16 Mar What Are The Best Restaurants In Tulsa?

Which Tulsa Restaurants Are the Best?

I’m a native Tulsan, so I know that Tulsa, Oklahoma is a hidden gem in terms of its food scene. With a diverse range of cuisine options available, from Italian to Asian to American, Tulsa is easily any foodie’s paradise. Through the years, I have dined at many Tulsa establishments and truly believe that there is something here for everyone. So, what are the best restaurants in Tulsa?

Here is a list I’ve put together of the best restaurants in Tulsa:

• Mondo’s Ristorante Italian
• Lone Wolf Banh Mi
• Brookside By Day
• Que Gusto
• Kilkenny’s Irish Pub
• Elote Cafe & Catering
• Andolini’s
• The Tavern
• Dilly Diner
• Stu-B-Que Catering
• The GOAT Bar & Kitchen

So, if you’re a food lover looking to explore the local food scene, let’s take a closer look at why these are the best restaurants in Tulsa to dine at!

1. Mondo’s Ristorante Italian

Mondo’s Ristorante Italian is an authentic Italian restaurant located in the heart of Tulsa, right off of Peoria in Brookside. Known for its bustling atmosphere and kind staff, Mondo’s is the life of the party. This restaurant is well-known for its traditional Italian dishes, including pasta, seafood, and steak. Mondo’s is locally owned by an Italian family who immigrated to the States from Italy. This family has a history in the restaurant industry–they opened the original Mondo’s back in 1969! So, you can believe them when they say “Great Italian restaurants are built by families, not corporations.” This restaurant is a Tulsa favorite, and they have won many awards to prove it, even including “Best Italian Restaurant in Tulsa.” Mondo’s is always an excellent spot for a romantic dinner or a family gathering.

2. Lone Wolf Banh Mi

Lone Wolf is an Asian restaurant specializing in bahn mi, kimchi fries, and fried rice bowls with an emphasis on quality and creativity. Having two locations, one located downtown in the Tulsa Arts District off of Archer, and the other (the original location) located off of 11th street, there is twice the fun to be found in this restaurant. Lone Wolf was opened in 2012 and is owned by the husband and wife team of Philip and Danielle Phillips. This couple is passionate about what they do, and you can tell by both their service and by looking at the exciting menu they have created together. Lone Wolf is another Tulsa favorite. With its dark walls and laid-back, cool vibe, it is ​​an excellent spot for a casual meal with friends and family or even a first date.

3. Brookside By Day

Need a breakfast option? Brookside By Day is a cozy yet bouncy breakfast and lunch restaurant located in Brookside, a historic Tulsa area that is an absolute gem. Brookside By Day is known for its delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch dishes, including fluffy pancakes, hearty omelets, and juicy burgers. This restaurant is famous in Tulsa, first opening back in 1991. Going inside can feel a bit like walking back in time–you can still feel its past charm. In addition, nothing can beat BBD’s staff. The restaurant has fantastic servers and cooks who have worked together for decades. Brookside By Day is an excellent spot for a quick bite or a casual meal. You can also check out BBD2, a second location off of Harvard with more of a diner feel.

4. Que Gusto

Que Gusto is a compact and bright South American food restaurant located in downtown Tulsa. They specialize in empanadas, yucca fries, and so much more. All of their menu items are handmade, organic, and grass-fed, and they offer plenty of gluten-free and vegan options. The restaurant was started several years ago by an Ecuadorian chef who immigrated to the United States. The food is very authentic and incredibly good. I think I can speak for all Tulsans when I say that we are so glad Que Gusto moved into town. Depending on the day you go, there may be even more unique food offerings, as they offer weekly specials. Que Gusto is an excellent spot for a flavorful and affordable meal.

5. Kilkenny’s Irish Pub

Named after the medieval city of Kilkenny, Kilkenny’s Irish Pub is a pub located off Cherry Street (15th Street) in a historic area of Tulsa. The restaurant offers a wide variety of pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and fish and chips, as well as options like seared salmon and bangers and mash, a traditional British dish. Kilkenny’s also has an extensive selection of Irish whiskeys and beer on tap, making it an excellent spot for a casual meal and a drink with friends or family. With its cozy atmosphere and friendly service as well as the fact that Kilkenny’s is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, it has been a local favorite for years. The pub also features live music on weekends, making it a great spot for a night out on the town.

