When I saw that the Cabinet Rooms was top of the TripAdvisor recommendations for best cafes in Winchester, I couldn't wait to try it. 

And the Cabinet Rooms, in Jewry Street, didn't disappoint. It couldn’t have had a more calming environment if it tried.

Walking through the front door and I was presented with a warm greeting from the staff who directed me to a table.

I sat down and looked at the easy to read menu, listening to old-school music ranging from the 60s to the 90s. The café also supplies free wi-fi for those who want to enjoy some food and drinks as well as completing their work.

Before my lunch at the Cabinet Rooms, I'd spoken to owners Marcus and Gary, who gave me an excellent summary of what the café is about and why they stand out from other cafés in Winchester.

READ MORE: Top five cafes in Winchester according to TripAdvisor reviews

Cabinet RoomsCabinet Rooms (Image: Owen Borseti)

They said that their café offers more than just breakfast and lunch, it’s open for a “grown-up safespace” in the evenings, serving alcoholic drinks like ciders and cocktails as well as snack-based foods. After looking at the cocktail menu, there is no surprise why its rising for top bars in Winchester.

As well as food and drink, the café hosts screenings and group discussions, all making the café more than just a café.

But I was there to try the food, and the ‘soup of the day’ struck me as a good choice (£8.25), from among many lunch options. 

It arrived and was delicious, homemade and filling. It even came with a cheese toastie on the side to dunk.

The café felt relaxing, nothing too loud to distract people from their conversation or from doing work. The theme of the café is clear to all that’s its based on comfort, and is bounded by black and grey walls for that relaxing atmosphere.

The staff were all lovely and polite, providing complimentary water for the table. Another customer didn’t know what a ‘Matcha Latte’ was and the staff were kind enough to explain what it was thoroughly.

The Cabinet Rooms also serves great hot drinks, I went for the hot chocolate (£3.85), but was extremely tempted by the deluxe hot chocolate which “tastes like cake”.

My lunch bill came to £12.10. A reasonable price for such a great place. 

The café’s cutlery was immaculate, everything neatly polished and the food was cooked exquisitely. Cabinet Rooms is certainly deserving of its number one spot on TripAdvisor and I will be sure to come to the number one café in Winchester again.

  • Review by Owen Borseti, from the University of Bournemouth.