When you’re heading to Oxford, MS, for an Ole Miss game, you may want to check out these great restaurants. If you wait until the last minute to make reservations, you could go hungry, but all of these places are worth a visit. Below are the best restaurants in Oxford and all are within easy walking distance of each other. In no particular order, here they are:
City Grocery
City Grocery in Oxford, MS, claims a reputation as one of the South’s best restaurants.
Early on the Oxford town square revival scene, City Grocery has become a landmark in the Oxford dining scene. Exposed brick walls and heart pine plank floor augment the candlelight and white linen, staging some of the most inventive and exciting food in the South. If you don’t secure a reservation before game day, you may be in for a wait but put this restaurant at the top of your list. The upstairs bar overlooking the square is an excellent place to enjoy cocktails.
Boure’
Another one of Chef John Currence’s Oxford, MS restaurants is Boure.
If you find yourself without a game ticket, my first suggestion is to head to this place. Housed in the old Leslie’s Drug Store and Downtown Grill building on the historic Oxford, MS Square. The newly renovated space is home to the “Up-scale Down-home” fare of Bouré. Decidedly Creole in its overall scope, the restaurant isn’t easily labeled. A bustling, casual dining room and balcony, attentive service, and an outstanding menu elevate Bouré to something greater than just another college joint.
McEwen’s, 1110 Van Buren Ave.
I recommend McEwen’s Oxford, one of the better southern foods in Oxford. It is very popular and highly rated. It is also one of the averagely priced southern foods in the area. If you are looking for a place that closes late, McEwen’s Oxford is your best bet.
Proud Larry’s, 211 South Lamar Ave.
Just off Oxford’s downtown square, Proud Larry’s is a casual, fun place just right for a pre or post-game drink. Food is above average, and you’re likely to run into lots of locals.
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Snackbar, 721 N. Lamar Blvd.
Yet another culinary creation by Chef John Currence. The Snackbar is located in a retail shopping center a few miles from downtown Oxford. Oysters are a specialty and the food is inspired by 2019 James Beard “Best Chef,” Vishwesh Bhatt. The food is superb and the bar is lively and conversational.
Old Venice Pizza Company, 1112 Van Buren Ave.
Great pizza and a relaxed atmosphere on the square. If City Grocery’s wait is too long, have a cocktail at the upstairs bar while you wait for a table at Old Venice.
Ajax Diner, 1118 Courthouse Square
Ajax Diner is well-known for their delicious plate lunches.
The best “meat and three” in Oxford. Bring a big appetite and order the sweet tea and dessert. One of Eli Manning’s favorite restaurants, Ajax has been named “Best Downhome Soul Food” by Mississippi Magazine three years in a row, in addition to the magazine’s “Best Cornbread” and “Best Plate Lunch” titles. Ajax holds many local titles, including The Oxford Eagle’s “Best Plate Lunch,” “Best Burger,” “Casual Dining” and “Best of the Best.” Needless to say, Ajax is definitely a spot you need to try if you’re in Oxford.
Graduate Hotel, 400 North Lamar Ave.
The rooftop bar may be my first choice for a cocktail in Oxford. Located just off the town square, The Graduate hotel bar offers phenomenal views of Oxford and is a great place to “people watch” on a game weekend.