Giggling Squid, Cambridge โ 31 Verified Student Reviews ๐ป
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Giggling Squid -
Giggling Squid -
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Based on 31 user ratings
The Old Library, 2 Wheeler St, Cambridge CB2 3QB, United Kingdom
๐ฌ What Students Say
Giggling Squid is a popular venue located at The Old Library on Wheeler Street in Cambridge, making it an ideal spot for students looking for a fun and relaxed night out. This venue is well-known for its vibrant and family-friendly atmosphere, primarily focusing on authentic Thai cuisine. With its flavorful dishes and warm ambiance, Giggling Squid has become a go-to choice for both casual dining and special occasions. Students frequently highlight the inviting vibe of the venue, which is conducive to socializing and enjoying a good night with friends.
The atmosphere at Giggling Squid is particularly appealing to students. Many reviews mention a relaxed vibe that makes it a great place to unwind after a long day of classes. The energy here is lively, often described as spontaneous, providing the kind of environment that students crave for a night out. The venue is usually buzzing with a good mix of people, contributing to an overall enjoyable experience. Whether you're looking to kick off a night out or enjoy a laid-back evening with friends, Giggling Squid seems to deliver on all fronts.
When it comes to music, students have noted that the sound is always pumping, creating an upbeat backdrop for socializing and dancing. The music selection is described as decent, which adds to the overall ambiance without overpowering conversations. This makes Giggling Squid a fitting choice for those who want to enjoy a night out without the pressure of loud club music. The venue strikes a balance between being lively and allowing guests to enjoy each other's company, making it a well-rounded option for various occasions.
In terms of drinks and pricing, students appreciate that Giggling Squid is reasonably priced for a night out. While it's not the cheapest option available, many feel that the quality of the atmosphere and the experience justifies the cost. The drinks are said to be priced right, making it accessible for students who want to enjoy a few beverages without breaking the bank. This balance of quality and affordability is a significant draw for the student crowd.
The queue and entry experience at Giggling Squid also receives praise. Many students have noted that the queue moves quickly, which is a huge plus for those eager to start their night. The staff is described as friendly and chill, contributing to a smooth entry process. This kind of efficiency helps set a positive tone for the evening, allowing guests to focus on enjoying their time rather than worrying about long waits or disorganized entry.
Students have shared that their nights at Giggling Squid are typically enjoyable and memorable. Many reviews reflect a sense of community, with visitors feeling comfortable and free to be themselves. There's a notable absence of judgment, which is a significant factor for many who choose to spend their evenings here. The venue's unique charm, combined with its local feel, sets it apart from typical chain bars, making it a favorite among students who appreciate a more personalized experience.
However, while Giggling Squid has many strengths, there are a few caveats to consider. Some students have mentioned that the experience can vary depending on the crowd present on a given night. While many enjoy the mix of people, others have found that the vibe can shift based on who is there. Additionally, while the atmosphere is generally praised, some students have noted that it can feel a bit crowded during peak times, which might detract from the relaxed vibe that many appreciate.
In summary, Giggling Squid is a highly regarded venue for students at the University of Cambridge, offering a blend of good food, a lively atmosphere, and a welcoming environment. It suits those looking for a fun and casual night out, whether itโs with friends or on a date. With its solid ratings across various categories, itโs clear that Giggling Squid has carved out a niche for itself as a go-to spot for students seeking a memorable night out in Cambridge.
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The atmosphere at Giggling Squid is particularly appealing to students. Many reviews mention a relaxed vibe that makes it a great place to unwind after a long day of classes. The energy here is lively, often described as spontaneous, providing the kind of environment that students crave for a night out. The venue is usually buzzing with a good mix of people, contributing to an overall enjoyable experience. Whether you're looking to kick off a night out or enjoy a laid-back evening with friends, Giggling Squid seems to deliver on all fronts.
When it comes to music, students have noted that the sound is always pumping, creating an upbeat backdrop for socializing and dancing. The music selection is described as decent, which adds to the overall ambiance without overpowering conversations. This makes Giggling Squid a fitting choice for those who want to enjoy a night out without the pressure of loud club music. The venue strikes a balance between being lively and allowing guests to enjoy each other's company, making it a well-rounded option for various occasions.
In terms of drinks and pricing, students appreciate that Giggling Squid is reasonably priced for a night out. While it's not the cheapest option available, many feel that the quality of the atmosphere and the experience justifies the cost. The drinks are said to be priced right, making it accessible for students who want to enjoy a few beverages without breaking the bank. This balance of quality and affordability is a significant draw for the student crowd.
