Brown's Cafe
92, The Market, Oxford OX1 3DY
Rating: 4.4 ★ (624 ratings)
Details
Brown's Cafe, an independent family-owned establishment since 1924, is found within Oxford's historic Covered Market, offering a truly charming and cozy atmosphere. This traditional British cafe provides a welcoming environment, notable for its warm character and unpretentious, classic feel. The cafe's unique history includes a feature in an episode of the British detective show Inspector Morse, making it a noteworthy stop for enthusiasts. It stands out with its quick, friendly service and generous portion sizes, alongside a distinctive Portuguese twist.
The cuisine at Brown's Cafe centres on traditional British comfort foods and simple home-cooked meals. Patrons frequently enjoy the renowned Full English breakfast, which is celebrated for its hearty and satisfying flavours. Other popular dishes include pies, jacket potatoes with various fillings, and classic ham, egg, and chips. Adding to its unique character, the cafe also offers Portuguese pastries such like pastel de nata and bolo de arroz, complementing its quality coffee and strong teas.
Brown's Cafe is perfectly suited for a diverse range of visitors, from locals and students to tourists exploring the Covered Market. It provides an ideal setting for those seeking a casual dining experience, whether for a satisfying breakfast, a hearty lunch, or a quick snack. The cafe's laid-back ambiance and reasonable prices make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to savour authentic British fare in the heart of Oxford.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Contact
+44 1865 243436
Comments
I’ve been many times. It’s consistent. Full English done right. Good sausages with decent bite, solid bacon, eggs cooked as asked whether fried or poached. Beans and grilled tomato exactly as expected. With fried bread if that's your thing. Toast too. Generous plates. Lots of options if you want something different.
The pot of leaf tea is my highlight. Strong, proper brew strength, served in a pot and with extra hot water. Perfect with my breakfast.
It’s often crowded but the turnover is quick. Usually shown to a table, order at the counter, food brought over without much wait. Extra tables outside help when the market is busy.
Not fancy. Not trying to be. Just dependable and tasty. Busy but friendly lot.
We ordered two cappuccinos and shared a slice of carrot cake. My wife chose a BLT, lightly toasted, while I had a cheeseburger. The food itself was fairly simple—very much in keeping with a student-style café offering—but the coffee and cake were excellent.
The drinks were served at a good, hot temperature, which was especially welcome on a cold winter’s day, and the cake was soft, fresh, and satisfying. Overall, a relaxed and lively spot with good coffee and cake, ideal for a casual lunch.
Feel like you’re going back in time eating here, in the best possible way! Hearty, delicious, solid portions.
Highly recommend!