Za'atar Bake
166 Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 1UE, GB
Rating: 4.7 ★ (1075 ratings)
Details
The aroma of freshly baked flatbreads greets you at Za'atar Bake, a casual Arabic eatery on Cowley Road. Popular for its all-day breakfasts, you might find yourself tucking into shakshuka – eggs baked in a rich tomato and onion sauce – or trying the Bedouin Palestinian Allayah, a spicy dish of minced meat, tomato, garlic, and chilli. The bakery case, filled with baklava and other syrup-laden pastries, is a testament to their craft. Alongside these sweet treats, the menu boasts a wide array of manakeesh, traditional flatbreads topped with za'atar, cheese, or spiced minced meat like lahmah ajeen. Many reviewers highlight the freshness of the ingredients and the vibrant flavours, particularly in dishes like hummus and falafel.
Venture further into the menu to discover specialty pizzas with an Arabic twist, or comforting, slow-cooked tagines like the honey fig lamb or chicken lemon. The restaurant offers a cosy, if small, ambiance with decorative lights and colourful fabrics, creating a welcoming neighbourhood gem feel. Located in the heart of Cowley Road, an area known for its diverse and independent food scene, Za'atar Bake stands out for its authentic Middle Eastern cuisine and friendly service. Whether you're after a quick, flavourful lunch or a more substantial evening meal, the extensive menu, which also includes plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, has something to satisfy.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Contact
+44 1865 466666
The food was excellent—fresh, tender, and full of flavour. The rice was perfectly cooked, and the portion sizes were just right. We ordered the chicken kabsa and mixed grill, both of which were delicious. The only thing that could have made it even better would have been a selection of extra dipping sauces.
Overall, a wonderful dining experience—I’d definitely return!