Gardenia

Tucked away on 2 Rose Crescent in the heart of Cambridge, Gardenia has this unmistakable charm that keeps you coming back-not just for the food, but for the whole experience. If you're wandering the historic cobblestone streets near King's Parade and craving something hearty, comforting, or a little indulgent, Gardenia is your place.

Let’s start with the menu, because that’s really where this spot shines. One of the biggest pulls here is the diversity of dishes, blending Mediterranean comfort with fast-casual street food energy. You’ll find everything from crispy Fish and Chips (yes, even those are done with a unique flair) to Greek-inspired delights like the Lamb Souvlaki, Chicken Gyros, and a punchy Greek Salad that’s loaded with freshness and perfectly briny feta.

I personally tried the Large Mixed Kebab, which is exactly the kind of dish that makes you abandon all plans for a light lunch. It’s piled high with juicy, chargrilled meats, layered over soft pita, and generously dressed with fresh veg and sauces that hit all the right notes-smoky, creamy, spicy, tangy. If you're after something meat-free, the Vegan Cheesy Chips are way more exciting than they sound: gooey, crispy, and kind of addictive. There's also a Halloumi Burger that deserves an award for balancing saltiness and texture just right, sandwiched between pillowy bread and crunchy lettuce.

Another strong contender? The Fillet Lamb in Pita. Imagine thinly sliced, tender lamb with all the Mediterranean trimmings-crunchy lettuce, tomatoes, zesty tzatziki-wrapped in warm pita bread. It's street food perfection, especially if you grab it to-go and eat it by the river. For groups, don’t miss the Sensational Meze to Share. It lives up to its name, a colorful spread of dips, olives, falafel, and hot appetizers perfect for snacking and chatting without checking the time.

Gardenia also caters to a wide variety of diets, which is a big plus. Whether you're halal, vegetarian, vegan, or somewhere in between, you’ll find options that don’t feel like an afterthought. The Chicken Souvlaki and Chips is a staple if you’re after something quick but filling, and the Pitta with Houmous makes for an excellent light bite or starter. Even classics like the Cheeseburger get a bit of Mediterranean flair with bold seasoning and fresh toppings.

Beyond the food, Gardenia knows how to keep things convenient. They offer delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, which makes them flexible whether you want a quiet dinner, a quick lunch between lectures, or a midnight snack. Yes, they do late-night food-a lifesaver for students and night owls in Cambridge. The restaurant also serves coffee, beer, and organic dishes, so it’s just as easy to swing by for a morning espresso as it is for a cheeky post-pub kebab.

The vibe inside is casual but welcoming. It’s got that friendly, unpretentious energy where you don’t feel rushed, even when it’s busy-which it often is. Seating is straightforward but comfortable, and there’s free Wi-Fi if you want to hang out a bit longer or get some work done with a side of falafel. One thoughtful touch is the presence of gender-neutral toilets, showing that Gardenia doesn’t just feed people-it respects them, too.

Accessibility-wise, seating is wheelchair-friendly, although the entrance isn’t. It’s a small space, so that’s understandable, but it’s worth noting for those who need step-free access.

All in all, Gardenia stands out not because it’s trying to be fancy, but because it does casual food really well. The chicken kebab with chips, the salami pizza, or even something like the spicy wings with spicy potatoes-each dish feels generous, thoughtfully made, and full of bold, satisfying flavors. And in a city like Cambridge, where the mix of students, tourists, and locals creates a unique culinary demand, Gardenia delivers exactly what people want: quality food, variety, and good vibes.