The Grand Café

Lovely exterior to the Cafe & great part of history however a bit underwhelming when inside. Don’t expect much. Some gluten free options on the menu and the gluten free beetroot tart I got was actually really nice.

Wow! We had a fantastic afternoon tea here today at the Grand Cafe. Our waitress Eleonora was lovely and so kind and friendly. Our scones and coffee were incredible. I highly recommend a visit here.

They claim to be the oldest cafe in Oxford

It’s very pretty but very small. They don’t take tables larger than 5.

The desserts and coffee were very good. I thought that the best thing was the Belgian waffle with ice cream and syrup.
It is fairly pricey so be expected to more than usual for desserts.

The hostess was very friendly and service was quick.

I would recommend.

Even though it is a little pricey, it is nice to treat yourself now and then. I come to this cafe each time I come to Oxford. This time arriving around 10:30am for an early “elevenses” before much of the Oxford stores opened up, therefore pretty much had the pick of the tables.
It is a smaller cozier cafe so one would understand, come summer months with all the tourists, you might have to wait a bit to get a table. However, my experience once seated the waitresses have always been prompt and are helpful in their service.
As far as the teas, I have only once had a question, flagged my waitress down who was only too happy to take care of the situation once explained. Good service thank you.

The best scones I’ve ever put in my mouth. I’ve been to fancier afternoon teas in London and this was honestly better.

Underwhelming. Service and food was like a motorway cafe. We had breakfast which had no beans, mushrooms, black pudding for example. Service was lack lustre with a poor attitude. £5 for some tea - not even anything fancy in how it was presented. Clearly they just take advantage of tourists and don't expect repeat custom. Avoid unless you want to go to just say you've been.

Wow. I don't know what most other commenters were expecting, but this cafe is just fantastic.

Food and tea: Just delicious. Scones were fluffy, jam and cream fresh and light, tea was strong and rich. Cold drink selection looks great too.

Service: Amazing. It helped having a cute little one with us, but the staff were genuinely lovely, "chef" gave us a free portion of fruits for our louder/more upset than usual 15 month old.

Atmosphere: Refined, relaxed and charming. It's a small space and the chairs are a bit large but with no one on tables next to us it was fine.

Cost: The price is expected for Oxford, in fact I've worked in places in Yorkshire that charge similar or more.

TL;DR: 100% we're going again.

Elite, historic, resplendent! Loved every bit of it. The place is always busy because of its popularity among locals and tourists.. so be prepared for a loud cafe experience instead of a quite and cosy one.. but all worth it! You might have to queue for 10 to 15mins, if not more, to grab a seat for yourself, so plan accordingly. The coffee varieties are nice, especially the Government Java Coffee. Do try a slice of the warm and delicious chocolate brownie if you have a sweet tooth.