Oxford Community
Original Content by Carl Johnson
As the communities and industry in Durham and Raleigh continue to boom, developments and innovation continue to grow around North Carolina. With ease of access to Interstate 85 you can find the county of Granville and the city of Oxford, just northeast of Durham and north of Raleigh, this area is slated to be the next region to prosper as it is already growing!
Just like anywhere in the beautiful state of North Carolina you get the best of both worlds of rolling mountains with hiking trails, a short commute to major cities, a few hours drive to the beach. But while in Oxford you have the added benefit of being only minutes away from Kerr Lake State Recreation Area. This reservoir has over 50,000 miles of shoreline and has every lake active you can think of, from fishing, paddle boarding, and swimming to camping, hiking, and RV hookups.
As the communities and industry in Durham and Raleigh continue to boom, developments and innovation continue to grow around North Carolina. With ease of access to Interstate 85 you can find the county of Granville and the city of Oxford, just northeast of Durham and north of Raleigh, this area is slated to be the next region to prosper as it is already growing!
Just like anywhere in the beautiful state of North Carolina you get the best of both worlds of rolling mountains with hiking trails, a short commute to major cities, a few hours drive to the beach. But while in Oxford you have the added benefit of being only minutes away from Kerr Lake State Recreation Area. This reservoir has over 50,000 miles of shoreline and has every lake active you can think of, from fishing, paddle boarding, and swimming to camping, hiking, and RV hookups.
Trees and sky reflecting in the lake | Photo Credit: Kerr Lake State Recreation Area
The City of Oxford, as well as the entire county of Granville, have rich history dating back to Native American tribes. The city and its people have been molded by this history, surviving wars and the plantation era has cultivated a unique area with beautiful buildings, rich farmlands, friendly welcoming neighbors, and now modern growth.
Oxford is welcoming of this new growth and implemented many events to pull together this historic town with today’s trends. A fun and unique way to get involved in the town is through their Social District. “A social district is a defined area in which a person may consume alcoholic beverages sold by an ABC permittee located within a social district (designated area). It can include indoor and outdoor areas of business within or contiguous to the defined area during the days and hours set by the governing body. A social district may include privately owned property, including permittees and non-permittee businesses, and multi-tenant establishments, as well as public streets, crosswalks, or parking areas whether the streets or parking areas are closed to vehicle traffic. (definition from the NC Retail Merchants Association)”
Oxford is welcoming of this new growth and implemented many events to pull together this historic town with today’s trends. A fun and unique way to get involved in the town is through their Social District. “A social district is a defined area in which a person may consume alcoholic beverages sold by an ABC permittee located within a social district (designated area). It can include indoor and outdoor areas of business within or contiguous to the defined area during the days and hours set by the governing body. A social district may include privately owned property, including permittees and non-permittee businesses, and multi-tenant establishments, as well as public streets, crosswalks, or parking areas whether the streets or parking areas are closed to vehicle traffic. (definition from the NC Retail Merchants Association)”
Social District Map | Photo Credit: City of Oxford (oxfordnc.org)
As stated on Oxford's website shops within this district can choose to take part in social hours to promote fun and community: “Alcoholic beverages may be consumed in the designated social district areas (outlined in the map below) during the specified hours of operation. Beverages must be in social district containers and must be discarded before you exit the designated boundaries. Window clings will be present in storefronts Downtown indicating whether or not they are participating and/or allow beverages inside. Please note, it is the decision of the business owner as to whether they allow beverages in their establishment and we ask that you please respect their choice. Green (beverages welcome), red (no beverages allowed) and yellow (beverages sold here) window clings have been provided to Downtown merchants and will be placed in their windows.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
ORDER beverages from one of the participating businesses located within the social district
DRINK from a cup with a specifically designed sticker where the drink was purchased.
ENJOY strolling through the designated areas of the social district while exploring Downtown Oxford.
DISCARD your cups into trash cans located throughout the social district BEFORE leaving.”
