Oxford boasts several restaurants recognized by the prestigious Michelin Guide, renowned for their culinary excellence and exceptional dining experiences. These establishments showcase the city’s vibrant gastronomic scene, offering a diverse array of cuisines crafted with creativity, skill, and the finest ingredients.
Receiving a Michelin star is a prestigious honor in the culinary world and often leads to increased recognition, prestige, and patronage for the awarded restaurant. Of thse 17 restaurants, two have actually received Michelin stars: Nut Tree Inn and le Manoir aux Quat’ Saison. The other 15 are listed in the Michelin guide (but have received no stars).
Whether you seek haute cuisine or cozy bistros, these restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary journey for discerning palates and food enthusiasts alike. So, let’s see what these are and try to rank them from best to… still excellent!
A Quick Catchup: What's a Michelin Star?
A Michelin star is a prestigious culinary award bestowed by the Michelin Guide, an esteemed guidebook series that evaluates and rates restaurants around the world.
Michelin stars are awarded to restaurants based on the quality and excellence of their cuisine, as judged by anonymous inspectors who assess various aspects such as the quality of ingredients, culinary techniques, creativity, consistency, and overall dining experience.
Restaurants can receive one, two, or three Michelin stars, with each star representing a different level of culinary distinction:
One Michelin Star: A restaurant awarded one Michelin star is considered to offer high-quality cuisine and is worth a visit.
Two Michelin Stars: A restaurant with two Michelin stars signifies excellent cuisine, skillfully executed dishes, and a notable dining experience that is worth a detour.
Three Michelin Stars: The highest accolade, a restaurant awarded three Michelin stars, represents exceptional culinary mastery, exquisite dishes, and an unparalleled dining experience that is worth a special trip.
Oxfordshire's Michelin Star Restaurants
As we have mentioned above, there are two restaurants in Oxfordshire that have received the prestigious Michelin Star award. These are Nut Tree Inn and le Manoir aux Quat’ Saison. The first is nestled in the quaint village of Murcott and surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery. It is a charming pub-turned-restaurant that exudes warmth and sophistication. The second epitomizes the pinnacle of French gastronomy infused with British charm and is set within a historic manor house surrounded by meticulously manicured gardens.
Nut Tree Inn
Type: Modern British
Price: ££££
Website >
Despite its 15th-century origins and charming thatched roof, this establishment is far from your typical English pub. Acquired by Mike and Imogen in 2006, they have elevated Murcott’s culinary reputation while maintaining the inn’s warm and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen showcases its considerable talents through a refined and elegant seven-course tasting menu. Walk-ins are accommodated, with traditional pub fare like steak and chips also available.
Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons, a Belmond Hotel
Type: French
Price: ££££
Website >
This legendary country house restaurant captivates all who visit. True to its name, the changing seasons dictate its offerings: explore the grounds to find a stunning variety of flora, including a vast orchard boasting 2,500 trees. Under the leadership of Raymond Blanc’s protege, Luke Selby, the kitchen delivers expertly crafted dishes with a foundation in classic French cuisine, complemented by contemporary flair. The multi-course set menus are meticulously balanced, showcasing intense flavors, sophisticated pairings, and impeccable presentation, reflecting an unwavering attention to detail.
Oxford's Michelin Restaurants (No Stars)
Arbequina
Type: Spanish / Tapas Bar
Price: £
Website >
With its simple décor and bohemian ambiance, tapas bar Arbequina occupies the space of a former chemist’s shop, complete with a vintage stainless steel counter. The menu, though succinct, boasts flavorful and authentic small plates, generously portioned, with a few heartier options for those seeking a substantial meal. Guests can enjoy cocktails and natural wines from the bar while soaking in the bustling yet laid-back vibe of the establishment.
Phone number: +44 1865 792777
Pompette
Type: French
Price: ££
Website >
Situated in a charming suburb, Pompette is a tidy and inviting modern brasserie overseen by a seasoned chef and his hospitable wife. While the menu showcases a blend of Mediterranean and North African influences, the French foundation is unmistakable, particularly evident in classic dishes such as fish soup with rouille, Gruyère, and croutons. The cuisine is straightforward, flavorful, and marked by good value, with a tempting prix fixe option available.
Telephone number: +44 1865 311166
Other Restaurants Around Oxford (No Stars)
Diners seeking gastronomic excellence can also indulge in the delights of fine dining within a short distance from Oxford. These restaurants, recognized for their outstanding culinary achievements, promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey, where every dish is crafted with precision and flair.
The Swan Inn
Type: Modern British
Price: £££
Website >
Run by a local resident, this quaint village pub may appear traditional at first glance, but it holds a surprise within: instead of stepping into a bar upon entry, guests are greeted by an open kitchen. The lounge area offers “English tapas,” while the adjoining Cygnet restaurant boasts a cozy ambiance with fairy lights adorning the beams and artwork available for purchase on the walls. Featuring modern British cuisine, the restaurant presents two distinct four-course set menus—one catering to vegetarians—allowing diners to mix and match between them. Vibrant dishes showcase intriguing textures, temperatures, and flavors.
