Rice & Spice Oxford stands as a culinary gem in the heart of Oxford, where traditional South Asian flavors meet contemporary dining elegance. The menu is a vibrant tapestry of aromatic spices, fresh ingredients, and expertly crafted recipes that celebrate the rich heritage of Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi cuisine.
Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur of spicy dishes or a curious newcomer eager to explore bold tastes, Rice & Spice offers an inviting experience for all palates. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity shines through every dish, making each meal a memorable event.
From delicately spiced starters to hearty main courses and indulgent desserts, the menu is thoughtfully curated to provide variety and depth. The use of locally sourced produce alongside traditional spices ensures freshness and vibrant flavors in every bite.
Guests can expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere complemented by attentive service that enhances the overall dining experience. For those seeking both classic dishes and innovative twists, Rice & Spice Oxford’s menu promises a journey through the diverse and dynamic world of South Asian cuisine.
Whether dining in or ordering takeaway, the menu caters to different dietary preferences and spice levels, ensuring that every diner leaves satisfied. The careful balance of flavors and textures reveals the chefs’ dedication to their craft and to delighting their guests.
Exploring Rice & Spice Oxford’s menu is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of culture, taste, and culinary artistry.
Starters and Appetizers
The starters at Rice & Spice Oxford offer a perfect introduction to the restaurant’s rich flavor profile. Designed to awaken the palate, these dishes deliver a spectrum of tastes, from mild and creamy to fiery and tangy.
They emphasize fresh ingredients and traditional spice blends that set the tone for the courses that follow.
Guests can choose from a variety of vegetarian and meat options, each crafted with care. Popular choices include samosas filled with spiced potatoes and peas, as well as succulent chicken tikka bites marinated in yogurt and aromatic spices.
These starters are often accompanied by cooling chutneys and raita, providing a delightful contrast to the spices.
Signature Starters
- Vegetable Samosas: Crispy pastry pockets stuffed with seasoned potatoes, peas, and herbs.
- Chicken Tikka: Tender chicken pieces marinated in yogurt, garlic, and a blend of spices, grilled to perfection.
- Prawn Pakoras: Lightly battered prawns fried until golden, served with tangy tamarind sauce.
- Paneer Tikka: Cubes of soft cottage cheese marinated and grilled, offering a smoky flavor.
“The starters at Rice & Spice are a masterclass in balancing bold flavors with delicate textures.”
These appetizers not only prepare your taste buds but also reflect the authenticity and creativity embedded in every dish. They are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a standalone treat before the main course.
Main Courses
The main courses at Rice & Spice Oxford showcase the depth and variety of South Asian cuisine. This section of the menu is designed to cater to all tastes, from rich, creamy curries to dry, spiced grills and biryanis bursting with fragrant rice and tender meat or vegetables.
Chef’s expertise is evident in the meticulous preparation and layering of spices, ensuring that each dish delivers a full-bodied flavor without overwhelming the palate. Whether you prefer mild dishes or crave something with a fiery kick, the menu offers customizable options to suit your preference.
Curries and Grills
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Spice Level | Description |
| Butter Chicken | Chicken, butter, cream, tomato | Medium | Rich and creamy, with a mild buttery tomato sauce. |
| Rogan Josh | Lamb, yogurt, Kashmiri chili | Hot | Hearty lamb curry with deep red spices and a smoky aroma. |
| Saag Paneer | Spinach, paneer, garlic | Mild | Fresh spinach cooked with soft cottage cheese and subtle spices. |
| Chicken Tandoori | Chicken, yogurt, spices | Medium | Marinated and grilled chicken with a smoky, spiced crust. |
Each main course is served with a choice of rice or bread, allowing guests to customize their meal according to their preferences. The use of fresh herbs and balanced spice blends ensures that no two dishes feel repetitive, inviting diners to explore new flavors with every visit.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Rice & Spice Oxford places a strong emphasis on providing diverse vegetarian and vegan dishes that are rich in flavor and texture. The menu caters thoughtfully to those with plant-based diets without compromising on taste or authenticity.
From hearty lentil dals to flavorful vegetable biryanis, the options showcase the versatility of South Asian cuisine. Each dish is prepared using fresh, seasonal vegetables combined with spices that highlight natural flavors rather than masking them.
Popular Plant-Based Dishes
- Chana Masala: Chickpeas simmered in a tangy tomato and onion gravy with a blend of spices.
- Baingan Bharta: Roasted eggplant mashed and cooked with tomatoes, onions, and garlic.
- Mixed Vegetable Biryani: Aromatic basmati rice cooked with a medley of vegetables and fragrant spices.
- Dal Tadka: Yellow lentils tempered with mustard seeds, garlic, and chili.
“The vegetarian options are not just alternatives but stars in their own right, delivering complexity and satisfaction.”
The menu’s vegan choices are clearly marked, making it easy for diners to select meals that suit their dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or quality. The kitchen’s dedication to inclusivity ensures that everyone can experience the full spectrum of South Asian culinary delights.
Breads and Rice
Complementing the rich curries and flavorful mains, Rice & Spice Oxford offers an assortment of traditional breads and rice dishes. These staples form the foundation of a balanced meal and are prepared with meticulous attention to texture and flavor.
The breads range from soft and fluffy to crisp and flaky, providing the perfect vehicle for scooping up sauces and dips. Meanwhile, the rice varieties are infused with subtle spices and sometimes garnished with nuts and dried fruits, adding an extra layer of taste and elegance.
