Oklahoma City’s food scene might be America’s best-kept culinary secret. The city has become an unexpected foodie paradise with an impressive 1,700 dining options listed on Tripadvisor alone. Yes, you read that correctly – 1,700!
The city’s restaurant scene has flourished over the last several years. Oklahoma City’s top restaurants now boast James Beard Award winners. Local flavors blend seamlessly with international cuisines to create unique dining experiences. Several restaurants have proven their staying power. The Metro Wine Bar & Bistro stands out with its state-of-the-art food and wine offerings for more than three decades. Empire Slice House has earned its reputation as a local favorite, drawing crowds with its New York-style pizza and energetic atmosphere.
Ready to find Oklahoma City’s best restaurants away from tourist hotspots? This piece highlights locally-owned treasures within city limits. We’ve selected 15 outstanding restaurants that locals cherish but visitors rarely notice. These establishments rank among the city’s finest, consistently earning praise from regular diners. Your taste buds will experience an unforgettable Oklahoma adventure through award-winning dessert shops and established culinary landmarks.
Cattlemen’s Steakhouse
Cattlemen’s Steakhouse stands as Oklahoma City’s oldest restaurant still serving customers today. This legendary spot dates back to 1910 and has quite a story – someone won it in a dice game after World War II. The place started as Cattlemen’s Café and transformed into the steakhouse we know today in 1990.
Signature Dish at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse
Their Presidential Choice T-Bone steaks really shine here. These got their name after President George H.W. Bush picked this cut during his visit. The steaks come from Midwest-raised, corn-fed cattle, naturally aged and charcoal-broiled to USDA Prime or Choice grades.
The restaurant’s most unique offering might surprise you – lamb fries, which are fried lamb testicles. These have become one of their best-selling appetizers. The kitchen goes through between 25,000 to 30,000 pounds of this specialty item each year. You should also try:
- The pepper steak with peppercorn sauce
- Bone-in ham steak
- House-made dressing (a creamy, tangy blend)
Ambiance at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse
The original building gives you that classic diner feel with two counters and red vinyl booths. They’ve added two more dining rooms – The Hereford and The Angus – that bring out that genuine western feel.
Much of the interior looks just like it did in 1945, with cowboy art adorning the walls. The restaurant feels clean and authentic rather than old. You’ll find a relaxed Western atmosphere where you don’t need fancy clothes – just come ready to enjoy a hearty meal.
Pricing at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse
The prices at Cattlemen’s won’t break the bank, especially given its legendary status. Lunch specials give you a T-bone steak with baked potato and salad for about $25-27. The famous Presidential T-bone runs $31.50, and you can get a great top sirloin for $22.95.
Sweet tooth? Leave room for blackberry cobbler with ice cream or coconut cream pie – both just $4.25.
This historic spot draws everyone from celebrities like John Wayne and Reba McEntire to locals looking for real Oklahoma flavors. Great history, quality steaks, and fair prices make Cattlemen’s a true OKC gem.
Flint
FLINT Kitchen & Bar sits in the heart of downtown’s historic Colcord Hotel, blending modern cuisine with Southern charm. The restaurant has earned a 4.5-star rating from 2570 OpenTable diners, making it one of Oklahoma City’s most beloved dining spots.
Signature Dish at Flint
The kitchen team really shines with their seafood dishes. Diners often rave about the blackened redfish, and the crab cakes and scallops are cooked to perfection. The shrimp and grits might just become your favorite – the tomato sauce gets special mention, which diners call “a house-made heavenly concoction” made with stewed tomatoes and sherry.
Some must-try dishes include:
- A bacon-wrapped meatloaf that puts a fresh spin on classic comfort food
- Cowboy Caviar – a Southern starter that combines black-eyed peas, corn, and cilantro vinaigrette
- A generous slice of key lime pie that comes with a beautifully bruléed meringue topping
The restaurant has brought back a premium oyster program that pays tribute to the Colcord’s marble-lobby oyster bar from the early 1900s.
Ambiance at Flint
A major 2022 renovation breathed new life into the space. The modern dining room now showcases rich woodsy tones that blend perfectly with touches of fire and glass.
