OFFTHE SQUARE HEALTH FAIR2023

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IIt is no secret that Oxford is on the map for the richness of its food scene that includes award winning restaurants, celebrated chefs and a diversity of food than spans the globe and back. The idea for The Oxford Food Trail started as a way to help restaurants after the year they had dealing with the pandemic. The Oxford Food Trail is a celebration of the food that is at our doorstep and a banner to welcome visitors and residents to explore the food that is distinctly Oxford. We need to get the word out that Oxford restaurants are open!

Stops on The Oxford Food Trail include classic southern dishes, farm to table cuisine, some of the south’s best barbeque, gourmet delights, vibrant venues for dining and creative cocktails that befit a town whose cheer is Hotty

Toddy. It’s one of the most vibrant food cities in the Southeast, and we want the word to spread wider as people begin to travel and explore.

In addition to the restaurants featured in this Food edition of Oxford Magazine, the soon to be launched website www. oxfordfoodtrail.com will be a sign post to the world to come to Oxford for the food with an interactive map to help guide their way. For residents, many of the spots on the trail are much loved and often visited. Other restaurants are new or places you have missed in the past. Like any trail, it is about the journey as you work your way through the full array of food offerings and develop your palate and appreciation for what we have in our backyard. See you on the Trail!

Big Bad Breakfast

The brainchild of James Beard award-winning chef John Currence, Big Bad Breakfast gives the proper respect to “the most important meal of the day.” Enjoy Big Bad Breakfast staples such as custom-created meats, fresh biscuits and preserves, locally roasted coffee and some of the best cocktails you’ll find anywhere. Whether it’s the house-cured Tabasco/Brown Sugar Bacon or the Anson Mills Steel Cut Oatmeal, you’ll be talking about coming back before you’ve left the table.

They wear their “Big Bad” name as a badge of honor and take special pride in serving all your Southern favorites with the creativity and technique that only a skilled, world-renowned chef can bring to the table.

719 N Lamar Blvd. Oxford, MS. (662) 236-2666. bigbadbreakfast.com

City Grocery

Early on the scene of the Oxford town square revival, City Grocery has become a landmark in the Oxford dining scene. Exposed brick walls & heart pine plank floor augment the candle light and white linen staging some the most inventive and interesting food in the South. “Their (dishes’) deft presentation is imaginative, skillful and disciplined, elevating them above qualification as regional and ethnic cuisine.” City Grocery makes every meal feel like a special occasion.

152 Courthouse Square, Oxford, MS (662) 232-8080 citygroceryonline.com

Grit

For Angie Sicurezza, co-owner of Taylor’s Grit Restaurant, family is everything. Sicurezza, who operates Grit alongside her husband Nick, faced a few challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the inability to serve their family-style Sunday meals, but that has not stopped Grit from persevering. Their seasonal and locally sourced menus and collection of masterfully mixed cocktails, combined with Grit’s unique ambience, creates an authentic Southern experience that is meant to feel like an extension of the family’s home.

“We’ve had to pivot so much this year,” she said, “but we made it through because of our family, our team, and our community. Taylor is a special place; I’ve seen all areas of this community pull together this past year and show great strength and love. We are very lucky to be here.”

2 Town Square Lane. Taylor, MS. (662) 638-3922 Grittaylor.com

QWACK’S

Quacks offers quality drinks, gourmet hot dogs, and a good time guaranteed to make sure your night out in Oxford is one to (sort of) remember. You will find the Classic Dog, a quarter pound hot dog dressed just the way you like. Or for the adventurous, try the New York Dog, The Chicago Dog, The Seattle Dog, many other gourmet hot dogs on the menu. Qwacks also offers catering and special events! Coming soon to Oxford Square beside Ajax.

122 Courthouse Square, Oxford, MS

UNO MAS TACOS & TEQUILA

If you’re feeling down and out and not wanting to leave the house, go out anyway and pull into Uno Mas Tacos & Tequila, a modern “taqueria and agave bar” in Oxford.

