Arbequina

Head down to Cowley Road and you'll find yourself in one of Oxford's best-kept neighbourhood spots. Arbequina does Spanish food without the pretension—the kind of place where locals outnumber tourists and nobody's performing for Instagram. You're getting croquetas that snap properly, jamón that tastes like it should, and wine poured generously into proper glasses. The room buzzes with the sound of people actually enjoying themselves, whether it's a Friday night with mates or a quiet Wednesday lunch.