Chester Arms in Oxford

Food: The steak platter at this establishment surpassed all expectations, delivering a culinary delight that left a lasting impression. Cooked to perfection, each succulent bite of the steak was a testament to the chef's expertise. Paired with a delectable rice, the flavors harmonized seamlessly, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience. Service: The service was impeccable, with attentive staff ensuring that every need was met promptly and with a smile. From recommendations to timely refills, the staff went above and beyond to enhance the overall dining experience. Ambiance: Set in a cozy and inviting atmosphere, the ambiance further elevated the dining experience, providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal with loved ones. Overall, the steak platter here stands out as a culinary masterpiece, complemented by exceptional service and a charming ambiance. A must-visit for any steak enthusiast craving an unforgettable dining experience.

Fabulous atmosphere, food was absolutely delicious. Staff super friendly and efficient. Would definitely recommend, but book ahead. Very popular 👌🏻

What a great place. No wonder you have to book in advance. We were greeted by a very welcoming staff member who sat us to our table straight away, even though we were a tad early. The atmosphere was buzzing. You could tell everyone was having a great time. Our waitress was very friendly and knowledgeable when we asked questions about the food. The steak platter was mouth-watering, freshly cooked, and hit the spot!

Lovelyyyyy spot tucked away in a residential area. The welcome, staff, seating, menu are all spot on 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻

adn't visited the Chester Arms for a meal for a couple of years, but remembering how brilliant it had been then, I booked a table for a family birthday lunch. We were not disappointed! The food was memorably delicious, from the mezze dips (and the bread) to the famous Steak Platter and best-ever chips and tasty cabbage. The seafood risotto (a special of the day) was brilliant too, with a wonderful aroma: please give it a permanent place on the menu... We'll be back!

Wow, what a find!! Off the beaten track, a good walk from the town centre but absolutely worth it. Be prepared to queue but totally worth the wait for an unforgettable Sunday lunch!

Sunday lunch, roast beef and overnight slow roasted pork belly lunches. Large tasty portions. Washed down with good beer. Service was excellent, but get there early on a Sunday as there is a long queue. We were lucky as it was sunny.

We were recommended this place by our hotel, The mercure Hawkwell house. It did not disappoint. We arrived and hadn’t made a booking but were swiftly seated at a table for 2. The waitress was great, the menu is small but the food was fantastic. We would highly recommend this place if you are visiting the area. Great food, great atmosphere and great staff. Well done

Steak platter never disappoints. Far and away best steak (and fries, cabbage with bacon, salad and hollandaise sauce) in Oxford. It's not cheap but well worth it. No kids menu which is a shame but they had small fish n chips (excellent) and burger (delicious for adults but not for kids). Very very friendly and helpful staff.

Will met us as we arrived without a prior booking (Wednesday evening). He was an exceptional server. Will gave great advice about the menu, even suggesting the portions were very large. After we left the pub, Will managed to chase us along a long, dark road to return a forgotten handbag. He caught up with us whilst mid, 180° manoeuvre, a super human effort from an extraordinary member of staff. Thank you Will xx The food was amazing too 🙂

Best food I've eaten in Oxford. The staff is very welcoming and friendly. Loved it!

Booked a table for 5 on Valentine’s Day, unfortunately due to illness, our 3 friends cancelled on my partner and I last minute. After already paying for parking we arrived on time for the reservation. We explained the situation, having just been cancelled on, and were first told we should have called to let them know (we had both come directly from work). The gentleman spoke down to us like he was going out of his way to patronise us. Our reservation was then cancelled, and we were told we would have to join the back of a waitlist for a 2 person table, which would be at least 1 hour at 6:30 on Valentine’s Day. There was no accommodation or compromise, we were simply told that’s what the manager says regardless of our reservation. While we appreciate that it is a busy day of the year we felt patronised, dismissed, and hungry…disappointing experience.

Another fantastic visit to the Chester Arms. Had a lovely Sunday Roast which the Chester has become Famous for. Fully recommended the Roast beef. But there is plenty on the menu. Thank you to the Staff that always go the extra mile every time nothing is too much trouble. Will be back very soon.

