Vanderlyle: Cambridge’s Premier Plant-Led Culinary Experience
Innovative vegetarian tasting menus crafted with local, seasonal ingredients in a warm, intimate Cambridge setting.
Vanderlyle is a celebrated vegetarian restaurant in Cambridge’s Petersfield district, renowned for its inventive, seasonal tasting menus crafted from locally sourced, ethical ingredients. Founded by former MasterChef finalist Alex Rushmer, this intimate venue offers a warm, relaxed atmosphere with attentive service and a focus on creative vegetable-driven cuisine. Open Tuesday to Friday evenings, Vanderlyle provides a memorable gastronomic journey that delights both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
A brief summary to Vanderlyle
- 38 Mill Rd, Cambridge, Petersfield, CB1 2AD, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 6 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 6 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 6 pm-11 pm
- Friday 6 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Book well in advance, as tables fill quickly—reservations often open monthly on specific days.
- Specify vegan dietary needs at least 24 hours ahead to ensure suitable menu adaptations.
- Consider the chef’s table for a front-row view of the kitchen and a more immersive experience.
- Prepare for a multi-course tasting menu lasting around 2.5 to 3 hours, ideal for special occasions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Vanderlyle location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Vanderlyle
A Visionary Plant-Based Dining Destination
Nestled on Mill Road in Cambridge’s vibrant Petersfield neighborhood, Vanderlyle stands out as a beacon of innovative vegetarian cuisine. Founded by Alex Rushmer, a former MasterChef finalist, the restaurant elevates plant-led dining through imaginative, multi-course tasting menus that celebrate the best of local, seasonal produce. The kitchen’s philosophy centers on extracting maximum flavor and texture from vegetables, crafting dishes that surprise and satisfy even those accustomed to meat-centric meals.Seasonal Menus and Culinary Craftsmanship
Vanderlyle offers a tasting menu that changes with the seasons, reflecting the freshest ingredients available from ethical and regenerative sources. Each course is thoughtfully composed, balancing textures and flavors with inventive combinations such as cashew parfait brightened with clementine gel, mushroom reductions, and delicately prepared vegetables like smoked carrot tartare or oyster mushrooms. The presentation is artful, often served on carefully chosen ceramics that enhance the sensory experience.Atmosphere and Service that Complements the Cuisine
The restaurant’s intimate size fosters a welcoming and relaxed environment, where staff provide warm, attentive service without intrusion. Guests often enjoy the chef’s table experience, seated close to the open kitchen to witness the culinary team’s dedication and skill firsthand. The ambiance is enhanced by subtle lighting and tasteful decor, creating a cozy yet refined setting ideal for special occasions or memorable evenings.A Commitment to Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing
Vanderlyle’s ethos extends beyond exceptional food to include a strong commitment to sustainability. Ingredients are locally sourced, organic where possible, and grown using regenerative farming practices. This approach not only supports local producers but also ensures that each dish is fresh and environmentally responsible, aligning with the growing demand for eco-conscious dining.Unique Dining Experience and Accessibility
While primarily vegetarian, Vanderlyle offers vegan options available with advance notice, accommodating dietary preferences thoughtfully. The tasting menu format encourages diners to savor a progression of flavors over several courses, typically lasting around 2.5 to 3 hours. The restaurant welcomes guests aged 12 and up, emphasizing a mature, contemplative dining atmosphere.Location and Local Context
Situated in Cambridge’s Petersfield area, Vanderlyle benefits from the neighborhood’s lively, eclectic character. Mill Road is known for its diverse eateries and independent shops, making the restaurant a distinguished culinary highlight. Its central location allows easy access from across Cambridge, inviting locals and visitors alike to experience a standout vegetarian meal in a city renowned for academic and cultural excellence.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Reality Checkpoint
0.5 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
0.7 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.
Romsey Terrace
0.9 km
Explore the historic charm of Cambridge from Romsey Terrace, a convenient bus stop that connects you to the city's vibrant attractions and culture.
Cambridge Leisure Park
1.2 km
A lively Cambridge leisure hub offering diverse dining, entertainment, and modern facilities for all ages and tastes.
Senate House Hill
1.2 km
Historic Senate House Hill in Cambridge offers stunning views, iconic architecture, and a vibrant academic atmosphere at the heart of the university city.
Cambridge Central Mosque
1.3 km
Explore the stunning architecture and serene atmosphere of Cambridge Central Mosque, a vibrant cultural landmark in the heart of the city.
Rose Quarter Cambridge
1.3 km
Explore the Rose Quarter in Cambridge, a charming tourist destination filled with history, delightful cafes, and vibrant local culture.
Romsey Community Garden
1.3 km
Explore the enchanting Romsey Community Garden in Cambridge, a peaceful park that fosters community spirit and showcases vibrant local flora.
The Old Schools
1.3 km
Historic university landmark at Trinity Lane, blending Gothic and classical architecture at the heart of Cambridge's academic tradition.
The Rush
1.3 km
Explore The Rush, a tranquil nature reserve in Cambridge, where lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife create an idyllic escape from city life.
