37 - 38 Margaret Street,
Oxford Circus,
London,
W1G 0JF
0872 148 2356
The ViewLondon Review
Don’t expect Match Bar Oxford Circus to be like its sister bar in Farringdon. In desperate need of a re-vamp, the shabby chic it pretends to go for appears to be just a fluke. It hasn’t been refurbished for a few years now and looks well worn in.The VenueMatch Bar is situated in the heart of Oxford Circus on Margaret Street, a stone's throw from the tube station. The venue is very small and narrow and it's often difficult to get to the bar through the crowds of after work drinkers. They have a couple of tables outside and the front windows open out to give an airy feel.
The decor is worn with leather sofas and kitsch little chairs in amongst higher, more comfortable dining tables. There are quite a few areas for dining but not all of them are in their own section so you have people squeezing past your table whilst eating, which can be annoying at busy times.
The AtmosphereMatch Bar in Farringdon has a really chilled, happy vibe even when it's very busy, which is an attitude this branch could do with adopting. Due to the location, it's constantly overcrowded and noisy. The bar attracts people straight from work or shoppers looking to take the weight off after a gruelling day on Oxford Street - apart from on Saturdays when there's a definite tourist feel.
They do offer a waitress service here but it depends on how many people there are working that particular shift. It’s not unusual to wait longer than it would have taken to go to the bar yourself, but you will find the staff chirpy and friendly if you manage to grab one.
The MusicIt’s difficult to hear the music over the noisy crowd, but what you can hear is pretty good - mainly funky house and club classics. They have regular DJ slots mid-week and weekends.
The DrinkEveryone can have an off day, but when the bar is part of a reputable chain consistency is the name of the game. Unfortunately, Match Bar Oxford Street lets the side down in comparison to their other branches with a hit or miss approach to cocktails, their main fare. On the plus side, there is a large drinks menu on offer with cocktails coming in at £6-£7, including a decent selection of Champagne options. Famous mixologist Dale Degroff also has a selection of specially crafted creations, at a slightly higher price of £8. It's just a shame the staff that actually do the mixing don't always do the interesting creations justice.
If cocktails aren't your thing then bottled beers include Proof, Proof Pilsen, Union and Paulaner for £3.50. There's also a small wine and Champagne selection.
The Last WordIt’s not that much further to go to the Match Bar in Farringdon, so it doesn’t make much sense to come here – unless it’s for total convenience.