We had dinner here with some friends. Highly recommended! There were 8 of us and we shared the starters (green peppers, olives and the delicious sourdough bread with dips, all of them x2) and 2 steak dishes for two. And of course a bottle of red wine (Primitivo). The wine was not outstanding, but everything else… just wonderful. What a steak, what an evening! Thank you

One of my favourite places in Oxford. Good service, amazing food, awesome staff💚

This restaurant is absolutely incredible. I have been here multiple times, but I have only just had the long overdue motivation to write a review. I have only ever had the famous Hamzah's steak platter here, in addition I've had the bacon salad and a few Bloody Marys ( which are delicious and the BEST Bloody Mary I have ever had!). Our waiter the last time my partner and myself were there, was a very wholesome and informed man called Merlin (incredible name) who had an extensive knowledge of the menu and whisky, despite only working there for 2 weeks! I would like to 1000% recommend The Chester Arms for anyone who appreciates steak. Genuinely, this is the best steak restaurant I have ever been to. This will stay in my mind for the rest of my life. A personal note to their new hire Merlin, you are a very cool dude and my girlfriend and I were very impressed with your knowledge of the menu and your personal recommendation of how the steak should be cooked, and the best whisky/whiskey to try. On top of that, a recommendation for further Whisky that is not on the menu! (i.e keep him and promote him!) Clearly a staple of the community and in my eyes, the UK. Incredible value for money, this is THE hidden gem of Oxford and should go down in history amongst the architecture.

Lovely warm venue on a very cold day

My 1st visit, enjoyed Hamzah's Steak Platter (for 3)

Amazing food. The steak platter (aka Hamzah’s steak platter) is to die for. The meat is so soft and juicy. Never had such amazing food and such a good value for money. Will be back!!!

Popped by The Chester last night with no booking, pub was so busy! Despite this we were quickly welcomed by a friendly James. We had a short wait at the bar for a table, then was able to tuck into the sharing steak platter. It was amazing, soo delicious. Service was fast and prompt, staff were all friendly and polite and food- quality. 5* everything, well recommended.

Fantastic restaurant one of Oxford's best kept secrets. Went here to celebrate a special birthday and it did not disappoint. Two of the party are vegetarian, and the pie with mash and sprouts was just as delicious as the main event - the steak with chips, cabbage,salad and sauce. Would definitely recommend for any meat lovers who want a memorable occasion!

Steak platter= joyful food coma

Can't fault this place. My favourite in Oxford. Sunday roast and the meat platter are their signature and should not be missed. Lots of choices for beer on tap from independent/local breweries.

Amazing food with great service! Would visit again 100%

Amazing food and great service. Highly recommended!!

Been here multiple times. Always come here when I fancy some steak. Their steak platter it’s unbeatable, great portion taste and value. Love it every time. Last time had the panettone dessert also nice, or their pedro ximenez affogato. Pub it’s nice, there is no signal but nothing wrong with some time off from our phone I have always walked in, I did try to book quite a few times but they never answered phone. With no booking you’ll probably need to wait anywhere from 15 to 45 mins. Dropped one star because of service, sometimes it’s pretty bad some team members have attitude

Best pub in Oxford for steak and ginger beer. ALSO CUTE DOGS EVERYWHERE!

Had the best Sunday roast here that we have had in years, and I can also add that we was satisfied with portion size, definitely recommended!

Bit disappointed about the new Sunday roast rules requiring parties to be fully present to be seated. I waited 45 minutes under pouring rain to ensure my family could sit... Only to see the pub open 10 minutes before the advertised time and make everyone else in the queue pass in front of me while my elderly parents didn't manage to walk to the place fast enough. Result: at noon we found ourselves in the rain without a place to eat. Very annoyed the staff would not make any allowance or exception for the situation and didn't even care to hear me out.

Definitely worth your visit. The portions are enough. The steak is too much for two people to take home. The quality of the meat has not changed over time. The flavor remains the same and the smokiness is richer. Be sure to order some bread and eat it with sauce. Awesome!

First time at the Chester Arms, and it did not disappoint! The food was delicious, in particular the steak platter - it was the best steak I have had in Oxford! 🤤 The only downside, I would say, is the location and parking can be tricky, but this does not affect your experience at the pub (unless you can't find a space! In which case 😔) I would highly recommend eating here it was fantastic and the staff are so friendly!

