Oxford is constantly buzzing with new dining spots. From Ohana Island Grille to Sushi King and Paseano’s Pasta House, there’s a lot to savor. But it wasn’t always this lively. Years ago, the food scene was sparse, with few options for coffee or late-night pizza.
In the early 1800s, when Oxford was just beginning as a college town, dining out was different. Most meals were served in inns or taverns. One notable place was the Temperance Tavern, built in 1827 at 131 W. High St. This two-story building later became Dr. Scott’s Boarding House and hosted the wedding of Caroline Scott and Benjamin Harrison, who would become the 23rd president of the U.S. Today, it’s home to Calendula, a Mexican restaurant and lounge.
Another significant site was the McCullough Block at 20-24 East High Street, built around 1818. It’s Oxford’s oldest commercial building and has served many purposes over the years, from tavern to hotel. For a long time, it was a place where the community gathered, even if it wasn’t a traditional restaurant.
Back then, dining was simple and practical. Taverns provided hearty meals, focusing on filling people up after hard work, rather than creating a social atmosphere. In the 1820s, dining wasn’t about ambiance; it was simply about need.
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, things began to change. For example, 32 W. High St., now Happy Kitchen, opened as a dining space around 1890, reflecting a shift in community needs. Kofenya Coffee, located at 38 W. High St., began tied to Oxford’s horse-trading economy before evolving into a retail and food service. Even the building at 12 S. Beech St., which started as the post office, transitioned into a restaurant in 1976.
Today, Oxford boasts over 80 restaurants and eateries, allowing Miami students to enjoy global cuisines just steps from campus. Places like Tous Les Jours offer French-Asian pastries, while Chop Bento is famous for its Bento Boxes. And don’t forget the Chocolate Euphoria Crepe Cafe, known for its chocolate milkshakes and crepes.
This evolution from taverns and inns to a diverse culinary scene showcases how food continues to unite the Oxford community. As dining habits change, so does the spirit of the town. Restaurants today are not just food stops; they are places of connection and culture.
Recent statistics indicate that over 70% of people in urban areas seek dining experiences as a way to engage with their communities. This trend reflects a broader desire for connection and shared experiences, something that Oxford has embraced wholeheartedly.
Through its rich history and evolving food culture, Oxford remains a vibrant place for residents and students alike.
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