Oklahoma City Restaurants

I’ve had the pizza at Hobby’s. I’ve had the spaghetti. But if you’re going to Hobby’s Hoagies, do yourself a favor and get a sandwich, because it’s one of the best you’ll ever have. For those who love cheesesteak, Hobby’s serves the best around.

They’ve got a great atmosphere and they deliver contemporary cuisine in a cool part of town. Still, I’m just not sold on Cafe Nova being one of the premier spots in Oklahoma City. When you’re a higher-end restaurant charging a premium for every plate, you’ve got to stand up to a much greater degree of scrutiny, and I think Cafe Nova falls a little short.

JT’s Bar-B-Que is tops for pork ribs, but get there early for lunch. The line stays long and seating is limited. If you’re not a “rib-eater,” go for the smoked chicken and don’t forget the blackberry cobbler.

I’ve been itching to post this review of Meiki’s Italian American for quite some time, but I have struggled with how to describe the place even though I’m in there about every other week or so. The best categorization I can come up with is “diner-style Italian.” Diner-style describes the atmosphere more than the food, and here’s what I mean by it.

Brown Suga Cafe wants to, as they put it, “put a little class in your soul.” Through their northwest Oklahoma City location and their slightly upscale presentation, they bring one of the world’s tastiest cuisines, soul food, within reach of those on the northwest side of town.

Hidden on the south end of Norman, just pushing on the edge of what we consider the “Oklahoma City area,” is a fine dining surprise. It’s a bed and breakfast that serves a beautiful dinner with a side of relaxation.

Anytime I am asked about finer dining options in Oklahoma City, I will report that Tom and Jerry’s Steak and Fish Grille is near the top of my list. It is fine dining but not too expensive or snooty. They have diverse menu options, and they can customize their service to adapt to your schedule.

One of my favorite things in life is a really good burger. One of my other favorite things in life is lunch. Every now and then I get real crazy and think, “I wonder what would happen if I had a really good burger at lunch?” That’s when I head to Johnny’s.

I know, March came and went without a Shady Restaurant winner, but I’m making up for it with a strong April recommendation brought to me by a loyal Shady reader. There may be shadier places in town, but Choice Cafe definitely combines great taste with plenty of shady surroundings and snatches up this month’s award.

Deep Fork is highly regarded by most everyone I know as one of Oklahoma City’s best restaurants. Yet, I had never been there until recently. Now that I’ve tried it, I can tell you that Deep Fork fires on all cylinders with great atmosphere, great food, great service, and even something unique — the chance to have a chef choose your meal for you.