Throw your cares away as you enjoy the opportunities to dine on fresh, handcrafted dishes in an atmosphere of fun. Order some sopapillas - nothing can make you sigh with pleasure more than these warm puffed pastries dusted with cinnamon sugar and amber honey. Feeling better already? Good! Remember that Mas Tacos & Tequila promises to go that extra mile for you by making all of its own salsas, tortillas and chips in-house daily.

Tired of the ho-hum? Try something new from Mas Tacos & Tequila’s more than 50 different tequilas and mezcals from the Los Altos region of Jalisco and Oaxaca. Your palate may desire instead a sip from one of Mas Tacos & Tequila’s handcrafted cocktails at the bar.

And If you’re in the mood for a true Mexican experience, try their famous margaritas made with fresh lime juice and top-quality agave nectar.

Whether you eat tacos or burritos or fajitas with a side of queso, choose a spot inside or on the outdoor patio, where we’re sure you’ll find your smile again - at Mas Tacos & Tequila. Ole’!

1101 E. Jackson, Oxford. (601) 371-9899. www.unomastacos.com

EL CHARRO COCINA & CANTINA

Now celebrating 26 years of “Mexican Gastronomy,”

El Charro Cocina & Cantina welcomes you into its towering white dome and high-fashion interior that’s an ode to the beauty of classic Mexican restaurants.

The original El Charro, which opened in 1995, served the community for almost 10 years before merging with Casa Mexicana in 2007. With expansions in place, El Charro is now a bright and open restaurant that merges tradition with a cool twist. The menu itself is filled with traditional dishes and drinks inspired by owner Ramiro Muñoz’s family’s cooking; indeed, many of the recipes are lifted directly from his mother’s cookbook. “My family is 100 percent Hispanic,” said Muñoz. “The Oxford Community has its fair share of international cuisine; it has a bit of everything. We wanted to give them something new as far as Mexican food.”

And Oxford responded to the call, thanks to the perfect combination of textures, rich flavors, colorful ingredients and tried-and-true culinary methods, all set within a world of timelessness.

El Charro’s staff believes Mexican gastronomy is an art, so their dishes only contain fresh ingredients and they use hand-crafted techniques to create authentic, artisanal and traditional Mexican cuisine. You’ll find nothing but authenticity under El Charro’s roof when you order tacos, burritos, chile verde and pollo encremado. Oh, you’d rather seafood? El Charro’s got you covered with sumptuous choices such as mahi mahi and shrimp, aguachile, ceviche and Mojarra frita. Getting hungry yet? We thought so.

699 Sisk Ave., Oxford. (662) 234-9358. www.elcharrooxford.com

FOX’S PIZZA DEN

Susie and Greg Miley, co-owners of Fox’s Pizza Den, know what it takes to make a delicious gourmet pizza. The Oxford location, which is situated on Sisk Avenue, offers a wide variety of items on their menu, from pizzas to hot hoagies, to ‘wedgies’ (wedge-shaped sandwiches packed with meat and toppings) and Stromboli.

“Our menu is very diverse,” said Greg. “We have a lot to choose from. You can build your own pizza and we will do it any way you like.”

For those looking to try something more, Fox’s also offers six different flavors of chicken wings, as well as fresh salads and pastas. Whatever you choose can be paired with an ice cold beer (featuring draft and bottle options) or glass of wine.

The couple opened their first Fox’s location in Tupelo back in 2017 before expanding to Oxford just this past year. Since then, they have worked with countless local organizations, including sports teams, sororities, and businesses.

“We feel very blessed to be here in Oxford,” said Susie.

900 Sisk Ave Suite A. Oxford, MS . (662) 638-8333. foxspizza.com

FUNKY’S PIZZA AND DAQUARI BAR

Located on the square, Funkys brings a unique blend of New Orleans daiquiris and New York style pizza. You can’t miss the lineup of brightly colored daiquiris, but they also have a full bar with one of the most extensive liquor selections in town. If you’re stopping in for a bite, you’re sure to love the from-scratch pizza with toppings ranging from classic pepperoni to buffalo chicken. Whether you’re looking for a lunch or dinner spot, somewhere to watch a game or dance the night away, Funkys is a perfect spot for fun anytime.

