The Port Mahon pub in Oxford is back after a £190k makeover, promising fresh food and a revamped atmosphere.
Jonathan Perritt is the new manager and plans to put a big focus on food, as the pub was previously a live music spot. Now, Perritt wants great drinks and food. He intends to offer simple seasonal food, while music will still exist but not regularly, possibly happening sometimes in the garden.
They invested money in the kitchen and updated the cellar. New decking got added outside as well.
The pub has different opening times: Monday till Wednesday are 4 PM to 11 PM, Thursday is 12 PM to 11 PM, Friday and Saturday close at midnight, and Sunday closing is earlier, at 9 PM.
Sunday roast is on the menu, featuring Gloucester Old Spot Pork Belly with apple sauce for £19.50. Thursdays feature a pie and pint deal, offering chicken and leek pie with a pint for £15.
A visitor liked the recent changes and booked a Sunday lunch after having a pint. He enjoyed the roasts and wine and plans to return soon. Another diner expressed delight at its return and likes the friendly staff. The diner also praised the food and highlighted the taramasalata, saying to visit if you’re nearby.
The pub hosts quiz nights and shows sports on TV, including the Six Nations rugby.
Dave Richardson, who wrote “Oxford Pubs” in 2015 and is from CAMRA, likes the investment in the pub. He hopes it regains its real ale status and noted the building’s history back to 1710.
It has kept its name since then to honor a naval battle that took place in Mahon, Menorca, where the British gained control in 1708. He also mentioned mayonnaise’s origin is linked to a battle there.