Whale Cafe

New Museum Site, Downing Pl, Cambridge CB2 3EJ, United Kingdom
$$$ Cafe
(51 Reviews)
Price Range £1–10

Welcome to Whale Cafe, a delightful hidden gem located at the New Museum Site on Downing Place in Cambridge. This cozy cafe is the perfect stop for art lovers and families exploring the nearby attractions. Whale Cafe stands out with its inviting atmosphere and an extensive menu that caters to various tastes, ensuring that every visitor leaves satisfied.

As you step inside, you are greeted by the comforting aroma of freshly baked pastries and brewed coffee. The inviting interior, adorned with warm colors and plenty of seating options, makes it an ideal spot to relax after a day of museum-hopping. While it may be tucked away, those in the know appreciate the tranquility and respite it offers amidst the bustling activity of the nearby museums.

Whale Cafe prides itself on its diverse menu featuring a tempting collection of bakery items and hearty meals. For those with a sweet tooth, indulge in their Choc Caramel Shortbread (£2.90) or a buttery Almond Croissant (£1.95), each baked to perfection. Savory options abound as well, with the hot Thai Pasty stealing the show for those seeking a bit of spice. Their range of sandwiches, including the Gastro Baguette (£3.30) and Classic Sandwich (£2.85), are made with quality ingredients that keep customers coming back for more.

Whale Cafe is particularly family-friendly, making it a great choice for parents. With ample indoor and outdoor seating, children can play while parents enjoy a peaceful moment with a Classic Salad (£3.30) or a comforting bowl of Soup of the Day (£2.15). The warm and welcoming staff make it a point to attend to everyone, even during busy times, ensuring a pleasant experience for all customers.

Real experiences shared by diners highlight the cafe's commitment to quality and service. As one satisfied customer, Sally Abbott, noted, “Great cafe. Tasty food choices with good vegetarian selections. Helpful staff.” Steven Alexander Simmonds echoed similar sentiments, praising the delicious options and the cafe’s capability to manage high foot traffic without compromising service. With so much positive feedback from families and individuals alike, Whale Cafe undoubtedly stands out in the local dining scene.

In summary, Whale Cafe is more than just a cafe; it’s a gastronomic haven that promises delicious food, a cozy atmosphere, and exceptional service. Whether you're fueling up before diving into the cultural offerings of Cambridge or seeking a relaxed lunch spot, Whale Cafe awaits to delight your palate and rejuvenate your spirit.

Service options
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Coffee
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Groups
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Wednesday

10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

51 Reviews
Sally Abbott

12 Aug 2025

Great cafe. Shame it's a bit hidden away. Tasty food choices with good vegetarian choices. Helpful staff.

Steven Alexander Simmonds

10 Aug 2025

A really pleasant cafe selling a range of lunch products from sandwiches to jacket potato cake and soups and much more. Had a great tasting baguette and ordered 3 jacket potatoes, which went down well with all. Despite the busyness, the two staff members who served did tremendously well. There is lots of seating available. However, this is a very busy place, so be prepared to wait if necessary. Was so hungry that I did not get a chance to take pictures. However, this was a lovely cafe and a great choice in a really cool city museum. The cafe is situated upstairs. Do ask if you need extra assistance.

Craig Laurence

02 Jul 2025

Great cafe to take the children to. The staff were under pressure today due to other museums being closed including the Fitzwilliam museum. The staff stayed cool and calm and provided a great service. We had four sandwiches which seemed made in house with quality ingredients, well priced and a good selection of drinks and snacks to go with. Well priced and the physical cafe is very well sound deadened and which makes for a pleasant experience, even when it's heaving with people. The museum below is of course amazing and the cafe perfectly compliments it

Richard Hinitt

09 Jun 2025

Had hot Thai pasty and panini. Good value food. Lots of families in holidays No background music Great for museum visits Plenty of outdoor and indoor seating.

Join the Whale Cafe Newsletter

Get the latest updates on seasonal pastries, special events, and local highlights directly in your inbox.