Turl Street Kitchen

It’s difficult to put into words the thrilling tastes you’ll find at Turl Street Kitchen – there simply isn’t another restaurant in Oxford like it. The chefs are constantly trying new recipes, tasting new combinations and presenting dishes that simply astound. And all for £7–£15 a plate, featuring locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. The menu changes daily (and is posted online so you can check that there’s something there you like) – usually around five starters and five to seven main courses per day. Recent popular dishes include carrot, parsnip, cheddar and kale frittata; ham and leek terrine with celeriac remoulade; and venison, red wine and root vegetable pie. Not only are the dishes filling and good value – they come in generous portions. Bookings can only be made for certain times (between noon and 12.30pm at lunchtime and 6pm and 6.30pm and from 8pm on weekdays); otherwise you have to just turn up and hope for a table. As you can imagine, the place gets busy – the earlier you arrive, the better. Turl Steet is also a great stop off for coffee and cake – the chocolate brownies are irresistible. Overall, the laid-back atmosphere, coupled with the friendly, attentive staff and inventive menu, make for one of the city centre’s best places to eat.