Looking for the best restaurants in Oxford, MS? Look no further! With its vibrant food scene and diverse culinary offerings, Oxford is a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a fan of Southern comfort food, international cuisine, or farm-to-table delights, this charming college town has something to satisfy every palate. From cozy cafes to upscale dining establishments, Oxford’s restaurants are known for their exceptional flavors, warm hospitality, and unique dining experiences. Join us as we explore the top restaurants in Oxford, MS, and discover the culinary gems that make this town a true foodie destination.
When it comes to dining in Oxford, MS, one cannot miss the iconic Square. This historic downtown area is home to a plethora of restaurants, each with its own distinct charm and culinary offerings. From trendy gastropubs to elegant fine dining establishments, the Square has it all. Whether you’re in the mood for a mouthwatering burger, fresh seafood, or a delectable steak, the Square has a restaurant to satisfy every craving. Join us as we take a culinary tour of the Square and discover the hidden gems that make this area a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Oxford, MS, are hidden culinary treasures waiting to be explored. From quaint cafes to hidden gems off the beaten path, these restaurants offer a unique dining experience that captures the essence of Oxford’s rich history and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, these local favorites are sure to leave a lasting impression. Join us as we venture beyond the city center and uncover the best-kept secrets of Oxford’s dining scene.
Iconic Restaurants in the Square
The Square in Oxford, MS is a bustling hub of activity, and it is also home to some of the most iconic restaurants in the area. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or an elegant dining experience, the Square has something to offer for every palate. Here are a few must-visit restaurants in the Square:
1. City Grocery: Known for its refined Southern cuisine, City Grocery has been a staple in Oxford for over two decades. With Chef John Currence at the helm, this iconic restaurant has garnered national acclaim for its innovative dishes that showcase the best of Mississippi flavors. From the signature shrimp and grits to the succulent steaks, every bite at City Grocery is a culinary delight.
2. Ajax Diner: If you’re looking for comfort food with a twist, Ajax Diner is the place to be. This beloved restaurant serves up classic Southern dishes with a touch of creativity. Don’t miss their famous fried catfish, savory meatloaf, or the mouthwatering vegetable plate. The laid-back atmosphere and hearty portions make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
3. Boure: For a taste of New Orleans in Oxford, head to Boure. With its Cajun and Creole-inspired menu, this vibrant restaurant transports you to the vibrant streets of the Big Easy. From jambalaya to gumbo, seafood étouffée to po’boys, every bite is bursting with flavor. Wash it all down with a handcrafted cocktail or a local brew from the extensive drink menu.
4. Snackbar: With its contemporary Southern cuisine, Snackbar offers a unique dining experience in the heart of the Square. The menu showcases a fusion of flavors from around the world, complemented by an impressive wine list and craft cocktails. From the tantalizing small plates to the indulgent entrees, every dish is thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented.
5. Big Bad Breakfast: Start your day right with a visit to Big Bad Breakfast. This popular breakfast and brunch spot is known for its hearty portions and indulgent dishes. From fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon to mouthwatering omelets and homemade biscuits, this is the place to satisfy your breakfast cravings. Don’t forget to try their Bloody Mary or mimosa for a true Southern brunch experience.
Trendy Gastropubs: A Unique Culinary Experience
Oxford, MS is not just home to traditional Southern cuisine, but it also offers a variety of trendy gastropubs that provide a unique culinary experience. These gastropubs have gained popularity in recent years, combining the casual atmosphere of a pub with the high-quality, inventive cuisine typically found in upscale restaurants. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these trendy gastropubs in Oxford is a must.
1. Snackbar: Snackbar is a hotspot for food enthusiasts seeking a contemporary Southern dining experience. Located on the Square, this gastropub offers an extensive menu featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. With its sleek design and vibrant atmosphere, Snackbar is perfect for enjoying shared plates, creative cocktails, and unique flavor combinations.
2. Proud Larry’s: If you’re in the mood for some mouthwatering pizzas and live music, Proud Larry’s is the place to be. This lively gastropub has been a staple in Oxford for years, offering a diverse menu of wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, and daily specials. With its cozy ambiance and frequent live performances, Proud Larry’s creates an unforgettable dining experience.
