Disguised by a vintage chemist’s sign above the door, there’s something incredibly modest about Arbequina, a tiny tapas joint with tiled walls, a stainless-steel counter and hard wooden stools. It’s all deceptively simple however, for as soon as you taste that first morsel of food, you know you’re somewhere special. From nduja sliced so thin it melts in your mouth to earthy beetroot borani served with tangy feta and crunchy walnuts, it’s food so good you’re invariably tempted to order more, succumb to that second bottle of vino and wonder why you’ve never been before.

Opened in 2016 Arbequina set out to create a charming Restaurant in the heart of Oxford serving Tapas style dishes with flavours you would expect from Spain and more!. Much like in Spain in the Restaurant you will find a long bar where you can enjoy both the food and drinks seated at, however, if that is not for you regular seating is also available. While you enjoy the taste of tapas why don’t you tuck in to a tipple of their expertly crafted drinks from wonderful wines to some classic cocktails.

Housed in a former chemist’s building (and the charming original sign still remains on the exterior) this celebrated, buzzy tapas bar is always busy with hungry, happy diners. The restaurant is simply decorated with functional furniture and a stainless steel bar for those keen to have a more interactive experience. The concise menu is approachable and authentic with a range of small plates for picking and larger dishes for sharing, and a confident wine list to accompany.

Retaining its original “Pharmacy” shop-front signage and “tapas” menu, Arbequina is unsuspecting to the average passer-by. But on learning the team comprises Ben Whyles and Rufus Thurston of Oli’s Thai (now sadly closed), this spot is bound to exceed any expectations. Plates are both classic (patatas bravas) and punchy (pork belly with crackling and mojo verde), with thoughtful sourcing of ingredients – from the table olive oil to spices from nearby Maroc Deli.

With its simple décor and bohemian ambiance, tapas bar Arbequina occupies the space of a former chemist’s shop, complete with a vintage stainless steel counter. The menu, though succinct, boasts flavorful and authentic small plates, generously portioned, with a few heartier options for those seeking a substantial meal. Guests can enjoy cocktails and natural wines from the bar while soaking in the bustling yet laid-back vibe of the establishment.

Plus, The Lamb in Crawley, Harcourt Arms in Stanton Harcourt, Arbequina on Cowley Road, The Old Swan in Minster Lovell, The Red Lion in Northmoor, Oli’s Thai in East Oxford and its neighbour The Magdalen Arms, The Swan in Ascott under Wychwood, Wild Thyme in Chipping Norton, The Swan in Swinbrook, Chequers in Churchill, White Hart in Fyfield, Muddy Duck in Hethe, The Wild Rabbit in Kingham.

If I had to name the best restaurant in Oxford, there’s a good chance that Arbequina would be my answer. Set in an old chemist and watchmaker (with vintage signage to match), Arbequina is no casual British countryside restaurant. Rather, this chic, Spanish-inspired, tapas-style restaurant wouldn’t be out of place in the hip corners of East London.

Tapas style sharing dishes are on offer at this bohemian bar, incorporating luscious, intense flavours. A focus on high quality, unique ingredients and hand crafted cocktails has made it a firm favourite with the locals. Buzzing conversation and an exciting atmosphere mean this restaurant is a great place to be from dusk till night.

Situated on Cowley Road, Arbequina is a testament to the charm of simplicity. This tapas restaurant, set in a former chemist’s shop, exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere with its rustic decor and intimate seating. The small, bustling space is perfect for couples seeking a lively yet cozy dining experience.

The menu changes regularly but have the tortilla, the aubergine with pomegranate molasses and the n'duja toast if they're available. Arbequina News & Reviews https://bittenoxford.co.uk/review-arbequina-terruno/ https://bittenoxford.co.uk/door-74-re-opening-arbequina/ … [Read more...]

I don’t usually like to write about places I haven’t personally been but I’ll make an exception for Arbequina. After opening a couple of years ago, it’s become one of the coolest places to eat on Cowley Road. Arbequina have apparently perfected Spanish tapas with a modern twist.

Surely one of the best places to eat in Oxford, this restaurant is known for serving mouth-watering dishes. It is popular for one particular dish that is rare among other restaurants. The Onion tortilla is a delicious meal that has been served to a lot of people.

Located down Cowley Road in an old chemist, Arbequina offers a casual dining experience. It is a small venue with tables dispersed snuggly, and a few seats at the bar. The menu hosts an array of delicious small plates, many of which are, thankfully, vegetarian.

Arbequina is one of the best restaurants in Oxford, serving tapas with the best interiors. The food critics are also super fans of the totally sensational food. The thick oozy tortillas are a must-try here at this covered chemist tapas restaurant.

Set up by Ru from Oli’s Thai and Ben formerly of Door 74, Arbequina serves modern tapas dishes in a buzzy, friendly restaurant on Cowley Road. Our favourite dishes include beetroot borani, grilled baby leeks with romesco and sardines on toast.

Tapas aficionados will love this quirky Michelin guide restaurant housed inside a converted chemist. We are big fans of the house onion tortilla and love the reasonable prices too, just don’t fill up too much the Basque cheesecake is sublime.

Arbequina is a simply furnished, bohemian tapas restaurant and bar located in an old chemist’s shop on the vibrant Cowley Road in Oxford. There’s sitting downstairs by the vintage stainless steel counter or upstairs in the bay window.

Later, feast on heavenly momos at Taste Tibet (tastetibet.com) or tapas at Arbequina (arbequina.co.uk) before finishing the day at the Rusty Bicycle (dodopubs.com) a kid-, dog- and vegan-friendly neighbourhood pub.