The Varsity Club is a rooftop bar and restaurant in Oxford, it’s a great spot if you want to watch the sunset over this historic skyline of spires and tudor buildings. The rooftop is a intimate area, but well worth climbing the several sets of staircases for. The seating is perfectly set up so most people get to enjoy the views as it has bench-style seating throughout. The bar offers a selection of nibbles and snacks as well as cocktails and all the expected bar drinks.
I started the evening by ordering a cocktail simply named ‘Jam’, this cocktail was mixed with Disaronno, Lime, Lemon, Raspberry Jam, Egg White, Sugar, and Bitters. A jam cocktail might not be top of your list of choices but this is one to try, a lovely consistency, and a sweet almond taste led by the Disaronno. My partner opted for the ‘Cobbler’, mixed with an interesting blend of Makers Mark, Peach Puree, Mint, and Apricot Liqueur. A fine cocktail, which was rather rewarding.
“The Varsity Club should be high on your list of priorities when visiting Oxford.”
Next I ordered the ‘Lychee’, comprising of Beefeater, Kwai Feh Lychee Liqueur, Chilli, Pineapple, and Cranberry. A divine combination of refreshing fruits and a chilli kick. My partner ordered the ‘Maple’, this cocktail, as you would expect was mixed with Maple, as well as Peppercorn and Clove Syrup, Cazcabel Honey Tequila, and finished with a Bitters Sprayed Edible Leaf. The presentation with the edible leaf was impressive, and it delivered on flavour.
Finally I ordered the ‘Lemon’, this was mixed with Grey Goose Citron, Lemon Curd, Vanilla Sugar, and Citrus Juices. I liked how the different Lemon flavours blended to make a punchy, citrus hit. Incredibly refreshing. My partner ordered the ‘Beetroot’, made with Home Made Beet Shrub, Tomato Juice, Absolut Vodka, Aperol, Worcester, Tobasco, and Horseradish. If you want to end on a high-note this is the drink of choice. Tobasco and horseradish mixed together will shock any palate, and this cocktail left a lasting impression.
If sipping splendid cocktails in good company with views overlooking the city of Oxford sounds like a night you’d enjoy, then stopping by The Varsity Club should be high on your list of priorities.
The Bill: £38 per head
