The LAB, Cambridge Travel Guide

Nestled on bustling Regent Street, The LAB transports visitors to the roaring 1920s with a distinctive scientific twist. The interior evokes a mad scientist's laboratory fused with speakeasy glamour: think gleaming glassware, bubbling apparatus behind the bar, and plush seating in deep velvet tones. Recently refurbished and doubled in size, the space now includes a dedicated kitchen, allowing patrons to pair inventive drinks with savory bites amid the hum of conversation and clinking glasses.

The bar's hallmark is its roster of unique cocktails, crafted with precision to surprise the palate. Standouts like the Screaming Organism or Big Bang feature unexpected flavor profiles—creamy, explosive, or effervescent—shaken or stirred using lab-inspired techniques. Classic options sit alongside off-menu specials, with bartenders adept at customizing based on preferences. Shots served in test tubes add a playful, experimental edge to the experience.

Beyond beverages, the kitchen delivers indulgent small plates suited to cocktail hour. Loaded fries overflow with toppings, while handmade croquetas and arancini offer crispy exteriors hiding molten fillings. These hot and cold options cater to late-night cravings, enhancing the lounge's role as a pre- or post-dinner destination. The menu emphasizes shareable portions, encouraging groups to linger over their creations.

Operating five nights a week from 5pm till late, The LAB builds energy as the evening progresses. Tuesdays through Wednesdays close at 11pm, Thursdays at midnight, and Fridays and Saturdays stretch to 2am, with Saturdays starting earlier at 3pm. As a walk-in spot, it fosters spontaneity—arrive to claim a cozy corner, though peaks bring a lively buzz. Air conditioning keeps the space comfortable year-round.

Wheelchair-friendly with designated accessible restrooms and assistance for guide dogs, The LAB welcomes diverse crowds. Its expanded layout suits private hires, from celebrations to corporate gatherings, with dedicated event coordination. The venue's central location on Regent Street positions it as a seamless addition to Cambridge's nightlife circuit.