25/01/2018
AFTER two years of renovation, one of Cambridge’s most anticipated projects – The University Arms – has moved a step closer to completion. It has now been confirmed that standalone restaurant Parker’s Tavern is set to open in June.
The restaurant, which is run by chef patron Tristan Welch, promises no fuss, no frills, just fresh honest ingredients and “a delicious taste of Cambridge”.
The date of the reopening of the revamped University Arms Hotel has not yet been confirmed, although it is expected to be early in the summer. With interiors inspired by the history of Cambridge, Parker’s Tavern will serve an ever-changing menu of locally sourced British dishes. The restaurant will have its own entrance, overlooking Parker’s Piece. It will accommodate up to 110 people and an additional 61 in the bar area.
Chef Tristan Welch told the News: “The culinary journey I have been on to devise the menu for Parker’s Tavern has helped me to progress from my heavy, restrictive Michelin-style background and remind me exactly why I fell in love with food in the first place . . . enjoying delicious food created from the best seasonal ingredients in an amazing environment. This is the mission of Parker’s Tavern.”
Designed by Martin Brudnizki (Scott’s and The Ivy), the restaurant interior will evoke the atmosphere of a Cambridge University college. The idea is to create an impression of eating in halls – except the chairs will be covered in blue velvet and burnt orange linen, sofas in burgundy wool, Chesterfields, white marble, pewter and Cambridge Blue.
Review by Abigail Rabbett