Located in the heart of Oxford’s buzzing Cowley Road, Spiced Roots brings authentic Caribbean food to the city, serving soulful, home-cooked dishes in a friendly neighbourhood setting. Since opening its doors, the restaurant has become a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike looking to soak up warm hospitality, discover regional Caribbean cooking, and enjoy one of the city’s most exciting rum selections.
Inside, the restaurant is intimate yet lively: think colourful artwork and upbeat music balanced with soft lighting and relaxed, welcoming service. It’s the kind of place where you instantly feel at home, whether settling in for a celebratory dinner or dropping by for drinks at the bar.
The kitchen champions tradition - with a few innovative twists thrown in for good measure. Menu highlights include its signature jerk chicken - marinated, grilled and served with rice, peas and a crisp salad - as well as tender curry goat infused with 15 spices. Small plates hint at chef-driven flair, such as jerk chicken spring rolls or lightly fried plantain.
Vegetarian and vegan diners are far from an afterthought here. Authentic Trini doubles (curried chickpeas wrapped in soft flatbread) and smoked aubergine with toasted bread make standout starters, while mains like Ital callaloo with okra and gungo pea rundown showcase clever plant-based cooking rooted in Caribbean flavours.
Rum sits at the heart of the drinks experience, with a specialist bar led by mixology talent Jordan Allison. Expect a curated selection spanning rare Caribbean bottles to crowd-pleasing favourites, alongside cocktails that blend bold rums with house-made syrups and tropical juices. You'll also find wines and Caribbean beers on the list, as well as homemade lemongrass lemonade for non-drinkers.
For dessert, don’t miss the indulgent rum cake or vegan banana bread, preferably paired with a scoop of homemade rum and raisin ice cream for the full island moment.