City dining guide

Best restaurants in Bicester

4 guide-listed restaurants — Michelin, Bib Gourmand, Black Pearl, Must-Eat List, World's 50 Best and more. Reference quality signals; never ranked by commission, no in-app checkout.

Michelin-starred 1

Nut Tree Inn

★ Michelin££££Modern British

With its 15th-century origins and smartly thatched roof, this may look like a typical English pub, but it's no ordinary village local. Mike and Imogen bought the place back in 2006 and have since put Murcott on the foodie map, whilst also keeping their inn a friendly, welcoming place. Refined, elegant dishes are delivered in the form of a tasting menu or a simpler 'pub classics' selection, both of which showcase the kitchen's ability to deliver tried-and-tested favourites with great skill – just look at the textbook sauces and the superb choice of breads to start.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 100 reviews

Nut Tree Inn offers modern British cuisine with generally high ratings. Many guests praise the food quality, curated tasting menus, and excellent wine selection, set within a cozy, welcoming atmosphere where service is typically attentive. However, some reviews highlight issues with meal pacing, inconsistent food execution, and perceived poor value for money, citing specific disappointments with portion sizes and flavor profiles. Despite these criticisms regarding consistency and pricing, the restaurant remains popular among regulars for its reliable standards and charming country pub ambiance.

Suitable for diners seeking classic modern British cuisine and a cozy rural ambiance, with prior menu preference confirmation advised.

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Bib Gourmand 1

The Yurt at Nicholsons

Bib Gourmand££Modern British

If you’re after something a little different, head to Nicholsons Nursery to have lunch in this lovely yurt – which is fashioned from upcycled materials – or in one of the themed private huts alongside. The generously sized, Mediterranean-influenced cooking is unfussy in style but propelled by bold flavours and excellent technique from the kitchen; cider-cured chalkstream trout with a brilliantly made crab bisque is a wonderful example. The confident, bright and breezy service is a natural fit for a place where you can't help but find yourself smiling.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews

The Yurt at Nicholsons in Deddington offers Modern British cuisine with an average TripAdvisor rating of 4.6/5 from 80 reviews. Food quality is frequently praised, particularly the trout and breakfast, though isolated complaints mention incorrect ingredients or poor egg preparation. Service shows high variance: while many highlight friendly and efficient staff, others report significant delays, ignored orders, and missing drinks, impacting the overall experience. The atmosphere is described as relaxed and suitable for a garden centre visit. Value is noted by some as moderate, especially when service issues arise. Advance booking is recommended due to popularity and potential seating constraints.

Ideal for visitors seeking high-quality Modern British brunch or lunch who can tolerate occasional service inconsistencies, with advance booking strongly advised.

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Other guide picks 2

Killingworth Castle

£££Traditional British

There's a lovely pub ambience at this attractive 16th-century inn; the crackling fire is perfect for winter, while the landscaped garden comes into its own in summer. The chefs bake their own breads, butcher their own meats, and champion local and organic produce in comforting yet refined dishes. An array of menus lets you tailor your visit depending on the mood and occasion: bargain hunters should go for the great value set lunch; families can gather for a Sunday roast; and the tasting menu is there for special occasions. Bedrooms are available to extend your visit.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.0/5 · 80 reviews

Killingworth Castle in Alton offers traditional British hospitality with a TripAdvisor average rating of 4.0/5 based on 80 reviews. Positive feedback highlights attentive service, high-quality food, and a welcoming atmosphere, particularly noting the beautiful garden and comfortable rooms. Staff are often praised for going above and beyond, including accommodating special dietary requests. Conversely, negative reviews cite inconsistent food quality, slow meal pacing, and poor service during peak times. Some guests reported issues with portion sizes, lukewarm dishes, and difficulties obtaining deposit refunds upon cancellation. While the setting is relaxing and suitable for special occasions, visitors should be aware of potential variability in service standards and recent operational complaints.

Suitable for travelers seeking a quiet country retreat and traditional British dining, with advance confirmation of booking policies recommended.

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The Nest

£££Modern British

Just down the road from Blenheim Palace, this well-run restaurant is found inside the impressive Feathers Hotel. A gorgeously refurbished property, its elegant style extends to the chic dining room, where the building’s 17th-century features are blended with a light pastel palette. The assured cooking delivers expertly balanced flavours and textures in each enticing dish – just be sure to order a side of the terrific crispy layered potatoes with truffle salt and parmesan. The service team are engaging and attentive yet free of fuss and formality.

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