Ancient Shepherds with Mark Poynton

Summary

Still known locally for the now-defunct Alimentum in central Cambridge, this new restaurant with rooms – three miles outside the city – opened in July 2025 (too late for our annual diners’ poll) and which replaces Mark’s former venture here, MJP @ The Shepherds. It’s in partnership with locals Gareth & Emma John, nearby residents for over 20 years. Menus come in options of three (£35 per person), five (£55 per person) or seven courses (£85 per person) each including bread, snacks and amuse bouche. Having recently won a Michelin star for his Norwich restaurant, Mark Poynton at Caistor Hall, Mark will lead the kitchen alongside his new right hand man Chris Lee whose experience includes holding 3 AA rosettes for over a decade at multiple places around Suffolk including the Bildeston Crown.