Restaurants

The Old Bookbinders Ale House

17-18 Victor Street, Oxford, OX2 6BT, GB

Rating: 4.7 ★ (1236 ratings)

Details

Tucked away on Victor Street in the charming neighbourhood of Jericho, The Old Bookbinders Ale House has been a beloved local since 1869. This family-run pub, a short stroll from Oxford's city centre, offers a welcoming escape from the bustle of Walton Street, retaining the quirky charm of public houses from a bygone era. Inside its cosy 19th-century interior, you'll find a friendly, nook-and-cranny-filled space, known for its real ales and board games. The Sadones family, who took the helm in 2011, masterfully blend wonderfully crafted British real ale with quality French bistro-inspired food, creating a relaxed, casual atmosphere for the whole community to enjoy. It’s a dog, child, and student-friendly establishment (as long as they're well-behaved!), truly one of Jericho's few remaining traditional pubs.

The Old Bookbinders is famous for its French bistro-style food, serving a sumptuous set menu throughout the week alongside popular burgers, crêpes, and steaks, all complemented by daily specials. Expect classic French fare with regularly changing menus, ensuring new flavours with every visit while maintaining an honest price. Dishes like L'escargot de Bourgogne, goat cheese croutons, and loup de mer grace the menu, alongside hearty options such as boeuf bourguignon and steak frites. With six hand-pumps for wonderful ale, featuring a rotation of house ales and an ever-changing list of guest ales, there's always a fresh pint to try. For those who prefer something different, they stock lagers, cider, Guinness, a wide range of wines and spirits, and an ever-growing selection of whiskies, gins, vodkas, and rums.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed; Tuesday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM; Wednesday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM; Thursday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM; Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM; Saturday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

Contact

+44 1865 553549

Comments

Caroline Ratcliffe
7 Feb 2026
5.0 ★
The food and service were just fantastic. The food was delicious. The servers were lovely and friendly. The restaurant itself inside is amazing. I highly recommend it and would 100% love to eat here again.
Marianna Ryan
25 Jan 2026
5.0 ★
Excellent throughout! We’ve been visiting this place for the last 10 years and the quality of food has been consistently high. Lovely atmosphere and friendly service as well. Be prepared to wait a bit for a table but the wait will be worth it!
Laura M
21 Jan 2026
4.0 ★
Excellent place for dinner (although getting a table is definitely the tricky part here).
We had the 2 course set menu (£20.50 each). I had a delicious goat cheese and med veg tart to start followed by sea bass. Whilst the other person had same starter but the French style burger (no bun).
The service was friendly and efficient and they answered all my allergen questions having checked with the kitchen without making me feel like I was difficult!
Good drinks selection.
Overall a great little find.
Mehdi
19 Jan 2026
5.0 ★
This is a charming, French-inspired pub-style restaurant with a cosy atmosphere, a pleasant blend of influences, and good food.
Mia Kos
12 Jan 2026
5.0 ★
We love this pub. Staff are amazing - all of them. It's a very busy pub but they are super accomodating and friendly. We've always felt super welcome. Food is good too. Great atmosphere. We come here often.

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