Heritage
1.2 km
Explore the Round Church in Cambridge, a stunning Norman architectural gem and a key site of Christian heritage, rich in history and spirituality.
Tenpin Cambridge
1.2 km
Experience endless fun at Tenpin Cambridge - the ultimate bowling alley and entertainment center with games, laser tag, and more for the whole family.
Unmissable attractions to see
Scott Polar Research Institute (Polar Museum)
0.1 km
Explore the UK’s premier Arctic and Antarctic museum, where heroic expeditions, indigenous cultures, and cutting-edge polar research come alive in Cambridge.
St. Paul's Church
0.2 km
Historic Gothic Revival Anglican church on Hills Road, Cambridge, blending architectural heritage with vibrant community spirit.
Parker's Piece
0.3 km
Historic green heart of Cambridge where modern football was born and community spirit thrives across open lawns and iconic landmarks.
The Alma
0.4 km
A traditional Cambridge pub offering hearty meals, lively music, and a welcoming atmosphere in a charming historic setting.
Arts Picturehouse
0.5 km
A historic Cambridge cinema blending indie films, art deco charm, and a lively café-bar in the city centre.
Cambridge Food Tour
0.5 km
Explore Cambridge’s culinary secrets on a guided walking tour featuring hidden gems, local flavors, and rich food heritage.
The Fitzwilliam Museum
0.5 km
Explore centuries of art and history at Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum, a free cultural treasure trove in a stunning neoclassical setting.
The Calling
0.5 km
A compact, high‑energy monthly club night at Q Club—loud guitars, close-up stages and a friendly, student-rich crowd for late-night alternative music.
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
0.5 km
Explore 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history in Cambridge’s oldest geology museum, featuring fossils, meteorites, and iconic collections.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
0.6 km
Explore two million years of human history through captivating artefacts and world cultures at Cambridge’s Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.
ArchaeoLink
0.6 km
Connecting Cambridge’s past and present through community archaeology and public engagement at the heart of the city’s academic quarter.
10 Downing Street
0.6 km
Historic Cambridge street lined with university museums, Georgian architecture, and rich academic heritage in the city center.
Coe Fen
0.6 km
Tranquil fenland green space beside the River Cam, blending natural beauty with historic Cambridge charm.
Cambridge University Botanic Garden
0.6 km
Explore 40 acres of botanical wonders and scientific heritage in the heart of Cambridge’s historic university city.
University Museum Of Zoology
0.6 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
The Oak Bistro
0.0 km
Classic British bistro with exceptional Beef Wellington, warm hospitality, and a charming heated garden in the heart of Cambridge.
The Old Bicycle Shop
0.0 km
Historic cycling heritage meets modern gastropub charm in Cambridge’s quirky and sustainable Old Bicycle Shop.
The Olive Grove
0.1 km
Savor authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Regent Street.
De Luca Cucina & Bar
0.1 km
Experience authentic modern Italian cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at De Luca Cucina & Bar in Cambridge’s lively Regent Street.
Parker's Tavern
0.3 km
Elegant British and European cuisine with expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish setting overlooking Parker’s Piece in Cambridge.
Charlie Chan Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Cantonese dining in Cambridge with a rich history and a diverse menu of classic Chinese dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Browns Cambridge
0.4 km
Elegant British brasserie in Cambridge with Art Deco charm, quality cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
SLINGERS Smokeworks Station Road
0.5 km
Discover SLINGERS Smokeworks: A unique dart bar in Cambridge serving gourmet burgers and innovative cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.
Vanderlyle
0.5 km
Creative vegetarian tasting menus crafted from local, seasonal produce in a warm, intimate setting on Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
Salisbury Arms, Cambridge
0.6 km
A historic Cambridge pub famed for wood-fired pizzas, quality ales, and a friendly, lively atmosphere in a charming neighborhood setting.
Maurizio Dining & Co.
0.6 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh pizzas and pasta in a warm, rustic setting on Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
Hungrill
0.7 km
Authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and friendly service in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
Bedouin
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality of North Africa in the heart of Cambridge’s Mill Road at Bedouin.
Garden House
0.7 km
Seasonal grill-focused dining with riverside views in a stylish, sustainable setting at Graduate Cambridge.
Pint Shop
0.8 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cambridge blending historic charm with an exceptional craft beer selection and hearty British fare.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CJ’s Vintage Store
0.6 km
Discover timeless fashion treasures and iconic vintage streetwear at CJ’s Vintage Store, a stylish gem in the heart of Cambridge.
Oliver Bonas
0.7 km
A feel-good British lifestyle store in Grand Arcade offering colourful fashion, curated homeware and choice gifts across a spacious ground-floor shop.
Not Listed
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant local culture and unique offerings at this charming shop in the heart of Cambridge.
