The Oxford

It’s hard to fault this unpretentious Kentish Town stalwart. Locals, enjoying a pint of Red Stripe at the bar, love the place, & first-timers wish they had a replica near them. The Oxford’s casual approach is certainly part of the appeal, with friendly staff & punters completing the package. The food’s not too shabby either, combining British ingredients with global styles on a wide-ranging menu. Ingredients are important in the kitchen, & it shows; a starter salad of beetroot, goats’ cheese & walnut is light & flavoursome, while Devon lamb leg steak with butter beans, feta & red onion salad is a pleasing combination of tastes & textures. Sunday roasts hit the spot too, & there’s an inexpensive two-course lunch during the week. The interior isn’t flashy or too try-hard, keeping it simple with warm woods, white walls & blackboards dotted around.