Oxford is full of great places for a quick bite, light meal or mid-shopping pick-me-up drink. We’ve treated ourselves to a few of these to cheer ourselves up in recent months – here’s a roundup of some recent faves.

Chocolate chai at Permit Room Oxford
North Bailey House, Oxford OX1 2RP

We were in desperate need of a hot chocolate one day as we were wandering Westgate, and we happened to glimpse ‘chocolate chai’ on the Permit Room menu as we walked by. I’m never one to say no to this place – the vibes are immaculate, whatever the time of day – and they kindly found us a spot at the bar.

This was a fab alternative to a standard hot choc, and the spice mix was a delicious contrast to the rich, creamy chocolate base. We left feeling revitalised and I’m sure I’ll be back for more, hopefully after one of their equally great curries.

Sushi Corner
94 Cowley Road, Oxford OX4 1JE

We found ourselves tempted into here after we emerged from the Ultimate Picture Palace into the pouring rain one evening. This small restaurant sits on one of my favourite patches of Cowley Road. We’re regulars at Bigfoot and Big Society nearby, and I’m determined to visit Jojo’s one day.

It’s casual and cosy but with an extensive menu. The pan-fried chicken dumplings were crisp and piping hot, as were the well-stuffed veggie spring rolls. We followed this with a large, tasty portion of roast duck udon and – just for luck – treated ourselves to the grilled salmon belly. The salmon was maybe one dish too many, particularly as it was quite fatty (in a tasty way!). It’s good food, served quickly and at reasonable prices. Exactly what we needed!

Three Thousand Noodle
6-8 St Michael’s St, Oxford OX1 2DU

This recently opened noodle bar is already a big hit with the Bitten crew! First off, the portions are HUGE. I could basically have dunked my whole head into my bowl. The noodles are freshly made and deliciously chewy, doused in a flavourful broth that has a nice fiery kick and will definitely perk you up on a cold day.

My beef ramen had a generous helping of meat and was fantastic value at under £12, slap-bang in the middle of Oxford. You order at the counter and are given a buzzer to pick up your food – this is a place to bear in mind for a casual lunch, as long as you’re with people you’re happy to slurp noodles in front of and inevitably splatter with chilli oil.

The Larder: contender for Oxford’s best sandwich?
79-81, Magdalen Road, Iffley, Oxford OX4 1RF

We often wander along Magdalen Street eyeing up the foodie spots. We recently managed to grab a table at The Larder and subsequently had one of the greatest snacks we’ve had in Oxford: their beef brisket sandwich. To start with, the focaccia was a great combo of crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. It was well-filled with meat, melted cheese, tomato and some red onion, but the absolute star of the show was its little dipping pot of ridiculously tasty birria sauce.

I’ve said before and I’ll say it again: this should be viral in Oxford.

At almost £10 it’s pricier than your standard sandwich but it’s definitely worth it if you fancy a wander through East Oxford for a lunchtime treat. We washed it down with a glass of refreshing (and very visually pleasing) pink lemonade. A perfect midday stop-off in the sun!

Hope this article inspires you for when you’re next feeling snackish… Let us know if you try any of these spots, or if you have any to add to the list!