White Hart
Type: Traditional British / Pub
Price: ££
Website >
This impressive 15th-century chantry house offers plenty to admire. Guests are greeted by a three-story vaulted dining room, complemented by a cozy bar with an open fire and a minstrels’ gallery. Outside, a terrace, vegetable garden, and outdoor kitchen with a wood-fired oven await. The cuisine is driven by their own seasonal produce, featuring flavorful and meticulously prepared dishes influenced by both British and Mediterranean flavors. The attentive service team ensures a smoothly run restaurant.
Killingworth Castle
Type: Traditional British
Price: ££
Website >
A charming roadside inn, established in the 16th century, sits just beyond the village center and is managed by a sociable and vibrant staff. Here, they craft their own breads, prepare their own meats, and proudly support local and organic ingredients. The accommodations offer ample space, and the garden blossoms beautifully during the summer months.
Lamb Inn
Type: Modern British
Price: £
Website >
Nestled in the heart of a picturesque stone village, the Lamb Inn serves as a delightful gathering spot, featuring a cozy bar with an inviting open fireplace and a unique dining area adorned with a suit of armor. Sebastian’s culinary creations mirror his character, presenting classically inspired dishes that embrace seasonality and natural flavors without constraint.
Minster Mill
Type: Modern British
Price: £££
Website >
Located within a picturesque Cotswold stone structure adorned with oak beams, this charming restaurant boasts beautiful gardens graced by a flowing river. Here, modern British cuisine is crafted with a creative flair and meticulous attention, allowing the inherent flavors and textures of the ingredients to take center stage. The attentive service enhances the overall dining experience.
Five Little Pigs
Type: Modern Cuisine
Price: ££
Website >
Inspired by Agatha Christie’s novel and its connection to Winterbrook House, this local eatery is divided into three distinct areas. The front area exudes a modern bistro vibe with vibrant colors, while a central bar adds to the ambiance. Towards the rear, an open kitchen pass and snug booths await. Encouraging a shared dining experience, the menu features larger plates like roasted halibut alongside smaller options such as ‘spare bed tempura,’ crafted from locally sourced vegetables. The wholesome cuisine is complemented by a selection of regional gins, catering to enthusiasts’ preferences.
The Bull
Type: Traditional Cuisine
Price: ££
Website >
Returning to their Cotswolds roots, the team from The Pelican in London has launched this charming 16th-century pub brimming with character. Featuring flagged floors, timbered ceilings, and abundant Cotswold stone, the ambiance exudes relaxation and intimacy. The straightforward, traditional cuisine maintains a subtle quality, with dishes like cured trout paired with green tomatoes showcasing top-notch ingredients and rich flavors. Dining at this establishment promises a hearty and gratifying experience, while accommodations in The Barn serve as the perfect complement.
The Bell
Type: Modern British
Price: ££
Website >
Nestled in the picturesque village of Charlbury, this 17th-century pub has undergone a stunning transformation, resulting in an exquisite aesthetic. The bar and dining spaces exude charm and character, boasting exposed Cotswold stone walls and inviting log fires. During the warmer months, the garden and orchard offer a delightful retreat, featuring a covered terrace and a quaint stream. Drawing from their sister establishment, Daylesford Organic Farm, the kitchen crafts comforting, flavorful dishes such as Cornish fish pie using premium ingredients. Thoughtfully decorated bedrooms provide the perfect finishing touch to the experience.
The Yurt at Nicholsons
Type: Modern British
Price: £
Website >
For a unique dining experience, venture to Nicholsons Nursery and enjoy a meal inside a creatively crafted yurt made from repurposed materials, or opt for one of the themed private huts nearby. The menu features contemporary dishes with vibrant flavors and Mediterranean inspirations. Friendly and efficient service adds to the inviting atmosphere.
The Star Inn
Type: Modern Cuisine
Price: ££
Website >
Nestled in a quaint rural hamlet, this Cotswold stone inn, affiliated with The Woodspeen near Newbury, exudes a sleek and modern ambiance, overseen by an amiable staff. During the warmer months, guests can enjoy al fresco dining on the charming rear terrace. The menu offers straightforward modern cuisine with hints of the Mediterranean, featuring harmonious textures and flavors. Accommodation is available in cozy bedrooms within a converted barn, adding to the overall allure of the establishment.
Bell Inn
Type: Traditional British
Price: ££
Website >
It’s difficult to resist the rustic allure of The Bell Inn, boasting a snug bar, a striking inglenook fireplace, ancient stone walls, and a heritage dating back to the 16th century. The enticing menu presents a blend of beloved pub classics, sophisticated restaurant-style fare, and delectable homemade pizzas, all served with warmth by an amiable staff. Comfortably appointed bedrooms round out the experience, adding to the charm of the inn.
Sir Charles Napier
Type: Modern British
Price: ££
Website >
During the warmer months, begin with a refreshing aperitif in the charming garden; during colder seasons, nestle beside the crackling log fire and enjoy the cozy ambiance of this uniquely adorned restaurant. The kitchen expertly utilizes top-notch ingredients to craft dishes bursting with bold and distinct flavors. The carefully curated wine list is a testament to meticulous attention and passion.
Chequers
Type: Traditional Cuisine
Price: ££
Website >
Nestled in the heart of the village, this hospitable Cotswold stone pub is a cornerstone of the local community. Offering a selection of regional ales at the bar, it serves up traditional fare in a setting rich with character, complete with flagstone floors and wooden beams.
