The Muddy Duck

Featured reviews

• G

  Google user

  ·1 month ago

  “Absolutely delicious when I came here with my whole family for a celebratory meal! We had a couple of starters and the seafood platter which was incredible. The staff were friendly and prompt in their service the entire meal. We will most definitely be returning soon!”

• G

  Google user

  ·1 month ago

  “We'd been highly recommended The Muddy Duck by a couple of people but sadly it fell very short of expectations and had changed ownership. We menu was not the same as online. We had the sharing platter which was expensive but looked good. The lobster was very poor and generally the flavours just weren't there and the portions were small. The side dishes of peanut noodles and fries were cold. The staff were friendly but drinks took a while to come (they weren't super busy either). Total bill £212 for food and one cocktail each.”

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• G

  Google user

  ·1 month ago

  “Such a unique vibe and interior! Some really funky touches, unlike anywhere I have been before! We were thoughtfully advised on Menu choices by our waitress Abi, and also served by Lucy who was helpful and attentive without being intrusive! The food was excellent! I have rarely enjoyed bread as much as their Milk bread (I know sounds dull… but trust me, amazing!) but all the dishes, the duck, the maki, the lobster Bao buns, the fries! Wow… just lovely! The Pandan doughnuts were also a pleasant surprise… vibrant green and delicious! It’s not a cheap meal, but the right choices mean a really special meal in a special location, and it truly felt worth it! I will happily return!!”

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• G

  Google user

  ·1 month ago

  “Looks ordinary from the outside but you enter into a really atmospheric and welcoming pub. Large outdoor area and car park accessed via a drive on the left hand side. We only went for a drink but the restaurant area seemed very professional with some high end food being prepared, I would say this was not ordinary pub food!”

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• G

  Google user

  ·2 months ago

  “We visited for the first time tonight and it completely exceeded our expectations. Every dish was outstanding, but a few really stood out. The beef tartare with sesame toast was beautifully balanced, the char siu Iberico pork quite literally melted in the mouth – easily one of the best I’ve ever had – and the wagyu beef tataki with thyme ponzu and truffle emulsion was just incredible. Honestly, the ponzu was so good I could drink a cup of it! What made the experience even better was the service. The staff were fantastic – we had the chance to speak with both the head chef and the manager, and they were incredibly friendly, welcoming, and clearly passionate about what they do. Thank you for such a memorable evening – we’ll definitely be back!”

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• G

  Google user

  ·3 months ago

  “The food taste is delicious, the food quantity isn’t at the same level for the cost. For two people we spent £130 and there was not enough food to consider ourselves full. When seated we were told “if you’re hungry I’d recommend the tomahawk (£200) to share. The small plates really are just as described. 5 slices of duck, maybe 1/3 of a breast was £15. 6 x 2p coin sized Maki rolls for the same kind of cost. Sesame noodles were nice but were a ramekin size. Chips were delicious but not a side you’d recommend for 2 people. The knowledge of the servers seemed excellent but there is a clear “upsell” policy from water to main selections. Clearing every single plate immediately felt forced and awkward. Overall the food is excellent; however it don’t believe its value and certainly not set up for the local folk of Bicester. If I was minted, I’d eat here a lot! Sadly I’m not!!”

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• G

  Google user

  ·3 months ago

  “Exceptional! We haven’t been back to the Muddy Duck since Covid (when it was turned into a general store.) I can honestly say this is the best Asian food in Oxfordshire! The quality of the food, the service, and the atmosphere were top notch! This place is not to be missed!”

• G

  Google user

  ·3 months ago

  “Sugoi! So glad your doors are now open! The Japanese food at Muddy Duck was absolutely scrumptious, authentic, fresh, and bursting with bold flavours that packed a real Japanese punch. Every dish was beautifully presented and expertly prepared, with the perfect balance of texture, freshness, and umami. We found ourselves savouring every bite and already talking about what we'll order on our next visit. This is our new hidden gem, and we'll definitely be back. From front of house to the restaurant team and management, the service was impeccable throughout, warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. We had lots of fun chatting with the team and asking questions about the quirky alien! And whatever you do, don't leave without visiting the toilets, they'll absolutely blast you away! Outstanding food, exceptional service, and a dining experience that's memorable from start to finish. A truly stellar experience that delivers on every level. If we could give 10 stars we would! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐”

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• G

  Google user

  ·3 months ago

  “What a sublime experience! Awesome flavour pallette. My son had the lamb and his words were medium rare perfection” It’s such a great experience and I intend to do this again. Well done to the chef and all involved in customer service. The vegetarian option I had was just fabulous (Katsu tofu with a fusion of flavours in a bowl). The cod was divine. Dessert was equally amazing! Thanks for the experience.”

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• G

  Google user

  ·3 months ago

  “The Muddy Duck has returned—and it has done so with real ambition. This is far more than a village pub reopening its doors; it's a thoughtful reinvention that successfully blends the warmth of a traditional Oxfordshire inn with the creativity of modern Japanese-inspired dining. The collaboration with the acclaimed team behind The Smoking Lobster on the Isle of Wight is immediately evident. Rather than following the familiar gastropub formula, the menu centres on beautifully crafted small plates and generous sharing dishes that encourage diners to explore bold flavours together. The Japanese influence is subtle and sophisticated, complementing rather than overwhelming the pub's country setting. The drinks offering is equally impressive. An expertly curated wine list sits comfortably alongside well-kept local beers on tap, ensuring there's something to suit every palate, whether you're stopping in for a quiet pint or settling in for a leisurely evening meal. Inside, The Muddy Duck has retained everything you'd hope for from a country pub—warm, welcoming spaces and plenty of character—while introducing a stylish restaurant that feels contemporary without losing its charm. Outside, the garden provides an idyllic setting for relaxed lunches and summer evenings. What makes The Muddy Duck stand out is its ability to feel both familiar and exciting. It's a place where locals can enjoy a drink at the bar just as comfortably as food enthusiasts can indulge in a memorable dining experience. Every aspect, from the carefully considered menu to the inviting atmosphere, has been designed with genuine hospitality in mind. The result is a destination that feels fresh, distinctive and confident. Whether you're visiting for drinks, sharing plates with friends or a special occasion, The Muddy Duck delivers an experience that lingers long after you've left.”

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