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK?
HOW DOES IT WORK?
ORDER beverages from one of the participating businesses located within the social district
DRINK from a cup with a specifically designed sticker where the drink was purchased.
ENJOY strolling through the designated areas of the social district while exploring Downtown Oxford.
DISCARD your cups into trash cans located throughout the social district BEFORE leaving.”
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK?
Uptown 101 | Photo Credit: Uptown 101
Uptown 101
Uptown 101 American Bistro Restaurant Oxford NC (uptown101oxford.com)
From their website: “Uptown 101 is an elegantly designed restaurant located in Historic Downtown Oxford, NC. Uptown 101 was created in June,2017 and provides a very elegant atmosphere. A very welcomed place with great service and tasteful food. This American bistro is located in a small town but provides a big town experience. Smooth jazz music in the background as you enjoy one of our delightful plates. We are known for our well-seasoned tender prime cut rib-eye and lamb chops. With many other things to offer we encourage you to stop by and give us a try.”
Uptown 101 American Bistro Restaurant Oxford NC (uptown101oxford.com)
From their website: “Uptown 101 is an elegantly designed restaurant located in Historic Downtown Oxford, NC. Uptown 101 was created in June,2017 and provides a very elegant atmosphere. A very welcomed place with great service and tasteful food. This American bistro is located in a small town but provides a big town experience. Smooth jazz music in the background as you enjoy one of our delightful plates. We are known for our well-seasoned tender prime cut rib-eye and lamb chops. With many other things to offer we encourage you to stop by and give us a try.”
Oxford Oaks Distillery | Photo Credit: Oxford Oaks Distillery
Oxford Oaks Distillery
Oxford Oaks Distillery | Distillery & Restaurant in Downtown Oxford
From their website: “A Unique Dining and Libations Destination in the heart of downtown Oxford, N.C. Oxford Oaks will feature a micro distillery, specialty cocktail bar and upscale Verdigris restaurant where the community can gather and enjoy fine spirits, elevated cocktails and delicious cuisine.”
The Distillery offers a wide menu variety from grazing appetizers and kids meals to full steakhouse style entrees. You can find something for everyone while enjoying rare micro distilled libations.
Oxford Oaks Distillery | Distillery & Restaurant in Downtown Oxford
From their website: “A Unique Dining and Libations Destination in the heart of downtown Oxford, N.C. Oxford Oaks will feature a micro distillery, specialty cocktail bar and upscale Verdigris restaurant where the community can gather and enjoy fine spirits, elevated cocktails and delicious cuisine.”
The Distillery offers a wide menu variety from grazing appetizers and kids meals to full steakhouse style entrees. You can find something for everyone while enjoying rare micro distilled libations.
Strong Arm Baking Co. | Photo Credit: Strong Arm Baking Co.
Strong Arm Baking Co.
Strong Arm Baking Co.
From their website: “Strong Arm Baking began in 2014 with just 2 people—staying up all night and baking out of our home in rural Granville County. In 2020, we moved to our present day brick-and-mortar location and it’s from there that we proudly service dozens of local coffee shops and turn out the delicious treats you can find at both the Durham Farmers’ Market and the Eno River Farmers’ Market in Hillsborough. We also deliver our freshly made meals, breads and pastries to individual homes throughout the Triangle with our Porch Drop delivery service (We’d love to deliver to you too!).These days, we have a team of over 50 employees(!) working around the clock in downtown Oxford to bring the food we love to your table.”
Strong Arm Baking Co.
From their website: “Strong Arm Baking began in 2014 with just 2 people—staying up all night and baking out of our home in rural Granville County. In 2020, we moved to our present day brick-and-mortar location and it’s from there that we proudly service dozens of local coffee shops and turn out the delicious treats you can find at both the Durham Farmers’ Market and the Eno River Farmers’ Market in Hillsborough. We also deliver our freshly made meals, breads and pastries to individual homes throughout the Triangle with our Porch Drop delivery service (We’d love to deliver to you too!).These days, we have a team of over 50 employees(!) working around the clock in downtown Oxford to bring the food we love to your table.”
