Amidst a rising desire to support smaller enterprises, we are all ponder which local businesses to support instead of corporate giants like Starbucks and McDonalds. In this article, we'll dive into small beloved eateries that all Oxford locals can enjoy for a nice meal:

Overview:

  • Sasi's Thai
  • Tree Artisan Café
  • Pan Pan Street food
  • Coba Boba
  1. Sasi's Thai

Hidden in the corner of the Covered Market, highly praised by picky parents who imbue spices, Sasi's Thai has got enough flavour and tastes to their menu: serving curries, rice bowls, noodles and more. These authentic Thai dishes have the magnetic power of drawing people in.

Oxford Mail:

"Like being in Thailand.", said one customer, who can't go to Oxford without coming here.

This small business is run by Sasi Phosri and her staff, and occasionally her son when not at university. This family-run gem currently celebrates its 10th anniversary since opening!

They are vegetarian friendly, also catering vegan and gluten free options. It's a great place for anyone to take a quick bite of the "flavours of Thailand", though definitely be prepared for some heat if you're not spice-averse. 

   2.  Tree Artisán Cafe

Nestled on the little Clarendon Street, this cozy café serves organic fair trade specialty coffee and a variety of pastries. They also offer a range of vegan options for our strict vegetarians. It is a great place to start off the day and enjoy some breakfast.

Oxford Mail: Graziella Ascensao who runs Tree Artisan Cafe Photo: Tree Artisan Cafe

Opened in late September, 2022, during the pandemic, it has already swiftly won several awards, including 'the best local cafe in oxford of 2023'.

They are passionate about sustainability, and takes careful precision when crafting their coffees. What the owners are even more passionate about is their customers, the regulars.

Regular customers are greeted by name: the owners enjoy having a light-hearted chat, so make sure you're added to their regulars list! It's definitely worth a try if you are looking for a coffee fuelled afternoon with warm ambience. 

   3. Pan Pan Street Food

Transporting aromas from the bustling street stalls of East Asia, Pan Pan serves delicacies from China, Japan, Korea, and more with authenticity. They also offer vegan and gluten free options.

Oxford Mail:

Perfect for cravings of hometown flavours, Pan Pan brings comfort to our stomach with a nostalgic touch. 

Their great interior design also allows a cozy atmosphere; wondrous for friends and family gatherings,so bring a friend or two along! 

    4. Coba Bubble Tea

Tucked between the High Street and Covered Market, Coba, a secret place of gathering for all the boba lovers, serves an array of authentic, freshly brewed Taiwanese drinks, and a plethora of mouth watering snacks; in case hunger kicks in while hanging out. 

Oxford Mail:

At Coba, one is promised a whole afternoon of relaxing board game time in a fun, sticky-note covered room with your companions, retiring from screens for a while.

The staff are more than friendly, and always have smiles on their faces, so do come try one of the best boba shops in Oxford!

And that's all! Enjoy exploring more of Oxford hidden jewels and encountering more favourites!