hotel du vin

Went to the bistro for a meal from the Homegrown and Local menu recently and was very impressed.

Food was delicious and extremely well-made - one of the best meals I've had in Cambridge recently.

Read the full review here:

http://cambridgewineblogger.blogspot.com/2010/11/eating-o...

The downstairs bar is beautiful - decorated with an eclectic mix of wine-related bits and bobs as well as interesting uses for other items... There are a number of hiding holes to slink into as well as the main bar area with large leather couches. A stunning wine list, almost matched by the selection of beers and spirits/liqueurs but they also make some delicious cocktails. Not cheap, but comparatively better value for wine by the glass than many pubs and restaurants which serve sub-standard wines for a bit less. Knowledgeable staff and quality glassware (including speciality glasses for individual Belgian beers). A perfect place to go for a night cap after a romantic dinner.

Nut allergy warning: they serve peanuts throughout the bar, so this is not the place for severe allergy sufferers.

Tried the lunchtime special 2 courses for 2 people £20 or £30 if you want vino. Leek & potato soup bland but ok when seasoned, but my partner didn't really like it. Smoked haddock on crushed potatoes, spinach with poached egg and creamy sauce was tasty though. By the time we'd had two bottles of water, bread, side salad to share and service it came to £36. Staff friendly but irritatingly kept pouring our water without asking. Otherwise fine, didnt mind us changing table halfway thru meal - very hot in the window Wine list looks fantastic but nothing much under £25 and runs to £200+. Bread basket v tasty as someone else mentioned.

Would try again but definitely take the platinum card.

The downstairs bar conveys the atmosphere of a private country club with soft lounge music and a menu as thick as a phone book. Impressive selection of international beers, ales and wheat ales (only place in Cambridge to get belgian Mort subite). Due to the old cellar setting you get several small private rooms with speakeasy atmoshere that fit groups of 10-20 people (call for reservations!). Hotel du Vin is always a good option when Cambridge pubs are helplessly crowded on weekends. The staff is what you expect from an up-market hotel and the prices only slightly more expensive than other Cambridge favourites as The Anchor and The Eagle. Not something for every day but a fantastic setting for larger groups or when you need a place that is classy and not too loud.

Verdict: classic hideaway for a different night in Cambridge.

This upmarket bistro is in Trumpington Street, in a delightful old building that fits well with The Hotel du Vin brand. Although only five minutes walk from Cambridge Uni colleges, it is an oasis of calm and at lunch time had mainly attracted business customers. The set menu was excellent value, the bread very tasty and the service discreet.
The salmon was very good and fresh, and a large variety of wine was available by the glass.

The bar is tucked away below and behind quite a swanky looking restaurant with quite a pricey and complicated menu (which this Qyper has not visited). The wine selection is phenomenal. The decor is like a country lodge but with a modern edge so its luxurious and comfy. The only downside to this place is the price £7 and up for a glass of wine, but its nice for a treat every once in a while