Amazing roast Sunday as always. I'm looking forward to trying their steak soon !

The steak platter is unreal. The only downside is the parking but if I'm honest the food more than makes up for it

incredible pub, great service both for food and at the bar.

Sizeable portions. Dog-friendly, cosy, and lovely interiors. Highly recommend!

Really friendly staff, great beers, delicious food. Best ingredients for a great evening !

Delicious food. Good place to go with family and friends.

I’ve been meaning to come here and try the steak platter for a couple of years now and I finally came here on a rainy Tuesday night with a good friend and indulged . The place was busy and very welcoming, from the person on the door to our wonderful server Sarah - The food was delicious and well priced - great wine / beer / atmosphere. A must visit if you’re in town .

Highly recommended pub for both craft ales and one of the best steak platters you will ever get to try. The food was excellent value for money too.

Good beer, nice service, good food, and nice to dogs. My dog takes me here every time we walk neerby, and I'm always grateful. He deserves the gravy bones the bar staff give him.

Very delicious steak👍service staff are also super nice❤️ I am willing to pay this 12% service fee🥹 The food is a big plate (for 2 girls), if you can’t finish it, you can take it away. *A bit far from the station

Fantastic little pub, friendly and efficient staff, the food was exemplary

Lovely food, busy but friendly atmosphere, child friendly!

Good experience. Food is delicious. I particularly enjoyed the salad that is served alongside fish and chips. It made me feel a little less guilty about eating fried food. The salad worked really well with the fish and chips really. Big portions. I ordered a small plate and it was the perfect amount for me. Good ambience. Located on a quiet, peaceful street away from the crowd in city centre. Indoor and outdoor seating. Would love to visit again.

This place is amazing, parking is tricky as it's situated in the back streets off the Iffley Road, Oxford. Service was great and the food was just amazing. If you can't manage all of it ask for a takeaway box and it makes a good lunch the following day. You need to book as this place gets very busy every day.

Amazing place, food and service. The only thing I found too much was the 12.5% service "suggestion". Everything else was great

Delicious grill! I recommend it for an evening with friends, excellent choice of beers too.

Wonderful space. The food is always great!

I would say it's definitely the best Sunday roast in Oxford no doubt. Food is delicious and the people are very nice. And quite cheap also for the amount and quality of the food you eat

The Bavarian/Oktoberfest themed weekend was wonderful.

If you want a fabulous Sunday roast then it’s worth the queue, best to get there around 20mins before it opens at 12. A good nut roast for us veggies too!! Food well cooked, tasty, lots of it and all arrives on a hot plate.

Love this place. Not long discovered it. All the food is amazing and thank you for organizing the Octoberfest. You are an asset to our community in these difficult times. Well done keep up the good work!!!!

Amazing steak platter...bought the platter for two but shared with three.. had the meat sweats.. sensational

The steak platter it’s the best you can get. Not worth to eat a steak anywhere else in Oxford. Great amount and great price. Been there a couple of times and loved it. Staff was really nice too. They are really busy so need to understand if sometimes it’s a bit slow. No wi-fi but being off phones and socialize more doesn’t hurt. Wait on as walk-in can be annoying sometimes. But great place overall

AMAZING. If you are in Oxford please go here. The steak platter is my dream main course (if I was on off menu). GO NOW

A fantastic pub with great quality food. I would recommend trying the steak platter for three people.

My wife, my son and I had lunch on 25 September 2023. We booked especially as reviews seemed good but were hugely disappointed. The lunch menu was very limited and seemed to favour vegetarian dishes with the exception of a chicken burger, a fish pie, fish and chips and the meat platter. We all fancied the meat platter but with a 45 minute wait we could not accept that delay. My wife had the fish pie which was too wet and disappointing. My son had the chicken burger which was adequate but nothing more. I chose a large fish and chips. The chips were tasty and decent mushy peas, however, the fish had been cooked in batter that was far too hot, so while it was very crisp on the outside, it was not cooked inside and I was eating very unpleasant uncooked flour between the fish and batter. I complained and was told the chef would be informed. Nothing happened so I finished my chips and left much of the fish. We were charged for all three meals and drinks. I cannot recommend this pub!

