Pass the Keys Blog

The Ultimate Foodie's Guide to Dining in Oxford

Written by Pass the Keys Oxford | Jun 14, 2024 12:44:51 PM
My job is City Manager for Pass the Keys (a short let management company) and my passion is food!
 
Everyday we welcome guests to Oxford from Airbnb, Booking.com, VRBO, our direct website and I love sharing the best spots to eat for the ultimate guest experience.
 
Whether you're staying in Oxford for a romantic couple's getaway, family summer vacay or sight seeing with friends, we've got the best restaurant to match, tried and tested by yours truly, the ultimate foodie.
 

GROUP DINING

 

Magdalen Arms - https://www.magdalenarms.co.uk/

      
 
A large Gastropub serving quality food. Perfect for a large group! I highly recommend ordering the 'Slow Cooked Lamb & Dauphinoise Potatoes' sharer. They also provide a kid's menu and Sunday roast dinner sharing plates.
#FamilyFriendly
 

Chester Arms - https://chesterarmsoxford.co.uk/

 
An incredibly popular family run pub, famous for their 'Hamzah's Steak Platter' served with Homemade Chips Cabbage & Streaky Bacon, Mixed Leaf Salad & Béarnaise. Vegan and vegetarian dishes available too. Fantastic Sunday roast.
#DogFriendly
 

Sticks N Sushi - https://sticksnsushi.com/en/restaurants/london/oxford

 
 
Located on top of the Westgate roof terrace, with views of Oxford's dreaming spires. Their menu is a combination of Japanese tradition and Danish anarchist focusing on high quality. Easy to share a selection of small plates.
 
 

DATE NIGHT

 

Arbequina - https://arbequina.co.uk/

 
 
An in demand, candle lit, intimate Tapas spot, only open Thursday - Saturday. Must book in advance. You could easily eat three baskets of their bread served with harissa and aioli. We highly recommend ordering the 'Aubergine, whipped feta, molasses, pomegranate' and the main meat dish of the day, which changes regularly.
 

SixByNico - https://www.sixbynico.co.uk/oxford/

   

 
Located on top of ​​the Westgate roof terrace, with views of Oxford's dreaming spires. Experience a six-course tasting menu inspired by a theme. Their set menu changes every six weeks. Michelin quality and presentation at an affordable price. Beautiful interiors and super friendly staff. 10/10 all round. 
 

Pierre Victoire - https://pierrevictoire.co.uk/

 
 
A candlelit French bistro located on trendy Little Clarendon Street offering traditional french cuisine and a fixed price menu, perfect for a pre- theatre dinner. 
 
 

SUMMER SPOTS

 

Cherwell Boathouse - https://cherwellboathouse.co.uk/

     
 
An award-winning restaurant (AA Rosettes) located on the banks of the River Cherwell. The restaraunt was set up in an Edwardian Boathouse, alongside the punt station (established in 1904) by a local entrepreneur and connoisseur of fine wine and food. It is still family owned and run today. Watch the punters pass by whilst devouring excellent food and wine.
 

The Folly - https://www.the-folly.co.uk/

 
 
An award-winning restaurant (AA Rosettes) with a floating terrace located in the heart of the city, on the banks of the River Thames. For a delectable Oxford experience, combine their delicious food and drink with the tranquillity of a river cruise by booking one of their packages: Cruise & Dine, Afternoon Tea Cruise, Picnic Cruise, Cruise & Tasting. 
 
With all these in demand restaurants, be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
 
Happy dining!
 
Nicole - PTK Oxford | City Manager