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There is an undeniably calm vibe within the Michaelhouse Café and much of it is due to its location within the nave of the working collegiate of St. Michael's Church, hence the name. Step inside and you will enter a beautiful and tranquil setting complete with a mezzanine and art gallery, spot lighting and those wonderful arches.

Lunchtime specials are a sure winner among local students; remember we're talking about Cambridge, home to a veritable pool of bright sparks, so nothing but the best will do. So try out some interesting variations like Catalan casserole thickened with an almond and garlic piccada served with basmati rice, pan-fried mackerel fillet with melted onions, black olives and dressed leaves, and red pepper and almond soup with Michaelhouse bread.

If you happen to be around the area, for intellectual pursuits or otherwise, Michaelhouse Café is an ideal place to enjoy a hot cup of Illy coffee with cakes, brownies or muffins.

A very jolly, robust pub on the outskirts of Cambridge, renowned for its well-kept popular beers (Speckled Hen, Broadside, Bombardier and Summer Solstice), its lively company and, perhaps most importantly of all, its wonderful Thai food. East Anglia probably led the way in the great rural Thai explosion. Over the years many accolades have been applied to this particular example. It is a wonderful example of 'give the customer what they like and they'll come back for more' principle. A great pity that more pubs and eating places do not follow their example, thereby saving themselves a lot of trouble and increasing their turnover to boot.

Gourmet Burger Kitchen was the brainchild of three New Zealanders, who craved after the way that food tasted back home. The chain was instrumental in changing the perception of many people who saw the traditional burger purely as a fast food option; instead they are now seen as more sophisticated products, made using fresh, good quality ingredients.

Their first outlet opened in Battersea and today there are forty-one serving scrumptious burgers. Chef Peter Gordon believes in using innovative combinations, with good quality English chicken and Aberdeen Angus Scotch beef among the ingredients, to make nutritious and convenient to eat fare. They offer chorizo and sweet potato, lamb and minted relish, or the vegetarian portabella mushroom among others. GBK sauces and accompaniments add to their taste.

The menu has nearly thirty different choices and if you feel like biting into pure beef, do try their classic burger with salad and relish - available with or without cheese, this is served with sauces like smoked mayo, spicy satay, fresh chilli and Thai red curry, lending the meal varying degrees of spice.

Some, like the Kiwi, are made using unusual raw materials such as beetroot, fried egg and pineapple, while for fans of chicken, the grilled breast with streaky bacon, salad and avocado is a delicious combination. There are a surprising number of burgers suitable for vegetarians with versions made from puy lentils, potato, green curry or aubergine served with goats' cheese and sun blushed tomatoes. Fresh fruit juices, soft drinks and milkshakes are alcohol free options.

A welcome list of wines and beers complete the picture of a relaxed and modern environment as Gourmet Burger King excels in making the humble burger taste so good.

Seated in Park Terrace between Saint Andrews and Parker Streets, is one of Cambridge's delightful finds - Mai Thai Restaurant. A colourful history, great views, stylish contemporary décor, authentic Thai food and impeccable service are some of the reasons to visit. Elegantly minimalistic, with immaculate white walls and white tiled flooring, the ambience is calming, while hints of Orchid pink, reveal the vibrant, more risqué side of the restaurant. Originally a cricket pavilion, the building overlooks Parker's Piece, where in 1838, 15,000 people gathered to celebrated Queen Victoria's coronation.

Begin with the Mai Thai platter which is an array of tasty starters and don't miss out on the spicy corn fritter. For mains try the Thai style sweet and sour chicken with pineapple, cucumber, peppers, tomato and carrot. Sample beef Gaeng kiew Wan, which is the famous Thai green curry with coconut milk, egg plant, mixed peppers and bamboo shoots. There's an extensive list of fish preparations, rice and noodles as well. There's well stocked bar, so order your drink and gear up for the Mai Thai experience.

Spotted in Mill Road, Broadway, is the cosy, unassuming little Black Cat Café that brings the 'wrong end of Mill Road' back to life. A refreshing change from the chain cafés in the locality, this little joint is always packed with vibrant young people bartering college news and fashion tips over a cup of splendid coffee which is ground on the premises. A local favourite, and given its modest size, tends to get crowded easily and more so in the weekends.

The service is informal and blends well with the laid-back atmosphere. Sample their famous freshly ground coffees or choose one of the many flavours of smoothies, to go with your paninis. You're safe no matter what you order here, but their home-made cakes have recently bagged an award and for good reason. The food here is innovative and of consistent good quality. A real find in the dull end of Mill Road, come to The Black Cat Café during the week if you prefer to savour some quiet time with your newspaper.