Sheep's Green
1.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Sheep's Green, Cambridge's hidden gem for nature lovers and those seeking peaceful outdoor experiences.
King's College Chapel
1.3 km
Explore the architectural wonder of King's College Chapel, a stunning masterpiece of Gothic design and a vital part of Cambridge's rich heritage.
Mathematical Bridge
1.3 km
Explore the Mathematical Bridge in Cambridge, a stunning example of 18th-century engineering and a must-see tourist attraction.
Newton's Apple Tree
1.3 km
Explore Newton's Apple Tree in Cambridge, a historical landmark that connects you to the legacy of scientific discovery and innovation.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cambs Antique Centre
0.3 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in a historic Cambridge brewery turned charming antiques centre.
David Parr House
0.3 km
Discover the hidden Victorian masterpiece of artisan David Parr, where every wall tells a story of craftsmanship and passion in Cambridge.
The Tram Depot
0.4 km
A lively Cambridge pub blending hearty food, craft beers, and live jazz nights in a welcoming, modernized historic setting.
Parker's Piece
0.4 km
Historic green heart of Cambridge where modern football was born and community spirit thrives across open lawns and iconic landmarks.
St. Paul's Church
0.5 km
Historic Gothic Revival Anglican church on Hills Road, Cambridge, blending architectural heritage with vibrant community spirit.
The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and the English Martyrs, Cambridge
0.5 km
A majestic Gothic Revival Catholic church in Cambridge, famed for its soaring spire, rich history, and vibrant spiritual life.
Vue Cinema Cambridge
0.6 km
Experience the latest films and special events in the heart of Cambridge at Vue Cinema, where modern comfort meets vibrant entertainment.
Scott Polar Research Institute (Polar Museum)
0.6 km
Explore the UK’s premier Arctic and Antarctic museum, where heroic expeditions, indigenous cultures, and cutting-edge polar research come alive in Cambridge.
Cambridge Working Mens Club
0.7 km
A friendly, no-frills social club on East Road offering Motown nights, pool leagues and intimate live-music evenings in a classic community setting.
Romsey 'R' sculpture
0.7 km
Celebrate Cambridge’s railway heritage through the evocative Romsey 'R' sculpture, a community-inspired landmark at Cavendish and Mill Road.
The Grafton
0.7 km
A modern shopping centre in Cambridge offering diverse retail, dining, and community-friendly amenities in a vibrant, accessible setting.
The Calling
0.7 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.
WeWork
0.8 km
Flexible coworking with vibrant community spirit and premium amenities in Cambridge’s dynamic new business quarter.
Arts Picturehouse
0.8 km
A historic Cambridge cinema blending indie films, art deco charm, and a lively café-bar in the city centre.
The Alma
0.8 km
A traditional Cambridge pub offering hearty meals, lively music, and a welcoming atmosphere in a charming historic setting.
Essential places to dine
Vanderlyle
0.0 km
Creative vegetarian tasting menus crafted from local, seasonal produce in a warm, intimate setting on Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
Maurizio Dining & Co.
0.0 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh pizzas and pasta in a warm, rustic setting on Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
Hungrill
0.2 km
Authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and friendly service in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Mill Road.
Bedouin
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality of North Africa in the heart of Cambridge’s Mill Road at Bedouin.
Salisbury Arms, Cambridge
0.3 km
A historic Cambridge pub famed for wood-fired pizzas, quality ales, and a friendly, lively atmosphere in a charming neighborhood setting.
Fancett's
0.3 km
Cozy French-inspired bistro in Cambridge serving seasonal, expertly crafted dishes with warm, attentive service in an intimate setting.
Kingston Arms
0.4 km
Discover traditional British hospitality at The Kingston Arms in Cambridge—your perfect pub retreat with craft beers and delightful outdoor spaces.
De Luca Cucina & Bar
0.5 km
Experience authentic modern Italian cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at De Luca Cucina & Bar in Cambridge’s lively Regent Street.
The Old Bicycle Shop
0.5 km
Historic cycling heritage meets modern gastropub charm in Cambridge’s quirky and sustainable Old Bicycle Shop.
The Olive Grove
0.5 km
Savor authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant Regent Street.
The Oak Bistro
0.5 km
Classic British bistro with exceptional Beef Wellington, warm hospitality, and a charming heated garden in the heart of Cambridge.
Parker's Tavern
0.6 km
Elegant British and European cuisine with expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish setting overlooking Parker’s Piece in Cambridge.
Charlie Chan Restaurant
0.7 km
Authentic Cantonese dining in Cambridge with a rich history and a diverse menu of classic Chinese dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
SLINGERS Smokeworks Station Road
0.7 km
Discover SLINGERS Smokeworks: A unique dart bar in Cambridge serving gourmet burgers and innovative cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.
Tradizioni
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Cambridge.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Not Listed
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant local culture and unique offerings at this charming shop in the heart of Cambridge.
The Hive
0.3 km
Discover a charming treasure trove of antiques and vintage finds in the heart of Cambridge at The Hive.
