You’ve seen the photos. Those sweeping, panoramic shots of the Oxford skyline where the dreaming spires look close enough to touch while someone holds a cocktail just out of focus. It’s a vibe. But honestly, when you’re looking for a spot like OXO Bar and Grill in the heart of a city as old and steeped in tradition as Oxford, you have to wonder if you’re paying for the plate or just the privilege of sitting five floors up.
It’s located at the top of the Westgate Centre. That’s the big, shiny redevelopment that basically saved Oxford’s retail scene from falling into total obscurity a few years back. The restaurant itself isn't some ancient, wood-paneled hall like the colleges nearby. It's modern. Glassy. A bit posh but trying not to be too stiff about it. People go there for graduation lunches, awkward first dates, and "we’ve finally finished the Christmas shopping" drinks.
But let’s get into what actually happens once you step out of the lift.
The Reality of Dining at OXO Bar and Grill
Walking into OXO Bar and Grill, the first thing that hits you isn't the smell of the grill. It’s the light. Because the walls are essentially giant sheets of glass, the place glows during the "golden hour." If you’re there to take photos for your grid, you’ve hit the jackpot.
The menu is what most foodies would call "British-leaning international." That’s a fancy way of saying they have steaks, but they also have some spicy stuff and a bit of seafood. They lean heavily on the grill aspect—hence the name—with a focus on high-quality cuts of meat. You’ll find things like ribeye and sirloin, usually sourced with some degree of local pride, though the exact farm might change depending on the season.
I’ve noticed that people often confuse this place with the famous OXO Tower in London. Don't do that. They aren't the same. This is Oxford’s version, and while it doesn't have the Thames, it has the Radcliffe Camera and the Tom Tower in the distance.
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The service is usually snappy. It has to be. The place gets packed, especially on Saturdays when the Westgate is crawling with tourists and students. You’ll see staff darting between tables with wooden boards of meat and shiny cocktail glasses. It’s loud. Not "I can't hear my own thoughts" loud, but it’s got a buzz. If you’re looking for a quiet, whispered conversation about 18th-century poetry, this probably isn't the spot. Go to a pub down a back alley for that.
What You Should Actually Order
If you’re going to spend the money—and it isn't exactly cheap—you should probably stick to the strengths. The steaks are the main event. They use a charcoal oven, which gives the meat that specific smoky crust you can't really replicate at home unless you’re a backyard BBQ wizard.
Don't skip the sides. Honestly, sometimes the sides are better than the mains in these types of places. The truffle fries are a cliché at this point, but they’re a cliché because they work. They also do a decent line in seafood; the pan-seared sea bass is a frequent flyer on the menu and usually comes with something seasonal like crushed new potatoes or a sharp citrus dressing to cut through the fat.
Drinks? The cocktail list is long. It’s heavy on the classics with a "Westgate" twist. You’ll see lots of gin-based drinks because, well, it’s England. They do a mean Espresso Martini if you need a caffeine hit to survive the walk back to the Park and Ride.
The Rooftop Factor: Is it a Gimmick?
We need to talk about the terrace. This is the biggest draw for OXO Bar and Grill. In a city where most of the high-up views are owned by the University and require you to climb three hundred crumbling stone steps, having a lift that takes you to a heated terrace is a luxury.
The view overlooks the southern part of the city. You can see the rolling hills of Boars Hill in the distance and the chaotic mix of medieval stone and 1960s concrete that makes up Oxford’s architectural DNA.
Is it a gimmick? Sorta. But it’s a good one. There’s something undeniably cool about sitting outside in October with a heat lamp blasting your left shoulder while you look at a building that’s been there since the 1200s. It gives you perspective. It also makes the wine taste slightly better than it probably is.
One thing to watch out for: the wind. Even on a nice day, the wind whips across the top of the Westgate like it’s got a personal grudge against your hairstyle. If you’re planning a big "reveal" or a proposal, maybe bring some hairspray or check the gust forecast.
