An independent, contemporary restaurant in the heart of the city centre - No.1 Ship Street is just what Oxford needed.
With two floors providing unique dining experiences, this buzzing establishment really does cater for every taste.
First Floor - Oyster & Champagne Bar and Cocktail Bar
A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to visit No.1's Oyster and Champagne Bar and sample a section of their small plates. Let me give you the low-down on my experience:
Atmosphere
What really stood out to me about No.1 Ship Street was the staff. I visited the restaurant with my mum and from the moment we entered we were warmly welcomed and it became clear just how passionate the owners, Ross Drummond and Owen Little, are about the place. The bar itself was classic, with a contemporary twist; purple and grey walls, coloured seats and a flag cascading down the wall created a warm and inviting atmosphere; the quirky design making it instantly feel like a special occasion. If you're a student, looking for somewhere to take your family when they come to visit, this is certainly the place.
Food
We started off by enjoying a platter of No.1's finest Oysters, all locally sourced, alongside a dressing of shallot and red wine vinegar and a delicious makerel pate. After this truly impressive starter, we tucked into an array of small plates; the garlic prawns, stuffed peppers and pork belly were beautifully presented and full of flavour. This idea of sharing food stems from the owner Ross Drummond's favourite way to eat. I'm totally with him, the sharing of small plates made for a really sociable dining experience. (Oyster platters - £8.50 - £32.50 size dependent, starters - £3-£4.50, small plates - £4.50-£9.50)
Drink
With a long list of cocktails, from the classics to No.1's very own, I eventually decided on a 'Close Quarters' and it certainly lived up to expectations. My mum enjoyed a glass of prosecco and we both commented on how the concept of enjoying a drink, alongside some nibbles (or a full feast if you so decide) worked brilliantly in this beautiful setting.
Ground Floor - Modern British Brasserie
This is the chilled-out heart of the restaurant, with its copper tables, crystal glasses and modern design giving it the edge.
Breakfast (all week)
Your Full English, Eggs Royale and Eggs Florentine are all on offer, with pastries and even potato pancakes thrown into the mix (prices range from £2.50 - £12)
A La Carte (Monday to Saturday)
A delicious selection of dishes ranging from Confit Chicken, to Stuffed Squash, Flat Iron Steak and Burger and Fries are all on offer. Think classic dining with a twist - anchovie butter fries, truffle mayo, and caper butter make the experience that little bit more special.
And if it's pudding you're after, well I hear No.1's cookie dough skillet is the most Instagrammable dessert in town...
(Starters - £6-£8, Mains- on average £14 with the option to blow out on a £70 Dry Aged Rib Of Beef , Dessert - £6-£12)
A Sunday Lunch menu offers slight variations of the above every Sunday 12pm - 4.30pm.
I would highly reccommend No.1 Ship street; the staff are lovely, the atmosphere is delightful and the food is top notch. If you family are heading to Oxford for matriculation this weekend, then get booked in!