Sense
0.6 km
Affordable finds in central Cambridge, supporting a national disability charity with every purchase.
Primark
0.6 km
Discover affordable fashion and home essentials at Primark Cambridge, your budget-friendly style destination in the city center.
Jemporium Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage treasures from the 50s to the 90s in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant fashion scene.
Romsey Mill Charity Shop
0.7 km
Mill Road’s friendly charity shop — thrift, small discoveries and funds for local youth and family services in Cambridge.
The Works
0.7 km
Bargain-packed paradise of books, crafts, toys, and gifts on Cambridge's Fitzroy Street—creative treasures at unbeatable prices.
Cambs Frocktails
0.7 km
Boutique fashion finds capturing individual style and charm on Cambridge's Station Road.
The Old Chemist Shop Antique Centre
0.8 km
Vibrant Cambridge antique centre in a former chemist shop, brimming with 20th-century toys, jewelry, and eclectic finds from fun-loving dealers.
Beehive Centre
0.8 km
A dynamic shopping centre in Cambridge offering diverse stores, dining, and free parking for a convenient retail experience.
CJ’s Vintage Store
0.8 km
Discover timeless fashion treasures and iconic vintage streetwear at CJ’s Vintage Store, a stylish gem in the heart of Cambridge.
Oliver Bonas
1.0 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
1.0 km
Discover unique gadgets and men’s gifts in the heart of Cambridge’s Lion Yard Shopping Centre, blending modern fun with historic charm.
Urban Outfitters
1.1 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Cambridge for trendsetting fashion, eclectic home décor, and a vibrant urban shopping vibe in the heart of the city.
Robert Graham 1874 - whisky & cigars
1.1 km
A refined Cambridge haven for whisky lovers and cigar connoisseurs, where heritage meets expert curation in a relaxed, intimate setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Live and Let Live
0.2 km
A cosy, no-frills Cambridge neighbourhood pub with real-ale focus and an intimate, community-centred atmosphere.
The Cambridge Blue
0.4 km
Historic Cambridge pub famed for its award-winning real ales, vast beer selection, and vibrant community spirit in a charming Victorian setting.
Devonshire Arms
0.4 km
Cambridge's cozy real ale gem with ciders galore, Caribbean kicks, and a labyrinthine layout that invites you to settle in for the evening.
The Petersfield
0.4 km
A friendly and lively pub in Cambridge offering classic drinks, a welcoming garden, and a cozy atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Blue Moon
0.4 km
Cambridge's craft beer heartbeat: rotating taps, live gigs, and cozy pizzas in a welcoming pub alive with local energy.
The Free Press
0.5 km
Historic Cambridge pub blending cozy charm, local flavors, and a rich printing press legacy in the heart of the city.
The LAB
0.6 km
1920s-inspired cocktail bar with a scientific twist, serving inventive drinks and tapas in a stylish Cambridge setting.
The Elm Tree
0.6 km
A cozy Cambridge pub famed for its exceptional beers, quirky charm, and warm, intimate atmosphere.
The Geldart
0.6 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cambridge blending historic charm, creative hot rock dining, and a lively retro music atmosphere for a unique experience.
The Clarendon Arms
0.6 km
A cozy Cambridge gastropub blending authentic Italian flavors with classic British charm and a standout Sunday roast.
Novi Kitchen + Bar
0.7 km
A stylish Cambridge hotspot blending Modern British small plates with botanical cocktails in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Station Tavern
0.7 km
Cambridge's first Young's pub, steps from the station: British seasonal eats, fine ales, and terrace vibes for travelers and locals.
196 cocktail bar
0.7 km
Discover Cambridge’s intimate cocktail haven with expertly crafted drinks, cozy vibes, and attentive service on vibrant Mill Road.
The Castle Bar
0.8 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 Tap
0.8 km
Lively craft-beer bar in a converted bank, known for burgers, cocktails and an upstairs room with college views.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
0.4 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
0.5 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
Salisbury Club
1.0 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Cambridge Lola Lo
1.1 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
1.1 km
Cambridge's electrifying gay nightclub where themed nights, drag glamour, and inclusive dance floors ignite unforgettable evenings in the city heart.
EBC Shop
1.1 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
Vinyl Cambridge
1.1 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
1.2 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
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.
Hidden Rooms
1.3 km
Experience the ultimate nightlife at Hidden Rooms in Cambridge, a cocktail bar and live music venue offering a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
Modern Jazz
1.3 km
Discover the heart of Cambridge's jazz scene at Modern Jazz, where live performances create a captivating ambiance for music lovers.
Fort St George
1.4 km
Historic riverside pub on Cambridge's Midsummer Common, serving hearty ales and classics with unbeatable Cam views and garden vibes. (162 characters)
Rock
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at The Rock, a beloved pub and restaurant in the heart of Cambridge.
Newnham Croft Social and Sports Club
1.9 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.
Unique Bar Newmarket
19.1 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Unique Bar Newmarket, where great drinks, dancing, and good vibes come together for an unforgettable evening.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
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
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Senior Friendly