Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar at Malmaison Oxford isn’t just your average hotel restaurant, it’s a brasserie with serious style and flavour. Housed within the atmospheric former prison, the setting is unlike anywhere else in the city. These days, the only sentence you’ll receive here is for indulgence: bold dishes, creative cooking, and a buzzy, stylish atmosphere that makes it just as perfect for a celebratory dinner as it is for a leisurely meal while staying the night.
The menu is curated by Chef Director John Woodward, who has crafted a line-up that’s as inventive as it is satisfying. Think modern British classics reimagined with international influences and cooked over fire for added depth. Starters include tuna tartare tacos with soy and lime, creamy spiced sweetcorn soup, or scallops fired up with nduja butter and salsa verde. Mains range from a beautifully charred roast lamb rump with cumin-spiced aubergine to pan-fried hake brightened with fennel and citrus, or a harissa-grilled aubergine dish that more than holds its own among the meat and fish. For a more indulgent option, the Mal Burger with bacon and Gruyère is a house favourite, while truffle and Parmesan fries are the ultimate sidekick.
Behind the bar, cocktails are an event in themselves. Expect classics with flair: a Pornstar Martini that sings, or something house-made like the fruity Kings Original. Add in a well-curated wine list and premium spirits, and your evening is off to a strong start.
Dining here also pairs seamlessly with an overnight stay in Malmaison Oxford’s striking rooms. The building’s storied past as a prison has been reimagined into 95 stylish bedrooms, all kitted out with plush beds, moody lighting, drench showers and modern amenities. It means you can linger over dinner, enjoy a second bottle of wine, and simply retreat upstairs afterwards.
For locals seeking a memorable night out, or guests wanting to combine dinner with a stay in one of Oxford’s most unique hotels, Chez Mal offers the best of both worlds: destination dining with an edge, set in a building that’s every bit as unforgettable as the food.