The patio space is something special. This elegant outdoor retreat combines a waterfall and fireplace, creating the perfect spot for seasonal cocktails. Live music fills the air on Thursday evenings and during Sunday brunch from June through August.
Pricing at Flint
Morning favorites cost between $5 and $14, from classic eggs any style to delicious lemon ricotta pancakes topped with mango-papaya chutney.
Lunch prices stay wallet-friendly at $7 to $14, letting you sample everything from jalapeno hush puppies to a fresh lobster roll.
The dinner menu expands to include specialties like porcini-dusted lamb loin and mixed grill options. Brunch lovers shouldn’t miss the famous mega cinnamon rolls or the short rib eggs benedict.
Bricktown Brewery
Bricktown Brewery has come a long way from its humble beginnings of serving frozen burger patties. Now it’s a regional success story with 14 locations across five states. This Oklahoma City original stands out from typical chain restaurants.
Signature Dish at Bricktown Brewery
The Breakfast Burger reigns supreme with a 95% approval rating. This delicious creation comes loaded with a fried egg, hash browns, American cheese, and sweet peppered bacon. Big Mike’s Meatloaf deserves equal attention – it’s a bacon-wrapped masterpiece that blends Creekstone Farms Black Angus beef with fresh ground pork. The meatloaf gets a chili sauce glaze and comes topped with frizzled onion strings.
The menu offers these lighter options:
- The Best Fried Chicken Salad features fresh greens, sweet peppered bacon, sunflower kernels, and Parmesan garlic dressing
- The Cobb Salad brings together grilled chicken, avocado, and sweet peppered bacon – 90% of diners give it a thumbs-up
The handcrafted pizzas deserve special mention, especially the Rustic Pepperoni and BBQ Chicken varieties.
Ambiance at Bricktown Brewery
Red brick architecture makes the brewery stand out and honors its historic district roots. The interior welcomes guests with an open layout while Edison lights add warmth and character. Guests often describe the atmosphere as “clean and fun” – a perfect match for their relaxed dining experience.
The restaurant pulses with energy during busy times. Friday nights see packed houses, but the quality of service never wavers.
Pricing at Bricktown Brewery
Your money goes far at Bricktown Brewery. Burger prices start at $10.50 for the classic Bricktown Burger and go up to $13.75 for the Double Bricktown. Popular entrées like the Chicken-Fried Steak cost $14.95, while their signature meatloaf is $14.25.
Sweet treats like the sizzling Apple Crisp and Heath Bar Crunch Brownie cost just $6.50. Guests often mention the generous portions – one order could easily feed two people.
The restaurant serves up comfort food with creative twists at reasonable prices. It deserves a spot on your Oklahoma City dining list.
Kitchen No. 324
Kitchen No. 324 stands as downtown’s crown jewel of casual dining. This unique spot combines a seasonally inspired café, craft bakery, and coffee curator under one roof. The bright, clean establishment ranks as the #5 restaurant among 1,772 establishments in Oklahoma City, cementing its place as a culinary destination.
Signature Dish at Kitchen No. 324
The Famous Fried Chicken Pot Pie steals the show here. This remarkable creation combines tender chicken breast, vegetables, and herbs in a creamy sherry base. A biscuit crust tops it off, and the star attraction – a crispy fried chicken leg – dramatically rises from the center. While it might look theatrical, the dish delivers authentic flavors that match its impressive presentation.
The Giant Buttermilk Pancake truly lives up to its name with its impressive size. The Maple Cruller deserves special mention, as many consider it “the best pastry in Oklahoma City”. The menu also features these standout items:
- Sweet Potato Sandwich with goat cheese and spiced red onion marmalade ($12)
- Hand Carved French Dip with gruyere and pan jus ($17)
- Really Fancy Grilled Cheese with smoked cheddar, poblano peach preserves ($11)
Ambiance at Kitchen No. 324
The restaurant’s radiant atmosphere balances simplicity with charm. Jewel-toned green seats add visual appeal, and the smell of freshly roasted coffee welcomes guests immediately. The space strikes a perfect balance between upscale and welcoming, making it ideal for both business meetings and casual brunches.