6. Elote Cafe & Catering

Elote Cafe & Catering is a spirited Mexican restaurant located in the Deco District of downtown Tulsa. The restaurant’s signature dish is its namesake, elote, which is grilled corn on the cob smothered in a blend of chili powder, lime juice, and cotija cheese. Elote also offers a wide variety of traditional and modern Mexican dishes, including street tacos and tamales, as well as unique offerings like its roasted corn and black bean dip. Another standout restaurant in Tulsa, it has gained attention from tourists and locals alike. The restaurant also has an impressive tequila selection, making it a great spot for a festive night out. What’s more, since 2010 Elote has brought masked Mexican wrestling to downtown Tulsa. Lucha Libre is a battle of Good vs. Evil duked out in the wrestling ring. With bright colors, ridiculous costumes, and over-the-top theatrics you’re sure to enjoy the show.

7. Andolini’s Pizzeria

Andolini’s Pizzeria is a beloved Tulsa institution, known for its delicious pizza and homemade pasta. With a wide range of toppings and crust options, there’s a pizza to suit every taste at Andolini’s. The restaurant also offers tasty appetizers like garlic knots and meatballs, as well as Italian classics like chicken parmigiana. Andolini’s is a family-owned and operated pizzeria that has been serving up the authentic and delicious pizza since 2005. They have 5 different locations throughout the Tulsa area, including a location in downtown Broken Arrow, a growing area known as the Rose District. Andolini’s uses only the freshest ingredients, including homemade mozzarella and locally-sourced produce, to create their delicious pies. Come visit this restaurant if you want a fun family environment!

8. The Tavern

The Tavern is a modern neighborhood pub that offers upscale comfort food in a stylish setting, with an emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients and creative flavor combinations. Their menu includes elevated versions of classic dishes like mac and cheese, fried chicken, and pork chops, as well as more sophisticated options like seared salmon. The Tavern also boasts an impressive drink menu with creative cocktails and an extensive wine list. Located in the Tulsa Arts District, The Tavern is another must-visit restaurant in Tulsa.

9. Dilly Diner

Located in the Blue Dome District of Tulsa, Dilly Diner is a unique, upscale diner that offers a wide variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes, including classic diner fare and twists on traditional dishes. It is an excellent spot for a quick and affordable meal. Dilly Diner’s charming decor, warm staff, and friendly atmosphere make it a great spot for any time of the day. The restaurant also serves freshly baked pastries, including croissants, scones, and muffins–yum! Dilly Diner is more than just great food, though. The restaurant also has a full bar, featuring an impressive selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails. The drinks menu changes seasonally, so there’s always something new and exciting to try.

10. Stu-B-Que Catering

Stu-B-Que Catering is a top-notch catering company that specializes in mouth-watering barbecue dishes. With a commitment to providing high-quality food and excellent customer service, Stu-B-Que has become a go-to option for events and parties of all kinds. What sets it apart from other companies is its attention to detail when it comes to preparing and serving its food. They use only the finest ingredients and take the time to prepare everything from scratch, ensuring that every dish is bursting with flavor. One of their most popular menu items is their slow-smoked brisket, which is cooked to perfection over a period of 14 hours. The result is a tender, juicy, and flavorful cut of meat that will leave your taste buds singing. Stu-B-Que Catering prides itself on providing excellent customer service as well. Their staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to go the extra mile to make sure that your event is a success.

11. The GOAT Bar & Kitchen

The GOAT Bar & Kitchen playfully referred to as “the greatest of all Tulsa,” offers a laid-back and casual atmosphere with a menu that focuses on Mediterranean-style food with American inspiration. Located in the East Village of downtown Tulsa, you can expect to be treated by kind, fun-loving staff at The GOAT. This restaurant also has an impressive selection of beers on tap and in bottles, making it a great spot to hang out and watch the game with friends.

In Closing

All in all, Tulsa is home to many excellent restaurants, but these local restaurants are among the best. As they not only offer the most delicious food but also the greatest customer service. So, whether you’re in the mood for pub fare, Mexican, pizza, or upscale comfort food, these restaurants offer something for everyone.