7 Shocking Reasons Why Old Venice Pizza Company Is Now Venice Kitchen: An Oxford, MS Institution Reborn In 2025

The dining landscape in Oxford, Mississippi, is constantly evolving, and a major update has recently redefined one of its most beloved institutions: Old Venice Pizza Company. As of late 2024 and into 2025, the iconic eatery known for its award-winning pizzas and unique Italian-Southern fusion has undergone a significant transformation, now operating as Venice Kitchen. This change is more than just a new name; it represents a fresh focus on its eclectic Italian and Southern creole roots, solidifying its place as a must-visit spot near The Square for both Ole Miss students and visitors alike.

The establishment, originally founded as Old Venice Pizza Company in 1997, built a reputation on blending Deep South culinary tradition with old-world Italian heritage, creating a unique menu that extends far beyond just pizza. The transition to Venice Kitchen highlights this broader menu and commitment to an upscale, yet comfortable, dining experience. If you're planning a trip to Oxford, Mississippi, here are the seven most important things you need to know about the legacy and rebirth of this beloved restaurant.

The Evolution of a Culinary Landmark: Old Venice Pizza Co. to Venice Kitchen

Old Venice Pizza Company has been a fixture in the Oxford, MS, community, particularly for those connected to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss). Its location on Van Buren Avenue, just off the historic Courthouse Square, has made it a prime spot for years. The recent change to Venice Kitchen signals a strategic move to emphasize the full scope of its eclectic menu, which has always featured more than just their famous pies.

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The restaurant’s concept is a fascinating blend of regional and international flavors. It is one of the few places where you can find genuine Italian dishes alongside Southern-inspired appetizers and pasta. This unique approach is what has kept it relevant in a competitive dining environment that includes other notable Oxford establishments like Ajax Diner, Bouré, and City Grocery.

The establishment's history is intertwined with the local culture, even sharing a building with a popular upstairs bar (The Summit, formerly The Burgundy Room), which itself underwent a makeover, further cementing the location as a key entertainment and dining hub in the city.

7 Must-Try Dishes and Unique Concepts at the Reborn Venice Kitchen (Old Venice Legacy)

The menu at Venice Kitchen (formerly Old Venice) is a treasure trove of comfort food and innovative Italian-Southern fusion. While the name has changed, the core, award-winning dishes that made Old Venice a legend remain. These items are essential for any first-time visitor or returning fan:

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1. The Dynamite Shrimp Starter: This is a highly-praised appetizer featuring crispy, seasoned shrimp. It exemplifies the restaurant's ability to blend Southern-style frying techniques with a sophisticated flavor profile, making it a perfect example of their "eclectic Italian with a touch of Southern creole" concept.
2. The Old Venice Delux Pizza: The namesake pizza is a classic for a reason. It is loaded with traditional toppings including pepperoni, Italian sausage, seasoned beef, diced ham, mushrooms, black olives, onion, and bell pepper. It’s a hearty, fully-loaded pie that showcases their commitment to quality ingredients.
3. The Unique Pasta Selections: Known as "Oxford's Favorite Pasta," their offerings go beyond standard spaghetti. While the menu is extensive, the Lasagna remains a popular, comforting choice, often cited in reviews. The pasta dishes are a pillar of the menu, providing a substantial alternative to the pizza.
4. The Southern Creole Influence: Crawfish Rolls: This appetizer is a perfect illustration of the Deep South influence. The Crawfish Rolls are spring rolls stuffed with crawfish, bacon, and cream cheese, served with a special crawfish dipping sauce, making it a true regional specialty.
5. Customizable Pizza Bases: Unlike many pizzerias, Old Venice (now Venice Kitchen) offers a choice of bases, allowing for a personalized experience. Diners can select from classic Pizza Sauce, Olive Oil, Alfredo Sauce, or a Sun-Dried Tomato base, catering to different flavor preferences.
6. The Greek Goddess Pizza: This specialty pizza highlights the "old-world" Italian side of the menu, featuring Greek olives, Feta cheese, and other Mediterranean-inspired toppings. It's a lighter, tangier option for those seeking something different from the meat-heavy Delux.
7. The Rustica Pizza: A sophisticated choice, the Rustica features prosciutto, chicken, and fresh basil. This pizza demonstrates the restaurant's ability to provide a classy and trendy dining experience without being overly formal, attracting a diverse crowd from college students to fine-dining enthusiasts.

Why Venice Kitchen Remains a Downtown Oxford Staple in 2025

The transition to Venice Kitchen has not diminished the restaurant's status; in fact, by focusing on its eclectic Italian and Southern offerings, it has strengthened its identity. The establishment continues to be a central part of the downtown Oxford dining scene, often included in lists of recommended eateries for visitors and locals.

Its location at 1112 Van Buren Ave, Oxford, MS 38655, places it perfectly for pre-game meals before an Ole Miss football game or a casual dinner after exploring the shops and boutiques on The Square. The atmosphere is often described as cozy, focusing on the quality of the food and the dining experience.

While some reviews mention that the food can be pricey by Mississippi standards, the consensus is that the unique menu, generous portions, and vibrant atmosphere make it a worthwhile splurge. The restaurant successfully bridges the gap between a casual pizza parlor and a fine-dining Italian restaurant, offering something for everyone, from a simple calzone to a complex Southern creole pasta dish. The enduring popularity of this Oxford institution, now under the name Venice Kitchen, is a testament to its unique, flavorful blend of Deep South and Italian culinary traditions.

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