Menkind Cambridge
0.7 km
Discover unique gadgets and men’s gifts in the heart of Cambridge’s Lion Yard Shopping Centre, blending modern fun with historic charm.
Samuel Smiley
0.7 km
A charming gift shop on Cambridge’s historic Trumpington Street, offering unique local treasures and a warm shopping atmosphere.
Cambs Frocktails
0.8 km
Boutique fashion finds capturing individual style and charm on Cambridge's Station Road.
The Hive
0.8 km
Discover a charming treasure trove of antiques and vintage finds in the heart of Cambridge at The Hive.
Podarok
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts, quirky handbags, and beautiful jewellery at Podarok, Cambridge’s independent boutique in the Arts Quarter.
Greaterskies
0.8 km
Cambridge studio and shop for personalised, astronomically accurate star‑map prints and tasteful gift items.
Ark
0.8 km
Compact independent gift shop on historic Peas Hill serving market crowds, theatregoers and locals with curated Cambridge keepsakes.
Indelibly Cambridge
0.8 km
Discover pun-tastic souvenirs and local crafts on Peas Hill, where Cambridge's witty spirit comes alive in every handpicked gift.
Nomads
0.8 km
Discover authentic handmade jewelry, textiles, and artisan crafts at Nomads, Cambridge’s vibrant gift shop celebrating global and local craftsmanship.
Primark
0.8 km
Discover affordable fashion and home essentials at Primark Cambridge, your budget-friendly style destination in the city center.
Sugarmark!
0.9 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.
Souvenirs And Gifts
0.9 km
Authentic Cambridge souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of Market Hill.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The LAB
0.1 km
1920s-inspired cocktail bar with a scientific twist, serving inventive drinks and tapas in a stylish Cambridge setting.
Tall Trees
0.3 km
Eclectic basement bar in Cambridge with live music six nights a week, plant-based menu, and expertly crafted cocktails.
Panton Arms
0.3 km
A traditional Cambridge pub offering hearty homemade food, quality ales, live music, and a friendly dog-welcoming atmosphere in a vibrant city setting.
Novi Kitchen + Bar
0.4 km
A stylish Cambridge hotspot blending Modern British small plates with botanical cocktails in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
The Castle Bar
0.5 km
Lively city centre bar pulsing with late-night DJ beats, sizzling Hot Rock steaks, and Cambridge's infectious student energy until 3am weekends.
Revolution Cambridge
0.5 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and nightlife hotspot in central Cambridge with rooftop terrace, karaoke pod, and diverse event spaces.
The Cambridge Tap
0.5 km
Lively craft-beer bar in a converted bank, known for burgers, cocktails and an upstairs room with college views.
The Live and Let Live
0.6 km
A cosy, no-frills Cambridge neighbourhood pub with real-ale focus and an intimate, community-centred atmosphere.
Bar -OH
0.6 km
Inventive cocktails and live music pulse through this intimate Cambridge gem, blending artistry with electric evenings until the wee hours.
The Clarendon Arms
0.6 km
A cozy Cambridge gastropub blending authentic Italian flavors with classic British charm and a standout Sunday roast.
The Free Press
0.7 km
Historic Cambridge pub blending cozy charm, local flavors, and a rich printing press legacy in the heart of the city.
The Elm Tree
0.7 km
A cozy Cambridge pub famed for its exceptional beers, quirky charm, and warm, intimate atmosphere.
BrewDog Cambridge
0.8 km
Experience bold craft beers and innovative food in the heart of historic Cambridge at BrewDog’s lively and welcoming bar.
The Mill
0.8 km
Cozy 19th-century riverside pub in Cambridge offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a warm, music-filled atmosphere.
Bath House
0.8 km
Historic 17th-century Cambridge pub pouring Greene King cask ales and classic grub in a dog-friendly, family-welcoming spot steps from university landmarks.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
80s karaoke bar
0.3 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
0.7 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
Cambridge Lola Lo
0.7 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
0.8 km
Cambridge's electrifying gay nightclub where themed nights, drag glamour, and inclusive dance floors ignite unforgettable evenings in the city heart.
Vinyl Cambridge
0.9 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.
MASH
0.9 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
Cambridge Working Mens Club
1.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Cambridge Working Mens Club, a perfect blend of local culture, music, and community spirit.
Modern Jazz
1.1 km
Discover the heart of Cambridge's jazz scene at Modern Jazz, where live performances create a captivating ambiance for music lovers.
Sing Dizzy
1.2 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.
Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club
1.3 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.
EBC Shop
1.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
Salisbury Club
1.4 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Fort St George
1.5 km
Historic riverside pub on Cambridge's Midsummer Common, serving hearty ales and classics with unbeatable Cam views and garden vibes. (162 characters)
Rock
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at The Rock, a beloved pub and restaurant in the heart of Cambridge.
The Lounge
19.6 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
