|
One of my absolute favorite activities is traveling and with this economy, it’s not as often as I’d like. However, I found a way to travel without even leaving Raleigh. If you head to 319 Fayetteville Street, The Oxford’s front door will transport you to an English pub. The Oxford is actually a gastro-pub which embodies the idea of relaxation in a setting where food, wine, and beer can be enjoyed. The restaurant is very inviting and cozy with three separate areas -- the dining room, bar, and parlor room. The latter doubles as a private party area that can be rented out for special occasions. The room contains a faux fireplace, leather couches, a private bar, a fiber-optic ceiling (gives the starlit effect), and its also candlelit to set the mood. The bar area is cozy too; it has plenty of leather seats along the marble countertop.
I happened to stop by on a Tuesday so I had some fantastic live music to add to my experience. It was open-mic night and I got to enjoy three talented musicians as I sipped my Bass ale. Now ladies, I know there are female singers and musicians in the Raleigh area, and yet only males have been represented at The Oxford -- head on out to the next Tuesday open-mic night! There’s also live music on Saturdays and occasional Thursdays. Upcoming performances include Café Mars, Jason Adamo, Pete Wilson, Peter Menasian, and Bill West. Whichever night you choose, the Oxford offers food and drink specials in addition to several special events. There is a three-course beer or wine dinner every Sunday for $33, and the menu changes weekly. It’s a great way to try out the restaurant. The regular food and drink menus are quite extensive and include lunch, dinner, and brunch (on Saturdays and Sundays). A few of the notable items are Panko Fried Avocados, Caprese, a Manchester Turkey Sandwich (smoked turkey, cucumber, avocado, brie, and basil aioli on a croissant), Crab Stuffed Shrimp, and Beef Nottingham. Brunch consists of dishes such as steak and eggs oscar style and bangers en croute, to name a few. There are 12 beers on tap and the selection incorporates English and Irish favorites as well as some tasty American microbrews, thus all beer lovers will leave satisfied. Don’t worry, the wine selection is also superb and if you prefer, there are also beer and wine flights available. The choice becomes more difficult when you consider specialty cocktails and martinis. Multiple trips to The Oxford will be necessary in order to try it all.
The hours at the restaurant are 11:00 a.m.-12:00 a.m. Monday-Thursday and 11:00 a.m.-2:00 a.m. Friday-Sunday. To make reservations or find out more information visit www.oxfordraleigh.com or call 919-832-6622. |