It is not a town you would previously expect to take that title
The restaurant scene is growing in Oxted, to the point that lifestyle guide Muddy Stilettos have claimed is ‘fast becoming the foodie capital of Surrey'(Image: Robin Webster)
A new Mediterranean restaurant and bar is set to open in a Surrey town that has recently been described as “fast becoming the foodie capital of the county”.
The town of Oxted is set to welcome another restaurant to it’s town centre, this time in the former Co-Op supermarket building on Station Road East.
The bar and restaurant, which will be known as Medora, will serve food inspired by Greek, Turkish and Lebanese favourites, and it’s owner, a local resident and businessman has told SurreyLive that he expects to have a soft opening in December 2025.
The town has a population of just over 11,000 according to ONS figures but, despite its relatively small size, has been going through something of a “golden age” in terms of restaurants and is “fast becoming the foodie capital of Surrey” according to online lifestyle guide Muddy Stilettos.
Medora’s co-owner provided SurreyLive with some images of what they expect the restaurant to look like inside(Image: Baram Kandil)
According to the local business-funded organisation Love Oxted, who are supporting the opening of Medora, the restaurant is anticipated to feature a central bar, plenty of seating and an upstairs section available for private hire.
In terms of what customers can expect, Love Oxted has told the public that the menu will centre around Mediterranean food, with a specific focus on Greek, Turkish and Lebanese favourites.
This will be accompanied by a curated wine and drinks list as well as the aim of a relaxed atmosphere with Love Oxted specifically stating Medora will not be a nightclub.
Medora is being spearheaded by Oxted resident and businessman Baram Kandil in partnership with the people behind Epsom’s Mediterranean restaurant, Koza.
Kandil is a prominent figure in Oxted’s business landscape, being the owner of three barbershops in the town.
Those behind the restaurant plan for the central bar to look something like this(Image: Baram Kandil)
Speaking to Love Oxted back in September, Mr Kandil said: “Oxted already has an incredible independent restaurant scene that makes it stand out from other towns in the area.
“We want Medora to build on that reputation and complement the fantastic venues already here, while adding something fresh and exciting for residents and visitors alike.”
He continued: “We’re creating something really special with Medora. From the central bar to the finishes and lighting, every detail has been chosen to give people a stylish but comfortable place to enjoy an evening out.
“The atmosphere will be relaxed, welcoming and perfect for everything from a casual drink to a full dining experience.”
The building on Station Road East was formerly home a Co-Op supermarket, which closed in February 2025. The building has been described by Muddy Stilettos as a huge site and, previous to the Co-Op, it was a Woolworths store.
Dining and Cooking