The best part about Oxford is its restaurants, and the city’s dining scene is no exception. The city’s chef/owner John Currence has a number of excellent spots in Oxford, including the upscale Big Bad Breakfast and Snack Bar, as well as the historic Boure, which serves up upscale Creole dishes in a historical building. You can also try Boure, a casual Creole grill, which features live music on weekends.
After the Civil War, Oxford started to rebuild. Its university reopened in 1865 with only eighty students, and the town grew. A Chicago war reporter called Oxford a “handsome little town.” Small businesses and cotton were the main sources of commerce, and most residents cherished the town-and-gown atmosphere. Today, it’s a great place to live or go to school, and Oxford has a lot to offer.
Those who love live music will be interested in Oxford’s Lyric Theater, which started out as a horse stable. In the 1920s, it was converted into a movie theater. Later, it became an office building and a health center. In the early 2000s, it reopened as a live performance venue, with performances by artists such as Corey Smith, Dr. Dog, and The Mountain Goats.
The town’s famous poet, William Faulkner, was born in Oxford. The town was incorporated in 1837, and has a long and turbulent history. The town was burned during the Civil War, and further turmoil was experienced during the Civil Rights Movement. Faulkner wrote several novels set in the town, and the city has been romanticized by writers from Faulkner to Grisham.
In addition to its literary community, Oxford is also home to a vibrant music scene. If you’re into art, you’ll want to visit the University of Mississippi, which was founded here in 1850. Oxford’s cultural scene is a vibrant one, and you can find many unique shops, restaurants, and galleries here. And, if you’re a football fan, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities.
If you’re looking for fine dining, the Ravine is worth a try. The upscale menu of modern American cuisine includes locally sourced produce and seasonal ingredients. Its historic department store, Neilson’s, is one of the oldest in the South, and has served locals for over 150 years. Located in the city center, the town’s classic Italian restaurant Tarasque Cucina is another popular dining destination. Mama Jo’s Country Cookin’ is another great spot for hearty southern cooking. The restaurant has a patio and offers a view of the town square area.
The town’s history dates back to 1841, when the state legislature decided to name the town after Oxford, England. In the hopes of turning Oxford into a university town, T.D. Isom suggested naming it after Oxford, England. The town’s first college, University of Mississippi, opened its doors to 80 students in 1848. The college is one of the best public universities in the nation. And if you want a college or university, Oxford is an excellent choice for your next educational endeavor.