A Delicious Tour of Downtown Tulsa
Tulsa is a city of many cultures, open arms, and fantastic food. And downtown Tulsa has seen a major resurgence in recent years, making it a hot spot for some of the city’s most exciting culinary experiences. Before we dive in, we want to acknowledge that Tulsa is located on the ancestral lands of the Osage, Mvskoke Creek, and Cherokee people.
You’ll find everything downtown, from reimagined Southern comfort food to authentic international cuisine. The area reflects Tulsa’s unique mix of history, community, and culinary innovation.
So, if you’re looking for the best downtown Tulsa food, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some of our top picks for must-try restaurants and bars in the heart of the city.
Start the Day Right: Breakfast and Brunch Delights
Downtown Tulsa offers a bunch of great places to start your day, whether you’re looking for a comforting classic or a modern twist on brunch.
Classic Comfort Food
If you’re craving a traditional breakfast, downtown has you covered. Think biscuits and gravy at Hodge’s Bend. Lots of restaurants in the area feature Southern-inspired menus that use locally sourced ingredients when they can.
Modern Brunch Experiences
For a more upscale brunch experience, you’ll find a few destinations with creative and innovative menus. You can also check out the unique coffee shops and cafes downtown, with artisanal coffee and pastries to enjoy.
Lunchtime Adventures: Casual Eats and International Flavors
When lunchtime rolls around in downtown Tulsa, you’ve got a world of options, from iconic local spots to global cuisine.
The All-American Lunch
For a taste of Tulsa history, you can’t beat Coney Island Hot Weiners. A couple of their famous Coney dogs makes for a perfect, quick lunch. Downtown Tulsa also has some fantastic local burger joints and sandwich shops that are perfect for a midday meal.
Global Gastronomy
Downtown Tulsa has a huge variety of international restaurants. For Vietnamese food, try Kai. You can also find Mexican, Italian, and Asian-fusion spots offering tasty and affordable lunch options.
Quick and Convenient Bites
Need something fast and delicious? Downtown Tulsa has you covered. Food trucks offer a rotating selection of cuisines, and there are plenty of delis and sandwich shops for a quick and easy bite on the go. Whether you’re craving a gourmet sandwich or a tasty taco, you’ll find something to satisfy your hunger.
Dinner Destinations: From Casual to Fine Dining
When the sun goes down, downtown Tulsa heats up with an incredible variety of dining options, from laid-back gastropubs to upscale restaurants. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Casual Dinner Options
If you’re looking for a relaxed evening, downtown Tulsa has plenty of gastropubs and breweries where you can kick back and enjoy a good meal with a local brew. Heirloom Rustic Ales is a great place to start.
You’ll also find many restaurants with a casual, welcoming vibe, many of which feature comfort food and local favorites.
Upscale Dining Experiences
For a more sophisticated night out, downtown Tulsa boasts several fine dining establishments where you can savor expertly prepared dishes in an elegant atmosphere. FarmBar is known for its tasting menu, which highlights seasonal ingredients.
These restaurants emphasize not only the quality of the food but also the overall ambiance and attentive service.
Exploring Specific Cuisines
Craving a particular type of cuisine? Downtown Tulsa has you covered. For Italian-centric food, Lowood is a popular choice.
If you’re in the mood for a classic steakhouse experience or fresh seafood, you’ll find several options to satisfy your palate.
Sweet Treats and Nightcaps: Desserts and Drinks
No tour of downtown Tulsa food would be complete without a stop (or two!) for a sweet treat or a nightcap.
Indulgent Desserts
Downtown Tulsa has some great spots for dessert, including ice cream parlors, bakeries, and specialty shops offering unique and delicious after-dinner indulgences.
Bars and Lounges
When you’re ready to unwind, downtown Tulsa has a vibrant nightlife scene. You can sample creative cocktails at one of the many cocktail bars, or you can check out a live music venue like Mercury Lounge.
Wrapping Up
From Southern comfort food to international cuisine, downtown Tulsa has a fantastic and diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a fancy night out, or a unique cultural experience, you can find it in downtown Tulsa.
When you’re deciding where to eat, remember that downtown Tulsa is home to many locally owned restaurants. Some of these restaurants are helping to revitalize the historic Greenwood District, an area that was once the heart of a thriving Black community.
So, the next time you’re in Tulsa, be sure to explore the city’s downtown area and savor the flavors of this warm and welcoming community. You’ll find something delicious and maybe make a new friend along the way.