The Best Pubs and Restaurants in Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from cozy country pubs with roaring fires to Michelin-starred restaurants serving world-class cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a hearty Sunday roast, a fine dining experience, or a picturesque riverside pint, this county has something for every taste. Here’s our guide to some of the best pubs and restaurants in Oxfordshire.

The Best Country Pubs in Oxfordshire

Few things are more quintessentially British than a traditional pub, and Oxfordshire is home to some of the best in the country. Here are a few that stand out:

1. The Trout Inn (Oxford)

Perched on the banks of the River Thames, The Trout Inn is a historic pub with a stunning setting. With a large riverside terrace and a menu of British classics, it’s perfect for a relaxed meal or a pint by the water. It’s also been a favourite of literary greats, including C.S. Lewis.

2. The Perch (Binsey, Oxford)

A short walk from Oxford’s city centre, The Perch is a charming thatched-roof pub with a beautiful beer garden. It’s famous for its seasonal menus, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and its fantastic Sunday roasts.

3. The Feathered Nest Inn (Nether Westcote)

Located in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, The Feathered Nest Inn is an award-winning country pub with spectacular views over the Evenlode Valley. Expect fine dining in a relaxed setting, with dishes like venison loin and pan-fried scallops.

4. The Wild Rabbit (Kingham)

This stylish, Michelin-starred pub is part of the famous Daylesford Organic Farm. The menu is all about organic, seasonal produce, with beautifully presented dishes that celebrate British ingredients.

5. The Chequers (Churchill)

This 16th-century pub is a hidden gem, offering modern British food with a European twist. The menu includes classics like slow-cooked pork belly and hand-cut steak tartare, paired with a great selection of wines and ales.

The Best Restaurants in Oxfordshire

If you’re looking for an elevated dining experience, Oxfordshire has several fine dining and Michelin-starred restaurants that are worth a visit.

1. Le Manoir aux Quat Saisons (Great Milton)

Raymond Blanc’s two Michelin-starred restaurant is the ultimate Oxfordshire dining experience. Le Manoir is a luxury country house hotel with exquisite French-inspired cuisine made from homegrown and locally sourced ingredients. The tasting menu is a must-try.

2. The Oxford Kitchen (Oxford)

A modern British fine dining restaurant in Summertown, The Oxford Kitchen has gained a reputation for its creative and beautifully plated dishes. Expect everything from elegant seafood dishes to indulgent desserts.

3. The Nut Tree Inn (Murcott)

A charming thatched-roof pub with a Michelin star, The Nut Tree Inn serves elevated British cuisine with an emphasis on high-quality local ingredients. Their tasting menu is perfect for a special occasion.

4. Gees Restaurant & Bar (Oxford)

Set in a beautiful Victorian glasshouse, Gees is one of Oxford’s most stylish restaurants. The menu focuses on Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, grilled meats, and seasonal produce.

5. The Old Parsonage (Oxford)

A historic boutique hotel with an elegant dining room, The Old Parsonage is known for its classic yet refined British dishes. Whether you’re stopping by for a traditional afternoon tea or a steak dinner, the experience is always sophisticated.

Oxfordshire’s Best Hidden Gems

For those looking for something a little different, here are a few hidden gems that are worth seeking out:

• Arbequina (Oxford) - A cozy Spanish tapas bar on Cowley Road, serving authentic dishes like patatas bravas and chorizo in cider.

• Pompette (Summertown, Oxford) - A chic French-inspired bistro with an excellent wine list.

• The Bell at Hampton Poyle - A gastropub with a wood-fired pizza oven, offering some of the best pizzas in the county.

• The Magdalen Arms (Oxford) - A lively gastropub with a daily-changing menu, known for its slow-roast lamb shoulder for sharing.

• The Cherwell Boathouse (Oxford) - A riverside restaurant and punting spot, offering fresh, locally sourced dishes with beautiful views.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re craving a hearty pub lunch, a Michelin-starred meal, or a hidden gem with character, Oxfordshire’s food scene has something for every palate. With its mix of historic inns, stylish restaurants, and charming countryside pubs, it’s no wonder the county is considered one of the best places for food and drink in England.

So, next time you’re in Oxfordshire, why not explore its culinary delights? Whether it’s a pint by the river or a tasting menu in a fine-dining setting, you’re in for a treat!