Reviews & guides
Honest Reviews
Banana Tree Oxford Review: Great Service, But the Food Missed This Time
Pan-Asian street food on George Street, with 2-for-1 cocktails and Noodle Wednesday deals. The service was excellent, but several dishes needed considerably more seasoning.
Branca Review: A Local Favourite That Missed the Mark This Time
We've eaten well at Branca in Jericho before, so we went back with high expectations. This time, seasoning, overcooked mains, and off sides meant it didn't quite land.
Pompette Review: Oxford's Favourite Restaurant, and Ours Too
We've been more times than we can count. It's our favourite spot in the city, and not once has it disappointed. Pompette in Summertown is the real thing.
Lardon Review: The Cotswolds Just Got a Serious Restaurant
European small plates, wood-fired and ingredient-led, tucked inside Elkstone Studios — every single dish landed, and the terrace setting is something else entirely.
The Shepherds Stop, Crawley Review: A Small Coffee Spot With a Big Reputation
A grab-and-go coffee window outside The Lamb Inn in Crawley that punches well above its size — the vanilla iced latte and cinnamon croissant bun alone are worth the detour.
Spiced Roots Review: The Best Caribbean Food in Oxford?
Our honest review of Spiced Roots in Cowley — fall-apart oxtail, tiger prawns, a life-changing pina colada, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to stay all night.
Sea Containers London Review: Stunning Views, Even Better Food
Our honest review of Sea Containers London inside the Mondrian hotel — St Paul's views, near-perfect brick chicken, and a chargrilled broccoli with burrata that stole the show.
Sticks'n'Sushi Oxford: is this the best sushi in Oxford?
Our honest review of Sticks'n'Sushi Oxford — rooftop views, yakitori sticks, and the Hell's Kitchen roll that made us go back four times in a week.
Welcome to OxRated
Why we started a ratings guide for Oxford and the Cotswolds — and what you can expect from it.