The Orator
The Orator carries a legacy of hospitality spanning over two centuries.
Located right behind the Round Church (look out for the Yellow Door) in the heart of Cambridge’s historic city centre, it can quickly shift from a relaxed weekday lunch or dinner destination, to a buzzing brasserie with a busy cocktail bar on weekends. All of The Orator’s profits go to The Cambridge Union Society, a registered educational charity.
Welcome to The Orator Brasserie & Bar
The Orator carries a legacy of hospitality in the heart of Cambridge. For over 210 years the Cambridge Union Society has provided hospitality to it’s members and distinguished guests, and now its doors are
open to everyone to dine, drink and join the debate.
Menus
Pre-Theatre Menu
Bar Menu
Wine List
"Mother Nature is the true artist and our job as cooks is to allow her to shine."
Orator Guest
2019
What's On
- Burger & Drink; Pint, Wine or Soft for £15.
- Any classic cocktail, only £10
- A bottle of House Wine on us with a combination of four Small Plates.
- Steak Night Two 10oz Ribeyes, a side, and a bottle of House Wine for £85
- Fizz Fridays £10 off Prosecco and 20% off Sparkling wines & Champagne
- Traditional Sunday Roast
Every day has a reason to visit.
No matter the time or day, there’s always the perfect excuse to try Cambridge’s Best
Cambridge’s Best
(And Biggest)Beer Garden
is tucked away just
behind the Round Church.
With beer and cocktails freely flowing during the day, and with fairy lights and fire stoves for when the sun sets, it’s not a question of if but when you’ll pop by to visit.
Casual Lunch by day, Intimate Dining in the evening
Our new Light Lunch menu is curated for those who want something quick without having to compromise on quality, because in our Kitchen, even the bread is made from scratch. Whether your stopping in for a relaxed midday bite or planning a more leisurely evening, The Orator transitions seamlessly into a warm, intimate setting perfect for dinner.
"Wine can be a better teacher than ink, and banter is often better than books."
Orator Guest
Our Historic Private Dining Room
has been the stunning backdrop to unforgettable dining experiences for over 100 years. Set in the heart of Cambridge with refined and cosy mahogany furniture complimented by its dark red finish, this room will provide class and comfort perfect for all occasions.
René CortésTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thank you Bart & Joe! Balder NietoTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Bart was an amazing host! Jacqueline GonzalezTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nice atmosphere the food was nice. We had to wait a bit for our food but the service was good overall. Dragana OkolićTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nice and friendly place with a good atmosphere and tasty food. I specially suggest an excellent dish with aubergines and chimichuri with a lot of fresh herbs. Desyana SquiresTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had dinner here on last nite hiday at Cambridge. We walked from our hotel and easy to find. The ace is crowded. Glad we booked a table and get a small table in the corner. The food was good, the staff was friendly. Don't really enjoy the atmosphere. We normally stay for long at resto, but this time we just want to get back to hotel. It takes time to get the bill and takes time again to wait the staff to come to bring the machine. Freddie BishopTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The new Lunch Menu is fabulous. The staff were extremely friendly and the Long Island Ice Tea was made expertly and really complemented the new 3 Cheeses Toastie. Would recommend for anyone looking for wonderful vibes and lunch at an affordable price :)
Named one of the best places to eat and drink in Cambridge.
National Geographic Traveller, January/February 2026
Read the Full Article here.
“Refined and welcoming”
Cambridge Foodies, December 2025
Proud partners of the
Cambridge Rowing Experience.
We are delighted to offer the exciting opportunity to experience Cambridge’s most iconic sport. Learn More.
Meetings Industry Association
and holders of their accreditation for Excellence, Quality, and Safety.
100% of profits from The Orator and our Conferences & Events business go to a registered charity.
Read more about our History.
Proud to be a dog-friendly venue.





