Midsummer House Restaurant

Set in a handsome Victorian villa, on the romantically named Midsummer Common beside the River Cam, this delightful, high-flying restaurant is home to some seriously stylish food. Entertaining is spread across two floors, accommodating up to 64 diners. The airy, elegant, conservatory-style dining room is stylishly decked out with white walls, Indian slate floors and large, well-spaced tables dressed in crisp white linen and a single white lily. The atrium-style glass roof, windows and large mirrors deliver a feeling of light and space, while cream leather chairs follow the natural colour theme, with the room appropriately opening on to a pretty, secluded walled garden of fragrant herbs cultivated for the kitchen. Upstairs there's a private dining room, and a sophisticated bar and terrace for alfresco drinks with river views. Predominantly French service is polished and attentive, the team as enthusiastic about Daniel Clifford's innovative cooking as the chef himself - his inspired cuisine has not only put Cambridge on the culinary map, it has made sure it stays there. Clifford's quest for culinary perfection has taken the restaurant to another level over the past few years; his is cooking at its best, modern-focused but underpinned by classical French technique, seriously sophisticated with dishes arriving dressed to thrill. Superb-quality ingredients, advanced technique and technical prowess add wow-factor to the carte and tasting menu and allow flavours to shine, while unexpected texture contrasts and combinations hit the spot. This is a dedicated, committed and extremely talented kitchen. Take seared hand-dived scallops with celeriac and truffle purée, Granny Smiths and apple caramel, perhaps followed up with a stunning slow-roast fillet of beef, shallot marmalade, celeriac purée and essence of port. Biscuit glacé of caramelised peanut, banana sorbet, chocolate sauce and banana marshmallows will not disappoint for dessert. Excellent peripherals such as freshly baked breads, home-made chocolates, foams and shooters are all top-drawer, duly complemented by a superb wine list.

Park in Pretoria Rd, then walk across footbridge. Restaurant on left
Nearest station: Cambridge

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