1012 East Jackson Ave. Oxford, MS. 662-259-2881. http://www.funkys.com/

JUST CAKE IT!

You’ve heard it said that, “love is the best ingredient” and there is no shortage of it in this bakery! Just Cake It! bakes for all of life’s celebrations and takes modern approach to traditional baking that delivers high quality cakes with incredible aesthetic appeal. Here you will find cupcakes for celebrations, specialty cakes, tasty treats like chocolate covered strawberries, specialty gourmet popcorn, ice cream and more. Owner and founder Crystal Dunn has been baking people happy since 2014.

2580 Jackson Ave West, Suite 34, Oxford (662) 237-2253 info@justcakeit.net

BREMMA’S SWEET TREATS

When best friends, Brooke Mardis and Emma Grace Ferguson, first met while working on Fergndan’s Food Truck, the pair shared a dream of wanting a professional bakery of their own someday. With the help and encouragement of Laurabeth, Emma Grace’s mother and Coowner of Fergndan’s, they turned that dream into a reality. They blended their first names and formed Bremma’s Sweet Treats while working out of the Fergndan’s kitchen. The fun-loving bakery had enjoyed so much success that it had outgrown the shared space when Kelli Russell of The Cakery contacted the Fergusons about purchasing her bakery. Bremma’s and The Cakery become one this past September and with the help of Kelli and her crew, the Fergusons are hoping to build upon Kelli’s success to create Bremma’s Cakery and Confections. With the new name comes a large expansion that will take place in either late April or early May and will not only enhance the space of the bakery, but the menu as well. In addition to both bakeries previous offerings, you will also find cheesecakes, different sizes and flavors of bundt cakes, coffee, candy, party goods and more! The slogan “Friendship Never Tasted So Sweet!” has never rung more true as now Pastry Chef, Brooke and Emma have welcomed Kelli’s crew into their bakery friendship! Bremma’s Cakery and Confections hopes to brighten the faces of the Oxford community with the alluring aroma of freshly baked goods as both their hearts and oven door continue to swing open.

East Shopping Center, 1944 University Ave Floor 1, Oxford, (662) 202-6466 https://www.bremmasbakery.com

MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ - OXFORD

From their prime location on the Oxford Square, four local friends share one simple focus: to serve the best barbecue in town. John Allgood, a Mississippi native and Ole Miss graduate, owns and operates the location, serving up pulled pork sandwiches, smoked chicken, ribs, and more than 60 classic Southern sides that are rotated daily. All of this delectable food can be enjoyed with an ice cold beer either in the main dining room or in the downstairs Penny Bar, home of a local happy hour hotspot.

“I fell in love with the Oxford community really early on,” said Allgood. “It’s such a diverse city, but with a small-town vibe, and a community that loves to support local establishments. It’s a great place to own a business.”

311 S Lamar Blvd, Oxford, MS. (662) 236-6637 www.moesoriginalbbq.com/lo/oxford

Monday - Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

*Excluding Game Day Saturdays Sunday - Catering Appointments Only

662-236-1512

Tallahatchie Gourmet

Oxford’s preeminent source for authentic New Orleans cuisine for many years – long before the restaurant, founded in New Albany, even opened its doors in Oxford –Tallahatchie Gourmet’s creole creations impress as many visitors as it does locals. In fact, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone around town who hasn’t experienced some of the spice-rich selections TG’s offers.

A bonafide member of the Oxford “go-to” club of best lunch spots in town, Tallahatchie Gourmet is run by Angele Mueller, who specializes in catering as well. Dine in or let her come to your event — either way, you’ll enjoy the soul-soothing home cooking that comes with a side of Cajun ingenuity.