George's | Photo Credit: George's
George’s Oxford Village Family Restaurant
George's in Oxford, NC (ncgeorges.com)
From their website: “Our commitment to Oxford and our legacy has reached the 20th Anniversary milestone and continues…Our family story and passion for delicious scratch-made food is over two decades long. After our founding in 1999 and continued years of success, our legacy has crossed to the next generation of the family. We are proud to carry on what George has started and we work every day to live up to the landmark that we have become in Oxford. Our restaurant always felt like a second home to us and we want you be able to feel that through the quality and warmth of our food. We’re honored for you to have a seat at our table.”
George’s is a family restaurant known for their generous portions and having a fishtank in the middle of the main dining room.
George's in Oxford, NC (ncgeorges.com)
From their website: “Our commitment to Oxford and our legacy has reached the 20th Anniversary milestone and continues…Our family story and passion for delicious scratch-made food is over two decades long. After our founding in 1999 and continued years of success, our legacy has crossed to the next generation of the family. We are proud to carry on what George has started and we work every day to live up to the landmark that we have become in Oxford. Our restaurant always felt like a second home to us and we want you be able to feel that through the quality and warmth of our food. We’re honored for you to have a seat at our table.”
George’s is a family restaurant known for their generous portions and having a fishtank in the middle of the main dining room.
Main St Oasis | Photo Credit: Main St Oasis Facebook
Main St Oasis
https://www.facebook.com/MainStreetOasis
From their website:”Main St Oasis is an exciting mix of divergence. At lunch, we will have sandwiches, wraps, salads, a salad bar, burgers and fresh baked bread in-store for our subs. Dinner... ahhh, dinner. New York strips, ribeyes, a porterhouse, filets, chicken, sushi-grade tuna, mahi-mahi, salmon, shrimp and pork loin seasoned and grilled to perfection over live charcoal. With linen tablecloths, candlelight, service that is second to none and a meal not soon forgotten, Main St Oasis is truly a destination to forget your worries of the day and celebrate life's gifts. Our unique bar offers a warm and friendly atmosphere. We look forward to your family being a part of ours.”
Main St Oasis is a family style, fine dining restaurant with affordable prices.
https://www.facebook.com/MainStreetOasis
From their website:”Main St Oasis is an exciting mix of divergence. At lunch, we will have sandwiches, wraps, salads, a salad bar, burgers and fresh baked bread in-store for our subs. Dinner... ahhh, dinner. New York strips, ribeyes, a porterhouse, filets, chicken, sushi-grade tuna, mahi-mahi, salmon, shrimp and pork loin seasoned and grilled to perfection over live charcoal. With linen tablecloths, candlelight, service that is second to none and a meal not soon forgotten, Main St Oasis is truly a destination to forget your worries of the day and celebrate life's gifts. Our unique bar offers a warm and friendly atmosphere. We look forward to your family being a part of ours.”
Main St Oasis is a family style, fine dining restaurant with affordable prices.
Toros Cantina | Photo Credit: Toros Cantina
Toros Cantina
Toros Cantina Oxford
From their website: “Started in Jalisco, Mexico … Now we are here proudly serving the Oxford, NC community! Toros Cantina is a family run venture created by Andres and Maria Ornelas. The Ornelas family has over 20 years of experience working in restaurants around the Triangle and we are excited to bring authentic Mexican dishes to Oxford.”
Toros Cantina Oxford
From their website: “Started in Jalisco, Mexico … Now we are here proudly serving the Oxford, NC community! Toros Cantina is a family run venture created by Andres and Maria Ornelas. The Ornelas family has over 20 years of experience working in restaurants around the Triangle and we are excited to bring authentic Mexican dishes to Oxford.”
