Oxford is a city that comes alive in the mornings, as students hustle to class, tourists flock to attractions, and locals stop for a quick cup of coffee before starting their day.
As you wander the cobbled lanes and pass historic college buildings, the rumbling in your stomach reminds you – it’s breakfast time.
Luckily, Oxford has no shortage of excellent breakfast spots to choose from. Whether you’re craving a hearty English fry-up, freshly baked pastries, or an energizing brunch, Oxford has a breakfast spot to satisfy.
This guide will walk you through 5 of the top-rated breakfast locations in Oxford, so you can fuel up the right way.
Tuck Into a Hearty Full English at The Handle Bar Cafe
The Handle Bar Cafe is a cozy spot located fittingly above a bike shop, given Oxford’s love of cycling.
This quirky café is known for its vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, including delicious coconut pancakes.
But the star of the menu is their take on a traditional full English breakfast.
A full English breakfast typically includes:
- Bacon
- Sausages
- Eggs
- Baked beans
- Mushrooms
- Tomatoes
- Toast
The Handle Bar Cafe serves up these classics in generous portions. It’s the perfect place to start your day with a warm, comforting morning meal that will keep you fueled for hours of exploring Oxford.
“The full English breakfast at The Handle Bar Cafe really hit the spot. High-quality ingredients cooked to perfection – and the staff was so friendly!”
Enjoy Freshly Baked Treats at The Vaults & Garden Cafe
For a breakfast experience unlike anywhere else in Oxford, head to the historic Vaults & Garden Cafe.
Housed in a converted church that dates back over 900 years, this cafe has vaulted ceilings and a charming garden terrace facing the famed Radcliffe Camera.
The Vaults & Garden Cafe specializes in freshly baked goods; try one of their melt-in-your-mouth scones or decadent cakes.
They also serve breakfast classics and hot drinks, making this atmospheric cafe the perfect pitstop after a morning visiting Oxford’s famed colleges and libraries.
“The chocolate cake and cappuccino I had for breakfast at Vaults & Garden was sheer bliss. And you just can’t beat eating in that gorgeous medieval church setting!”
Grab an Early Morning Coffee at The Jericho Cafe
For a more neighborhood vibe, head to The Jericho Cafe in the trendy Jericho area just northwest of Oxford city center.
This laidback spot appeals to locals seeking a quick breakfast bite and coffee on the way to work or class.
While you’re there, try one of Jericho Cafe’s bagels or flapjacks, washed down with their top-notch coffee.
With friendly service and a bright, clean atmosphere, Jericho Cafe is a reliable choice for a low-key Oxfordian breakfast.
“I stop by The Jericho Cafe every morning on my walk to campus. The coffee and bagels are so much better than the dining hall!”
Try the Famous Bacon Baps at Brown’s Cafe
No breakfast guide to Oxford would be complete without mention of the iconic Brown’s Cafe. Tucked away in Oxford’s covered market, Brown’s Cafe has been serving up classic British comfort foods since the 1970s.
Their speciality? Bacon baps – freshly baked bread filled with crispy bacon, said to be the best in Oxford. They also serve excellent egg sandwiches, pastries, and other breakfast options to enjoy in their cozy cafe or take away.
“The bacon bap from Brown’s Cafe is worth every greasy, delicious bite. I make a point to get one every time I’m in Oxford!”
Get Your Weekend Brunch Fix at George Street Social
For a more modern Oxford breakfast experience, head to the lively George Street Social. This instagram-worthy spot gets buzzing on weekends for brunch – think indulgent dishes like Korean chicken burgers and coconut milk porridge.
Besides delicious food, George Street Social offers a hip atmosphere filled with students and young professionals fueling up with morning meals after a late night out. It’s a great option for a relaxing brunch date catching up with friends over coffee and cocktails.
“George Street Social was my favorite breakfast discovery in Oxford – amazing brunch dishes, bottomless mimosas, and a chill vibe for relaxing.”
FAQs About Breakfast in Oxford
Do you need to go into the city center for good breakfast spots?
Not at all! While classics like Brown’s Cafe and Vaults & Garden are right in the historic center, areas like Jericho to the northwest also boast great joints like The Jericho Cafe.
Wherever you are staying around Oxford, look for cafes popular with students and locals to find tasty ideas.
How much does breakfast cost in Oxford?
Its prices can range quite a bit depending on where you eat. For a basic coffee and pastry, expect to pay at least £6.
A more hearty sit-down breakfast at a cafe will likely cost between £8-15. And at higher-end spots, dishes can run £15-20. So Oxford offers that options at a wide range of price points.
Start Your Oxford Mornings Right
Whether you seek a hearty English breakfast, a quick coffee and pastry, or a leisurely weekend brunch, Oxford has you covered.
By starting your day at one of these top-rated local breakfast spots, you’ll be fueled up to fully explore this historic university city.
Just be sure to walk off all those calories afterwards as you wander Oxford’s charming lanes and college quads.
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