Although Oklahomans know some of the best food in the state isn't always served in fancy restaurants, we've all probably snubbed over some delicious food because the outside appearance didn't look like much. But many times these unassuming restaurants are hidden treasures that, if given a chance, will have your taste buds exploding. Here are 14 restaurants in Oklahoma that don't look like much, but WOW they're good.
1. Andolini's Pizzeria, Owasso
Andolini's serves an incredible pizza "Tulsa Style"...raw, honest, unapologetic, and, most importantly, real. Eating out in Oklahoma has never tasted so good! The location above is in Owasso but you can also find Andolini's in Tulsa and Broken Arrow. Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official website.
2. Mama E's Wings & Waffles, Oklahoma City
Looking for some comforting soul food? Mama E's not only has chicken and waffles but catfish, meatballs, mac & cheese, and a whole lot more. Stop in for some good home cooking. Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official website.
3. Pecina's Mexican Cafe, Weatherford
If you're looking for fabulous Mexican food in western Oklahoma, stop into Pecina's Mexican Cafe for fajitas, chips & queso, and, of course, sopapillas. There are also two other locations around the state in El Reno and Hinton. Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official website.
4. Eischen's Bar, Okarche
The "Oldest bar in Oklahoma" can be found at Eischen's in Okarche. It may be old but it still serves the best fried chicken ever. Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official website.
5. Jincy's Kitchen: Qualls
When the directions say, "When the pavement ends, you're there... really," you know you are in for some good southern cooking. Don't be in a rush because it's all made fresh, so order some sweet tea and enjoy the nostalgia and quaint setting. Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official Facebook page.
6. Ty's Hamburgers: Tulsa
It may not impress you on the outside but wait till you step inside and eat a burger. Take one bite and you'll wonder what took you so long to experience a Ty's Burger. Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official Facebook page.
7. Catfish Corner, Ardmore
It's pretty safe to say you'll love the catfish at Catfish Corner. Some know it as Louie's Catfish Corner, where you can get seafood and Mexican at the same place. The fried catfish is sliced thinly, coated in well-seasoned cornmeal, and fried to perfection. Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official website.
8. Dairy Mart, Union City
Amazing burgers, fries, onion rings and all the yummy ice cream will have you stopping into Dairy Mart regularly. Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official Facebook page.
9. Florence's Restaurant, Oklahoma City
"Good, country food for the soul," is the motto at Florence's Restaurant. Florence Jones has been serving delicious soul food to Oklahomans since 1952. Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official Facebook page.
10. John & Cook's Bar-B-Que, Lawton
Owned by several generations of family, John & Cooks doesn't have to look like much with bbq this delicious. They have been cooking "real pit" bbq since 1936. Try the brisket that cooks for 10-12 hours or some of the best ribs in the state. Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official website.
11. Wildhorse Mountain BBQ, Sallisaw
A long time local favorite and regional icon in bbq, Wildhorse Mountain was established in Sallisaw, Oklahoma by Hubert Holman in 1965. Make sure you pick up some of their famous bbq sauce to take home. This is one of the best hidden gems in Oklahoma! Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official website.
12. Cafe 88, Stillwater
A great place to grab some Chinese food near the campus of OSU. Try the sesame chicken and fried rice with bubble tea. Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official website.
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Maine, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Massachusetts, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Maryland, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
13. Savoy Restaurant, Tulsa
Savoy has been serving breakfast and lunch for more than 90 years to Oklahomans. You'll feel like you are dining with family while enjoying fresh and always fantastic food. Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official website.
14. Warehouse Willy's, Poteau
This charming restaurant in downtown Poteau serves a filet mignon that will melt in your mouth. In the mood for Cajun? Try the gumbo for a delectable meal. Learn more about this unassuming Oklahoma restaurant on the official Facebook page.
If you've visited any of these restaurants in Oklahoma that don't look like much but have incredible food, what menu recommendations do you have for fellow readers? Please share in the comments below.
For more dining options, check out this list of mom-and-pop restaurants in Oklahoma that serve home-cooked meals to die for.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!