February has come around in the blink of an eye and with February comes the day of love, couples and romance. Yes, that’s right- Valentines Day. Many of us struggle to find the right restaurant to go to for the big day and it can take a lot of research. Below are our top recommendations for romantic restaurants for Valentine’s day within Oxfordshire.
Mowglis – Indian – £-££
Mowglis combines traditional Indian food culture with modern flairs. The beautifully designed restaurant encompasses twinkling fairy lights, swing seats and romantic lighting. Choose between modern dishes such as butter chicken or try something new with their food roulette traditional tiffin boxes, which include a selection of curries and sides chosen for you by the chefs. There is also a wide variety of vegan, GF and vegetarian options. If you are looking to indulge, Mowglis has a wide variety of cocktails with an Indian twist. The yoghurt chat bombs are also always a surprising delight to try.
Located at the top of the Westgate, Mowglis is situated in an ideal area for a post-shopping meal or can be followed by drinks at the many bars located in the Westgate. With a low to medium price point, Mowglis is a romantic yet affordable restaurant that offers something for everyone.
La Cucina – Italian – ££-£££
La Cucina, located on St Clements Road, offers an opportunity to embrace authentic Italian cuisine in a small but very cosy restaurant setting. With daily specials and a menu with a wide variety of dishes including vegan, GF and vegetarian, eating here is a new experience every time. Though available infrequently as a special, the gorgonzola and pear flatbread is always a delicious treat to try. With an open kitchen, you have the opportunity to watch the chefs at work.
La Cucina has a great choice of wines to try as well as authentic Italian coffee and desserts. With a medium price range La Cucina is an affordable treat in a cosy, romantic setting.
Branca – Meditteranean – ££-£££
Branca is an elegantly designed restaurant with a stunning outdoor seating area equipped with heaters for those colder winter months. With choices of set menus as well as a la carte, Branca accommodates for romantic dining on a budget. Menus incorporate a Mediterranean flair for those wishing to try something new as well as including well known Italian dishes and a child friendly menu. They also have a separate menu which has allergen information included to allow for those with allergies to easily find something tasty.
Branca is located in Jericho Walton Street, surrounded by well frequented bars and pubs. The restaurant is ideal for those looking to take Instagram worthy photos or looking for a classy Valentines meal.
Porterhouse Grill – Steak – ££-£££
Porterhouse Grill is situated in the heart of Oxford serving delicious steaks and decadent wines. With a large selection of cuts of steak and delicious sides accompanied by a medium-high price point, Porterhouse Grill is an indulgent treat this Valentines day. If you are vegan or vegetarian the options are fairly limited here so you may be better choosing one of the other options. If you are not wanting a wine accompaniment to your steak, try one of their specialty cocktails or mocktails, but make sure to save room for desserts!
Porterhouse Grill is located on Mill Street and encompasses a warm yet modern feel that leaves you feeling spoilt and indulged.
Sticks ‘n’ Sushi – Japanese – £££
Sticks ‘n’ Sushi is a restaurant that offers not only delicate and sumptuous sushi but also a food experience. Enjoy one of their sushi or cooked platters, accompanied by one of their Japanese inspired cocktails surrounded by their Danish influenced decor. Sushi platters are served in courses and explained in detail to you. Each course compliments and entices your tastebuds and is perfect for sharing.
Sticks ‘n’ Sushi is located at the top of the Westgate and has a high price point. They do however, cater for a wide range of allergies/dietary requirements. Although expensive Sticks ‘n’ Sushi leaves you with an unforgettable experience that can be shared with your loved one this Valentines Day.
Crazy Bear Hotel – English/Thai Flair – ££££
Crazy Bear Hotel offers award winning dining with 80 acres of land and modern themed facilities, that result in a high end dining experience. Situated in the Oxfordshire countryside, Crazy Bear gives you the opportunity to choose between English or Thai cuisine. Crazy Bear do cater for dietary requirements. Enjoy your meal in one of their themed restaurants under a chandelier, thai oasis or palm tree.
With an expensive price point Crazy Bear may be a restaurant worth saving up for or a decadent treat this Valentines Day. Although expensive the reviews for Crazy Bear food promises a food experience you will be raving about for years to come.
How to choose?
Balancing price point, location and menu choice are the main considerations for many when choosing the right restaurant for them. If you are looking for a dining experience Sticks ‘n’ Sushi or Crazy Bear Hotel may be restaurants you would like to try. If you are on a budget but still looking for a delicious treat Mowglis, Branca or La Cucina may be more affordable yet still delicious options for you.
Cooking for your significant other is another option this Valentines Day and is a way of expressing your own flair and creativity without incurring a high price point. Wherever you choose to dine this Valentine’s Day we wish you the best time with your significant other.
If you are struggling to fill your day on Valentines day this article on Best Things to Go and See in Oxfordshire may help you make the most of your day before your romantic evening meal.
