Story & Photos
By Michael Kinney
OKLAHOMA CITY– One of the best things about the NBA Finals coming to Oklahoma City is the number of visitors who will be making their first trip to the area. It is time for the Chamber of Commerce and the tourism board to shine.
However, for those looking for something a little less stiff, I’m here for you.
I want to provide guests from Indiana and around the world who will be making their first trip to the Sooner State with something different than just a map and a visitor’s guide. That’s especially true when it comes to where to eat.
Satisfying that inner hunger while on the road is the most important activity on any visitor’s daily must-do list. It is the one factor that can make or break how travelers feel about a city and can determine future trips.
As someone who travels around the country and globally, I refuse to go to the standard franchise set up. If it’s a restaurant, coffee shop or grocery store that I can find in my neighborhood back home, I avoid it like the plague. (Sorry, Starbucks). The only time I have made an exception was when I went to the McDonald’s in Porto, Portugal, for my book ‘Do Big Things in Portugal.’ Google it and you will see why.
The recommendations below can not be found in Indianapolis or almost any other city in the country. When you step inside the doors of these local eateries, it will not be confused with Arby’s.
Best Coffee Spots: Whether you need a cup of Joe to start game day or something to pick you up after a long night at the Paycom Center, the Oklahoma City metro has some top-tier coffee spots. Elemental Coffee, All About Cha, Junction Coffee and Coffee Slingers are just a few of the ones located around downtown/Bricktown.
MKM’s favorites: Yet, my top choices are Culture Coffee (1029 NE 6th St.) and Clarity Coffee (431 W Main St). The main thing they have in common is friendly service, a nice selection of drinks, great locations, and did I mention friendly service?
Tips: As the Oklahoma summer temperatures start to go up, try the Clarity Cool Down ($6) at Clarity Coffee. The Biscuits & Gravy ($6) at Culture Cuffee go perfectly with the Lucky Charms Expresso ($5.75).
Best Breakfast/Brunch: If you need more than just coffee, there are several locations around the city that cater to your needs. They include Sunnyside Diner, the Hatch, Café Kaco, Los Chilaquiles.
MKM’s Favorite: Scrambl’d (1742 NE 23rd St. Suite A) hasn’t been open that long, but has already become a popular must-visit. Located on the outskirts of downtown, the Black Owned Business gives visitors a chance to get outside the city center and see more than Bricktown.
Tips: You will need a nap if you get Oaty’s Lamb Chops ($32) and don’t sleep on the Peach Cobler Biscuit ($11).
Best Meal Experience: One of the misconceptions about Oklahoma is that its culinary variety doesn’t level up to the likes of New York, Los Angeles or Chicago. I’m here to tell you that it may be true. But the gap is steadily closing. With the likes of Off The Hook, Carican Flavors, Picasso on Paseo, Naija Wife Kitchen, Florence’s, Vast, Goro Ramen, Nonesuch, The Grey Sweater, Cafe Kacao and The Kitchen by B&B Catering, it’s hard to choose just one.
MKM’s Choice: However, if my arm is twisted, my choice will be The Crown (7204 North Western Avenue). While I think the food is on par with some of the aforementioned establishments, it’s the overall experience that sets The Crown slightly apart. Anywhere from 10-14 guests can reserve the Crown Room and take part in a “Full sensory four-course meal. Each course is paired with a song, a scent, and a beverage pairing.” It’s the perfect setting for off-night or in between games when your group wants to sit, relax and decompress from the stress of being a fan in a strange city. It’s also a quick Uber/Taxi ride from Downtown.
Tips: Unfortunately, some of my favorite places to eat close up shop before the sun goes down. So, if you plan to try Carican Flavors, Florence’s, Cafe Kacao, The Kitchen by B&B or Naija Wife Kitchen, think lunch or late afternoon drop in. All are closed by 6:30 p.m.
Honorable Mention, but can’t go wrong: There are a few spots that do not fit neatly into any category, but they can’t be left out of any must-try list. Do yourself a favor, and check them out: Bobo’s Chicken, Corey B. Cookin, Tucker Onion Burger, Chef D’s Creations, Polk House, Nic’s Burgers, D&B Daiquiri Spot, Hank’s, Big Low’s
Hopefully, this list has been of some help. If you have any other questions about places to visit during your time in Oklahoma, please contact me here or through my Social Media accounts below. I also provide Photography Prints from some of the area’s most unique and wonderous sites to take back as keepsakes during your time in the 48th state. Click here to view my Oklahoma Finest Gallery.
Regardless, enjoy your time in OKC, enjoy the series and the Oklahoma hospitality. If you see someone walking around with an “MKM: Michael Kinney Media” shirt, stop them and say Hi.
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