If you've ever paid a visit to Oxford the chances are that you've stumbled across the beautiful Grand Cafe. But perhaps you didn't know about the rich history behind this gorgeous establishment. According to a number of trustworthy sources, including Samuel Pepys, a Jewish entrepreneur named Jacob established the first English coffee house in 1650, and so, The Grand Cafe is actually in the same spot as the very first coffee house that opened in England. A direct quote from ‘The Life and Times of Anthony Wood, Antiquary of Oxford 1632-1695″:- “This year [1651] Jacob the Jew opened a coffey house at the Angel in the parish of S. Peter, in the East Oxon ; and there it was by some, who delighted in noveltie, drank. When he left Oxon, he sold it in Old Southampton buildings in Holborne neare London, and was living in 1671.” Today, the cafe is decked out beautifully inside, with modern touches on tradition, and serves delicious food and drinks throughout the day. It has become a much loved Oxford institution.
Breakfast is served from 9am, and begins with classic dishes like toasted sourdough with butter, strawberry jam and marmalade, and also includes the Grand Cafe homemade granola with greek yoghurt, Oxfordshire honey, apple, blueberries and cinnamon. Those who prefer a savoury breakfast can order the dish with dry cured smoked streaky bacon, scrambled free range hens eggs and slow roasted tomatoes.
There are a few different afternoon tea options to choose from, and maybe you'll go fancy and opt for the grand high tea. This will include a glass of house Champagne, finger sandwiches with smoked salmon and cream cheese with cucumber. Then, you'll enjoy freshly made scones with all the trimmings, a lemon posset, something chocolatey and the cake of the day, all with your choice of tea or coffee.