The Urban Fox

Modern British dining in the heart of studentville).

The 2019/20 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

At first glance, this homely Causewayside local appears to be another identikit hipster joint, replete with Victoriana, taxidermy and a chic Farrow and Ball paint job. But peer a little closer and the Urban Fox eschews those conventions in favour of a little individuality, manifested here by striking purple and orange bursts of colour on the walls and some oddball hugging-animal table decorations. Personal touches distinguish this place, though the extensive menu struggles a little in finding an identity. Starters roam the globe, like beetroot and coriander falafel with tzatziki, or salt and pepper squid with sriracha mayo, while mains focus on tried and tested bistro staples – the ubiquitous slab of pork belly here comes with black pudding mash and baby leeks – or a wide range of chunky burgers, such as the Fox burger, piled intimidatingly high with onion rings, haggis, bacon and cheese. The food's not as memorable as the colour scheme but portions are generous and prices keen, making this neighbourhood fox an affordable choice for a satiating feast.