Since transitioning to a plant-based diet, one of the more difficult things has been eating out, particularly with friends or family who don’t follow a similar lifestyle. Having recently graduated from University, going for dinner seems to be one of the main ways to keep in touch, so finding restaurants that cater for both tastes has been pretty important. That said, I’m really not a fan of chain restaurants, so when my mother googled ‘Vegan restaurants in Oxford’, and found only the likes of Prezzo and Ask Italian, I wasn’t too thrilled. (I have nothing against those restaurants per se, but I love supporting local and independent eateries!)
One day, however, when hunting for a little deli in North Oxford (The Hayfield Deli, blog post coming soon!), I stumbled across a gastropub called the Anchor. Unbeknownst to me, it has a great regular crowd, but for those us from South Oxford, I can definitely say that it is a hidden gem. What first appealed to me about the pub was the decor (think wooden tables and chairs, but elegant, not scruffy – it has a kind of art nouveau feel) and the menu of about a dozen dishes, all comprising locally-sourced ingredients. Taking advantage of the rare appearance of the sun, and the pub’s quaint outside seating area, I sat down for a coffee (it transpired that this had to be green tea as the pub did not have any soya milk – quite a big deal for me as I am a total coffee addict, but I’ll let it slide since I’m such a fan of the food!) and chatted about the menu with the waitress. Having explained to her that I followed a plant-based diet, she told me that the chefs would be able to prepare a cruelty-free dish no bother – I wouldn’t even have to tell them in advance. One of the most versatile dishes on the menu at the time (which changes based on the availability of local produce) was a farrow salad with green vegetables and feta, so I was told it would probably be a variation on that. Enthused by the friendliness of the staff, fabulous interior, and first-class wine list, I booked a table for seven people in their little private conservatory (perfect for any group of up to ten, at no extra cost! The restaurant also boasts two private dining rooms upstairs for larger groups – definitely recommended for any big birthdays!)
On the day of the graduation I asked for the farrow salad with lots of roasted vegetables (the menu was littered with roasted aubergines, roasted peppers, courgettes, fennel, and in typical me-style, I wanted it all!), and the chefs did not let me down. They gave me a very generous portion loaded with perfectly cooked and seasoned vegetables, while my family enjoyed everything from swordfish to steak.
Since my graduation meal (which was a hit with the whole family!), I have returned several times, for both the farrow dish and their scrumptious sides (chargrilled courgettes and spring onions with a tahini dressing; roasted beetroots and carrots). They have a nice selection of salads which they are happy to modify (e.g. taking out the cheese), as well as a vegan-friendly desert of roasted peaches. The cocktails are also really well-priced and totally delicious, as is the olive oil (deep green colour, the sign of a good restaurant). What I also love about this restaurant is that you can see the chefs – they smile through the kitchen window and give you the impression that they genuinely care about both the food and your experience.
On a slightly less interesting note, the pub also has parking, and is situated near Port Meadow, so ideal if you fancy taking a long pre-supper walk along the canal. Overall, I would definitely recommend the Anchor – the service is nearly always wonderful, and the food is delicious. I can’t wait for the menu to change so I can see what else they can do!
Let me know if you visit, or if you have any other restaurant recommendations in the Oxford area!
Ruth x
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