Located in Oxford Square, Saint Leo is a James Beard Award-nominated, wood-fired Italian bistro. It’s in a shotgun style building that used to be a shoe shop and it has a bit of a rustic flair, but the overall design of the space still feels modern. The design of the bar helps makes it feel pretty intimate as well (kinda like you’re at a family gathering), so whether you are seated with friends or enjoying a meal alone, you’ll undoubtedly have someone to talk to while you’re there. I’m a sucker for avocado toast, so when we stopped by Saint Leo for lunch during our trip to Oxford, MS for the MENT Event, I knew that I had to try it when I saw it on their menu.
We dined in on a Saturday, so we were able to enjoy their Brunch Menu. The Avocado Toast was topped with two sunny-side-up eggs, microgreens & chili paste. The bread was toasty and buttery, with the chili past adding just the right spicy kick (and don’t even get me started on the eggs-nothing beats adding a runny yolk to your food). Avocado Toast is a simple meal, BUT, if all of the textures and flavor don’t come together perfectly, it can be very hit or miss. This was a hit for me.
Carmeon and I were on a time crunch while we were there, so I wasn’t able to enjoy a cocktail while I dined, (though the other ladies were and I’ve heard only great things). This just means I need to make a trip back soon, right? While Oxford is known for being a college town, their Square is culturally diverse with a great mix of restaurants, shops and other small businesses. It’s the perfect spot for a day trip from Memphis (it’s under 2 hours away) with a group of girlfriends or your beau.
If you’re taking a trip to Oxford, MS soon and want to try Saint Leo out for yourself, they’re located at 1101 Jackson Avenue East, Oxford, Mississippi 38655. All seating is walk-in, and they only seat complete parties; no reservations are needed. To check out their menus, click here.
Have you been to Saint Leo?