Milano's | Photo Credit: Milano's Facebook
Milano’s Pizza of Oxford
Milano's Pizza of Oxford NC | Oxford NC | Facebook
With warm lighting, cozy seating, and a welcoming atmosphere, you'll feel right at home as soon as you step through the door. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner for two, a family outing, or a night out with friends, this pizzeria has the perfect atmosphere to make your experience memorable.
Milano's Pizza of Oxford NC | Oxford NC | Facebook
With warm lighting, cozy seating, and a welcoming atmosphere, you'll feel right at home as soon as you step through the door. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner for two, a family outing, or a night out with friends, this pizzeria has the perfect atmosphere to make your experience memorable.
Tobacco Wood Brewing | Photo Credit: Tobacco Wood Brewing
Tobacco Wood Brewing Co.
Tobacco Wood Brewing - Tobacco Wood Brewing
From their website: “Mara and Paul Shelton are the proud owners of Tobacco Wood Brewing Company; North Carolina’s first female, veteran owned brewery. The Shelton’s are very active in their community, strive to make TWBC an inviting and inclusive space and of course they love craft beer!
Perfectly paired food and beer. Sixteen different beers on tap.
Tobacco Wood Brewing - Tobacco Wood Brewing
From their website: “Mara and Paul Shelton are the proud owners of Tobacco Wood Brewing Company; North Carolina’s first female, veteran owned brewery. The Shelton’s are very active in their community, strive to make TWBC an inviting and inclusive space and of course they love craft beer!
Perfectly paired food and beer. Sixteen different beers on tap.
Harvest Restaurant | Photo Credit: Harvest Restaurant Facebook
Harvest Restaurant
HARVEST RESTAURANT | OXFORD, NC | harvestofoxford
From their website: “Serving Oxford, NC fresh farm to table food for the past 10 years! we Love our little town!”
Don't Forget to Visit:
HARVEST RESTAURANT | OXFORD, NC | harvestofoxford
From their website: “Serving Oxford, NC fresh farm to table food for the past 10 years! we Love our little town!”
Don't Forget to Visit:
The Orpheum | Photo Credit: The Orpheum
The Orpheum at Oxford
The Orpheum (theorpheumatoxford.com)
From their website: “Originally built in 1912, it was later remodeled after a fire in 1941. The theater continued to operate until the early 1960s. The Orpheum has been meticulously restored to its original grandeur and small-town charm. Located in the heart of historic downtown Oxford, The Orpheum at Oxford venue is in the perfect spot to truly embrace the appeal of Oxford’s quaintness. Just 30 minutes north of Durham and a short hour drive from downtown Raleigh, we welcome you as well! Whether you’re planning a curated event, wedding, corporate event, shower for a friend, fundraiser, or party.”
The Orpheum (theorpheumatoxford.com)
From their website: “Originally built in 1912, it was later remodeled after a fire in 1941. The theater continued to operate until the early 1960s. The Orpheum has been meticulously restored to its original grandeur and small-town charm. Located in the heart of historic downtown Oxford, The Orpheum at Oxford venue is in the perfect spot to truly embrace the appeal of Oxford’s quaintness. Just 30 minutes north of Durham and a short hour drive from downtown Raleigh, we welcome you as well! Whether you’re planning a curated event, wedding, corporate event, shower for a friend, fundraiser, or party.”
The Hub on Main | Photo Credit: The Hub on Main Facebook
The Hub on Main
The Hub on Main - Gift Shop in Oxford (business.site)
From their website: “Craft beer, fine wine, specialty gifts, cigars, local products and gourmet coffee & food.”
The Hub on Main - Gift Shop in Oxford (business.site)
From their website: “Craft beer, fine wine, specialty gifts, cigars, local products and gourmet coffee & food.”
Below are some community events that happen in the Springtime in Oxford and Granville county.
