Permit Room was arguably the most eagerly awaited restaurant opening in Oxford last year. With a 4.9-star rating on Google and a constant buzz of diners, it’s clear that it has more than lived up to the hype.
Unlike other Dishoom restaurants, where the kitchen takes centre stage, The Permit Rooms is designed around the bar, making it the focal point of the space.
The atmosphere is lively yet welcoming, with a dedicated bar area that’s impressively dog-friendly and plenty of seating, including large communal tables perfect for group gatherings.
You know you’ve visited a place a little too often when the staff recognise you (yes, this happened to me!). Since its opening, I’ve been here multiple times—for a big group booking, a casual lunch, and even to impress visiting relatives. And each time, it has delivered.
The cocktails are nothing short of amazing, with the Clover Club being a standout. A beautifully balanced, iconic pink drink with lychee and a foamy egg-white topping, it’s basically dessert in a glass—though I’ll happily sip it before starters (and then order another). If you’re skipping alcohol, the mocktails are just as impressive and definitely not an afterthought. I’d highly recommend the Lychee French—light, floral, and refreshing. I’ve also heard great things about the Kiwi Colada, which is next on my list to try!
When it comes to food, I have a few firm favourites that I find myself ordering every time. To start, the chilli cheesy naan bites are a must—indulgent, doughy, and with just the right hit of chilli. They’re technically a sharer, but you won’t want to share. The chilli chips are another winner; unlike the drier versions found elsewhere, these come coated in a sticky, flavour-packed sauce. They’re not super crispy, but they are dangerously moreish. Be warned—they bring the heat!
The Permit Room Special Chicken Tandoori is hands down the best tandoori chicken I’ve ever had. It’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, full of smoky flavour, and perfectly complemented by a fresh side salad and a squeeze of lemon. We ordered a Berry Biryani on the side, which was a great sharer—fragrant, beautifully spiced, and packed with bursts of sweetness from the berries, adding a lovely contrast to the smoky tandoori chicken. Once you order the Chicken Tandoori, there’s no going back. Trust me!
I always add a couple of sides to complete the meal.
The creamy black daal, cooked for over 24 hours, is silky, rich, and utterly comforting. Then there’s the charred sweet potato, dusted with chilli and lime masala—probably the best sweet potato I’ve ever eaten, with just the right balance of smoky, tangy, and sweet. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can ask for a free side of natural yoghurt or cool things down with a lassi. Some dishes bring a serious kick, and while I don’t handle heat too well, I find it varies across the menu.
And for those with a sweet tooth—do not leave without trying the Soft Serve Mango Lassi. Trust me. It’s creamy, fruity, and ridiculously smooth, the perfect way to round off your meal.
What I love about Dishoom is that, despite its size, it still carries the warmth and ethos of a family-run business. From personal family photos on the walls to its commitment to giving back—donating a meal for every one purchased (already over 100,000 meals donated)—there’s a real sense of heart behind the brand.
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