Price vs. Value: The Honest Truth
Let’s be real. You aren't just paying for the calories. You’re paying for the rent on a prime piece of real estate. A meal here for two, with a couple of drinks and a shared dessert, is going to set you back a fair bit.
Is it "fine dining"? Not really. It’s "premium casual."
You can wear trainers and jeans and no one will blink, but you’ll also see people in full suits. That’s the beauty of it. It’s accessible. But if you’re a hardcore foodie who wants experimental gastronomy and foam made out of pine needles, you might find the menu a bit safe. It’s designed to please a crowd, not to win a Michelin star. And that’s fine. Sometimes you just want a really good burger or a piece of salmon that hasn't been overcooked.
Why People Keep Coming Back
Despite the price and the occasional "tourist trap" accusations, OXO Bar and Grill stays busy. Why? Because it’s consistent.
In a city where restaurants open and close faster than a textbook during finals week, this place has found its groove. It’s the reliability. You know the steak will be medium-rare if you ask for it. You know the glass will be clean. You know the view will be there.
It also serves a specific purpose in the Oxford social ecosystem. It’s the place you take your parents when they visit. It’s the place you go for a "fancy" lunch that still feels relaxed. It bridges the gap between the stuffy, high-table culture of the colleges and the greasy-spoon reality of the bus station nearby.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Book ahead. Seriously. Don't just wander in at 7:00 PM on a Friday and expect a table by the window. You’ll end up sitting near the kitchen entrance or, worse, being told there’s a two-hour wait.
- Check the weather. If it’s pouring rain, the terrace loses about 80% of its charm. The indoor seating is nice, but the "wow" factor is definitely dampened.
- Lunch vs. Dinner. Lunch is actually a great shout. It’s usually a bit cheaper, less crowded, and you can actually see the landmarks. Once it’s pitch black outside, the windows just reflect the inside of the restaurant, and you lose that connection to the city.
- The Westgate Entrance. Getting there can be a bit of a maze if you aren't used to the mall. Take the lifts near the John Lewis end; it’s the fastest way up to the roof terrace level.
Looking Beyond the Plate
What’s interesting about OXO Bar and Grill is how it represents the "new" Oxford. For decades, the city was defined by its "town and gown" divide. You had the elite university spaces and the somewhat gritty town spaces.
The Westgate roof terrace, where OXO sits, is a middle ground. It’s commercial, yes. It’s corporate, sure. But it’s also a public-facing space that gives everyone a chance to see the city from a different angle. It’s a bit of democratization through steak and cocktails.
The staff often know a surprising amount about the local area. If you get a server who isn't slammed, ask them what that weird-looking spire in the distance is. They’ve looked at it enough times to know.
Common Misconceptions
People think you need to dress like you’re going to a wedding. You don't. It’s a grill.
Another one? That it’s only for tourists. Actually, a lot of locals use it as a default celebration spot because it’s easy. You can park in the basement, eat, shop, and leave without ever having to navigate the nightmare of Oxford’s one-way system or the "bus gates" that hand out fines like candy.
The menu also changes. Don't get married to a specific dish you saw on a blog from 2022. They rotate things based on what’s fresh. The core—the steaks, the burgers, the grilled fish—usually stays, but the garnishes and starters move with the seasons.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Trip
If you're planning to head to OXO Bar and Grill, here is exactly how to play it to get the most for your money.
First, aim for a late afternoon booking, maybe around 4:00 PM. This lets you catch the transition from daylight to sunset. It’s two views for the price of one.
Second, if you’re on a budget but want the experience, just go for drinks and an appetizer. The bar area is separate from the main dining room, and you can still snag a spot with a view without committing to a full three-course meal.
Third, verify the "specials." Sometimes they have a set menu for lunch or early evening that is significantly cheaper than the à la carte options. It’s the same kitchen and the same chefs, just a more limited selection.
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Finally, walk the perimeter of the roof terrace after you eat. There are public viewing spots nearby, but the perspective from the restaurant's corner is arguably the best. Just remember to bring a coat; even in summer, the wind at that height is no joke.