A busy little cafe with an Italian influence and a strong regular customer base.

The Venue
In the busy area of Emmanuel Street, just minutes from the heart of the city centre, sits a little piece of Italy.

The humour, the chaos and the tiramisu - it's all there in Savinos which means customers can get a taste of the Italian cafe culture in Cambridge.

Functional steel chairs dotted around imitation marble tables scattered with Italian and English newspapers makes up the decor.

Walls are covered with pictures of regulars plus the odd Italian film poster to inject a touch of Italian old-school drama into the cafe.

Blackboards display the food and drinks available, and at peak times there’s always a queue of regulars eager for an espresso and biscotti.

The People
The charming Italian staff are friendly and efficient, so not only do you get a smile with your coffee but you get it quickly.

Italians feel not so far away from home here, as is evident by the way the local Italians seem to feel relaxed chatting away in their native tongue.

Similarly the local English folks, from students to elderly couples, feel comfortable and relaxed in this buzzing and delightfully chaotic atmosphere.

It's always lively, but with just the right amount of restraint so the customers can read their paper in peace if they wish.

The Food
The cafe cuisine here is simple but uses authentic Italian ingredients such as parma ham and mozzarella to make your average panini or salads tastier.

For around £5 you can have a hearty panini bursting with flavour or a fresh salad that is more than just leaves, and all of them have Italian names which is a nice touch.

Cakes and pastries are also fresh and tasty, with a legendary creamy tiramisu that is the regulars’ favourite.

The Drink
The coffee is as good as you’d find on the continent, with prices from £1.60 to £2.80 for a rich aromatic cup. There is also rich Italian hot chocolate for £2 if you’re feeling more indulgent.

Smoothies are available in a host of different fruits, from strawberry to goji berry, so you can get a vitamin fix with a twist for £2.70.

The Last Word
With an infectious character and a good cappuccino it's no wonder that Savinos is popular with the locals.

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