Set on the grounds of the Bicester Hotel, Grays Restaurant puts the focus on classic British dining, matched with locally sourced ingredients. You’ll find it on the outskirts of Bicester, not far from Chesterton, so whether you’re staying at the hotel, visiting for golf, or just keen on a quality Sunday roast, it’s primed to deliver. Interiors lean old school, complete with a cosy atmosphere and a traditional feel.
The Grays Restaurant menu kicks off with starters like duo leek and potato soup with black garlic oil and chive; duck rillette with toasted sourdough and raisin chutney; and pan-fried pigeon with celeriac puree and vegetable crisps. Naturally, it depends on seasonality, though you may also spot plates of smoked salmon roulade with sourdough and chimichurri, alongside spinach and ricotta ravioli al uovo with parmesan cream and basil oil.
Moving on to the main course, expect to see the likes of coffee-braised lamb served with leek boulangère potatoes, heritage carrots and a rum coffee jus, as well as porchetta with sautéed new potatoes, edamame and carrots. Other options may include venison with parsnip pie and grand veneur sauce, roast hake with sweetcorn chowder, and vegetable mille feuille filo pastry.
Sweet toothed diners, meanwhile, will be glad to see desserts given the same care and attention. From classics like poached pear and rhubarb crumble and sticky toffee pudding, to more modern takes like porn star marini possets and white chocolate and Baileys mousse, all the bases are covered.
There’s also an affordable set menu, offering many of the a la carte dishes for a snip of the usual price. And, if you’re visiting on a Sunday, Grays Restaurant offers a traditional Sunday roast on the menu, complete with all the trimmings and a massive Yorkshire pud.