Summer in Oxford is a unique experience for locals and students alike. Warmer weather, fewer students on campus and Square parking is better than any other time of the year. With a majority of the student body away on summer vacation, I decided to seize the oppurtunity to explore local eateries. This summer in my column “Oxford Originals” I will be visiting several of the local restaurants and hot spots around town, while keeping you informed of my adventures.
The first new place on my list was Handy Andy Grocery on North Lamar. This iconic restaurant has been a favorite of Oxford residents and Ole Miss students alike.
At 1 p.m. on a Monday afternoon, the restaurant was packed with Oxford residents for lunch. Handy Andy Grocery specializes in the food of the South: barbecue sandwiches, burgers, potato salad, cole slaw and baked beans. Entering the quaint café is like walking into an old time diner. The staff is helpful and energetic. Each order is readied without fuss or confusion. Diners order at the counter and take a seat anywhere they like, and the casual atmosphere applies to clothing as well.
I ordered the barbecue pork sandwich plate. The fresh bun was stuffed full of delicious, tender and perfectly sauced pork. The taste of the barbecue reminds you of a hot grill, smoking and sending delectable smells through the yard at a family reunion! It was definitely a nostalgic meal, bite after bite. A side of cole slaw and tater tots rounded out the plate lunch.
After lunch, I ordered the famous hand held fried apple pie. Thin crust, fresh apple filling, deep fried with a terrific glaze, this masterpiece was simply divine. This lunch was filling, delectable and inexpensive.
Orders of ribs, chicken, sandwiches and the extremely popular barbecue nachos are available for dine-in or take-out. To satisfy a sweet tooth, Handy Andy also takes care of dessert; banana pudding and homemade fried apple pies are another reason this restaurant is worth a trip.
Possibly one of the most notable things about Handy Andy, however, is the prices. Oxford has some amazing restaurants, but rarely is the price for good food as low as it is at Handy Andy. This restaurant serves great food, for great prices, and provides a laid-back place to eat. The barbecue is hailed as some of the best in Oxford and the crowd of costumers seems to agree. With great barbecue and burgers, Handy Andy is quick, casual and delicious.
Oxford is known for our well-kept secrets and Handy Andy Grocery is one of many. In the South, our lives revolve around the foods we eat and the meals we share. So, the next time you want some home-style Southern barbecue stop by Handy Andy and let one of their barbecue plates satisfy your craving. Handy Andy is the perfect quick and easy lunch spot for a summer treat. Happy eats til’ the next time we meet!
