Forget what you thought you knew about Oklahoma cuisine – Tulsa is serving up a diverse and delicious culinary experience. From classic comfort food that warms the soul to innovative fine dining that excites the palate, Tulsa is a foodie’s hidden gem, waiting to be discovered. This vibrant city, nestled along the historic Route , boasts a culinary landscape as rich and varied as its cultural heritage. Influenced by Native American traditions, Southwestern flavors, and a growing wave of talented chefs, Tulsa’s food scene is dynamic and constantly evolving.
This guide highlights the restaurants and dishes you absolutely must try when visiting – or living in – Tulsa, Oklahoma. We’ll take you on a journey through the city’s best eats, from its iconic comfort food to its globally-inspired cuisine, uncovering hidden gems and celebrating the culinary spirit of Tulsa. Prepare your taste buds – adventure awaits!
Classic Tulsa Eats: A Taste of Tradition
No trip to Tulsa is complete without experiencing its classic culinary staples. These dishes are more than just food; they’re a part of the city’s history and identity.
Chicken Fried Steak – A Southern Staple
The quintessential comfort food, chicken fried steak is a must-try for anyone visiting Tulsa. This breaded and fried beef cutlet, smothered in creamy gravy, is a hearty and satisfying meal. For a truly exceptional chicken fried steak experience, head to Bramble Breakfast & Bar. While primarily known for their brunch offerings, Bramble’s chicken fried steak is a standout, featuring a perfectly crispy coating and a rich, flavorful gravy. It’s a dish that perfectly embodies the soul of Southern cooking. Find them at South Peoria Avenue.
Onion Burgers: A Slice of Oklahoma History
The onion burger is a culinary invention born from the Great Depression, and Oklahoma proudly lays claim to its creation. Thinly sliced onions are smashed into the patty while it cooks on the griddle, caramelizing and infusing the burger with a sweet and savory flavor. For an authentic taste of Tulsa’s onion burger history, visit Weber’s Superior Root Beer Drive-In. This classic drive-in has been serving up delicious burgers and homemade root beer since , and their onion burger is a testament to the simple, yet satisfying, flavors of Oklahoma. Located on Southwest Boulevard, Weber’s is a true Tulsa institution.
Best BBQ in Tulsa: Smoke and Flavor Abound
Tulsa’s barbecue scene is thriving, offering a variety of styles and flavors to satisfy any BBQ craving. From Texas-style brisket to Memphis-style ribs, you’ll find a smoky masterpiece to suit your taste.
Burn Co. BBQ: A Tulsa BBQ Powerhouse
Burn Co. BBQ has become a Tulsa staple. With a focus on quality meats and slow-smoking techniques, Burn Co. delivers consistently delicious barbecue. Their brisket is legendary, boasting a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich, smoky flavor. Their ribs are equally impressive, perfectly seasoned and cooked to fall-off-the-bone perfection. Their sides, from mac and cheese to coleslaw, are also top-notch. Find them in multiple locations throughout Tulsa, but be prepared to wait in line – the barbecue is worth it!
Leon’s Smoke Shack BBQ: A Local Favorite
For a more intimate BBQ experience, head to Leon’s Smoke Shack BBQ. This family-owned restaurant serves up authentic barbecue with a friendly atmosphere. Leon’s is known for its ribs, which are smoked to perfection and slathered in a tangy, homemade sauce. Their pulled pork is also a crowd-pleaser, tender and flavorful with a hint of sweetness. It’s a place where you can feel the passion for barbecue in every bite. Check them out on South Yale Avenue.
International Cuisine: Exploring Global Flavors in Tulsa Oklahoma
Tulsa’s culinary scene isn’t just about Southern comfort food and barbecue; it also boasts a vibrant international presence. From Vietnamese pho to Mexican tacos, you can find authentic and delicious flavors from around the world in Tulsa.
Vietnamese Cuisine: Aromatic and Flavorful
Tulsa has a thriving Vietnamese community, and that translates to some fantastic Vietnamese restaurants. For a comforting bowl of pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup, head to Pho Da Cao. Their broth is rich and flavorful, simmered for hours to extract the essence of the beef bones. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the toppings are fresh and vibrant. For a delicious banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich, try Lien Vietnamese Market & Deli. Their banh mi are packed with flavorful meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, all served on a crispy baguette.
Mexican and Latin American Delights
Tulsa offers a wide range of Mexican and Latin American restaurants, serving up everything from classic tacos and enchiladas to more regional specialties like pupusas. For authentic tacos, visit El Rio Verde. This family-owned restaurant is known for its flavorful fillings, handmade tortillas, and generous portions. For delicious pupusas, thick flatbreads stuffed with savory fillings, try Pupuseria y Taqueria Las Americas. They offer a variety of pupusa fillings, from pork and cheese to beans and loroco, a Central American flower.
Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Flavors
For a taste of the Mediterranean and Middle East, Tulsa has several restaurants offering delicious kebabs, falafel, hummus, and more. For flavorful kebabs, visit Queenies Plus Mediterranean Cuisine. Their kebabs are marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection, served with rice, salad, and pita bread. For creamy hummus and crispy falafel, try Zaytoon Restaurant. They offer a variety of Middle Eastern specialties, all made with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.
Fine Dining: Culinary Excellence in Tulsa
For a special occasion or a truly memorable dining experience, Tulsa has a number of fine dining restaurants that offer exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and elegant ambiance.
The Chalkboard: Refined American Cuisine
The Chalkboard is a Tulsa institution, known for its refined American cuisine and elegant atmosphere. Chef Justin Thompson crafts innovative dishes using locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the best of Oklahoma’s seasonal produce. The menu changes regularly, reflecting the freshest ingredients available. Their wine list is extensive, and their service is impeccable. This is a restaurant to visit for a special occasion!
Bistro Seventeen: French-Inspired Elegance
Bistro Seventeen offers a taste of France in the heart of Tulsa. Chef Nico Albert crafts classic French dishes with a modern twist, using fresh, seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is elegant and romantic, and the service is attentive. The restaurant features a large outdoor patio.
Best Brunch Spots: Weekend Indulgence in Tulsa Oklahoma
Brunch is a weekend ritual for many Tulsans, and the city has a number of restaurants that offer delicious brunch menus and festive atmospheres.
Bramble Breakfast & Bar: Brunch with a Twist
Bramble Breakfast & Bar is a popular brunch spot, known for its creative menu and lively atmosphere. They offer a variety of sweet and savory dishes, from pancakes and waffles to breakfast sandwiches and omelets. Their cocktails are also a highlight, with a variety of mimosas, Bloody Marys, and other brunch-friendly drinks.
Neighborhood JAM: Breakfast and Brunch Staple
Neighborhood JAM offers an extensive menu. Serving up the usual breakfast staples. It is located on South Yale Avenue.
Pizza Perfection: Slices of Heaven in Tulsa
From classic New York-style slices to wood-fired Neapolitan pies, Tulsa has a pizza for every palate.
Andolini’s Pizzeria: Neapolitan Perfection
Andolini’s Pizzeria is a Tulsa favorite, known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas. Their pizzas are made with high-quality ingredients, including San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and imported Italian flour. The dough is hand-stretched and baked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a crispy crust and a smoky flavor. Andolini’s is always a great choice!
Hideaway Pizza: Tulsa Classic
Hideaway Pizza is a well-known chain that serves all of the classics. Founded in , Hideaway serves up some of the best classic pie.
Sweet Treats & Desserts: Indulging Your Sweet Tooth
No meal is complete without a sweet treat, and Tulsa has plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Blue Bell Creameries: An Ice Cream Dream
Blue Bell creamery is a classic Tulsa dessert spot. They have been providing Oklahoma with great ice cream for years. Located on East Seventieth Street.
Hidden Gems: Discovering Tulsa’s Culinary Secrets
Beyond the well-known restaurants and popular dishes, Tulsa also has a number of hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered.
Mother Road Market: A Culinary Incubator
Mother Road Market is a unique food hall that houses a variety of local restaurants and food vendors. This is a great place to sample a variety of Tulsa’s culinary offerings in one location. From pizza to tacos to desserts, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. Located on Southwest Boulevard.
Tips for Exploring Tulsa’s Food Scene
Exploring Tulsa’s food scene is an adventure, but here are a few tips to make the most of your culinary journey:
- Transportation: Tulsa is a driving city, so having a car is helpful for exploring different neighborhoods. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available.
- Reservations: For fine dining restaurants and popular brunch spots, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
- Dietary Restrictions: Most restaurants in Tulsa are accommodating to dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and inquire about options.
- Local Events: Keep an eye out for local food festivals and events, which offer a great opportunity to sample a variety of Tulsa’s culinary offerings.
- Support Local: When dining in Tulsa, be sure to support local businesses and restaurants. By doing so, you’re helping to support the community and the culinary scene.
Conclusion: The Culinary Heart of Oklahoma
Tulsa’s food scene is a reflection of its vibrant culture and growing culinary talent. From its iconic comfort food to its diverse international cuisine, Tulsa offers a culinary experience that is both satisfying and surprising. With its passionate chefs, innovative restaurants, and a growing appreciation for local ingredients, Tulsa is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for food lovers.
So, grab your appetite and get ready to experience the best that Tulsa has to offer. Don’t forget to tell us your favorite Tulsa eats in the comments below! And keep your eye on Tulsa, Oklahoma, as its culinary landscape continues to grow and evolve!