Pricing at Kitchen No. 324
Quality matches the reasonable breakfast and brunch prices. The signature Fried Chicken Pot Pie costs $18, while breakfast sandwiches range from $15-17. Regular sandwiches cost between $11-15, and salads run from $15-21.
Coffee lovers will appreciate the diverse drink selection, from hand-brewed coffee ($4.75) to specialty lattes ($5.50). The kitchen team starts fresh preparation at 4am daily, which explains the value behind these mid-range prices.
Nic’s Grill
Nic’s Grill stands as a true hidden gem that locals treasure, earning the title “Best Burger in Oklahoma City” in The Oklahoman’s Burger Bracket. This tiny spot’s reputation reaches way beyond its modest appearance and has caught Food Network’s Guy Fieri’s attention.
Signature Dish at Nic’s Grill
Nic’s serves Oklahoma’s onion burger in its ultimate form. Justin “Nic” Nicholas crafts these burgers differently from traditional onion burgers that press onions into flattened meat. He places half-pound beef patties on the grill and presses them just enough to touch the iron. The onions cook separately among other ingredients before landing on top of the sizzling beef.
The end product? A magnificent mess of ground beef with slightly crisp edges, blanketed in onions that range from translucent to caramelized amber. This masterpiece includes:
- Pickle chips (standard)
- Optional bright orange cheese
- Bacon and jalapeños (if desired)
Note that Nic suggests mustard over ketchup to achieve the perfect flavor balance. On top of that, it’s best to skip lettuce and tomato as they “destabilize the sandwich”.
Ambiance at Nic’s Grill
This place defines cozy – a tiny diner with a short counter and just a few tables along the windows. You’ll likely need to wait for a seat during peak hours. Notwithstanding that, this intimate setting offers an unmatched experience where your burger sizzles just feet away.
Pricing at Nic’s Grill
Current 2025 prices show a combo with cheeseburger, fries, and drink costs approximately $15. Note that Nic’s accepts CASH ONLY – no credit cards or other payment methods work here. Regular burgers cost $14.50, while the “Little Nic” option runs $11.50. Special creations like the “JoJo Burger” with egg, bacon and smoked gouda cost $16.50.
Family visits might run around $70 (including tip) for two adults and two children. Many burger enthusiasts call this Oklahoma’s finest burger experience, making it worth every penny.
Cheever’s Cafe
Cheever’s Cafe sits just two miles from downtown and wins guests over with its contemporary comfort food that features Southwest influences. This cherished spot started as a flower shop before it reshaped the scene as one of Oklahoma City’s culinary gems.
Signature Dish at Cheever’s Cafe
The Chicken Fried Steak stands out as the star attraction with its jalapeño cream gravy and garlic red-skinned mashed potatoes. Customers call it “the best chicken fried steak” they’ve ever had. The dish draws people from neighboring states.
These dishes also shine on the menu:
- Famous Seafood Tamales with sweet potato tamale and ancho cream
- Shrimp and Grits with bacon-wrapped jumbo shrimp and sriracha-honey butter
- Roasted Chicken & Pepper Jack Strudel
Sweet lovers should try the Roasted Pecan Ice Cream Ball – vanilla ice cream rolled in brown sugar roasted pecans and red chile, topped with chocolate sauce. The half-pound portion makes it perfect to share!
Ambiance at Cheever’s Cafe
The restaurant blends casual elegant dining with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The building’s flower shop heritage adds unique charm, with original elements still visible throughout. Diners enjoy exceptional food in a relaxed setting without any fuss.
Pricing at Cheever’s Cafe
Dinner entrées start at $21 for Italian Sausage Rigatoni and reach $49 for premium cuts like their Filet or Grilled Ribeye. The signature Chicken Fried Steak runs $27, while their Famous Seafood Tamale costs $39.
The Roasted Pecan Ice Cream Ball costs $16, and their Giant Carrot Cake – dubbed “The Grand Canyon of carrot cakes” – goes for $18.
