Italian food is popular wherever you go in the world and Oxford is no exception. There are the normal chains of Pizza Pasta places such as Zizzi, Ask, Pizza Express, Bella Pasta and a few more exclusive places such as Jamies Italian, run by the celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. Whatever your preference there is plenty of choice for Italian food in Oxford, see below:
Gino?s The monstrosity that is Gloucester Green doesnt exactly make for a glamorous location but its certainly convenient. Ginos is 100% Italian ? all the wines are imported and the food quality cheap and cheerful.
La Dolce Vita La Dolce Vita serve a variety of Italian dishes at their fully licensed restaurant, including pizza, pasta, fish and meat dishes. They can cater for private parties of up to 60 people in their function room. Very Italian, and very rewarding.
Mama Mia Pizzeria Mama Mia serve a range of large pizzas and Italian food with a buzzing atmosphere.
Mario's Marios is where you go for a truly genuine Italian experience... and where real Italians are reminded of their grandmothers kitchens. A great selection of Italian cuisine served in a buzzing atmosphere. The pizzas are simly outstanding.
Pizza Express Pizza Express, located in Oxford town centre, offers high-quality authentic Italian food served in stylish surroundings. Fresh crisp salads, Italian specialities and delicious pizzas feature on the menu.
Pizza Express This Pizza Express is located in the new Oxford Castle compound which provides a quiet and tranquil getaway that makes you forget the central location.
Portabello Portabello has a bright, modern interior, decorated with photographic prints, with a casual brasserie menu which is served throughout the day. The fixed price lunch menu offers good value, whilst the friendly and efficient staff attract a loyal clientele. Booking at weekends advisable.
Prezzo Prezzo is about providing great quality Italian food in a friendly and relaxed environment at reasonable prices, using the finest seasonal products available - many of which are imported directly from Italy.
Strada Strada is a group of contemporary styled restaurants dedicated to providing authentic Italian dishes that offer a true taste of Italy. Using only the finest and freshest ingredients such as single vineyard extra virgin olive oil, Parma ham and Buffalo mozzarella imported from Italy to provide exactly the kind of rustic, traditional dishes one would expect to find travelling around its regions.
Zizzi Zizzi is a chain of traditional Italian pizza and pasta restaurants that cook all their pizzas in wood burning ovens. Guests are advised to phone for details about catering for private parties and seating on the pavement area is provided, weather permitting. A takeaway menu is available.
Jamies Italian was the celebrity chef's first restaurant in a planned chain (there are now many more - see the website).
The restaurant was was inspired by Jamie's love of Italy and many of its traditions and values. Jamie Oliver puts it in a nutshell: "Since I was a teenager I’ve been totally besotted by the love, passion and verve for food, family and life itself that just about all Italian people have, no matter where they’re from or how rich or poor they might be. And that’s what I’m passionate about - good food for everyone, no matter what...But the thing I love most about the Italians is that somehow, although they have some of the best fashion designers and cars in the world, they’ve managed to retain a unique sense of tradition and village spirit."
You cannot book Jamie's restaurant in advance and there can often be queues at the door at busy times.
If you are in a party of 8 or more, please give the restaurant a call beforehand although they will only be able to fit in a certain number of larger parties each lunchtime or evening.
Oxford EventsBlenheim Palace opens for 2012
(Mon 13th Feb, 2012)
Blenheim Palace opens for 2012, Palace, formal gardens and Pleasure Gardens.
Oxford Literary Festival
(Sat 24th Mar, 2012)
The Oxford Literary Festival runs from 24th March to 1st April 2012. It offers a range of talks, discussions, debates, readings and lunches from authors and literary heroes. The main location is Christ Church college.
Blenheim Easter Egg Challenge
(Sun 22nd Apr, 2012)
Annual Easter Egg Challenge at Blenheim Palace, including face painting and family fun.