Oxford, a city renowned for its prestigious university and rich history, is also home to a vibrant and diverse café scene. Whether you’re a student seeking a cozy study spot, a traveler exploring the city, or a local looking to unwind, Oxford’s unique cafés offer something special for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of seven must-visit cafés in Oxford, each with its distinct charm and offerings that make it stand out from the rest.
Café #1: The Vaults & Garden Café
Location and Ambiance
Nestled in the heart of Oxford’s historic Radcliffe Square, The Vaults & Garden Café offers a serene escape from the bustling city streets. The café is housed in a 14th-century building that was once part of the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin. With its high vaulted ceilings and arched windows, the ambiance here is both majestic and tranquil, making it an ideal spot to relax and soak in the history of Oxford.
Specialty Offerings
The Vaults & Garden Café prides itself on serving organic, locally-sourced food. Their menu is a delightful mix of healthy options, including seasonal salads, hearty soups, and freshly baked goods. They are particularly known for their breakfast offerings, where you can enjoy a traditional English breakfast made with organic ingredients, or opt for a lighter, vegetarian option.
If you’re a tea lover, you’re in for a treat as the café offers an extensive selection of loose-leaf teas. Their coffee, too, is ethically sourced, and pairs perfectly with one of their homemade cakes or pastries.
Why It’s Unique
The Vaults & Garden Café is not just a place to eat; it’s a place to experience Oxford’s history in a uniquely tangible way. The blend of historical architecture with a modern café menu creates an environment that feels both timeless and contemporary. Moreover, the café’s commitment to sustainability and the local community further enhances its appeal, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Café #2: The Grand Café
A Glimpse into History
Located on Oxford’s High Street, The Grand Café holds the title of the oldest coffee house in England, dating back to 1650. Stepping into this café is like stepping back in time, with its elegant interior featuring gilded mirrors, marble-topped tables, and plush seating. The ambiance exudes an old-world charm that invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
Menu Highlights
The Grand Café is famous for its afternoon tea, a quintessentially British experience. Here, you can enjoy a selection of fine teas accompanied by freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and a variety of finger sandwiches. Their pastry selection is equally impressive, with delicate éclairs, tarts, and cakes that look almost too beautiful to eat.
For those who prefer something savory, the café offers a range of classic British dishes, including the ever-popular fish and chips, as well as lighter options like quiches and salads.
Unique Features
What truly sets The Grand Café apart is its deep connection to Oxford’s history. The walls of this café have witnessed centuries of conversations, literary discussions, and even some famous visitors. It’s a place where you can sit back, enjoy a cup of tea, and imagine the countless stories that have unfolded here over the years. For history enthusiasts, this café is an absolute must-visit.
Café #3: Jericho Coffee Traders
The Hipster’s Paradise
Jericho Coffee Traders, located in the trendy Jericho area, is the epitome of Oxford’s modern café culture. This café is a haven for coffee lovers, offering a hip, urban vibe that attracts students, professionals, and coffee enthusiasts alike. The interior is minimalist yet inviting, with exposed brick walls, wooden accents, and large windows that flood the space with natural light.
Coffee Culture
At Jericho Coffee Traders, coffee is more than just a drink – it’s an art form. The café focuses on specialty coffee, offering a rotating selection of beans sourced from some of the best coffee-growing regions around the world. Whether you’re a fan of a strong espresso or prefer a smooth flat white, the baristas here are masters at their craft, ensuring each cup is brewed to perfection.
In addition to their expertly brewed coffee, the café also offers a selection of artisanal teas and freshly made pastries. The coffee menu is ever-changing, reflecting the café’s dedication to exploring new flavors and brewing techniques.
What Sets It Apart
Jericho Coffee Traders stands out not only for its exceptional coffee but also for its community-focused ethos. The café regularly hosts events such as coffee tastings, workshops, and pop-up markets, creating a space where people can connect over their shared love of coffee. Their commitment to sustainability is also evident in their practices, from using biodegradable cups to sourcing their beans ethically.
Café #4: The Missing Bean
The Artisan Experience
Tucked away on Turl Street, The Missing Bean is a small, independent café that has become a beloved fixture in Oxford’s café scene. The atmosphere here is cozy and unpretentious, with a warm, welcoming vibe that makes it easy to see why it’s such a popular spot among locals.
Coffee and Beyond
The Missing Bean is dedicated to serving high-quality, handcrafted coffee. Their beans are sourced from ethical suppliers, and each cup is carefully prepared to bring out the best flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich espresso or a velvety latte, you can expect your coffee to be made with the utmost care and attention to detail.
In addition to coffee, The Missing Bean offers a selection of artisan pastries and light bites. Their croissants are particularly popular, perfectly flaky on the outside and buttery on the inside, making them an ideal pairing with your morning coffee.
Why It Stands Out
What makes The Missing Bean truly special is its dedication to quality and its role in supporting Oxford’s independent café culture. In a city dominated by large coffee chains, The Missing Bean stands as a testament to the power of small, independent businesses to create a unique and memorable experience. It’s a place where you can enjoy a great cup of coffee while feeling good about supporting a local, sustainable business.
