Oxford Subway Map
The proprietors of Oxford’s bulging eateries know they have a captive market; students fed up with fetid college food are easily seduced by a bevy of budget options. If you’re cooking for yourself, try the Covered Market between Market St. and Carfax, which has fresh produce, deli goods, and breads. (Open M-Sa 8am-5:30pm.) Gloucester Green Market abounds with tasty treats, well-priced wares, and fabulous trinkets. (Open W 6am-3:30pm.)
Across Magdalen Bridge, cheap restaurants along the first four blocks of Cowley Road serve Chinese, Lebanese, and Polish food, as well as generic fish n’ chips. Keep an eye out for after-hours kebab vans, usually at Broad St. High St. Queen St. and St. Aldates.
Kazbar, 25-27 Cowley Rd. ( 202 920). This tapas bar is a local favorite. Spanish-style decor and mood lighting create a posh atmosphere. Tasty tapas £2-4.50. Lunch deal includes 2 tapas and drink (M-F noon-4pm; £5). Open daily noon-llpm.
The Nosebag, 6-8 St. Michael’s St. ( 721 033). Cafeteria-style service in a 15th-century stone building, with great vegan and vegetarian options and tasty homemade soups. Lunch under £6.50, dinner under £8. Open M-Th 9:30am-10pm, F-Sa 9:30am-10:30pm, Su 9:30am-9pm. The Saddlebag Cafe on the ground floor sells sandwiches and salads (£3-5.25). Open M-Su 9:30am-5:30pm. Sandwiches served until 5pm.
Chiang Mai, 130a High St. (202 233), tucked in an alley; look for the small blue sign. Broad Thai menu served in quaint 14th-century home. Adventurous patrons opt for the jungle curry with wild rabbit (£7). Appetizers £5-7. Entrees £7-10. Open M-Sa noon-2pm and 6-llpm, Su noon-lpm and 6-10pm. F-Sa seatings at 6 and 9pm; reservations recommended.
Mick’s Cafe, Cripley Rd. ( 728 693), off Botley Rd. next to the train station. A little diner with big breakfasts of bigger value. Combination platters (choice of eggs, sausage, bacon, beans, toast, and more; £2.70-5) and a distinct ambience (murals of the staff) make Mick’s popular with locals and students. Open M-F 6am-2pm, Sa 7am-lpm, Su 8am-lpm.
