Every great food town has a restaurant that defines it. That one place where the menu, the atmosphere, and the history all come together to tell the story of a city. In Oxford, that place is City Grocery.Opened by James Beard Award-winning chef John Currence, City Grocery is more than just a restaurant—it’s an institution. Long before Oxford became a rising star in the Southern food scene, Currence was here, laying the groundwork for what would become one of the region’s most respected dining destinations.
At its core, City Grocery is a love letter to Southern cuisine, executed with precision and a deep reverence for tradition. Dishes like shrimp and grits—rich, perfectly balanced, and deeply comforting—have become legendary, while slow-braised meats and locally sourced vegetables elevate the menu beyond expectation. Every element of every plate has been finessed, considered, and perfected.
But what makes City Grocery special isn’t just the food—it’s the way it captures Oxford’s essence. It’s warm, welcoming, and refined without being pretentious. It’s a place where a long lunch can stretch into a late afternoon, where locals and visitors alike gather at the upstairs bar for expertly crafted gin cocktails featuring Wonderbird Spirits, proving that Oxford’s dedication to craft extends far beyond the plate.
To dine at City Grocery is to understand Oxford, to see how a small town with deep literary and cultural roots has evolved into a place where food is more than sustenance; it’s an experience. The flavors, the history, and the hospitality all come together here, making it a must-visit not just for food lovers, but for anyone who wants to understand the beating heart of this town.
Because if you really want to know Oxford, you have to taste your way through it. And there’s no better place to start than here.