Whether it’s a juicy burger with a side of fries, chicken gumbo filled with the Holy Trinity or cheesy grits topped with Gulf-caught shrimp (smothered in hickory-smoked bacon), you’re sure to find a hit when you dine at TG’s. You’ll also find poboys, honey buffalo chicken sandwiches and even the always beloved Blue Plate Specials to choose from. Eat in or take it home, but take care, because you’ll find yourself at Tallahatchie Gourmet more often than not.

1221 Van Buren Ave., Oxford. (662) 380-5122

Oxford Grillhouse

There is nothing quite like the smell of a steak on the grill; when one steps onto the Square, this recognizable, delicious aroma leads them straight to the Oxford Grillehouse, voted best steak for nearly a decade and delicious seafood that rivals any in the state of Mississippi. Founded in 2012 by Chef Clint Boutwell, the Grillehouse has certainly made a name for itself, serving up top choice near prime steaks, creamy smoked gouda mac and cheese, Southern-inspired seafood dishes, and expertly mixed cocktails for the public. The Grillehouse’s wide array of alcohol is displayed in a gorgeous wood bar-scape, which sits behind their equally gorgeous heartpine bar! The expansive drink menu features classic cocktails, such as the Sunset Sipper and the Bourbon Smash, as well as seasonal choices; each visit to the Grillehouse’s bar offers a chance to try something new. Boutwell, who has expanded to Southaven & Tupelo will always call Oxford home, has perfected his grilling techniques — and his talent is evident with every bite!

114 Courthouse Square Suite A. Oxford, MS. (662) 701-8285 thegrillehouse.com

OBY’S

Why don’t alligators like fast food? Because it is difficult to catch. Buh dump dump. Seriously, Oby’s has alligator po’boys. They have other po’boys, including shrimp, roast beef and turkey, but Oby’s has in-season ALLIGATOR po’boys!

Oby’s is serious about ensuring you have fun when you dine with them, but they are also serious about their fresh and beloved food. Other, less dangerous, po’boys include catfish, oyster, crawfish and shrimp. If you’re not into seafood (seriously?!), Oby’s also has po’boys with smoked sausage or corned beef. If you want your meal to be a bit less bread centric, you can choose red beans and rice, jambalaya, fish or shrimp platters or a bowl of some fine etouffee.

Oby’s, however, is absolutely famous for chicken tenders. Oh, we know others say they know chicken tenders, but we think maybe Oby’s wrote the recipe. Just sayin’!

Oby’s also has all the spud combinations you can shake a stick at, and its salads, chowders and soups remain favorites of the regulars. For dessert, try the homemade bourbon pecan pie topped with praline sauce or cheesecake with your choice of topping.

If you are in need of catering, Oby’s offers that as well. From boxed lunches to sandwich trays to a spud bar, Oby’s can have your event hopping. Alligators and all.

1931 University Ave., Oxford. (662) 234-4530. www.obys.net

MY MICHELLE’S

The next time you’re planning a birthday party, company event or a wedding for 500, remember that My Michelle’s has the expertise of its chefs, the quality of its fresh food and the exquisite creativity to make your party one to remember.

Founded in 2010 by long-time Oxonian and Ole Miss graduate Michelle Rounsaville, My Michelles boasts an ever-changing menu filled with delicious quiches, soups, salads, casseroles and more — including one of Rounsaville’s favorites, the beef and spinach lasagna. “We started substituting zucchini noodles for regular lasagna noodles,” she said. “It is really delicious.” That’s right — you will still eat healthy while enjoying the wonderful flavors My Michelle’s offers, including chicken egg roll bowl, ranch burger bowl, beef bolognese over spaghetti squash or ground turkey lettuce wraps, each of which is perfectly seasoned, of course. My Michelle’s online menu changes every week, depending on what fresh ingredients arrive in their kitchen, and each offering is just as flavorful as it is nutritious.

Your party’s distinctive personality and style is part of My Michelle’s allure to plan the perfect menu. From hors d’oeuvres to full-course meals, the chefs customize to the needs of the host.

