Mothering Sunday lunch at TOB.
Managed to convince my family of meat-eaters to try a vegan roast for Mothering Sunday this year, and it went down surprisingly well.
The pub exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, striking the perfect balance. With the addition of free prosecco and live jazz music, the setting felt intimate.
We ordered four roasts: three mushroom wellingtons and one lentil bake, and every plate was a testament to the kitchen’s attention to detail. The presentation was elegant, the food hearty, with each dish beautifully plated.
Every element was cooked to perfection: crisp, golden roast potatoes; vibrantly fresh vegetables; a spiced lentil bake that managed to be crispy, without being dry. The mushroom wellington was a particular standout, featuring a rich, earthy filling encased in buttery, flaky pastry. Both well-seasoned and satisfying.
One of the most pleasant surprises of the meal was the parsnips. As someone who doesn’t usually gravitate toward them, I found myself reconsidering my stance—they were roasted just right, with a slightly crisp exterior giving way to a soft, sweet centre.
The only slight critiques would be that the leeks could have used a touch more seasoning, but this was a minor detail and nothing that a salt and pepper shaker couldn't fix.
For dessert, some of us indulged in the biscoff and chocolate cookie bakes, which were nothing short of ooey gooey goodness. I'm not much of a chocolate girl and wasn't overly excited by the sorbet, so it would have been nice to see something like a crumble or fruit cheesecake on the menu.
Beyond the food, the service was exceptional. From the moment we arrived, we were made to feel like regulars, despite it being our first visit. The service was a little slow. Fortunately, we were happy to lean into it and enjoy the leisurely lunch.
Shout out for the incredible selection of drinks, too. My dad and brother particularly enjoyed the flight of local beers. I can't wait to return to try one of their pizzas, which I've heard nothing but good...
Read moreWe held an event in The Oxford Blue for a belated Christmas party and we wanted to say how wonderful it was. The staff were brilliant, Tom and Charles the founders where there looking after us all evening. They have a great offering for the food, we had a sort of buffet of the the menu including pizzas, dips, sides, and the quality of the food was great all our staff loved it and the table wasn't left alone, everyone has been very complimentary about the food weeks after. The team we wonderful looking after all the staff quick service and efficient,. They have a good selection of beers and wine, and spirits to meet our needs when your dealing with large crowds pleasing everyone can be difficult and they did great.
The venue is lovely they had just re-painted and its was cosy and comfy, it looked lovely with a few light fairy lights around the ceiling and they could play a playlist for us as well. They have a small outside area as well which whilst it was very cold being January we used alot of smokers and getting some fresh air. Overall, we really loved everything and can't thank Tom and Charles enough for a wonderful event.
Thank you so much to them and all the staff for everything, we'll be back for casual drops in on...
Read more25th May 2024 A really welcoming and friendly East Oxford pub. Offering a good selection of beers and wines, this traditional setting provides an excellent visit.
This progressive venue also offers Weekly Community events including Yoga classes which are available on Monday and Tuesday mornings.
The Blue Market with High Grade Reggae vinyl is well worth a visit too. Stalls featuring local Artists, Rails of Vintage fashion, garden plants and produce, Ceramics, pottery and more.
All this accompanied by a selection from High Grade Reggae vinyl doing full justice to classic Reggae hits throughout the decades. There's even plenty of room for dancing. There is ample seating out front, where the famous Iffley running track can be spotted across the road. The rear Garden has a cozy seating area too which also provides sheltered spaces.
There is no parking available due to it's location.
A adequate and well situated Disabled toilet...
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