The Old Fire Engine House
Nestled in the heart of Ely, UK, The Old Fire Engine House is more than just a restaurant-it's a delightful experience where history meets culinary delight. Located at 25 St Mary's St, Ely CB7 4ER, this charming establishment has built a reputation for offering a warm, inviting atmosphere and exceptional dining, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you're popping in for a quick lunch, a romantic dinner, or simply to enjoy a peaceful moment alone, this restaurant delivers a memorable experience that never disappoints.
Upon stepping inside, you'll immediately feel the rustic charm that the Old Fire Engine House exudes. The venue is designed to make you feel right at home, with its cozy, intimate setting highlighted by a traditional fireplace-a perfect touch for the colder months. The dining area is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their meals in comfort. The outdoor seating area also provides a lovely spot to enjoy your meal in the fresh air, especially when the weather is on your side. For those who prefer to indulge in a quiet meal solo, the Old Fire Engine House offers a great vibe for solo dining, making it ideal for anyone who wants to savor a meal while enjoying their own company.
But of course, no visit to The Old Fire Engine House would be complete without talking about the food. The menu is carefully curated, showcasing both classic favorites and unique offerings, each prepared with care and quality ingredients. Some of the most popular dishes include the mouthwatering Roast Pork, served with Tarragon Sauce, and the hearty Braised Beef in Red Wine, a dish that delivers both flavor and richness with every bite. If you're in the mood for something light and refreshing, the Tomato and Onion Soup or Fresh Fruit Salad are wonderful choices.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Dark Chocolate Mousse and Lemon Terrine with Lemon Sauce are truly indulgent desserts that never fail to impress. The Trifle is also a standout, perfect for those who appreciate a layered dessert bursting with flavors. And don’t miss out on the Birthday Cake if you happen to be celebrating a special occasion-it's a treat that's made to impress.
To pair with your meal, the Old Fire Engine House offers an excellent selection of beverages. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just in the mood for a refreshing drink, there's something on the list for you. From rich Pinot Noir to hearty Beer and Spirits, there’s no shortage of options to complement your dining experience. The coffee here is also worth noting, with many patrons praising its quality, making it a great option to enjoy after your meal. Plus, for tea lovers, the restaurant boasts a fantastic selection of teas, adding another layer of indulgence to your visit.
Service at The Old Fire Engine House is top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff that ensure your dining experience is nothing short of excellent. The restaurant also caters to health-conscious diners, offering a range of healthy options for those who prefer a lighter, more balanced meal. The relaxed and friendly vibe, combined with the delightful offerings, makes The Old Fire Engine House the perfect spot for any occasion.
Another great thing about the Old Fire Engine House is its accessibility. Whether you're enjoying a cozy meal by the fireplace inside or soaking up the sunshine in the outdoor seating area, the restaurant is designed to cater to every guest's needs. It’s a welcoming place that never compromises on comfort or quality.
One of the many things that set The Old Fire Engine House apart is its versatility. It’s not just a place for lunch or dinner; it’s ideal for solo dining as well. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat, a delicious meal, or a spot to enjoy a nice glass of wine, you’ll find everything you need at this local gem.
So next time you're in Ely, make sure to stop by The Old Fire Engine House for an unforgettable dining experience. With its fantastic menu, charming ambiance, and exceptional service, it’s no wonder this restaurant has become a local favorite.
Reviews
We hosted our wedding reception of c.60 guests here, and I cannot complement Claire and the team enough! We’ve frequented the OFEH for a number of years as the quality of the food is superb, and when catering for a sit-down meal of this size the quality did not disappoint (many a complement from “foodie” guests) and service didn’t waver. Claire was wonderfully cool headed and could not have been more perfect in her management in the months running-up to and during the reception. They had excellent food options (catering to vegetarian and vegan), knowledgeable recommendations, and were flexible and responsive in terms of how we hosted (we managed to have the champagne/canapés and the end cheese course in their stunning gardens). It was just the ideal ambiance. They really helped make the day utterly perfect and we—and our guests—cannot complement Claire and the team enough for delivering!
Lovely place. Great atmosphere, efficient friendly service, great food, sensible prices. Will be back.
Lovely restaurant that you go through the kitchen to the seats in the garden room. Food all cooked from fresh and delicious. Staff really friendly and helpful explaining the menu. Chicken in mushroom and ham sauce and shepherd's pie, really lovely.
The restaurant has a bar, two dining rooms with a kitchen in between, outside seating for those warmer days and a gallery. Artwork adorns the walls, and visitors will wander about the tables whilst you're having your meal. On the day of our visit, the radiators were on full blast, but it was a tad cool. A 2 or 3 course set menu is reasonably priced, available alongside a more varied menu of British classics. When was the last time you saw Liver and Bacon on a menu?! The braised beef in red wine was very tasty but a bit dry. Venison casserole was delicious and served with a selection of vegetables. A large wine list with several good wines by the glass. Desserts - we enjoyed blackberry and apple crumble and chocolate mousse. Both were very good.
Really pleasant unpretentious restaurant in the heart of Ely very near the cathedral and Cromwell s house. Very nice flavoured salads we both had due to hot weather, tasty chicken pate and delicious desserts to follow. Much appreciated and to be recommended. Many thanks.