Meadows Cambridge
31B Eltisley Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 9JG
Meadows Cambridge is on a bit of a mission, not only to source and sell the best produce, but also to educate about a more sustainable approach to food.
Owned by Suzannah Wansell, this friendly neighbourhood delicatessen, kitchen and online shop, specialises in foods that are great tasting, healthy and kind to the environment (being daughter and granddaughter to farmers makes her a passionate supporter of regenerative farming and small, local businesses).
Building on a long career in the specialist food sector, Suzannah – who worked at top delis Sheridans Cheesemongers in Dublin, Valvona & Crolla in Edinburgh and Mons Cheesemongers in London – has curated a stunning range of stock, all based on her criteria of provenance and tradition, sustainability, independent status and, of course, great taste.
There’s chocolate from Suffolk, coffee from Norfolk and bread and fresh vegetables from Cambridgeshire. In the kitchen, homemade cakes, cookies and fresh lunch dishes are prepared, and the superb selection of cheeses is carefully chosen from Suzannah’s preferential supplier. Slightly further afield, an Italian importer brings treats such as blood oranges, Amalfi lemons and wild mushrooms, and gifts are stocked too – all made by local artists.
Complementing this fine food is a fine range of wine and beer. Meadows works with local and specialist importers to supply a sustainable selection from small independent growers and brewers. The wines are made with minimal intervention and Suzannah is always keen to choose alternative packaging to traditional bottles.
The shop itself is based in Newnham (with a second Meadows now open on Mill Road), but there are many places and ways to enjoy the Meadows experience. ‘Pop-up’ Meadows can often be found at local village fairs and tastings are regularly booked for corporate events. Gatherings and tastings are also back at the shop, which also has a garden, or why not enjoy at home with your very own private and very special Meadows experience.