Vaults & Garden — Restaurant in Oxford

The Vaults and Garden Café in Oxford is a delightful hidden gem that combines culinary excellence with an idyllic setting. Tucked away within the historic University Church of St. Mary, this café offers a unique dining experience in the heart of Oxford.

The café is nestled in the church's crypt, and its charming, rustic atmosphere is enhanced by the natural stone walls and the soft glow of candlelight. It's a serene escape from the bustling city streets, making it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy a meal or refreshments.

One of the most appealing features of the Vaults and Garden Café is its enchanting garden. Set against the backdrop of the church's beautiful spire and lush greenery, the garden is a peaceful oasis in the midst of Oxford. Whether you choose to dine indoors or al fresco, the setting is simply enchanting.

The menu at the café is a testament to its commitment to quality. From freshly prepared sandwiches and salads to delectable pastries and a variety of hot beverages, the café's offerings are both delicious and diverse. It's a wonderful place to enjoy a leisurely brunch, afternoon tea, or a quick snack.

For those seeking a unique and tranquil dining experience, the Vaults and Garden Café is an ideal choice. It seamlessly blends history, natural beauty, and culinary excellence, making it a perfect spot to savor the charm of Oxford while indulging in delightful...

I hadn't planned my breakfast itinerary for Oxford when I left on the train out of Paddington. Doing a bit of research on the way led me to Vaults & Garden, with its mouth-watering, traditional breakfast menu. I'm very glad I elected to eat here.

Whether you choose to dine outdoors with the lovely view of St. Mary the Virgin Church, or inside the Congregation House (built in the 1320s) for some historical immersion, you're sure to have an excellent dining experience.

My Vegetarian Breakfast order landed arrived piping hot and fresh from the kitchen. The protein-packed medley included FAI organic eggs (served scrambled, much to the nostalgia of my American palate), dark spinach cooked to wilting steaminess, juicy-ripe tomato, large cuts of sauteed mushrooms, savory-sweet beans, and crispy-browned toast. Best enjoyed with small bites of each food, in no particular order, I left satisfied and energized for the long day of tourism ahead. I only wish I had gone back to try their lunch menu!

If you're planning to visit the Bodleian Library, Oxford University, or St. Mary's Cathedral, this is a delicious, affordable option. The food will satisfy your stomach and the breath-taking views will...

When visiting Oxford, there are certain experiences that are simply quintessential, and finding a lovely cafe to enjoy a traditional British scone is certainly one of them. I recently visited a cafe here "Vaults & Garden" where, in my opinion, trying their scone is an absolute must.

This cafe offers what I found to be a perfect pairing: an excellent scone and a good cup of coffee. The combination is simply delightful.

The classic way to enjoy a scone involves splitting it and generously layering it with clotted cream and then either jam or marmalade. Doing this here, whilst perhaps taking in the view of the iconic Radcliffe Camera, elevates the experience considerably. The scone itself had a lovely texture and flavour, providing the ideal base for the rich clotted cream and sweet or tangy spread.

The setting, especially if you can find a spot with a view of the magnificent Radcliffe Camera, adds significantly to the enjoyment. It creates a memorable moment, savouring a classic treat while looking out at one of Oxford's most famous...