3. The Canteen: Located just off the Square, The Canteen is a gastropub known for its Southern comfort food with a modern twist. From their famous fried chicken sandwich to their loaded tots, The Canteen’s menu is full of delicious and indulgent options. Pair your meal with a craft beer or a signature cocktail to complete the experience.
4. Saint Leo: At Saint Leo, you’ll find a trendy gastropub with an Italian flair. This restaurant specializes in wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas, and an impressive wine selection. The sleek and modern interior, along with the cozy outdoor patio, creates a welcoming atmosphere for diners looking for a taste of Italy in the heart of Oxford.
5. Four Corners Kitchen: Four Corners Kitchen prides itself on its farm-to-table concept, offering a menu filled with locally sourced ingredients. This gastropub highlights the best of Mississippi, with dishes like Gulf seafood, smoked meats, and seasonal vegetables. The rustic yet contemporary setting makes Four Corners Kitchen a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
Upscale Fine Dining: Indulge in Luxury
When it comes to upscale fine dining, Oxford, MS has no shortage of options to satisfy the most discerning palates. With a thriving culinary scene, the city offers a range of restaurants that cater to those looking for a truly indulgent experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply in the mood to treat yourself, these establishments will not disappoint.
City Grocery is a renowned restaurant in the heart of the Square that has become synonymous with fine dining in Oxford. Led by Chef John Currence, this upscale eatery combines Southern ingredients with international flavors to create dishes that are both innovative and comforting. With an intimate atmosphere and impeccable service, City Grocery is the perfect place for an elegant night out.
For a taste of traditional Southern cuisine with a twist, Boure is a must-visit. Located in a historic building that once housed a hardware store, this upscale restaurant offers a menu that showcases locally sourced ingredients in dishes like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and buttermilk fried chicken. The warm and inviting ambiance, complete with exposed brick walls and cozy seating, adds to the overall dining experience.
Another gem in the Oxford dining scene is Snackbar, a chic and sophisticated restaurant known for its imaginative menu and stylish decor. From the beautifully plated dishes to the extensive wine list, every detail at Snackbar is carefully curated to create a memorable dining experience. The restaurant’s commitment to using seasonal and local ingredients ensures that guests are treated to the freshest flavors Oxford has to offer.
When it comes to fine dining in Oxford, The Ravine is a hidden gem that shouldn’t be overlooked. Nestled in the picturesque countryside just outside the city, this elegant restaurant offers a serene setting with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The menu features an array of refined dishes, including seafood, steaks, and vegetarian options, all prepared with a creative flair and attention to detail.
No discussion of upscale fine dining in Oxford would be complete without mentioning Saint Leo, a trendy Italian-inspired restaurant that has quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional cuisine. Led by Chef Emily Blount, Saint Leo offers a diverse menu with classics like wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta, as well as unique dishes that showcase the chef’s creativity and skill. The sleek and modern interior adds to the overall dining experience, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
Mouthwatering Burgers, Fresh Seafood, and Delectable Steaks
Oxford, MS is not only known for its vibrant food scene and diverse culinary offerings but also for its amazing selection of burgers, seafood, and steaks. Whether you’re a meat lover or a seafood enthusiast, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings in this charming Southern town.
When it comes to mouthwatering burgers, one cannot miss out on the iconic restaurants located in the Square. These establishments take burgers to a whole new level, offering a variety of toppings, flavorful sauces, and perfectly grilled patties. From classic cheeseburgers to gourmet creations, Oxford has something to please every burger aficionado. Some popular burger joints in the area include:
- Big Bad Breakfast: Known for its hearty breakfast options, this restaurant also boasts a delicious burger menu. The locally-sourced ingredients and attention to detail make their burgers irresistible.
- Snackbar: Not only does Snackbar offer a unique dining experience with its gastropub concept, but it also serves up some of the most mouthwatering burgers in town. The combination of high-quality ingredients and innovative flavor combinations sets their burgers apart from the rest.
When it comes to fresh seafood, Oxford is no exception. Despite being a landlocked town, there are restaurants that specialize in sourcing the freshest seafood and preparing it to perfection. These establishments offer a wide range of seafood options, from lobster and shrimp to fish and oysters. Some notable seafood restaurants in Oxford include:
- Boure: This upscale restaurant features a diverse menu that includes expertly prepared seafood dishes. Their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients ensures the freshness and quality of their seafood offerings.