Wanted to try the sharing steak platter . Steak was a little chewy but there was a good amount of steak chips and cabbage, we couldn't finish. Beer selection was great atmosphere and service good too. Very limited menu , not a bad thing , not sure I would eat here again but definitely go again for a drink.

The food is AMAZING!!! Can’t wait to go back and would recommend everyone to visit this place!!

Great roast dinner - quite pricey - pork belly the best

Excellent food, service and atmosphere. (Recommend the steak platter) 😊

Returning to UK we were looking forward to an English, Sunday, roast beef dinner at last. So the first point to note is that they don't do roast beef on the last Sunday in the month, they do lamb instead. However that being said, it was still delicious. We had quite a long wait for the food but it was worth the wait. Regarded by some as the best roast in Oxford. 🙂

Excellent pub, where I ate a wonderfull meat with salad and french fries, and a good beer (express pale ale). Good food and beer. But there is not wifi and the menu is not very broad.

Lovely food, short menu but great service. Thanks.

Absolutely lovely food, we really enjoyed our visit, our was dog treated to her own water bowl and dog treats at the table. Service was amazing too. Highly recommend the steak platter!!

Absolutely fabulous! Fabulous food, fabulous atmosphere and fabulous service! Please keep in mind this place books up very quickly, you’ll have to book ahead at least one week.

My partner and I visited the Chester Arms on an impromptu visit to our home town. The Chester was packed on a Monday evening, which is usually a good sign. On arrival no tables were free, so we were given an approximate wait for a table, which was pretty accurate. We sat in the lovely outdoors area and enjoyed a drink while we waited. The host came out to collect us when our table was free. From start to finish the experience was brilliant: the service was friendly and efficient, the food wonderfully presented and very tasty. Even the owner Becky, popped by our table to say hello and check that everything was as it should be. We will certainly visit again next time we’re in Oxford. When checking out the venue on TripAdvisor, I read a comment about cakeage, which I felt I had to comment on. I have now seen this in a number of venues, and totally understand the charge. Why would it be acceptable to bring your own food to a restaurant, eat it, and then expect the business to pay for the staff, hot water (with many other costs not mentioned) to wash up plates, cutlery and clean up after you? There are also the lost sales from people eating a brought in cake and not eating desserts, and a delay for the next guests having a free table. Although I didn’t have cake on this visit, I believe there are valid reasons for a small cakeage charge, and I wouldn’t be opposed to paying one. Keep up the great work Team Chester!

Really good food (have the salted caramel brownie for desert!!), nice atmosphere (we sat outside) and our two waitresses were amazing. Thanks for this wonderful experience! I‘ve saved this place on my google maps and will definitely be back here.

Everything was absolutely perfect!

Best Steak platter ever. Great atmosphere and service Very dog friendly

Nice place with realy good Steaks!

Food great! Beef and chicken platter is excellent. The queue, no booking system must suit the pub financially but really puts me off returning. We arrived at 11.30 to queue. Luckily not raining. Pub opens at 12 and then they seat you in order. You sit and wait as they then take orders in order. It makes it feel like it’s not customer focused. The food and service once seated was really very good. We asked for more gravy came v quickly. A minor point but I did miss parsnips… not sure if they usually serve parsnips..

What a cool place. We were meeting friends and decided on The Chester Arms and what a good choice it was. We knew about the Steak platter, so that was our choice. It did not disappoint, well cooked and great flavours. We were able to just finish ours, so a good size meal for 2. Also hats off to the staff who are pleasant, friendly and a credit to the business.

Loved, loved, loved this place ❤️. Out of the way of most tourists (except us...lol) so a pretty relaxed atmosphere for a Friday lunch. We'd read the reviews, and we were craving a good steak. The shared steak platter didn't disappoint. Cooked perfectly to order, we could not fault it. Also, a thumbs up to the friendly staff. It's also great to see NZ Sauv available. A little taste of home. Keep up the great work 👍

Best stake plattet ever!!!!!!!! Definetely recommended.

AMAZING steak! 5* Cannot wait to return!

