The Half Moon — Restaurant in Oxford

What a shame is all I can say. We were recommended this pub as a busy and typical English pub. So; where do I begin...? We were allowed in the door by a 'bouncer'. We asked at the bar if they have Oxford Gin, to which the very young man stated, "Well we are in Oxford and we have gin". It turns out he hasn't heard of it. His miserable looking and acting boss confirmed they don't stock it. Ah well, he doesn't know what he is missing. I settled for a red wine, he said it was Melbec. He couldn't open the new bottle, so his boss pointed out an opened bottle. He poured me a glass of what tasted exactly like vinegar. I had to take it back to the bar and advised this young lad that he would need the pour it all away due to it tasting just like vinegar. He didn't apologise, offer to get a fresh wine or offer a refund. Instead he whispered to his boss, who sniffed the wine, then poured himself a glass and pretended he knew how to swill it and sip it, what an absolute joke... He told the lad to pour it away, didn't offer an apology, refund or another drink! I cannot believe this appalling lack of customer service....

I have NEVER been treated so badly! Especially since moving to the UK. If you are American or foreign stay clear!

I was verbally accosted and kicked out over speaking to the bar tender in the second person. I basically said, "you must make that drink again, you did it so well!" to which she got upset and said I had disrespected her and said to leave.

Needless to say, I was shocked and had no idea what I did wrong. Meaning well I tried to apologize and explain I didn't know this British social etiquette rule (I am obviously American) but she preferred to make a scene and kick me out of a Christmas party.

I have been to many wonderful pubs and bars and have never had someone get upset when I was trying to give...

Nice traditional pub open late, with live music.

Staff, namely the owner Dave, can be problematic. Dave is a engaging talker but he can react badly to fruity humour if he thinks it goes against his woke ideals. He also doesn't like customers to get to drunk, which may not be a bad thing.

His son Joe, is always polite, friendly and helpful. His father, while very likeable and entertaining, has an annoying habit of barring customers if he's in a bad mood. Bans start at 4 weeks but can extend to perma-bans.

Overall a very good pub with a nice atmosphere and some quirky locals. Just don't get on the wrong side of Dave by making repeated sexual innuendos when he's got out of the wrong...