Where To Eat In Oxford

Photo: Paul Gregory

This tapas bar on Cowley Road is widely regarded as one of the best in the country. Housed in a former chemist, you’ll find all your favourites here: croquetas, a sensational tortilla, and of course, patatas bravas. Grab a seat at the counter for the full experience. 

The restaurant here at this Victorian boathouse is almost by the by: it’s all about the tranquil river views (you can even go punting). But when it is time to eat, you won’t be disappointed: dependable British fare, excellent cheese and a good-value wine list only add to the sense of wellbeing. 

Photo courtesy of Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons 

In the village of Great Milton, a short distance outside Oxford, you’ll find one of Britain’s most celebrated restaurants. Chef Raymond Blanc’s Le Manoir, set in a 15th century manor house with lush gardens, has held two Michelin stars for over 30 years and food, like the setting, is perfectly pitched.

Photo: Patricia Niven

A proper British gastropub and the sister of London’s Anchor and Hope, the Magdalen Arms is a meaty affair. Come hungry and opt for sharing dishes, like its Hereford rib of beef or lamb neck with dauphinoise and pickled red cabbage, then ask someone to roll you out to your waiting carriage.

This beloved local Thai restaurant with a Michelin Bib gourmand has just a handful of tables, so book ahead to ensure you get a taste of Laddawan Thurston’s inventive food. Star dishes include confit duck panang and Portuguese-style custard tart. Prices are stunningly low too.

This modern French brasserie run by a husband and wife team in the suburb of Summertown has a great prix fixe lunch menu. Expect classics such as duck rillettes, fish soup, and snails, as well as plenty of charcuterie, with wider Mediterranean touches.