Menu prices range from $19 to $39, which reflects great value given the quality ingredients and expert preparation.
Paseo Grill
Paseo Grill sits in Oklahoma City’s artistic Paseo District, combining classic American cuisine with international influences. Restaurant owners Lesley Rawlinson and Joe Jungmann have managed to keep their winning flavor profile consistent at the same historic building for 16 years.
Signature Dish at Paseo Grill
The Miso Sea Bass stands out as a dinner favorite among customers. This 7 oz. Chilean Sea Bass arrives pan-seared with a sweet and savory Miso Glaze, drizzled with Beurre Blanc, alongside a Fried Potato Cake and Sautéed Green Beans. The duck breast ranks high with patrons, featuring a raspberry bourbon sauce and cracklings on top.
Other must-try dishes include:
- Curry-infused chicken pot pie (a lunch menu favorite)
- Southwest meatloaf ($25)
- Filet of beef tenderloin with Beurre Marchand de Vin ($44)
Ambiance at Paseo Grill
USA Today named Paseo Grill the “most romantic restaurant in Oklahoma City”. The restaurant’s design has curtains and booths that create a quiet atmosphere. The intimate setting features low lighting – reading glasses and mini flashlights are available when needed.
Paseo Grill delivers a casual yet sophisticated dining experience. The patio seating gives guests a view of beautiful Spanish villa-style art galleries, making it perfect for specialty cocktails or wine.
Pricing at Paseo Grill
Dinner entrées start at $20 for the Vegetable Moussaka and go up to $58 for premium options like the Prime Ribeye. The signature Miso Sea Bass comes at market price. Each main dish comes with carefully selected sides like toasted pine nut orzo or mashed potatoes.
The Grilled Atlantic Salmon costs $34, while the popular Maple Leaf Farms Duck Breast costs $35. Additional side dishes cost $6 each, with choices from asparagus to brown butter spinach.
Crabtown
Pearl’s Crabtown draws seafood enthusiasts to Bricktown’s historic district with its authentic Cajun flavors. The 20,000-square-foot converted warehouse stands as Oklahoma City’s seafood leader for over 30 years.
Signature Dish at Crabtown
Crabtown’s crown jewel remains its Cajun Crab and Shrimp Boil. Staff members pour this messy masterpiece directly onto butcher paper-covered tables! The feast comes with crab legs, boiled shrimp, corn on the cob, red potatoes, and Andouille sausage. Guests can skip the silverware and grab some drawn butter or lemon wedges to dig in.
The menu’s other standout items include:
- Crab Cake Sliders with remarkable flavor
- Crab Crusted Salmon with fettuccini in lemon butter sauce
- New Orleans Bread Pudding for dessert
The restaurant’s specialty Hurricane cocktail “packs a category-5 punch”.
Ambiance at Crabtown
The restaurant’s sprawling space pulses with Zydeco-laced music. Century-old brick walls, ornate lighting, and creaky wooden floors create an authentic vintage atmosphere. New Orleans and Mardi Gras themed decorations fill the space, making it both festive and casual.
Pricing at Crabtown
Dollar oysters make Tuesdays special at Crabtown. Weekday happy hours from Monday through Friday feature oysters at $1.75. While the signature crab boil’s exact prices aren’t listed, guests describe them as “reasonably priced”. The menu ranges from affordable sandwiches to premium seafood platters, making it suitable for different budgets.
Iron Star Urban Barbeque
Iron Star Urban Barbeque brings refined BBQ to Oklahoma City’s dining scene. This upscale spot serves “excellent food” and creates a “great neighborhood bar vibe”.
Signature Dish at Iron Star Urban Barbeque
The Burnt End Queso takes center stage with its creamy green chile queso packed with chopped brisket burnt ends and tortilla chips. Customers love the ribs that come perfectly seasoned and “so tender”. The menu highlights include:
- Black Pepper Crusted Prime Rib (10 oz. minimum for $29.00)
- Daily specials like Tuesday’s Brisket Tacos and Friday’s Beef Tenderloin Meatloaf
- Smoked Salmon with avocado-lime butter ($25.00)
One satisfied customer raved about the brisket: “It was the best tasting brisket I have had!”.
