Oxford may be famous for its libraries, but its restaurants are just as impressive, especially if you’re looking for something a bit out of the ordinary. Picture candlelit meals in centuries-old buildings, menus scribbled on blackboards in art-filled cafés, or private rooms hidden behind bookcases. Some places still serve college traditions, others are all about bold flavours and no fuss. Whether it’s for a celebration, a private dinner, or a night out with a twist, the city has plenty of quirky restaurants that stand out. Let’s get you booked in. Browse now
Booking costs of quirky restaurants average £45 per person. Costs vary depending on guest capacity, popularity, location, and amenities like sound systems or bar services. Extra charges may apply for custom catering, decor, or event planning services. Packages with add-ons, such as DJs, photo booths, or other entertainment services, can also increase the overall cost. Check out the typical price ranges in Oxford, based on Tagvenue data:
| From £40 | to £50 | per person |
| From £225 | to £650 | hire fee per event |
| From £250 | to £2000 | minimum spend per event |
Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated September 2026), the best options include:
Private Dining Room at The Trout Oxford
in Oxford - rated 5/5
Our user said: ‘Most of us had sea bass and all loved it. The starters very tasty, especially the soup and the fried squid.’
The River Room at The Folly Restaurant
in Oxford City Centre - rated 5/5
Our user said: ‘A wonderful evening to celebrate daughter’s 21st birthday with her friends.’
Full Venue - Caf & Bar at The Breakfast Club Oxford
in Oxford City Centre - rated 4.8/5
Our user said: ‘Great venue, we were really pleased we could hire out the whole restaurant.’
You'll find quirky restaurants in various sizes, from smaller spots to larger venues; keep in mind that the type of space and your chosen layout will affect the capacity! Below you can see the typical venue sizes in Oxford, together with the standard prices in each size range, based on Tagvenue data (September 2026):
| Small | up to 40 guests | prices average £225 hire fee per event |
| Medium | between 50 and 80 guests | prices average £250 minimum spend per event |
| Large | over 100 guests | prices average £1000 hire fee per event |
These are the venues within 0.2 mi from central Oxford, available to book on Tagvenue:
Smaller quirky restaurants usually fit up to 40 guests seated. Here are some great options in Oxford, based on Tagvenue data as of September 2026:
The White Dome at The Folly Restaurant, rated 5/5 - terrace for 35 guests
Venue said: All while relaxing in a warm, comfortable dining space with views of the River Thames and Folly Bridge. The White Dome is the perfect place to celebrate any occasion combining the magic of outdoor dining with a cosy, intimate...
Semi-private area at Sticks'n'Sushi Oxford - dining room for 20 guests
Venue said: Oxford restaurant is located in the Westgate shopping centre, a short walk from the heart of the city. It’s easily accessible and conveniently located for a quick lunch, a leisurely dinner, or a night out with friends.
Semi Private Area 2 at Brasserie Blanc Oxford - dining room for 40 guests
Venue said: In the heart of historic Jericho, the very first Brasserie Blanc. The restaurant features a bright dining room overlooking a small garden. The menu celebrates classic French dishes inspired by Raymond’s childhood, made with...
Cheap quirky restaurants in Oxford start from £20 per person or £100 minimum spend per event. Check out these budget-friendly spaces you can book through Tagvenue, as of September 2026:
Restaurtant at Oxford Brunch Bar, from £20 per person
(up to 55 guests seated)
Venue said: We are restaurant based in the busy city centre of Oxford. We are currently advertising the space for the private hire and parties in the evening. We can customise the menu and drinks as per the client requirement.
Semi Private Area 2 at Brasserie Blanc Oxford, from £100 minimum spend per event
(up to 40 guests seated)
Venue said: The restaurant features a bright dining room overlooking a small garden. The menu celebrates classic French dishes inspired by Raymond’s childhood, made with care and skill.
Back Room at Za'atar Bake, from £30 hire fee per event
(up to 40 guests seated)
Venue said: Za'atar Bake is a Middle Eastern restaurant located on Cowley Road in Oxford, known for its focus on authentic, flavour-driven dishes. The venue is perfect for hosting a variety of events, including birthday parties, or corporate...
Carfax is a central hub with plenty of dining options, from brasseries to themed restaurants. Hinksey Park offers more scenic, riverside locations like The Folly. Other sought-after districts include St. Mary’s for local pubs and casual dining, and Wolvercote for traditional English settings just outside the city centre.
For most quirky restaurants in Oxford, it’s best to book at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance. Popular spots can fill up fast, especially for evening or weekend bookings. If you're planning a private hire or a larger group event (over 30 guests), try to book 2 to 3 months ahead to ensure availability and allow time for menu planning or custom arrangements. Smaller weekday bookings may be available with shorter notice, but booking early gives you the most choice.
Page last updated in September 2026
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