The Orator
Step through the Yellow Door into The Orator,
nestled just behind the Round Church in the heart of Cambridge. Set within the historic Cambridge Union Society, our venue boasts a 200-year legacy of hosting world leaders and iconic intellectuals. Today, we offer contemporary British dishes and signature cocktails. Relax in our beautiful brasserie and beer garden or enjoy a sophisticated private dining experience where all profits support an 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
It’s closer than you think…
We know Christmas is still months away, but with plenty of people already enquiring about our fantastic private and corporate spaces… we thought it’d be a shame if you missed out on the opportunity to try our festive hospitality. Feel free to check out our festive brochure below.
Restaurant Menu
Light Lunch Menu
Pre-Theatre Menu
Bar Menu
Wine List
Sunday Roast
Kids
"Mother Nature is the true artist and our job as cooks is to allow her to shine."
Orator Guest
2019
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.
Partnered with Hot Numbers
Bringing you fresh and local ingredients from independent businesses is important to us as an independent. That’s why we’re proud to be partnered with Hot Numbers, and to serve their most popular coffee the Body & Soul blend as well as their Kandula tea. Enjoy a Hot Numbers Coffee at your table, in the garden, or to takeaway.
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.
Named one of the best places to eat and drink in Cambridge.
National Geographic Traveller, January/February 2026
Read the Full Article here.
Proud Partners of Hot Numbers Coffee to bring you their most popular Coffee and Tea. At your table, in the garden, or to takeaway.
“Refined and welcoming”
Cambridge Foodies, December 2025
Partners of the
Cambridge Rowing Experience.
We are delighted to offer the exciting opportunity to experience Cambridge’s most iconic sport. Learn More.
Members of the
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.
