Restaurants

Big Society

95 Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 1HR, GB

Rating: 4.3 ★ (1046 ratings)

Details

Urban decor and the scent of US-style fast food greet you at Big Society, a hip hangout on Cowley Road. This isn't just any bar; it's an experience, formerly the Elm Tree pub and now a vibrant space with a welcoming ethos. They're known for seriously tasty American comfort food, from burgers and hot dogs to fried chicken and wings, with some reviewers claiming their fried chicken, soaked overnight in milk and a secret rub mix, is the best they've ever tasted. The menu also features pizzas and salads, alongside an extensive cocktail list and a regularly changing selection of craft beers from around the globe. It's a popular spot, so booking in advance, especially during their daily deal nights, is a good idea.

Beyond the food and drink, Big Society offers a playful escape with Ping-Pong and foosball tables, creating a cheerful common room-style atmosphere. It's a place designed for social gatherings, whether you're looking for a relaxed daytime hangout, a lively evening, or even a "hot desk" to work from with unlimited tea and coffee. As the weekend rolls in, local DJs take over, keeping the energy high until 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays. They also host regular events like pub quizzes on Tuesdays and various food and drink specials throughout the week, such as 2-for-1 pizzas on Tuesdays and Wing Wednesdays. Located in the heart of East Oxford, it’s a dynamic spot that aims to be a bit different from your regular pub.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM; Tuesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM; Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM; Thursday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM; Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM

Contact

+44 1865 792755

Comments

emma parker

11 Jan 2026

5.0 ★

Well as you can tell from my rating, you can see we thoroughly enjoyed our visit here... nice small simple menu with a few varied choices on there and good to see plenty of vegetarian options or atleast the option to swap out for hallomi... friendly smiling staff which is always a breath of fresh air... lovley sized place with a very cute outside area half sheltered half not with large screens all over the place to catch the sports ( if that's your thing) in side to the left of the bar is a ping pong table, fuse ball table, pinball machine and arcade games the prices are highly competitive for the portion sizes they are not for the light hearted so go there hungry... I would highly recommend if your not a massive fan of spice but can dabble in bits ask for the sauce on the side its a beautiful mix having the buffalo sauce with the blue cheese and the chicken burger is by far one of the best I've tasted so moist and plenty of flavour 😋 100% will be returning on our next trip to Oxford... thanks to the staff for your service 👍

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