Ambiance at Iron Star Urban Barbeque
The restaurant creates a casual yet trendy vibe where noise levels stay moderate. Its upscale yet welcoming interior makes it perfect for date nights and group gatherings. The staff provides “fantastic service” consistently, even during peak hours.
Pricing at Iron Star Urban Barbeque
Quality matches the reasonable prices here. Smoked meat plates cost between $19.00 for “lite” portions and $22.00 for dinner servings. Side options like Fancy Mac & Cheese or Whole Fried Okra come at $5.00 each.
Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 3-6 PM with great deals on $5.00 specialty cocktails, draft beers, and appetizers including their famous Burnt End Queso. The dessert menu features crowd favorites like the Double Chocolate Bread Pudding that customers describe as “so, so, SO good!”.
Cafe Kacao
Cafe Kacao brings a vibrant slice of Guatemala to life with its authentic Latin American breakfast creations. Veronica Zelada’s culinary dream started in 2006, and her restaurant has delighted Oklahoma City’s food lovers for over 13 years.
Signature Dish at Cafe Kacao
The Tikal stands out as their crown jewel – a traditional Guatemalan breakfast that combines carne asada, eggs, fried plantains, and beans. Their French toast deserves a spotlight too, with customers calling it “incredible” thanks to its uniquely crunchy edges. The menu offers several standout dishes:
- Pupusas Breakfast – cheese and pork-stuffed corn tortillas with perfect grill marks
- Burrito Cubano – a Cuban twist on breakfast favorites
- Fried Plantains – a customer favorite that keeps getting rave reviews
Ambiance at Cafe Kacao
The restaurant’s tropical vibe creates an energetic atmosphere. This local hotspot draws huge crowds, and wait times can stretch up to two hours during busy periods. Regular customers suggest adding your name to the virtual waiting list before you head over.
Pricing at Cafe Kacao
The menu won’t break the bank, with most items ranging from $16-24. You’ll pay around $24 for the signature Tikal and $17 for their Huevos Rancheros. Their coffee program shines with house-made syrups, while skilled baristas craft espresso drinks throughout the day.
The Mule
The Mule has earned its reputation as “best sandwich in Oklahoma” on Yelp by turning simple grilled cheese into amazing culinary masterpieces. This unique restaurant and bar brings cold beer and gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches to Oklahoma City’s Plaza District in an ultra-cool, laid-back setting.
Signature Dish at The Mule
The Macaroni Pony leads their creative menu with tender pulled pork smothered in chipotle barbecue sauce and three-cheese macaroni, all served on a cornbread bun. The Cortez delivers an equally impressive experience with its braised short ribs, melted pepperjack, grilled jalapeños, and sweet caramelized onions nestled between slices of jalapeño cornbread. Sweet-tooth customers will love their elevated PB&J that combines rich peanut butter, dark chocolate, and raspberry preserves, paired perfectly with salted-caramel ice cream.
Don’t overlook these fan favorites:
- The Classic ($8.00) – golden grilled cheese sandwiches served with creamy tomato soup
- Fried cheese curds ($9.00) made from local Watonga cheese wrapped in funnel cake-like batter
Ambiance at The Mule
Quirky decorations create a welcoming vibe throughout the space. The restaurant’s popularity shows in its impressive 4.4/5 rating from 317 reviews, ranking #15 among 1,772 restaurants in Oklahoma City. Customers can choose between cozy indoor seating or the outdoor patio at 1800 NW 16th St.
Pricing at The Mule
The menu stays budget-friendly throughout. Sandwich prices start at $8.00 for The Classic and go up to $14.00 for specialty creations like the Macaroni Pony and Cortez. Appetizers start at $9.00 for fried cheese curds, while heartier options like Big Ass Poutine cost $15.00. The restaurant welcomes hungry guests from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. most days, making it a great spot for lunch, dinner, or evening cravings.
