Restaurants in Carfax (Oxford)

The Nosebag

A little cafe-restaurant tucked away off Cornmarket Street, The Nosebag serves simple, wholesome food for the exhausted shopper. The 70s-influenced decor will charm many, and everyone will like the masses of seating available. The food is quite basic (including humble jacket potatoes, sandwiches and salads) but the portions are large. With its selection of hot and cold dishes, The Nosebag is perfect for those who want a fast, fairly healthy snack in a convenient place.

Maxwell's Oxford

With a reputation for cocktails at night and loud coffees during the day, it may come as a surprise to learn that Maxwell's is actually a great place to get a burger. The decor is that of a 1950s American diner, with some of the coziness of Cheers thrown in. The waitresses are attentive beyond the call of duty and will help you decide what you want, even when the cocktails have made you lose all desire for a meal. It's simple fast food, but prepared with real care. You could have tasty onion rings or fajitas (both vegetarian and chicken), but burgers (with fries of course!) are really the thing to have here. The bar is well stocked, but beer or cocktails are the best choices.

Purple Turtle

The Purple Turtle is attached to the Oxford Union and is essentially a student bar. During term time, you need to be with a Union member or have a Union card yourself to get in. However, during the vacations anyone can get in. Once inside, the décor is overwhelmingly - but not surprisingly - purple. Long tunnel-like rooms lead into the bar area where drinks are served at knock-down prices and the dance floor can get quite busy. Obviously, The Purple Turtle is primarily aimed at young people of student age, but a night there is always one to remember.

Old Parsanage (Tea House & Restaurant)

Better known as somewhere to get a relaxing cream tea, The Old Parsonage is also a superb, if little-known restaurant. The traditional, rustic exterior is matched by the paneling that dominates the dining room. This gives the place a warm and cozy atmosphere and makes a meal there a real pleasure. The menu covers all the bases and is strikingly well presented. Vegetarian options are also recommended although they are not as varied as in other restaurants. The souffle has to be tasted to be believed.

Escape

Situated in the heart of the city, this is really a great escape. Wine, dine, dance or just observe the scene at Escape. With Thai, Morroccan, Japanese, and Mediterranean cuisine to choose from, the restaurant will surely please everyone's palate. Plonk yourself on one of the sofas while you enjoy your beer; or hangout at the bar sipping cocktails. Celebrating something special or just in the mood to splurge? Then, opt for some fine wine or finer champagne, both of which are brought from all over the world. Groove to the beats of hip-hop and R&B at the very hip nightclub. Certain nights are dedicated to jazz too.

Gee's Restaurant & Bar

Set in a beautiful plant-filled conservatory, Gee's is perfect for summer dining. The high ceiling and huge windows give this restaurant a very airy feel. It is almost always full for lunch and dinner, and is a favorite for family celebrations. The menu is always diverse and the seafood can be especially interesting. With house wines ranging from GBP9 to GBP15 and a relaxing bar area, Gee's is a very pleasant place to dine. For further details, please check the website.

Cherwell Boathouse

The Cherwell Boathouse is the proud recipient of a multitude of accolades, such as from the Good Food Guide 2004, and Time Out. What a lovely venue to escape from the hustle bustle of the city! Start off with the Smoked Salmon & Watercress Gateau with Horseradish and Chive Cream. Follow it with a choice from the short list of mains. Don't miss the Valrhona Chocolate Soup, with Toasted Brioche and Vanilla Ice-cream – it is heavenly! The set price menu is a good option and comes with Filter coffee, cappuccino or espresso. Express Lunches are available during the week. The venue can be hired to host private parties too.