- The Ravine: With its rustic and inviting atmosphere, The Ravine is a popular choice for seafood lovers. Their menu showcases a variety of seafood options that are not only delicious but also sustainably sourced.
When it comes to delectable steaks, Oxford has some hidden gems that are sure to impress even the most discerning steak connoisseurs. These restaurants take pride in serving top-quality cuts of meat, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Here are a couple of steakhouses in Oxford worth mentioning:
- Saint Leo: This Italian-inspired eatery may be known for its pasta and pizza, but their steaks are not to be missed. With a focus on using locally sourced, sustainable ingredients, Saint Leo offers a unique steakhouse experience.
Hidden Culinary Treasures: Exploring Oxford’s Local Favorites
As one delves deeper into the vibrant food scene of Oxford, MS, it becomes apparent that there are numerous hidden culinary treasures waiting to be discovered. Beyond the well-known establishments, there are a handful of local favorites that offer unique and unforgettable dining experiences.
One such hidden gem is The Neon Pig, a beloved butcher shop and gourmet market that also serves mouthwatering sandwiches. Known for its commitment to quality ingredients, The Neon Pig prides itself on sourcing locally and offering an ever-changing menu that caters to all taste preferences.
Another local favorite is Soulshine Pizza Factory, a place where music and delicious food come together. This laid-back pizzeria not only serves up delectable wood-fired pizzas but also hosts live music events, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere that locals and visitors alike adore.
For those seeking a taste of the exotic, Two Stick, a Asian-inspired fusion restaurant, is an absolute must-try. Offering a range of delectable dishes that combine flavors from various Asian cuisines, it’s the perfect spot for adventurous food enthusiasts looking to expand their palate.
Volta Taverna is another hidden culinary treasure, specializing in Mediterranean cuisine. With a menu that features delicious dishes inspired by Greece and the Mediterranean region, this cozy taverna offers a delightful dining experience that transports patrons to a world of amazing flavors.
Last but certainly not least, Parrish’s is a local favorite that serves up southern comfort food with a twist. From their famous fried chicken to their mouthwatering barbecue, Parrish’s offers a taste of traditional southern fare made with love and attention to detail.
These local favorites showcase the diversity and culinary creativity that can be found in the food scene of Oxford, MS. Each offers a unique and memorable dining experience that showcases the flavors and spirit of the local community.
Without a concluding paragraph or sentence, the article continues to provide valuable information to help readers explore the rich culinary landscape of Oxford, Mississippi.
Conclusion
Oxford, MS is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse and vibrant food scene that offers something for everyone. From hidden culinary treasures to local favorites, the city is brimming with delicious options.
The Neon Pig is a must-visit for those seeking quality ingredients and mouthwatering sandwiches. Soulshine Pizza Factory not only serves up delicious food but also provides a lively atmosphere with live music events. Two Stick offers a unique fusion of Asian-inspired cuisine, while Volta Taverna specializes in Mediterranean dishes. And if you’re craving southern comfort food with a twist, Parrish’s is the place to go.
These local favorites exemplify the culinary creativity and diversity that Oxford has to offer. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, be sure to explore the food scene and discover the hidden gems that make Oxford a true culinary destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the article about?
The article explores the vibrant food scene in Oxford, MS, highlighting hidden culinary treasures and local favorites.
Q: What is The Neon Pig known for?
The Neon Pig is a beloved butcher shop and gourmet market known for its quality ingredients and mouthwatering sandwiches.
Q: What can you find at Soulshine Pizza Factory?
Soulshine Pizza Factory offers delicious food and live music events, making it a local favorite.
Q: What type of cuisine does Two Stick serve?
Two Stick offers Asian-inspired fusion cuisine, adding a unique flavor to the Oxford food scene.
Q: What is Volta Taverna known for?
Volta Taverna specializes in Mediterranean dishes, providing a taste of the Mediterranean in Oxford.
Q: What type of food does Parrish’s serve?
Parrish’s serves up southern comfort food with a twist, offering a unique take on classic favorites.