Frida Southwest
Frida Southwest brings together the bold flavors of Oklahoma, Santa Fe, and northern Mexico in the heart of the Paseo Arts District. This unique restaurant is a great way to get exceptional dishes and masterfully crafted cocktails that Oklahoma City diners love.
Signature Dish at Frida Southwest
The Chilean Seabass shines as a must-try dish that comes with truffle corn and parmesan risotto, lobster beurre blanc, and sautéed baby spinach. The Seafood Tamale matches its appeal with a house-made green chile tamale stuffed with shrimp, lobster, crab, and crowned with a grilled scallop. The dessert menu features some amazing options:
- Mexican Hot Chocolate Cheesecake with hazelnut cinnamon brittle ($15)
- Dark Chocolate Pistachio Cheesecake on a vanilla bean base ($15)
Ambiance at Frida Southwest
Guests enjoy a bright, modern space with large windows and welcoming outdoor seating. The restaurant’s stylish whiskey library bar and lounge serves cocktails in an elegant setting. The building’s design creates an airy, bright atmosphere without overwhelming guests.
Pricing at Frida Southwest
The menu’s quality matches its pricing. The Seafood Tamale costs $28, and the signature cheesecakes are $15 per slice – each generous enough to share between 2-3 people. Brunch prices range from $4 cups of soup to $12 specialty pancakes.
Empire Slice House
Empire Slice House brings together amazing party vibes and New York-style pizza right in OKC’s Plaza District. This local hotspot has grown into a regional favorite with seven locations throughout Oklahoma.
Signature Dish at Empire Slice House
The Foghorn Leghorn pizza stands out as the star – loaded with sweet marinara, roasted chicken, bacon, jalapeño, and a Sriracha drizzle. Pizza lovers rave about these favorites:
- Fat Tony comes packed with ricotta, Italian sausage, and red onion
- Fungus Among Us combines mushrooms and truffle oil that customers “could live on”
- Midnight Cowboy, their monthly special, features beef brisket, poblano pepper, and BBQ Sriracha drizzle
Ambiance at Empire Slice House
Music fills the air while posters cover every wall, creating an instant party vibe. The place buzzes with energy and delivers “exceptional service with lots of staff”. The restaurant’s spot in the artistic Plaza District matches perfectly with the bold flavors they serve.
Pricing at Empire Slice House
Signature 20-inch pies cost between $22 for classic cheese and $29 for specialty creations like the Midnight Cowboy. Lunch deals shine on weekdays from 11am-4pm – you get one slice, half salad, and a drink for just $9. The portions are big and the prices stay fair.
Holey Rollers
Holey Rollers offers a vegan donut paradise where artisans craft treats that delight both traditional and dietary-conscious food lovers. This charming café sits inside 30th Street Market in the historic Paseo Arts District and serves incredible flavors without any animal products.
Signature Dish at Holey Rollers
Their signature creation, the apple cider donut, comes covered in cinnamon and sugar, while the vanilla lavender variety grows more popular each day. Customers can’t stop talking about several favorites:
- PBJ filled donut – a nostalgic treat with creamy peanut butter and jelly
- Mexican hot chocolate – rich with warming spices
- Apple fritter stuffed – generously filled with spiced apples
The menu changes with the seasons, featuring creative options like raspberry matcha and pumpkin cheesecake. Yes, it is worth noting that every donut stays 100% dairy and egg-free.
Ambiance at Holey Rollers
Warm wood finishes blend with bright pastels in this cozy café. The thoughtful design captures vintage ’50s donut shop charm while adding modern touches. Customers love the welcoming atmosphere where they can enjoy treats with a good book from the connected bookstore.
Pricing at Holey Rollers
A dozen handmade donuts costs $35, with gluten-free varieties at $40 per dozen. Most specialty donuts cost between $3-5 each. The menu goes beyond donuts and includes vegan kolaches and breakfast sandwiches. The shop welcomes customers Friday through Sunday from 8am until everything sells out, which happens often.
