The Most Iconic Foods and Drinks That Originated in Oklahoma
In Tulsa, just a short drive northeast from Oklahoma City, you can experience the rich culinary tradition of the state at the iconic Burn Co. BBQ. Nestled in the heart of Tulsa’s historic Blue Dome District, Burn Co. BBQ serves up a smoked brisket that has become legendary across the region. The restaurant’s pitmasters use a blend of hickory and oak wood, imparting a uniquely Oklahoman smoky flavor to the meat. Visiting on a sunny weekend afternoon allows diners to enjoy the lively outdoor patio, where locals savor classic sides like potato salad and baked beans. The authentic, no-frills atmosphere combined with the carefully mastered smoking technique sets Burn Co. apart from other BBQ spots in Oklahoma.
Traveling about an hour west of Oklahoma City leads you to the town of El Reno, home to the famous Fried Onion Burger, a culinary gem that originated here. At the iconic Weber’s Burgers, you can taste this unique creation—thinly smashed beef patties cooked with a mound of thinly sliced onions pressed directly into the meat, then topped with mustard and pickles on a soft bun. The distinct technique caramelizes the onions into the beef for a sweet and savory bite unlike any other burger in the state. Sampling a fried onion burger in El Reno feels like stepping back into Oklahoma’s working-class food culture, best enjoyed in the cozy, retro diner atmosphere that has been welcoming locals and travelers for decades.
In the northeastern corner of the state, near the city of Claremore, you’ll find the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame. While primarily a museum celebrating music, it also hosts events featuring the state’s distinctive cocktail culture. The Oklahoma Mule, a twist on the classic Moscow Mule, is often highlighted here—made with locally distilled vodka, fresh ginger beer, and lime juice. Sampling this drink during a live jazz show gives visitors a taste of how Oklahoma’s food and drink culture intertwines with its vibrant music scene. The Hall of Fame is perfect to visit in the cooler months when indoor live performances create an intimate atmosphere celebrating heritage and flavor.
Heading south about an hour from Lawton, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge offers more than scenic beauty; nearby in Medicine Park, a quaint cobblestone village, you can savor the famous chicken-fried steak, a staple of Oklahoma comfort food. At the renowned Medicine Park Brewery, this dish is served with a rich cream gravy made from scratch, paired with house-brewed craft beers that perfectly complement the hearty meal. The village’s rustic charm, combined with the proximity to the refuge’s rugged granite peaks and deer sightings, makes for a memorable pairing of nature and nourishment. Early spring or late fall visits provide crisp weather ideal for hiking the nearby Elk Mountain Trail before settling in for a satisfying dinner.
In the heart of Oklahoma City, the Paseo Arts District is a vibrant place to explore contemporary takes on traditional Oklahoma fare. At the local favorite The Mule, you can indulge in a grilled cheese sandwich with a twist—stuffed with pimento cheese and served alongside a signature tomato soup that uses local heirloom tomatoes. This neighborhood, known for its artsy vibe and eclectic galleries, attracts foodies who appreciate an inventive spin on classic dishes. Visiting during the Paseo Arts Festival in early spring adds a festive backdrop to the culinary adventure, as artists display their work and street vendors add to the lively ambiance.
Venturing north to Ponca City, a town about two hours from Tulsa, you’ll encounter the legacy of the famous Oklahoma-born sugar cream pie. At the regional landmark Mazzio’s Italian Eatery, this dessert is taken seriously, with a recipe that balances creamy custard filling and a flaky crust. Ponca City’s pride in this sweet treat is palpable, and you can often find it featured in local bakeries incorporated into seasonal menus. The town’s historic downtown area, dotted with Art Deco architecture and the Marland Mansion, offers visitors a charming setting to enjoy this uniquely Oklahoma dessert, especially during autumn when the pie’s richness feels particularly comforting.
Finally, in the southwestern town of Altus, about 90 minutes from Wichita Falls, Texas, lies a lesser-known but quintessential Oklahoma beverage tradition: the Oklahoma-style lemonade. At the historic Café on Broadway, this refreshing drink combines freshly squeezed lemons with a hint of local honey and crushed ice, creating a bright and sweet treat ideal for the hot summer months. The café itself, housed in a restored 1920s building, is beloved for its classic diner feel and friendly service. After exploring nearby Quartz Mountain State Park’s trails, with their striking granite cliffs and panoramic lake views, many hikers stop here to cool off and recharge with this simple yet iconic Oklahoma refreshment.