The queue and entry experience at Giggling Squid also receives praise. Many students have noted that the queue moves quickly, which is a huge plus for those eager to start their night. The staff is described as friendly and chill, contributing to a smooth entry process. This kind of efficiency helps set a positive tone for the evening, allowing guests to focus on enjoying their time rather than worrying about long waits or disorganized entry.
Students have shared that their nights at Giggling Squid are typically enjoyable and memorable. Many reviews reflect a sense of community, with visitors feeling comfortable and free to be themselves. There's a notable absence of judgment, which is a significant factor for many who choose to spend their evenings here. The venue's unique charm, combined with its local feel, sets it apart from typical chain bars, making it a favorite among students who appreciate a more personalized experience.
However, while Giggling Squid has many strengths, there are a few caveats to consider. Some students have mentioned that the experience can vary depending on the crowd present on a given night. While many enjoy the mix of people, others have found that the vibe can shift based on who is there. Additionally, while the atmosphere is generally praised, some students have noted that it can feel a bit crowded during peak times, which might detract from the relaxed vibe that many appreciate.
In summary, Giggling Squid is a highly regarded venue for students at the University of Cambridge, offering a blend of good food, a lively atmosphere, and a welcoming environment. It suits those looking for a fun and casual night out, whether itโs with friends or on a date. With its solid ratings across various categories, itโs clear that Giggling Squid has carved out a niche for itself as a go-to spot for students seeking a memorable night out in Cambridge.
โ What Students Love
- Relaxed and inviting atmosphere perfect for socializing.
- Friendly staff that contribute to a positive experience.
- Quick-moving queues that make entry smooth.
- Reasonably priced drinks that are accessible for students.
- Great mix of people and a lively vibe.
- Decent music that complements the social environment.
โ ๏ธ Things to Note
- Experience can vary depending on the crowd present.
- Can feel a bit crowded during peak times.
- Not the cheapest option available, but worth it for the atmosphere.
- Some students might prefer louder music for a more club-like experience.
๐ฏ Best For
Students looking for a relaxed night out with friends in a vibrant atmosphere.
๐ก Things to Know
- Dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are.
- Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on weekends.
- The venue can get busy, so be prepared for a lively crowd.
- Music is generally upbeat but not overpowering, allowing for conversation.
โ Common Questions
What is Giggling Squid like?
Giggling Squid offers a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere perfect for students, with good food and friendly staff.
How long is the queue?
The queue typically moves quickly, allowing for a smooth entry experience.
Is it good value?
While not the cheapest, students find the prices reasonable considering the atmosphere and experience.
What music does Giggling Squid play?
The music is generally upbeat and complements the lively atmosphere without being overpowering.
Can I expect a good crowd?
Yes, Giggling Squid usually has a fun mix of people, contributing to an enjoyable night out.
Reviews
1 of 31
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Food is surprisingly good for a bar, which makes Giggling Squid feel more like a proper venue than just another place to drink. Perfect for when you want something satisfying before heading out again. Those dishes really set it apart from the usual pub fare you find elsewhere around town.
By user245669 on May 7th 2026
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Finding a good place to enjoy beats can be tricky, but this spot nails it with its sound system. When the music is pumping and the crowd gets into it, the energy is electric and you canโt help but feel involved. If youโre looking for a night where the tunes elevate the atmosphere, this place is worth checking out.
By user561747 on Apr 30th 2026
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Seating can be a bit cramped, especially when you're trying to take a breather after a hectic uni day ๐
a table swap might help if it bothers you
By user791779 on Apr 22nd 2026
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Felt a bit strange to squeeze into the small tables when it was busy. kind of hard to relax and enjoy the food when you're practically elbow to elbow with the next table, but the buzz of conversation almost makes up for it.
By user465673 on Apr 17th 2026
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Staff at Giggling Squid seem genuinely upbeat and make the whole experience feel a bit like being at home ๐. theyโre attentive but not in your face, which is nice when you're just trying to enjoy dinner or a chilled evening.
By user508403 on Mar 31st 2026
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Surprised me with how lively it was for a place known for simple eats ๐.
By user413079 on Mar 30th 2026
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Walked into Giggling Squid and instantly felt like I'd stepped into a cosy, energetic bubble of happiness ๐. loved the fusion of vibrant chatter and the inviting, spicy aromas , it's like the laughter here is as infectious as the curries are delicious.
By user903403 on Mar 25th 2026
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Stumbled upon giggling squid after a long library session and the curry was like a soothing hug.
By user383851 on Mar 19th 2026
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Staff here are quite attentive and don't keep you waiting long, which is pretty nice when you're juggling uni stress. it's a lively place, so if you're after a bustling atmosphere with some solid Thai food, definitely worth checking out.
