Review: Permit Room’s new menu

If you’ve read any of our reviews of Permit Room, you’ll quickly find we’re big big fans.

They’ve been pleasing the people of Oxford (and their mouths) ever since they opened a few years ago, and they’re still at it now. I recently went with a few friends to check out the new menu and yes, big shock – it didn’t disappoint (I’m not sure they ever will?!). We were dining ahead of seeing an Abba tribute band in Oxford Town Hall (can you think up a better Friday night plan? I’ll wait…) and it was the perf spot for a few cocktails and some good food ahead of being dancing queens for the eve.

Firstly I can assure you, none of our favourites have been removed. The Clover Club cocktail is still there, as is the Spinach Chaat (honestly I’d die without it at this point). The new menu is more of a refresher of the existing one, with additions rather than a total uphaul.

Starter wise, the garlic pepper prawns were new so we tried these alongside the aforementioned life-changing Spinach Chaat, and some vegetable samosas.

All was delicious and the perfect trio to get us ready for mains. The prawns were sticky and tangy, and really moreish.

Curry-wise we went for the classic Black Dahl, Lamb Chettinad (new) and Chicken Ruby.

Again, all delicious. The lamb was really rich and peppery. The Chicken Ruby is creamy heaven, and the dahl is always a crowd pleaser, though does fill you up quick, but you can take leftovers home. A perfect trio of curries, paired with extra fluffy rice and garlic naan, perfect for scooping up every last drop.

I’ll never have a bad word to say about this place – as well as the food and drinks being dreamy, the staff are always on top form, despite how busy they are (which is always) every single person that works here is warm, friendly, and happy to chat, which makes a huge difference to the vibe. I can’t wait to see what they do next, as long as it isn’t anything to do with removing that Spinach Chaat from the menu.