8 Best Chinese Restaurants in Oxford (With Map)
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Searching for the very best Chinese restaurants in Oxford? You won’t need to look far – these are the spots serving up epically authentic Chinese food.
Far more than just sweet and sour sauce or crispy duck pancakes (though, that’s not to say those things aren’t delicious), Chinese cuisine spans provinces, countries, and continents.
Sometimes sweet, often spicy, but always delicious.
Looking for the best Chinese food in Oxford? Start at one of these brilliant spots…
Best Chinese Restaurants in Oxford
Zheng
££
Undeniably the best place to eat Chinese food in Oxford, Zheng served up a Chinese-Malaysian fusion of dishes. And with high praise from the likes of celeb Chef Ken Hom and food critic Giles Coren, it looks like we aren’t alone in loving this restaurant.
The menu is handily split into regions, so whether you fancy Singaporean Kung Bao or Cantonese Crispy Shredded Beef, you’ll be able to find it easily.
The Dim Sum menu is particularly popular, too, with classics making up the bulk of the menu – think chicken, king prawn, and pork-filled dumplings. Yum.
A Taste of China
£
Situated in Oxford’s Covered Market, A Taste of China brings authentic Chinese street food to the UK. This is definitely the place to go if you’re feeling adventurous – opt for Steamed Cold Noodles or the Chinese Burger if you’re looking for a snack with a little bit of a kick.
The dishes are extremely cheap, packed full of flavour, and great value for money – what’s not to love? Seating is extremely limited, so prepare to grab a snack to take away (after all, it is street food!).
The One Restaurant & Bar
£££
So, The One Restaurant & Bar might not be solely dedicated to Chinese food, but out of its broad Asian menu, it’s the Chinese food that really wows. Expect classic dishes that have been elevated, like Steamed Eel in Black Bean Sauce, fresh crab and lobster, and Steamed Chicken with Chinese Sausages.
The best part? They’ve got a dedicated menu for veggies – something that’s rather difficult to come by in many Chinese restaurants in Oxford’s city centre.
And, if you’re feeling brave, the ‘Leave it to Us Feast’ is an excellent experience that sees you put total trust in the Chef – who knows what tasty treats you’ll end up devouring?
Xi’An
££
After a classy dinner for two? Xi’An is your best bet. Situated in Summertown, this Oxford Chinese restaurant is downright beautiful.
The menu is a lot smaller than many of the other restaurants featured in this guide, which, to be honest, we don’t think is a bad thing (sometimes too much choice really is not ideal). But it does mean that only the very best dishes have made the cut.
And, thankfully, Lemon Chicken, Beef in Black Bean Sauce, and crispy duck are all there.
Jin Jin
££
Another of the best Chinese restaurants in Oxford, Jin Jin, sits on Cowley Road, opposite the O2 Academy.
From British takeaway favourites to more authentic Cantonese dishes, the menu is jam packed full of tasty choices – good luck picking your main dish, you’re going to need it.
Our top picks? The Set Meal for 2 is excellent value for money, offering mini vegetable spring rolls, sweet and sour chicken, beef in a black bean sauce, large egg-fried rice, and prawn crackers for just £20.
Though, if that’s a little bit too basic for you, the spicy Szechuan Noodle Soup is like a hug in a bowl.
Zhang Ji
££
A favourite amongst locals (and those in the know), Zhang Ji is known for serving up some of the best Chinese food Oxford has to offer. In particular, this spot focuses on Northern Chinese cuisine, so expect plenty of sweet and salty stewed and fried foods.
Spicy Pork Trotters with onions and peanuts are one of the stars of the menu (don’t knock it until you’ve tried it), though the hand-pulled noodles are equally as raved about.
New Dancing Dragon Bar & Restaurant
££
New Dancing Dragon prides itself on authenticity, and you can see that they deliver on this just by looking at the menu. Boasting lamb, pork, curry, chicken, beef, AND seasonal seafood, you’ll be transported straight to the streets of Beijing as you chow down at this Chinese restaurant in Oxford.
For those who have an allergy or dietary preference, it can often be a struggle to dine at Chinese restaurants. But not at New Dancing Dragon – they’ve got a dedicated key to help you understand exactly what you can or can’t eat.
Red Star
££
Red Star is another Pan-Asian place that seriously delivers an array of tasty dishes.
Despite this, it’s one of the most traditional spots in Oxford for Chinese food – you’ll spot things like pig’s ear, jellyfish, and tripe on the menu alongside plenty of British favourites.
If you’re not feeling too adventurous, don’t let that put you off. This restaurant also has a wide range of dishes for veggies, vegans, and halal diners.
Practical Tips for Exploring Oxford’s Chinese Restaurants
- If you’re dining with a group, it’s always worth booking in advance to avoid being turned away. These spots are all (very rightly) popular and tables fill up quickly.
- Be brave – Chinese food is extremely eclectic. Ditch the sweet and sour and try something new – you might just find your new favourite dish.
