The best Oxford bar for every mood

As we approach the first day of school, one important topic remains at the forefront of many Miamians minds: Oxford’s best drinking establishments. With a wide variety to choose from, it isn’t possible to pick one best place (though I do have my favorites…), so instead, I’ve created a list of the best bars for every occasion.

When you want to chat

O’Pub – 10 W Park Place – 21+

Back to school is the time for catching up with friends and finding out what their summer adventures. With its cozy booths and dim lighting, there is no better place than O’Pub for these chats. The menu’s specialty cocktails, like the espresso martini, are sure to keep you hydrated throughout a long yap session.

When you want to dance

Brick Street Bar – 36 E High St. – 18+

On a Saturday night, there is no better place to be than the Brick dance floor (affectionately known as the BDF). Oxford’s biggest – and most iconic – bar is perfect for dancing the night away with your friends. The bar, which features two indoor and outdoor levels, will keep you entertained into the wee hours of the night.

When you want a late-night bite and keep the party going

Skipper’s Pub – 121 E High St. – 18+

Following all that dancing, you will need a late-night bite. For this, I recommend Skipper’s. Whether it be a burger, gyro or grilled cheese (my favorite), Skipper’s has you covered in the food department. The best part? You can get one last beverage while enjoying your 1 a.m. meal.

When you want to day drink

Sidebar – 17 N Popular St. – 21+

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On a Saturday afternoon, Sidebar is my favorite place to be. The bar, which is attached to The Wood’s, features a giant patio out back. With plenty of picnic tables and cornhole, it's truly the perfect place to enjoy an Oxford Saturday in the fall.

When you want a quieter setting

Bar 1868 – 13 W. High St. – 21+

Bar 1868 – although often overlooked – is one of the best bars in Oxford. It's usually less crowded than some of the other Uptown bars, and the staff is incredibly friendly. When you want to grab a low-key drink with friends and play some pool, this is the place.

When you want a dive bar

CJ’s – 25 E High St. – 21+

CJ’s is the epitome of a good college dive bar. Opening in 1968, CJ’s is the perfect place to grab a drink in a classic Miami institution. Be warned, you will get the full dive bar experience upon stepping into CJ’s, including the slimy, slippery floor and dirty bathrooms. But for many, it’s home.

When you want to hang out with actual adults

Circle Bar – 15 E High St. – 21+

Don’t get me wrong – running into that kid who sits behind you in your chem lab is fun, but sometimes, you need a break from college students. This is where Circle Bar comes in. Located behind Mac and Joe’s, according to its website, Circle Bar is a “friendly neighborhood establishment” where “Oxford’s hardworking townies gather to relieve the stress of the day.” Especially during Happy Hour (4-8 p.m.), Circle Bar is a refuge from the college chaos.

When you want an upscale cocktail

The Lounge @ Calendula – 151 W High St. – 21+

The Lounge at Calendula, Oxford’s newest bar, has quickly become an upperclassmen favorite. Known for their margaritas and boujee vibes, Calendula transports you from small-town Oxford to a more metropolitan setting.

No matter where you spend your first couple of weeks back at school, you really can’t go wrong. Oxford is full of fun places to let loose and catch up with friends. Just don’t forget to drink plenty of water!

reieram@miamioh.edu