News Summary
Oxford has been awarded the title of ‘Best Small City for Foodies’ in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, a recognition highlighting the city’s culinary scene. The award, announced on August 7, reflects the efforts of local chefs, renowned restaurants, and an engaged community that contribute to Oxford’s dining reputation. With various dining options, from artisan eateries to unique local favorites, the title supports Oxford’s identity as a prime destination for food lovers.
Oxford has secured the title of “Best Small City for Foodies” in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. This recognition comes from a recent contest that featured 15 cities across the United States, with voting open to the public from July 3 to July 31. The winners were officially announced on August 7, 2025.
Kinney Ferris, the executive director of Visit Oxford MS, expressed pride in the culinary skills and creativity that have led to this achievement. The title shines a spotlight on the city’s extraordinary chefs, popular restaurants, and the artisan community, emphasizing Oxford’s vibrant atmosphere as a hub for food enthusiasts. This accolade reinforces the city’s status as a premier destination for culinary experiences.
Voting Process and Selection Criteria
The selection process involved input from readers who enjoyed sampling the culinary delights of each nominated city. The editorial team utilized insights from industry experts and contributors to identify Oxford and other contenders. This method ensured that the winners were not merely based on popularity but also on the quality of the food scene.
Oxford’s Culinary Landscape
Oxford boasts a rich culinary landscape that includes celebrated chefs, such as John Currence of City Grocery and Vishwesh Bhatt of Snackbar. These establishments offer a mix of dining options that cater to diverse palettes. For instance, Saint Leo showcases wood-fired Italian cuisine, while SoLa specializes in Gulf Coast-inspired dishes, contributing to the city’s reputation for delivering unique dining experiences.
The city’s walkable downtown enhances its food culture, making it easy for residents and visitors to explore various eateries. Open-air markets further enrich this vibrant scene, allowing local artisans to showcase their culinary creations. Oxford is also known for its distinctive food offerings, including the local favorite “chicken on a stick,” available at a local gas station, which highlights the informal dining options beloved by the community.
Community and Engagement
Visit Oxford MS played a significant role in coordinating efforts to gain this recognition, which reflects the city’s active engagement in promoting its food scene. By showcasing local culinary talent, the initiative underscores the importance of community spirit in propelling Oxford into the national spotlight.
Background on Newsweek and Readers’ Choice Awards
Newsweek, a global media organization established in 1933, reaches around 100 million readers each month. The Readers’ Choice Awards aim to celebrate excellence across various categories, with the food portion enabling readers to highlight their favorite cities for dining. By taking place each year, it allows for an ongoing evaluation of culinary destinations nationwide.
This recognition of Oxford acts as a testament to its constant evolution in the culinary landscape. As it garners national recognition, the city stands poised to attract food lovers and culinary tourists looking to explore vibrant dining options.
As Oxford continues to enhance its food culture, the title of “Best Small City for Foodies” offers a unique opportunity for local chefs and restaurants to shine on a larger stage. The collaboration among the community, chefs, and culinary artisans showcases the local commitment to quality and innovation in food offerings, solidifying Oxford’s identity as a top destination for those who appreciate good food.
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Additional Resources
- Newsweek: Best Small City for Foodies 2025
- Food & Wine: Best Small Cities for Food
- Star News Online: Best Small Cities for Food
- USA Today: Best Small Town Food Scene
- Wikipedia: Food
Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