By user724142 on Mar 17th 2026
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Came to giggling squid a few times since starting here, and it's grown on me. love the mix of lively chatter and the friendly staff who make you feel welcome every time. not to mention, it's great having such a chill place just around the corner from all the hectic university stuff.
By user152423 on Mar 12th 2026
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Walked in expecting a usual pub vibe, but it was much livelier than anticipated. the thai dishes added a unique twist that made it really stand out.
By user424846 on Mar 10th 2026
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Surprised by how inviting the place felt right from the entrance. the colourful decor and lively chatter make you feel like you're on holiday, miles away from all the stress of uni.
By user976314 on Feb 28th 2026
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Escaped into a corner booth at giggling squid one evening, just soaking in the lively chatter all around. there's something comforting about being surrounded by the sound of laughter and clinking glasses without feeling overwhelmed ๐
. for someone a bit introverted like me, it struck that perfect balance between vibrant and chill.
By user241858 on Feb 12th 2026
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Growing into the vibe at giggling squid has been pretty easy ๐. at first i was a bit unsure, but once you're inside, it's just like chilling at a mate's house, with the smells of thai food wafting through the air, and it soon feels just right.
By user915259 on Feb 5th 2026
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Always end up at giggling squid on wednesdays after a long studio session. something about their lively vibe makes it a perfect midweek break with mates ๐.
By user586789 on Jan 29th 2026
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Felt really warm and inviting the moment i stepped in. the energy's uplifting and the thai food is genuinely some of the best iโve had in town, perfect for anyone feeling a bit adventurous with their dinner plans.
By user257155 on Jan 23rd 2026
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Felt like a bit of an adventure diving into the Thai flavors here. can't compare it to home but what's nice is how relaxed the place feels. great if you just want to unwind and chat.
By user175638 on Jan 18th 2026
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Feel like I've been telling everyone about this place since I first went. can't beat the welcoming vibe and chill atmosphere they have down to a tee
By user700029 on Jan 13th 2026
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Didn't expect the curry to be so flavorful, especially since i'm used to quicker, bland campus meals. it's definitely worth popping in after morning training , loved the break from the usual burrito place. plus, the staff had this knack for making you feel right at home without being too in your face.
By user910095 on Jan 8th 2026
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Giggling squid really stands out because of its incredible setting in the old library. not many places have such an interesting backdrop, which makes it genuinely unique. the mix of students and families gives it a nice vibe compared to other places in town.
By user862059 on Jan 3rd 2026
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Walking into giggling squid feels like being wrapped in a warm hug , the place just radiates good vibes. there's this infectious energy with the chattering of students and families blending together, which made me feel right at home. can't wait to soak it all up again soon.
By user633094 on Dec 29th 2025
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Trying to navigate my chopsticks while watching a group of toddlers giggle over their noodles was surprisingly entertaining.
By user280453 on Dec 23rd 2025
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Kind of surprised by how chill the atmosphere was despite it being a hotspot for students. the thai food's pretty legit and adds this cool twist to the usual night out, especially when you want something a bit different with friends.
By user825987 on Dec 18th 2025
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Kind of surreal atmosphere, you feel like you're in thailand but still in cambridge at the same time. the pineapple fried rice was comforting and warm in a rainy evening, just what i needed ๐
By user876780 on Dec 12th 2025
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Noticed how the Giggling Squid grew on me with each visit and now it's my go-to for a relaxed dinner.
By user788779 on Dec 5th 2025
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Popped in with some mates after our lectures and we were not disappointed. it's buzzing with a lovely atmosphere, and the thai food is properly tasty if you're after something exciting during your night out.
By user331137 on Nov 30th 2025
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Lights dimmed, chatter of laughter mixing with the aromatic scents , the vibe felt almost magical. soaking it up at a table with friends, I found myself grinning like a child while we all dug into our different dishes. maybe it was the perfect blend of familiarity and excitement, but I couldnโt help thinking it felt like a little escape from our usual routine ๐
By user177561 on Nov 24th 2025
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Noticed loads of students just like me enjoying the evening, laughing and sharing stories over their meals. definitely a chill spot where you can just be yourself.
By user681054 on Nov 17th 2025
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Found the tables a bit cramped for eating with a group of friends.
By user527960 on Nov 9th 2025
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Staff here are genuinely friendly, always making you feel welcome even when it's packed. their chill vibe adds to the relaxed night out you're after, and it's clear they enjoy what they do, which really rubs off on the whole evening.
By user293862 on Oct 30th 2025
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By user488873 on Apr 4th 2025
Review published! โ