Dine like a local: chef Sam Carter’s guide to Cambridge

A very simple shop that specialises in roast meat sandwiches. It’s run by a guy called Simon Cheney, who is self-taught. He makes everything from scratch: all of his slaws, all these mayonnaises. It’s a proper hangover cure for me. He does a Philly cheesesteak – I always add extra jalapenos. You can add a side of poutine, with pepper fries and a really thick gravy, too. It’s life-changing.

Traditional French food done exceptionally well, really good value. They do three courses at lunchtime for 30-something quid [£38 at time of writing – Ed]. It ticks every box in terms of a French bistro, nice people as well. Really great wine, and food that chefs want to eat on their day off – like duck leg confit.

I've never met [Jack], but for me, he's inspirational. He started with a bike with a freezer on the front, serving two or three scoops. He's expanded now, and he makes the most unbelievable ice cream. Jack’s Gelato is absolutely rammed from noon until night. He sometimes opens 24 hours for the students. So many people go for dinner in Cambridge and then don't bother with dessert, because his ice cream is that good. They'll get a double scoop and have it on the way home. [Various locations]

Alex and I had our wedding day here. The pizza is stunning – I love the Detroit pizza with pepperoni and hot honey. [Owner Scott Holden] enters pizza competitions. It’s also probably the best Bloody Mary you'll get in Cambridge. It’s just a great little space, with a lively, buzzy atmosphere.

This is very close to our two restaurants, so many people go there for a drink before or afterwards. They don't do any food (there are street food vans), it’s just a bar and bottle shop basically. They sell unbelievable wines on the shelves – you can grab a bottle and open it in there. They've also got wines on draft, loads of fun beers and cocktails.