Oxford Restaurants - Then & Now

For many Ole Miss alumni, memories of Oxford are just as much about late nights and legendary meals as they are about football games and final exams. If you graduated in the ’90s or early 2000s, chances are you can still taste your go-to meal from Two Stick or remember those unforgettable nights at The Gin. While some beloved spots have faded into history, Oxford's food scene continues to evolve — with new restaurants stepping in to fill the shoes (and barstools) of old favorites. Here’s a nostalgic look at Oxford’s restaurant scene: then and now.

Two Stick → Jinsei

Once the go-to for sushi and live music downtown, Two Stick was an Oxford institution. Today, Jinsei picks up the torch with upscale sushi and modern Asian fusion — a perfect spot for the now-more-sophisticated sushi lovers among us.

Downtown Grill → McEwen’s

Downtown Grill was a staple for elevated Southern classics, and one of the first fine-dining restaurants in Oxford. McEwen’s, a Memphis import, brings polished Southern comfort food in a warm, intimate setting, making it a worthy successor for a nice dinner out.

Kalo's Tavern → Volta Taverna

Kalo’s Tavern brought a Greek flavor to the Oxford scene, although everyone’s favorite meal seemed to be the “fried plate.” In its place, Volta Taverna offers Mediterranean flavors and an easygoing vibe that honors the casual, community-driven spirit of its predecessor. Where else can you get frozen mojitos in a converted gas station?

The Gin → The Green at Harrison’s

The Gin was more than a bar, it was a rite of passage. Now, The Green at Harrison’s brings a more refined twist to the same social space, blending a live music and an upscale aesthetic with the social energy of a downtown favorite.

Yocona River Inn → GRIT

Remember driving out to Yocona River Inn for a special meal? Its countryside charm and fine dining were legendary. GRIT, located in Taylor, captures that same spirit with inventive Southern fare and cozy elegance.

Pearl Street Pasta → Lenora’s

Pasta lovers once flocked to Pearl Street Pasta. Today, Lenora’s brings Italian-inspired cuisine and a wine list that leans into its romantic, date-night feel.

208 → SoLa

208 was the kind of sleek, upscale bistro where you’d go to impress a date or celebrate. SoLa now delivers a similarly chic atmosphere with a globally-inspired Southern menu.

Oxford Steak Co. → Oxford Grillehouse

Oxford Steak Co. was your steak night HQ. Oxford Grillehouse continues the tradition with hearty cuts and a rustic-modern steakhouse vibe that appeals to old-school meat lovers and new palates alike.

Deli News → Blind Pig

With newspaper clippings on the walls and overstuffed sandwiches, Deli News was both quirky and comforting. The Blind Pig embraces that underground charm (literally) with craft beer, creative sandwiches, and a retro-cool tavern feel.

Panini → Panino Veloce

Panini was your classic sandwich-and-soup comfort zone. Panino Veloce, translated from Italian means speedy sandwich, offers a modern spin on Italian paninis, perfect for lunch on the go. An insider secret: try their mint tea!

Smitty’s → Big Bad Breakfast

Smitty’s was all about unpretentious no-frill eats: the classic greasy spoon of South Lamar. Big Bad Breakfast (BBB), from the culinary mind of John Currence, elevates breakfast classics while maintaining the greasy spoon sprit we loved in places like Smitty’s.

Dino’s → Fergndan’s Pizza

Dino’s was a pizza-night standby for students and locals alike. Fergndan’s Pizza carries that torch with its cheerful, family-run charm and New York-style pies served hot and fresh.

L&M’s Kitchen & Salumeria → Saint Leo

Though short-lived, L&M earned cult status for its artisan meats, rustic sophistication, and deeply Italian roots. In its place, Saint Leo brings wood-fired Italian with a cosmopolitan feel: warm, elegant, and rooted in seasonal simplicity. It’s a James Beard-nominated gem that alumni foodies will appreciate just as much as they loved L&M.

Café Olé → El Charro

You never forget your first margarita at Café Olé. Now, El Charro (and their sister restaurant, Casa Mexicana) brings bold flavors and vibrant energy to the local Mexican food scene, ideal for that same post-class unwind or group dinner vibe.