Fishes, The

Only a couple of minutes from either the Botley Road or the southbound A34, The Fishes is a hidden gem. Quite a big gem too. The Fishes is an imposing Victorian building set in 3 acres of wooded grounds leading down to the banks of Seacourt Stream. On sunny days the gardens are dotted with picnickers, enjoying a picnic basket ordered from the bar, whilst the deck that wraps around the conservatory offers one of the few opportunities in land-locked Oxford to dine outside with an idyllic view. Fans of Sophie Grigson, a regular at The Fishes, are likely to have opportunities to pay homage.

Head chef, Jakub Fijak, gained his chef's whites in his home city of Krakow and spent seven very enjoyable years working in restaurants in Poland before deciding it was time for a change.  Hungry to learn more about the French way of cooking, he got a job in Jersey in the relaxed surroundings of the Dix Neuf Brasserie in St Helier.

A short walk to the City Brasserie followed and within six months Jakub was running the show. Finally, less than a year ago he landed at The Fishes where he's putting all those Gallic influences he soaked up along with his love of fresh, simple ingredients to good use.

A la carte offers everything from deli board with starters, nibbles or sharing dishes all a possibility, taken from cheeses, antipasti, fish, charcuterie and bread. On their menu, you will find the very best quality fresh ingredients - fantastic sausages; free range chicken; simple, pan-fried fish and seafood; 28 day dry-aged Aberdeenshire rump cap steak - sourced from producers who take pride in their products and an ethical stance in their production.

The Fishes always makes the most of seasonal ingredients, this ensures they avoid air-freighting and keeps us in touch with the cycle of the year, while combining the best of great British cooking and influences from around the world that are now part of our culture.

The à la carte menu and a selection of great Sunday Roasts is also served  noon - 4pm and 6.30 - 9.30 on Sundays and Bank Holidays. The all day menu is not available on a Sunday. If that does not appeal, does a Sunday roast picnic hamper hit the button - all you have to do is ask?

Everyday picnic hampers can be made up on the spot and transported out to the site of your choice in the garden. The choices are impressive and a well-mannered wine list is a credit to this attractive place whether taken in or outside.

Their Website is equally praiseworthy, and packed with useful information including seasonal changes of menu. See also The Thatch in Thame and The Fleece in Witney, local sister pubs to The Fishes.