A French bakery and coffee shop, with meal I ptions for breakfast, lunch or dinner, Le Pain is in the Westgate shopping complex. Since Oxford University draws people world-round, it's hard to tell if the French accents and real or for the benefit of patrons. Several of the waitstaff and counter staff in the bakery/coffee bar did their best to make us wonder.
I had scrambled eggs, done perfectly evenly yellow, with crispy ham and a crusty whole wheat toast. Full coffee options from Americano to Espresso we're available, but I chose an pot of breakfast tea. Their handless cups are Belgian tradition, and the cups for coffee are and closer to a bowl. A great way to warm hands while sipping.
Breakfast options include Shakshuka, avocado toast, baked eggs and salmon, and many traditional and healthy options.
As we and others were taken to tables, we wondered about their "system" as couples were sometimes seated at small tables, and sometimes at a large "community" table in the middle. Initial service was fast and food was also delivered quickly, but we saw at least four table who had to approach their server to ask for the bill, and as we grew weary waiting, I did the same. Perhaps they don't want to rush people as the restaurant had ample open tables, but it seemed like a general lack of attention.
We returned later for take away, and I recommend a visit, but you too may need to ask for the check when you are ready to pay. read more