The Hamilton Lounge
The Hamilton Supperette & Lounge brings together mid-century charm and Okie-centric cuisine in a speakeasy-inspired setting that locals call a must-visit destination. This spot strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort with its distinctive take on familiar dishes.
Signature Dish at The Hamilton Lounge
The Tomahawk Pork Chop stands out as the star attraction – a bone-in delicacy comes with whipped potatoes and red onion marmalade for $24. Meat lovers can’t resist the 14 oz Ribeye paired with house butter and whipped potatoes ($38). The menu shines with other favorites:
- Cornbread Salmon with pecan, beurre blanc, and baby broccoli ($28)
- Mac & Cheese with house boursin, jack, and fried shallot ($8)
Your meal ends with a touch of nostalgia when warm cookies arrive with cold milk.
Ambiance at The Hamilton Lounge
The mid-century atmosphere creates a perfect date night setting. The restaurant plans to add another bar and private dining space. Guests describe their experience as “eclectic” yet “cozy” with “incredible” ambience.
Pricing at The Hamilton Lounge
The menu prices range from $18 for the Portobello Rockefeller to $38 for premium cuts. Sharing becomes easy on the wallet with family-style sides at $7-9. The bar crafts classic cocktails, and the Pineapple Express shines with its blend of Plantation Pineapple Rum and tajin.
Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Signature Dish | Price Range (Mains) | Ambiance | Notable Features |
| Cattlemen’s Steakhouse | Presidential Choice T-Bone | $22.95 – $31.50 | Rustic diner with authentic Western charm | OKC’s longest-running restaurant; Famous lamb fries |
| Flint | Blackened Redfish | $7 – $14 (Lunch) | Contemporary space with scenic waterfall patio | Live music Thu/Sun; Premium oyster selection |
| Bricktown Brewery | Breakfast Burger | $10.50 – $14.95 | Industrial charm with vintage Edison lighting | 14 locations in 5 states; Craft beer selection |
| Kitchen No. 324 | Famous Fried Chicken Pot Pie | $15 – $21 | Airy space with elegant jewel-toned seating | Fresh pastries made daily starting 4am |
| Nic’s Grill | Oklahoma Onion Burger | $11.50 – $16.50 | Cozy diner with intimate counter seating | Cash only; Featured on Guy Fieri’s show |
| Cheever’s Cafe | Chicken Fried Steak | $21 – $49 | Refined casual in historic flower shop | Southwest-inspired comfort dishes |
| Paseo Grill | Miso Sea Bass | $20 – $58 | Intimate setting with private dining | OKC’s top romantic dining spot |
| Crabtown | Cajun Crab and Shrimp Boil | N/A | Energetic atmosphere with Zydeco beats | Tuesday oysters $1; Housed in 20,000 sq ft warehouse |
| Iron Star Urban BBQ | Burnt End Queso | $19 – $22 | Modern casual with lively buzz | Daily chef specials; Happy hour M-F 3-6pm |
| Cafe Kacao | Tikal (Guatemalan breakfast) | $16 – $24 | Lively tropical setting | Popular spot with digital waitlist |
| The Mule | Macaroni Pony | $8 – $14 | Eclectic, fun atmosphere | Ranked #15 among 1,772 local restaurants |
| Frida Southwest | Chilean Seabass | $28+ | Contemporary space with natural light | Exclusive whiskey bar and lounge |
| Empire Slice House | Foghorn Leghorn Pizza | $22 – $29 | High-energy pizza joint | Seven locations throughout Oklahoma |
| Holey Rollers | Apple Cider Donut | $3 – $5 per donut | Charming vintage cafe | Specialty vegan donuts |
| The Hamilton Lounge | Tomahawk Pork Chop | $18 – $38 | Retro speakeasy ambiance | New bar space coming soon |
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Conclusion
Oklahoma City stands as a rich source of culinary delights waiting to be explored. The historic charm of Cattlemen’s Steakhouse and the vegan delights at Holey Rollers make up just 15 hidden gems that show why food lovers everywhere should pay attention to OKC.