Granville Annual Gardeners Expo | Photo Credit: Welcome (the granville gardeners.org)
Who: Granville Gardners Home & Garden Expo
When: April
Website: Welcome (thegranvillegardeners.org)
What: As stated on their website: “Join us for a wonderful day of shopping, workshops, food trucks, and more! You can also shop our plant sale ahead of the event and have your order ready for pickup when you arrive”.
When: April
Website: Welcome (thegranvillegardeners.org)
What: As stated on their website: “Join us for a wonderful day of shopping, workshops, food trucks, and more! You can also shop our plant sale ahead of the event and have your order ready for pickup when you arrive”.
Who: Alive After Five
When: April
Website: https://visitgranvillenc.com/whats-happening
What: A three series concert event that takes place throughout the year. You can find the bands playing on Littlejohn Street in downtown Oxford. Check the above website for who is playing and when for each year's Alive After Five events.
When: April
Website: https://visitgranvillenc.com/whats-happening
What: A three series concert event that takes place throughout the year. You can find the bands playing on Littlejohn Street in downtown Oxford. Check the above website for who is playing and when for each year's Alive After Five events.
Oxford Main Street Arts & Wine Festival | Photo Credit: Oxford Main Street Arts & Wine Festival
Who: Oxford Main Street Arts & Wine Festival - Annual
When: April
Website: City of Oxford (oxfordnc.org)
What: The Oxford Main Street Arts and Wine Festival is an annual event. The festival features vendors, artists, live music, food vendors and wine representatives pouring wine samples on Main Street in Oxford. There will also be live music and food vendors on the street. This is an outdoor free event open to the public.
When: April
Website: City of Oxford (oxfordnc.org)
What: The Oxford Main Street Arts and Wine Festival is an annual event. The festival features vendors, artists, live music, food vendors and wine representatives pouring wine samples on Main Street in Oxford. There will also be live music and food vendors on the street. This is an outdoor free event open to the public.
Who: Culturefest - Annual
When: May
Website: City of Oxford (oxfordnc.org)
What: From their website: “Come on out to Downtown Oxford for the 2nd Annual CultureFest! With a variety of performances, an abundance of food, and great music, you and your family are sure to have a wonderful time!”
When: May
Website: City of Oxford (oxfordnc.org)
What: From their website: “Come on out to Downtown Oxford for the 2nd Annual CultureFest! With a variety of performances, an abundance of food, and great music, you and your family are sure to have a wonderful time!”
Who: Music on Main
When: June & August
Website: City of Oxford (oxfordnc.org)
What: Live music played in downtown Oxford twice a year. Free and open to the public.
When: June & August
Website: City of Oxford (oxfordnc.org)
What: Live music played in downtown Oxford twice a year. Free and open to the public.
Who: Bee Jubilee - Annual
When: June
Website: Granville County Beekeepers Association - Events (wildapricot.org)
What: From their website: “Join local beekeepers to learn and network - business meetings, educational presentations and snacks/fellowship. Kid friendly.”
When: June
Website: Granville County Beekeepers Association - Events (wildapricot.org)
What: From their website: “Join local beekeepers to learn and network - business meetings, educational presentations and snacks/fellowship. Kid friendly.”
Who: Quittin’ Time
When: May through June
Website: Quittin' Time | Facebook
What: Hosted by the town’s restaurant association, local restaurant favorites feature menu specials all week, with samples and local music as well. You can bar hop your favorite places as well as new ones!
When: May through June
Website: Quittin' Time | Facebook
What: Hosted by the town’s restaurant association, local restaurant favorites feature menu specials all week, with samples and local music as well. You can bar hop your favorite places as well as new ones!
If you are planning a trip to Oxford be sure to plan a time when any of these great local events are going on to really see all the town has to offer! Or if you are just making a trip through, definitely stop by one of Carl’s top restaurants to enjoy Oxford. If you are looking to learn more about some other great NC towns CLICK HERE to read about Carl’s favorite town of Gibsonville!