Bricked newly into one of Oxford’s oldest streets, an all-day bar-café tucks into a colourful stream of drinking food. Brunch, lunch, dinner, late: our menu is made to be washed down with cold beers and crackingly-good cocktails. Both expertly crafted. On the decks, local DJs fill the air with rootsy beats and neighbourhood revelry. Swing by. A quick drink, light bite, or long, leisurely night - Permit Room is open to all.

Telephone: 01865 597777

Opening hours: Monday–Sunday 9am to 10pm

Kitchen opening hours: Monday–Sunday 9am to 10pm

Nearby stations: Oxford train station

Facilities: Dogs allowed (no paws on seats, please), Terrace

Dining options: Halal-friendly / Vegan-friendly / Vegetarian-friendly

Accessibility: Step-free access, Restricted mobility bathroom

Group bookings: We accept bookings online up to four months in advance for up to 16 guests and accept enquiries for 16+. For larger parties or for specific event requests, do get in touch with us directly to book.

Permit Room is an all-day bar-café serving up delicious breakfasts, seriously good bar snacks, moreish curries, smoky grills, and plates for sharing (all with a selection of signature Dishoom delights). There’s also a knock-out line-up of cocktails to wash it all down with. It’s our tribute to the way Bombay kicks back and cuts loose – a salute to the city’s permit rooms, beer bars and drinking holes.

In 1949, liquor was banned in Bombay. Enterprising Aunties deftly served drinks from their front rooms, a boiled egg vendor stationed outside as a sign for those who knew. By the 1970s, the law was loosened up: permit holders (having obtained their liquor permits ‘for the preservation or maintenance of health’ no less) could buy alcohol. Permit rooms were officially born.