Pierre Victoire looks like it's been plucked from rural France and serves food that would please all but the pickiest Frenchman.

The Venue
Set about five minutes walk from the city centre on Little Clarendon Street, Pierre Victoire is within a few hundred yards of many of Oxford's nicer pubs and bars.

It's cosy, candle-lit and tables are crammed in, so expect to be close to your fellow diners. Decor is typically French and would not look out of place in the heart of Picardie.

The Atmosphere
The dim lighting and intimacy of Pierre Victoire make it a great spot for a romantic tryst. Many of the clientele are couples of all ages but it's also popular with groups of friends, especially after an evening at the nearby playhouse theatre.

Staff are helpful and usually pleasant, but they can be slow to serve you and may need the occasional reminder that you're there.

The Food
A selection of set menus offer excellent value for money and the set lunch and pre-theatre menu are under £10 and the three-course dinner is under £20. If you are feeling flush the a la carte menu offers a greater choice of dishes.

Everything that leaves the kitchen seems to be prepared with care and presentation is good. Portions aren't huge but this at least leaves room for dessert.

The cuisine, as you might expect, is typically French with the ubiquitous moules well represented. There is a wide choice of dishes and the more adventurous can opt for pigeon, monkfish or duck in various guises, while more staid palates are catered for with excellent steaks and the old favourite coq au vin.

All the food is good, well prepared and flavoursome but somehow doesn't manage to be exceptional.

The Drink
The wine list is at best uninteresting and the house wine is poor, which seems unusual for a French establishment. Bottled beers represent a better choice and there is a large selection of spirits and aperitifs.

The Last Word
Pierre Victoire is great for a romantic evening as they serve consistently good food at reasonable prices and it's one of the few restaurants where you can still get a meal after 10.30pm. No doubt you'll be back for more.

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