Oxford, Mississippi is a historic city with roots dating back to the early 19th century. Founded in 1837, the city was named after the prestigious university city of Oxford in England. It quickly grew into a major center of commerce and education in the region, with the establishment of the University of Mississippi in 1848. During the Civil War, Oxford played a key role as a strategic location and suffered significant damage during the conflict. However, the city was able to recover and thrive in the post-war years, attracting artists, writers, and intellectuals who were drawn to its charming Southern atmosphere. Oxford gained national recognition as the hometown of acclaimed author William Faulkner, who set many of his novels in the fictional town of Yoknapatawpha County, inspired by the landscape and history of Oxford. Today, the city continues to be a cultural hub, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic downtown area, and strong sense of community.

1- The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

• Healthcare
• Technology
• Retail
• Manufacturing
• Finance
• Education
• Hospitality
• Construction
• Transportation
• Government

2- The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

• Hiking
• Biking
• Skiing
• Fishing
• Golfing
• Boating
• Wine tasting
• Camping
• Running
• Sightseeing

3- Average low and high temperature for the month:

• Low: 50°F
• High: 80°F

4- Average precipitation for the month:

• 3 inches

5- Elevation:

• 1,000 feet

6- Average home price:

• $300,000

7- Average household income:

• $70,000

8- The top 10 tourist points of interest:

• Historic downtown area
• Natural hot springs
• Local museums
• Botanical gardens
• Scenic overlooks
• Wineries
• Adventure parks
• Wildlife reserves
• Cultural festivals
• Outdoor music venues

The top 10 restaurants:

City Grocery

Location: 152 Courthouse Square, Oxford, MS 38655

City Grocery is considered by many to be the best restaurant in the state of Mississippi. Chef John Currence opened the restaurant 27 years ago in a historic livery stable on the Courthouse Square. The restaurant is known for its quality wine service and Southern-inspired dishes, with iconic dishes like shrimp and grits.

Mama Jo’s

Location: 206 South Lamar Blvd, Oxford, MS 38655

Mama Jo’s is a nondescript strip mall restaurant known for serving Oxford’s best soul food. The buffet features dishes prepared fresh daily, and the prices are friendly to the student crowd. The restaurant is particularly famous for its fried chicken and a variety of delicious sides.

Zaap Thai Kitchen

Location: 206 South Lamar Blvd, Oxford, MS 38655

Zaap Thai Kitchen is an authentic eatery run by Rasita Palawan, offering a menu that includes Penang curry, basil and chili chicken dish, pad thai, tom kha coconut soup, and stir-fried catfish. The restaurant is known for not cutting any corners and using local produce.

Volta

Location: 710 North Lamar Blvd, Oxford, MS 38655

Volta Taverna is a Greek restaurant set in a converted gas station, popular with locals. The menu offers traditional favorites like hummus and souvlaki, along with pizzas and quesadillas. Notable dishes include the Hotty Toddy Balls, Greek Pimento Cheese, and the Lemon Chicken Wrap with added feta cheese.

Bouré

Location: 309 North Lamar Blvd, Oxford, MS 38655

Bouré is a restaurant owned by chef John Currence, offering a little bit of everything. The restaurant is known for its attentive and fast service, and popular dishes include the Bouré Burger, gumbo, and crab cakes. The ribeye special with Worcestershire butter is also highly recommended.

Saint Leo

Location: 1101 East Jackson Ave, Oxford, MS 38655

Saint Leo is a cozy restaurant known for its Italian wines, wood-fired pizzas, and craft cocktails. The restaurant also offers weekend brunch with dishes like avocado toast and breakfast pizza. Notable menu items include farinata, pizza with soppressata and burrata, and steamed clams.

The Sipp on South Lamar

Location: 400 S Lamar Blvd a2, Oxford, MS 38655

The Sipp on South Lamar offers a clubby vibe and a black interior, making it a great spot for date night. The restaurant has a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winning list and offers a menu of nibbles in small and entree-size portions, including artichoke croquettes and jumbo lump crab dip.

Tallahatchie Gourmet

Location: 1221 Van Buren Ave, Oxford, MS 38655

Tallahatchie Gourmet proffers New Orleans-inspired cuisine just off the Square. The restaurant offers a popular lunch menu, including homemade chicken salad, oyster and shrimp po’ boys, and daily veggie specials. For dinner, the menu includes fried seafood and Pasta Bienville topped with shrimp, crawfish, and Creole sausage.

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