Rating: 4.9 ★ (93 ratings)
Crimson walls and the aroma of freshly baked pizza dough greet you at Il Corno, a Neapolitan panuozzo bar nestled in Oxford's historic Covered Market. This family-run eatery brings the vibrant street food culture of Naples to the heart of the city, specialising in the panuozzo – a unique sandwich crafted from baked pizza dough, then generously filled with authentic Italian ingredients. Think meltingly delicious Fior d'Agerola cheese, savoury pancetta, grilled peppers, and the distinctive friarielli, a slightly bitter broccoli unique to the Neapolitan region. Beyond panuozzi, which you can order as a half or whole, they also serve taralli, a crunchy, savoury ring-shaped snack, perfect alongside a traditional Italian coffee or a glass of wine from the Campania region.
The name 'Il Corno' itself pays homage to the traditional Neapolitan 'corno' or horn, an amulet believed to bring good luck and ward off misfortune, and you'll spot these colourful symbols adorning the stylish interior. Founded by a DPhil graduate from Oxford University who longed for the tastes of her native Naples, Il Corno aims to be more than just a place to eat; it’s envisioned as a welcoming space where guests can enjoy a heartening break and a taste of genuine Neapolitan hospitality. With seating for around 20, plus access to the market's communal dining areas, it's a vibrant spot to experience authentic Italian street food, from savoury delights to sweet treats like rum babas.
Monday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: Closed; Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
+44 7741 939081
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The “San Gennaro” panuozzo was also good, though it could have used a bit more filling. Both were tasty options.