Bread Selection
- Naan: Soft, leavened flatbread baked in a tandoor, available plain or garlic-infused.
- Roti: Whole wheat unleavened flatbread, lighter and ideal for those seeking a healthier option.
- Paratha: Layered and flaky bread, often stuffed with spiced potatoes or vegetables.
Rice Varieties
- Steamed Basmati Rice: Fragrant and fluffy, the perfect accompaniment to any curry.
- Jeera Rice: Basmati rice cooked with cumin seeds for a subtle nutty flavor.
- Vegetable Pulao: Rice cooked with mixed vegetables and aromatic spices.
| Type | Texture | Typical Use |
| Naan | Soft and chewy | Perfect for dipping in creamy curries. |
| Roti | Light and slightly chewy | Great alongside dry dishes or vegetable sides. |
| Paratha | Flaky and layered | Often served with rich gravies or stuffed fillings. |
The combination of breads and rice at Rice & Spice enhances the overall meal experience, allowing diners to mix and match according to their preferences and the dishes they select.
Desserts
Desserts at Rice & Spice Oxford provide a sweet and satisfying conclusion to the meal. The selection showcases traditional sweets that balance sugar, spice, and texture, offering a glimpse into the rich dessert traditions of South Asia.
These desserts are often handmade, using authentic recipes passed down through generations. They pair beautifully with a cup of chai or coffee, rounding off the dining experience with warmth and indulgence.
Popular Sweet Treats
- Gulab Jamun: Soft, syrup-soaked milk balls flavored with rose water and cardamom.
- Kheer: Creamy rice pudding infused with saffron and garnished with nuts.
- Rasgulla: Spongy cottage cheese balls soaked in light sugar syrup.
- Jalebi: Crispy, spiral-shaped fried dough soaked in sugary syrup.
“Desserts at Rice & Spice are crafted to bring a perfect harmony between traditional sweetness and textural delight.”
These indulgent options provide a refreshing contrast to the savory courses and are designed to leave a lasting impression of comfort and satisfaction. Whether you prefer something light or richly sweet, the dessert menu complements the overall dining journey seamlessly.
Beverages
The beverage menu at Rice & Spice Oxford features a curated selection of traditional and contemporary drinks. These choices complement the diverse flavors of the food and help balance the meal’s spice and richness.
From refreshing lassis to aromatic teas, each drink is thoughtfully prepared to enhance the dining experience. Whether you’re cooling down after a spicy dish or seeking a warm finish, the beverage options cater to all preferences.
Signature Drinks
- Mango Lassi: A creamy yogurt-based drink blended with ripe mangoes for a sweet and tangy refreshment.
- Masala Chai: Traditional spiced tea brewed with cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger.
- Rose Lemonade: A fragrant and fizzy drink combining rose syrup and fresh lemon juice.
- Mint Cooler: A refreshing blend of fresh mint, lime, and soda water.
| Drink | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
| Mango Lassi | Sweet, creamy, fruity | Spicy curries, grilled meats |
| Masala Chai | Spiced, warm, aromatic | Desserts, light snacks |
| Rose Lemonade | Floral, tart, refreshing | Starters, light meals |
| Mint Cooler | Fresh, cooling, zesty | Rich curries, fried foods |
The beverage offerings at Rice & Spice provide both traditional comfort and modern refreshment, enhancing the overall sensory experience of the meal.
Special Dietary Options
Rice & Spice Oxford is attentive to the needs of diners with special dietary requirements. The menu clearly indicates dishes that are gluten-free, vegan, or suitable for those with allergies, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.
The kitchen staff is trained to accommodate requests and modify dishes when possible without compromising flavor or authenticity. This flexibility reflects the restaurant’s dedication to inclusivity and guest satisfaction.
Accommodations and Highlights
- Gluten-Free: Many rice dishes, curries, and starters are naturally gluten-free or can be adapted.
- Vegan Friendly: A wide selection of plant-based options clearly marked on the menu.
- Allergen Awareness: Staff can provide detailed information about ingredients and cross-contamination precautions.
- Custom Spice Levels: Guests can request mild, medium, or hot preparations tailored to their tolerance.
“Prioritizing dietary inclusivity ensures that everyone can enjoy the rich flavors of South Asian cuisine with confidence.”
These thoughtful provisions make Rice & Spice Oxford not only a destination for exceptional food but also a welcoming space for diverse dietary needs, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Conclusion
Rice & Spice Oxford offers a compelling menu that expertly balances authenticity with innovation, creating a culinary experience that celebrates the rich traditions of South Asian cuisine. The diverse offerings, from enticing starters to sumptuous mains and delicate desserts, are crafted with passion and precision, ensuring every dish is a feast for the senses.
The menu’s thoughtful inclusion of vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary options highlights the restaurant’s commitment to inclusivity and guest satisfaction. Coupled with an array of refreshing beverages and expertly prepared breads and rice, each meal is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Dining at Rice & Spice Oxford is more than just satisfying hunger—it is an immersive journey through vibrant spices, fresh ingredients, and culinary artistry. Whether visiting for a casual meal or a special occasion, guests can expect a warm atmosphere, attentive service, and dishes that linger in memory long after the last bite.
With its dedication to quality, authenticity, and innovation, Rice & Spice Oxford remains a standout destination for those seeking to explore and enjoy the true essence of South Asian flavors.