Wonderful place ! Cody and nice Looks like a bier garten outside Top food and beers as well

Party of 8.. food excellent, plenty to eat, service very good. Highly recommend.

A wonderful pub with a small menu but very good food. We recommend

Visited as a family of 6 (one small child) to celebrate my son's birthday. We had a lovely waitress serve us. There was however another waiter who seemed to be in charged of service, and we got a very offish vibe from him as soon as we sat down, just quite abrupt and no friendliness at all. I had brought a caterpillar cake, just a bit of fun and more so for the little one as they love so sing happy birthday and blow out the candles. Our waitress asked if we wanted napkins which we politely accepted, however the male waiter then come to our table to advise there would be a £1 per head cakeage charge. I could not believe it, I've never been charged this in any restaurant before, and I've been to some very lovely places. As you will know if you have been before, it is not cheap to dine and drink here, and our bill was of a substantial amount! We have always had good service, this however is such bad customer service especially for someones birthday, and made for a very uncomfortable atmosphere and we will definitely not return. Such a shame as the food was as always lovely, but we came away quite upset and angry!!

An Oxford classic. It is a must to go to lunch or dinner at this well-known restaurant in the city. The meat "steak platter" is the most typical.

Probably the best upmarket pub in Oxford

Excellent food, friendly staff, interesting pub

Having seen a few people share the awesome steak platter and other food options via social media as well as a friend recommending the Chester Arms, we were keen to get booked and made aware to book with good notice. The atmosphere and service was great as we came in, quick service with great recommendations from Ross the waiter who said the bread was amazing (it was), and also suggested good drinks options which were spot on. Steak platter for 2 was more than enough but we did just finish it as it was so tasty. You could certainly give steak platter for 3 a go with 2 people eating big portions and some to take home. One of the best spent dinners for the overall evening and already looking at returning within the next few weeks.

5 start great food great place loved it

This is hands down the best roast that I’ve had in a long time, we had two roast pork which were a great choice! Lovely staff that seated us with no booking, would 100% recommend for Sunday roast. Can’t wait to come again.

Often busy, for good reason -- excellent food and food choices, friendly staff, relaxed and relaxing atmosphere.

Outstanding food and super friendly staff

Great pub, great food, good beers

Food and service were fantastic. Steak for two is steak for three. Absolutely delicious.

Nice and friendly staff... Perfect food Strong recommended..

Great food, great beers and great service. A really fabulous pub 🍻

Great place, great service, great food! Our waitress, Jasmine is very sweet and helpful :)

The most unwelcoming pub in Oxford. Especially when you’re not white seems to be the problem I sensed. I went at 8:30 pm and asked for a table for 4 and there were empty tables and two with even ‘reserved’ indicated. I was made to wait for Mark to then get ignored for a good 10 mins until this Mark showed up. He reiterated that there is a long wait and I said I was made aware by the waitress and that I was happy to wait as my friends are en route. He then decided to repeat what he said as though I did not understand his English. I said that he made me feel unwelcome to which he responded: well it is busy and the kitchen will close at 10 pm (1.5 hrs away). He added, I just don’t think I can take your order before 10 pm and just stared me to death. So I left, like a beggar. I told another friend, who said she had the exact experience when she went without her white friends. So well done guys for trying to keep your pub as white as possible. You bullied 2 ppl of colour away already 👍

Really enjoyed it! Very dog friendly and you might get a pick of yours posted along in its doggy wall! Went in on a Sunday we had the fish and Chips and the Pork Belly, spot on! Great selection of beer also! Will return during the week to try the menu!

Ace place. Loved my Sunday Lunch - content and presentation ever so good. Cheers, Fraser.

The steak platter is the best beef dish we've had in Oxford. Staff super attentive and the garden is just perfect to hang out.

This was our first visit. Food was amazing probably one of the best steaks ever.

The plate with steak and fries was delicious. I really enjoyed the sauce made from butter and eggs. Different kind of tap beers was a nice addition.

Small little pub in Oxford. They do the most amazing steak platter to share. The food was cooked perfectly and plenty to go around. They have a lovely photograph wall for all the dogs who go with their owners. Highly recommended.