The Ox
Charcoal-grilled steaks in an atmospheric basement vault with cocktails and old-money elegance.
A sophisticated steakhouse and cocktail bar housed in a historic basement bank vault on Corn Street. The Ox specializes in premium cuts of beef cooked in a Josper charcoal grill, paired with an impressive wine and cocktail selection. The intimate, dimly lit setting features oak paneling, ox blood leather seats, and art deco lamps, creating an old-money atmosphere perfect for special occasions. Reservations are essential, particularly on weekends.
A brief summary to The Ox
- The Basement, 43 Corn St, Bristol, BS1 1HT, GB
- +441179221001
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Luxury
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-10 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-10 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-10 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-9 pm
Local tips
- Book well in advance, especially for weekends. The restaurant has only 80 seats and fills quickly. Reservations are essential to avoid disappointment.
- Order sides and sauces separately—they are not included with steaks. The triple-cooked chips, charcoal-roasted mushrooms, and scallops are worth the additional cost.
- Consider the early bird menu (available select days) for exceptional value: a 6-ounce rump steak with fries and sauce plus a drink for £22.
- The basement location is dimly lit by design; allow your eyes to adjust and request a table near the bar area if you prefer slightly more light.
- Explore the cocktail menu and wine list—the bar program is as carefully curated as the food, with signature drinks and an impressive selection of wines by the glass.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
The Ox location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about The Ox
A Historic Vault Transformed into Culinary Elegance
The Ox occupies a subterranean former bank vault accessed via marble steps, creating an immediate sense of stepping into something exclusive and timeless. The basement location provides a clubbable atmosphere that feels deliberately removed from the bustle of Bristol's city center above. This architectural foundation—once a secure repository for valuables—now houses a different kind of treasure: exceptional food and drink. The space has been meticulously designed with oak panels, ox blood leather seating, and art deco lamps that evoke a sophisticated, old-money aesthetic. The deliberately low lighting contributes to the intimate, cocooned feeling, though some visitors note it requires adjustment when reading the menu.Mastery of Fire and Meat
The restaurant's reputation rests primarily on its exceptional steaks, all cooked on a Josper charcoal grill that imparts a distinctive smoky character impossible to achieve through conventional methods. The kitchen sources top-quality cuts of beef, offering options ranging from a 6-ounce rump to a 9-ounce ribeye or sirloin. The steaks are prepared with precision, and diners consistently praise the quality of the meat and the skill with which it is cooked. Beyond beef, the menu includes venison, Dover sole, and other proteins, ensuring variety for those seeking alternatives. The charcoal grill extends to other dishes as well, including grilled scallops and charcoal-roasted mushrooms, each benefiting from the unique cooking method.Sides and Accompaniments Worth Ordering
While steaks are the centerpiece, The Ox's supporting cast of sides and sauces deserves particular attention. Triple-cooked chips, charcoal-roasted mushrooms with persillade, and leeks and greens are standout options that elevate the meal beyond the protein alone. The restaurant offers a selection of sauces and butters—green peppercorn, béarnaise, romesco, smoked bone marrow, and blue cheese—each adding distinct flavor dimensions. Scallops in the half shell with garlic butter and the house Caesar salad also receive consistent praise. The early bird menu provides exceptional value, offering a 6-ounce rump steak with fries and sauce or butter plus a glass of house wine or soft drink for £22.Cocktails and Wine in a Curated Setting
The bar program is equally ambitious, with a carefully curated cocktail menu and an extensive wine selection featuring 11 wines under £30, 36 over £30, and 8 available by the glass. The cocktail list includes signature creations designed to complement the food, and the after-dinner whiskey selection provides a refined conclusion to the meal. The bar itself serves as an inviting prelude to dinner, allowing guests to settle into the atmosphere before moving to their table.Service and Hospitality Standards
The restaurant is staffed by dapperly dressed waiters and waitresses who are trained to deliver attentive, knowledgeable service. The welcome is consistently warm, and staff demonstrate genuine care in guiding diners through menu selections and ensuring a seamless dining experience. The team's professionalism contributes significantly to the overall sense of occasion that The Ox cultivates.Accessibility and Practical Considerations
The restaurant seats 80 guests and operates under AA inspection with a 1-Rosette rating. Access to the basement requires descending 16 steps, which presents a consideration for those with mobility limitations, though assistance dogs are welcome. The location on Corn Street places it in the heart of Bristol's city center, surrounded by historic architecture and within walking distance of St Nicholas Market and other cultural attractions. Reservations are highly recommended, particularly for Friday and Saturday evenings, as the restaurant frequently reaches capacity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
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For the design and aesthetic lover
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For the architecture buff
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
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For the eco-conscious traveler
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For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