3000 Old Taylor Rd C., Oxford. (662) 236-1512. mymichellesoxford.com

MCEWEN’S

Step into luxury and stay for the meal. The atmosphere may be what gets you in the door at McEwen’s; but the food will certainly be what keeps you coming back!

McEwen’s completes plates with riots of colors and textures. The menu changes seasonally to provide the freshest ingredients available. Customer favorites remain as staples with the chef always offering new items to satisfy the palates of patrons. From the panko crusted Red Snapper, the mouthwatering Sea Bass, the velvety Filet Mignon or the deep, golden fried Oysters; your taste buds will be thankful. Accompanying these dishes are options such as Shitake Mushroom Risotto, Black Thai Rice, Grilled Bok Choy, or Gorgonzola Potatoes. Sunday Brunch is also a prime time to visit McEwen’s. To warm up your taste buds, try the freshly made Beignets dusted with powdered sugar and served with a decadent chocolate dipping sauce. With choices like Duck Gumbo, seared Tuna, Salmon Lox or Chicken and waffles; you surely will come away satisfied. Regardless of when you visit McEwen’s, you simply must finish with a slice of the famous Banana Cream Pie. Too much? Perhaps a Chocolate Martini to top off your meal?

1110 Van Buren Ave., Oxford. (662) 234-7003 (tel:(662)234-7003)

Southern Coop

For those days you ache for a basketful of wings, Southern Coop has the menu of your dreams. Even its website declares they have the “flavors to satisfy everyone’s cravings.” They aren’t kidding: Be aware there will be a lot of choice making if you visit. Start things off right with cheese sticks, onion rings, fried mushrooms or loaded potato skins.

Once you get ready to order your wings, buckle up: There are more than 50 wing sauces at Southern Coop. Plus, you have to decide bone-in or boneless. And we aren’t even counting the dry seasonings from which to choose - lemon pepper, garlic pepper, buffalo, Caribbean jerk, barbecue, Cajun, taco and ranch. Oh my. If it’s a chicken tender sandwich you seek, take note you’ll find what you need at Southern Coop. Warning: There are a bunch of choices here as well, including “The Western Chick” (salsa ranch and cheddar cheese), the Buffalo Bird (buffalo sauce, ranch and mozzarella cheese) or the Mr. Italy (dipped in garlic butter, garlic pepper, romano and Mozzarella cheeses with a side of marinara).

To ensure a well-rounded experience, Southern Coop also offers Texas cheese fries, fried okra, fresh hand breaded tenders the size of your hand! We did warn you there would be a lot of choices, didn’t we?

1120 N. Lamar Blvd., Oxford. (662) 638-3767. https://order.southerncoopwings.com/

THE CHANCELLOR’S HOUSE GRILL

Last year when Oliver Hospitality, a Nashvillebased hotel and restaurant management company, acquired The Chancellor’s House Hotel, the community knew good things were to come. Furthering that thought, the company announced recently that its new executive chef is Joel Miller, and he’s cooking up a new menu at Chancellor’s House Grill.

Diners may visit during dinner nightly from 3-5 p.m. and Happy Hours are Monday-Thursday

3-5 p.m. Brunch from Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. is also a wonderful way to experience Chancellor’s House Grill at its best. Regardless of when you visit, you’ll have many places to sit and relax, including the patio terrace, where you can savor the action at the four corners of Oxford.

Diners can choose grilled hanger steak with fries and chimichurri or the fresh seafood offering of the day. Desserts include lemon curd or blueberry compote cheesecake and dark chocolate and orange-scented creme brulee. Top things off with a divine glass of wine - there are 42 flavors to choose from - or a signature cocktail that includes hibiscus and elderflower champagne or dark rum, peach cordial, pineapple lime and Peychaurd’s bitters. No matter the time you arrive or the dish you choose, The Chancellor’s House Grill will ensure you leave with a smile on your face.

See what’s brewing on the square @ CHANCELLORSHOUSE. We hope to see you there!

425 S. Lamar Blvd., Oxford. (662) 371-1400. www.Chancellorshouse.com.