A Chat with Chef Bhatt

Hidden behind an unassuming restaurant front, a two time James Beard awarded chef has brought together a seemingly unlikely pair of cuisines separated by culture and more than a few oceans to create an unexpected harmony that warms the soul and makes the world a smaller place.

It feels like such a venture belongs in the daring culinary scenes of New York or San Francisco, but this one is proudly claimed by the charming Southern town of Oxford, Mississippi.

Chef Vishwesh Bhatt has crafted a culinary haven at Snackbar. Here, the robust flavors of Southern cuisine harmonize with the bold spices of the traditional Indian dishes he grew up cooking with his family in western India. “The ingredients are a big part of it,” Bhatt says, reflecting on the crossover between his heritage and his adopted home. “I grew up in India, and there’s a lot of crossover ingredients—greens, peas, beans, tomatoes, peanuts, even okra.” These shared ingredients form the foundation of Bhatt’s culinary philosophy at Snackbar, allowing him to blend the best of both worlds seamlessly.

Oxford, once a quiet college town, is now a burgeoning culinary destination. Bhatt’s contributions to the local food scene have played a significant role in this transformation. “Oxford is second to none,” Bhatt proudly asserts.

“We are lucky to have more and more people who demand every restaurant perform at its best.” The town’s dining scene has blossomed, attracting food enthusiasts who come to experience its unique offerings.

This blending of flavors wasn’t about upending Southern tradition, or forcing a fusion restaurant on locals, but rather enhancing a cuisine with subtle, flavorful twists. “I’ve never really messed with the classics,” Bhatt asserts. “They are what they are for a reason. But where I grew up, there’s turmeric and garam masala in my pantry. I like a dash of toasted cumin on roasted potatoes. I just want to welcome people into that experience and see what they think.”

Bhatt’s respectful approach has endeared him to Oxford’s residents, who appreciate his dedication to preserving the integrity of Southern cuisine while infusing it with the flavors of his childhood. This harmonious blend of traditions is a testament to the culinary potential of Oxford, a town where innovation and tradition coexist beautifully.

Southern cuisine, often misunderstood by outsiders as being unhealthy, is rooted in sustainable, farm-to-table practices. “True Southern cuisine is probably the healthiest of all cuisines in the country,” Bhatt declares. “The farm-to-table thing that everybody advertises now has always been how people in the South have eaten. Grow something in your garden, make it by hand and serve it to your family—that is woven into our culture, our identity.”

Snackbar’s menu is a reflection of this commitment to local, seasonal produce. “We change the menu every six weeks or so, it’s more often in the summer,” Bhatt explains. “There’s so much produce available right now from our local farmers—tomatoes, okra, fresh peas, eggplant. I want to put all these vegetables on the menu, I honestly have to stop myself from adding too many dishes.” For those venturing into Snackbar for the first time, Bhatt recommends the Corn Chaat as an appetizer and the Mississippi catfish for an entrée. “And dessert-wise, there’s a peach tart on the menu right now,” he adds with a twinkle in his eye, “Remember, the menu is all a very ‘right now’ thing.’ But the draw to Oxford is more than just its food. It’s the experience of a town where culinary innovation meets Southern hospitality. The University of Mississippi, Ole Miss, anchors the town, fostering a vibrant arts and culture scene.

You can stroll through the historic Square, visit the local boutiques, or explore the nearby nature trails. Live music, literary events, and art festivals keep the town buzzing with activity year-round. All of this energy feeds Chef Vishwesh’s inspiration, pushing him and his team to never settle with the status quo. You can feel that passion, that love of neighbor and visitor, from the moment you step inside.

Like Snackbar, Oxford is a hidden gem in the South, waiting to be discovered. With its unique blend of culinary excellence, cultural richness, and Southern charm, it’s a destination that promises both relaxation and excitement. Whether you’re savoring the innovative dishes at Snackbar or soaking in the local culture, Oxford offers an experience that is both deeply rooted in tradition and refreshingly contemporary. Whether you’re a wanderer seeking new flavors or a traveler drawn to the whispers of the South, Oxford, Mississippi, with its rich blend of Southern and Indian culinary traditions at Snackbar, promises a journey that is as flavorful as it is unforgettable. Come and see for yourself why this town is becoming a must-visit spot on the culinary map.

For more information on Oxford, go to visitoxfordms.com.

Related Stories