Café #5: Café Loco
Playful and Whimsical
Café Loco, located just a stone’s throw from Christ Church College, is a café with a personality all its own. The interior is bright and colorful, with quirky decorations that give the space a playful, almost Alice in Wonderland-esque feel. It’s a café that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s precisely what makes it so delightful.
Food and Drink Offerings
The menu at Café Loco is as eclectic as its décor. You’ll find a mix of British classics and international dishes, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a full English breakfast, a hearty sandwich, or a light salad, there’s something here to satisfy every craving.
Café Loco is also known for its wide selection of teas, which range from classic Earl Grey to more adventurous blends like Moroccan mint or spicy chai. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, their desserts are not to be missed – the cakes and tarts are as whimsical as the café itself, often decorated with playful touches that make them almost too pretty to eat.
Uniqueness Factor
What sets Café Loco apart is its fun, whimsical atmosphere and its creative approach to both food and drink. It’s a place where you can enjoy a leisurely meal or a quick coffee, all while soaking in the café’s unique, quirky charm. It’s particularly popular with students and tourists, making it a lively spot to meet new people and enjoy Oxford’s vibrant café culture.
Café #6: Society Café
A Space for Creativity
Society Café, located in the heart of Oxford, is more than just a place to grab a coffee – it’s a space designed to inspire creativity and foster community. The café’s modern, airy interior is filled with natural light, making it an ideal spot for reading, working, or simply relaxing with a cup of coffee.
Menu Selections
Society Café offers a wide range of specialty coffees, from classic espresso-based drinks to more adventurous options like cold brews and pour-overs. Their commitment to quality is evident in every cup, with beans sourced from top-notch roasters and brewed to perfection.
The café also offers a variety of healthy snacks, including fresh salads, sandwiches, and baked goods. They cater to different dietary preferences, with a range of vegan and gluten-free options available. Whether you’re in the mood for a light bite or something more substantial, you’ll find plenty of delicious choices here.
What Makes It Special
What makes Society Café truly unique is its focus on community and creativity. The café regularly hosts art exhibitions, book readings, and other events that bring people together and encourage creative expression. It’s also a pet-friendly space, making it a welcoming spot for all members of the community – including the furry ones!
Café #7: Combibos Coffee
A Family Affair
Combibos Coffee, located in Gloucester Green, is a family-run café that exudes warmth and hospitality. The atmosphere here is cozy and inviting, with a focus on creating a welcoming environment for all who enter. It’s the kind of place where the staff greet you with a smile, and regulars are treated like family.
Menu and Specialties
The menu at Combibos Coffee is hearty and satisfying, with a particular emphasis on breakfast and brunch items. From fluffy pancakes to rich, creamy porridge, there’s something to start your day off right. Their coffee is also top-notch, made from carefully selected beans that are roasted to bring out the fullest flavor.
One of the standout items on the menu is their signature waffles, which come with a variety of toppings to suit every taste. Whether you prefer them sweet with syrup and berries or savory with bacon and eggs, these waffles are a must-try. For those with a sweet tooth, their milkshakes are also a hit, offering a rich, indulgent treat that’s perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
The Unique Appeal
What sets Combibos Coffee apart is its homely feel and the personalized service that comes from being a family-run business. It’s a place where you can relax, enjoy a great meal, and feel like you’re part of the community. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, you’ll be made to feel welcome here.
Conclusion
Oxford’s café scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From historic establishments like The Grand Café to modern, community-focused spots like Society Café, there’s no shortage of unique and memorable places to enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious meal.
Each of these seven cafés offers something special, whether it’s a connection to Oxford’s rich history, a commitment to sustainability, or simply a warm, welcoming atmosphere. So next time you’re in Oxford, be sure to explore these unique cafés and discover the charm and character that each one has to offer.
FAQs
- What makes Oxford’s café culture unique?
- Oxford’s café culture is unique due to its blend of historic charm and modern innovation. Many of the city’s cafés are located in historic buildings, offering a unique ambiance that reflects Oxford’s rich history. At the same time, there’s a strong focus on quality, sustainability, and community, with many cafés sourcing local, organic ingredients and hosting community events.
- Are these cafés suitable for working or studying?
- Yes, several of the cafés mentioned, such as Society Café and Jericho Coffee Traders, are particularly popular with students and professionals for working or studying. They offer a comfortable environment with ample seating, free Wi-Fi, and plenty of natural light.
- Do these cafés offer vegan or gluten-free options?
- Many of the cafés in Oxford cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options. Society Café, for example, offers a range of vegan and gluten-free snacks and drinks, making it a great choice for those with specific dietary needs.
- What are some budget-friendly options among these cafés?
- The Missing Bean and Combibos Coffee are known for offering high-quality food and drink at reasonable prices, making them great budget-friendly options. Both cafés focus on providing value for money while maintaining a high standard of quality.
- Are these cafés family-friendly?
- Yes, many of these cafés are family-friendly, with Combibos Coffee being a particularly great choice for families. Its warm, welcoming atmosphere and hearty menu make it an ideal spot for a family meal. Additionally, Society Café’s pet-friendly policy makes it a good option for families with pets.