The sort of thing I love about these spots goes way beyond their delicious food. Each restaurant tells its own story through unique atmospheres and signature creations. You could savor a Presidential T-Bone at America’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, then experience the boisterous energy at Empire Slice House where New York-style pizza meets Oklahoma hospitality.
Budget-conscious diners have plenty to celebrate here. The Mule serves gourmet grilled cheese starting at just $8, while special occasions might call for Chilean Seabass at Frida Southwest. Whatever your price point, exceptional flavors await you.
These restaurants brilliantly balance tradition with new ideas. Nic’s Grill creates the perfect Oklahoma onion burger while Kitchen No. 324 adds dramatic flair to the chicken pot pie. This mix of culinary heritage and fresh thinking shapes OKC’s food identity.
The city’s cultural influences shine through this list. Guatemalan breakfast at Cafe Kacao, Cajun seafood boils at Crabtown, and Southwest-Mexican fusion at Frida show that Oklahoma City has grown way beyond the reach and influence of stereotypical heartland fare.
The next time someone asks about underrated food cities, Oklahoma City deserves your enthusiastic recommendation. These 15 restaurants are just a part of what this vibrant city offers hungry visitors. Your taste buds will thank you for the adventure!
Key Takeaways
Oklahoma City has transformed into an unexpected culinary destination with over 1,700 dining options, featuring James Beard Award winners and diverse local gems that rival major food cities.
• Historic meets innovative: From Cattlemen’s Steakhouse (America’s oldest continuously operating restaurant since 1910) to modern spots like Kitchen No. 324, OKC balances culinary tradition with creative innovation.
• Budget-friendly excellence: Quality dining spans all price points – enjoy gourmet grilled cheese at The Mule for $8 or splurge on Chilean Seabass at Frida Southwest for $28+.
• Cultural diversity thrives: Experience authentic Guatemalan breakfast at Cafe Kacao, Cajun seafood boils at Crabtown, and Southwest-Mexican fusion throughout the city.
• Local favorites over tourist traps: These 15 locally-owned establishments offer authentic experiences where residents actually dine, from cash-only Nic’s Grill to romantic Paseo Grill.
• Unique signature dishes: Each restaurant creates memorable specialties – Presidential T-Bone steaks, famous fried chicken pot pie, Oklahoma onion burgers, and 100% vegan donuts.
Oklahoma City’s food scene proves that exceptional dining experiences exist beyond coastal cities, offering food adventurers genuine surprises in America’s heartland.
FAQs
Q1. What are some must-try dishes at Oklahoma City’s hidden gem restaurants?
Some standout dishes include the Presidential Choice T-Bone at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, the Famous Fried Chicken Pot Pie at Kitchen No. 324, the Oklahoma Onion Burger at Nic’s Grill, the Macaroni Pony at The Mule, and the Apple Cider Donut at Holey Rollers.
Q2. Are there any budget-friendly options among these hidden gem restaurants?
Yes, several restaurants offer affordable options. The Mule has gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches starting at $8, Bricktown Brewery offers burgers from $10.50, and Empire Slice House has lunch specials with a slice, half salad, and drink for $9.
Q3. Which restaurants are best for a romantic dinner in Oklahoma City?
Paseo Grill is often cited as the most romantic restaurant in OKC, with private booths and intimate lighting. Cheever’s Cafe offers a casual elegant atmosphere in a former flower shop, while The Hamilton Lounge provides a cozy mid-century ambiance perfect for date nights.
Q4. Are there any unique dining experiences among these hidden gems?
Absolutely. Crabtown offers a hands-on Cajun seafood boil experience in a 20,000 sq ft converted warehouse. Nic’s Grill is a tiny cash-only diner where you can watch your burger being made. Empire Slice House creates a party atmosphere with music and vibrant decor.
Q5. Do any of these restaurants cater to dietary restrictions?
Yes, several restaurants accommodate various dietary needs. Holey Rollers specializes in 100% vegan donuts. Kitchen No. 324 and Frida Southwest offer vegetarian options. Many restaurants, including Cattlemen’s Steakhouse and Iron Star Urban BBQ, can accommodate gluten-free requests upon asking.
