This review is a decade overdue. I spent many nights here during grad school, and got to know the regulars and the crew. The sound system is probably the best in all of Oxfordshire. The food is comforting, and the company is genuine and creative (and frequently drunk). On one of my last nights here, Andy brought a special bottle of white rum "from the back room" to our table and to this day it remains the best liquor I've ever tasted. Go to Hi Lo, you will make memories to last a lifetime.
Lovely relaxed atmosphere here. Great if you are looking to have a drink without the usual dance music and meat market which are often found at late night venues. Fantastic selection of rums. Friendly staff.
When you go to Hi-Lo, it’s like you’ve walked into someone’s living room (sometimes invited, sometimes not). The food is really delicious and the service is genuine, with each customer receiving a unique experience. It’s one of my favourite places in Oxford, and a must for whenever I have guests.
If you've been here, you don't need a review. If you haven't, well, it's an experience. It's open late to the point of early. It's not got a massive selection but there's no better place for rum. It's warm all year round because there's a furnace and an airlock door system. Be polite to the staff and they'll welcome you in. Candles on tables, reggae on the speakers, a variety of warming Caribbean food and, potentially, cricket on the TV.
Facilities aren't great but you're not here for that. You're here to chill out and have a drink because you're not for home yet. Embrace the huge variety of people that wander in, stay cool and just enjoy it for what it is.
A special experience. One of the few places open all night. Do not bring expensive cloths, as the furnace is on all night, and your cloths will smell of it for several days.
So nice to go somewhere different, with a relaxed atmosphere, good food and rum. Love the decor - pictures on the walls are great. Will definitely go back
Authentic Jamaican bar with great drinks, great vibes, and a lovely late license.
A true Cowley Road establishment. If you appreciate Jamaican food, culture, and hospitality (or frankly, the lack thereof) then you will feel right at home. If you're looking for "Jamie Oliver-style jerk chicken"... you're in the wrong place.
Andy is a very good host very welcoming food good beer 🍺 very special and the rum out of this world you will enjoy the experience of Jamaica
This is such a friendly place! Be sure to ask for the off-menu items - the jerk chicken is sooo good!!
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