Al-Shami
Oxford's longest-running Lebanese restaurant — three decades of mezze on a quiet Jericho crescent.
Al-Shami has been feeding Oxford since the early 1990s, and in a city where restaurants come and go with alarming speed, that longevity tells you everything. The mezze here is the real thing — not the supermarket-hummus version, but deeply flavoured, carefully prepared dishes rooted in home-cooking tradition. The recipes have that unmistakable quality of being perfected over generations.
The setting is a residential crescent in Jericho, which gives it a neighbourhood feel that the city-centre restaurants lack. The dining room is simple and unpretentious. You come here for the food, not the decor, and the food delivers every time.
What to order
Start with the hot mezze — the falafel is crisp and herby, the halloumi is perfectly charred, and the kibbeh is well made. The mixed grill is generous and well-spiced. The fattoush salad is fresh and zingy. For a full experience, order the mezze platter for two and supplement with a couple of main dishes.
Good to know
They've historically operated a BYOB policy — check when booking as terms may vary. Cash preferred but cards accepted. The portions are generous and prices are fair, making this one of the better-value meals in Jericho. Booking recommended for weekend evenings. The Lebanese coffee is a good way to finish.
Nearby
Within a few minutes' walk
