Banana Tree Oxford
Restaurant | Oxford | England | United Kingdom
Pan-Asian cuisine in Oxford
The "Banana Tree Oxford" in Oxford, England, is a vibrant representative of the British restaurant chain Banana Tree, which specializes in pan-Asian cuisine. Located in the heart of the historic university city, it brings the exotic flavors of Southeast Asia—incorporating Thai, Vietnamese, Malaysian, and Singaporean influences—to a place renowned for its academic tradition. Since its founding over 30 years ago by chef William Chow, who infused his passion for the shared spices and herbs of the region into the kitchen, the chain has earned a reputation for fresh, spicy dishes and a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant in Oxford caters to a wide audience, from students to families and visitors looking for a change from traditional British fare.
Vegetarian options at the restaurant
The menu is diverse and reflects the colorful culinary landscape of Southeast Asia, with dishes often intended for sharing and family-friendly. A standout is the Kajang Satay, tender chicken skewers grilled over charcoal and served with a creamy peanut sauce—a highlight that transports guests straight to the street markets of Malaysia. Also popular is the Thai Green Curry, an aromatic dish featuring tender meat or vegetables in a spicy coconut milk sauce, served with fragrant jasmine rice, prized for its balanced heat. For noodle lovers, there is the Pad Thai, a classic dish of stir-fried rice noodles with crunchy peanuts and a sweet-and-sour tamarind sauce, available in both meat and vegetarian versions. The offerings are complemented by creative cocktails, available all day as part of a 2-for-1 deal, as well as a Bottomless Brunch concept, allowing guests to enjoy unlimited cocktails, beer, or Prosecco with their meals.
Authentic Southeast Asian dishes
The ambiance at Banana Tree Oxford is modern and inviting, with a design that combines bright colors and Asian accents to create a casual yet stylish atmosphere. The dining space is open and accommodates groups of all sizes, making it ideal for social gatherings. The decor is functional, featuring comfortable seating and an environment that is both relaxed and lively—perfect for an evening with friends or a quick lunch amidst a day of sightseeing. The restaurant places a strong emphasis on inclusivity by offering a variety of clearly labeled vegetarian and vegan options and welcoming assistance dogs, although other pets are not allowed due to space constraints.
Inviting restaurant for families
Service is friendly and efficient, with a team focused on providing guests with a pleasant experience. Orders are often taken directly at the table, and the staff is keen to accommodate individual requests, whether regarding the spiciness of a dish or specific dietary needs. However, it can become somewhat hectic during peak times, which most visitors accept in light of the food quality. A notable feature is the option to order via an app, which speeds up the process and enhances convenience, especially for those taking advantage of the express lunch offerings.
