In 2009, George Strait wanted someone to tell him something bad about Tulsa, and we’ve still got nothin’ for him! After all, it’s home to one-of-a-kind attractions like the Center of the Universe and the nationally acclaimed Gathering Place. All of us, including George Strait, are still scratching our heads for a complaint.

Like everything else it has to offer, Tulsa is famous for its food too. While visiting this unique city during your Ozark family vacation, you’ll want to know the best places to eat in Tulsa.

1. Best Barbeque

Leon’s Smoke Shack Barbeque is a clear local fan favorite. With hundreds of reviews and a 99% recommendation, Leon’s is the place to get your Tulsa BBQ fix. If you’re looking for a swanky restaurant where people pull the meat off ribs with a fork, keep it moving! Leon’s isn’t showy from the outside. They saved all that hype for the meat.

While you might not get an upscale experience, you’ll find phenomenal food, a welcoming environment, and the best BBQ in Tulsa. If you’re looking for a cheap lunch, they have a daily special for $7. You get a smoked bologna sandwich with chips and a drink. If you’re ready for the whole experience, you must check out their slap potatoes with meat and topping piled high (if you care to share, it’s big enough for 2).

Find them at 601 S. Sheridan or at their second location, 1529 E. 3rd Street.

2. Most Chill Environment

Now, if you are looking for a finer dining experience, The Chalkboard + Bar fills that request. It’s an upscale but approachable atmosphere serving delectable dishes like Wellingtons served with orzo and asparagus. Get The Chalkboard Wellington with its bacon jam for a taste out of this world.

Known as a place for special events or date nights, The Chalkboard + Bar might not be the best place to bring the pea-throwing toddlers, but it does welcome Fido. In a pet-friendly atmosphere, you can grab seating on the patio and let man’s best friend join you there (maybe the toddler can toss food here, too, I don’t know).

Located in the heart of downtown Tulsa, The Chalkboard + Bar can be found at 1324 S Main St.

3. 50’s Style Burger Stand

Do you want to know where the best burger joint is in Tulsa? Then you have to go to Hank’s Hamburgers. Don’t let the shack-like appearance fool you. Since 1949, Hank’s has been delivering exactly what you’d expect from a 50’s diner. Burgers dripping with melted cheesy, greasy goodness and served with down home fried treats like okra and tots.

Hank serves Tulsa from 10am until 7pm and is open Monday through Saturday. If you want your burger basket style on top of the iconic red checkered paper, head to 8933 E. Admiral Pl, Tulsa.

4. Best Italian & Atmosphere

Known for its attention to detail in food, atmosphere, and customer service, Ti Amo Ristorante Italiano is the place to visit when you want Italian food, and Olive Garden isn’t cutting it! Guests are often surprised with complimentary bruschetta, which is boasted to be superb.

The ambiance of Ti Amo’s makes it an ideal setting for celebrations of romance like a date night or wedding rehearsal dinner. The owner, Mehdi Khezri, is heavily involved. His love for sharing Italian feasts in a people-centered environment makes this the best place for Italian in Tulsa.

Visit them at either of their two locations: 6024 S. Sheridan Rd A or 219 S Cheyenne Ave.

5. Most Authentic Mexican

Knowing where to find the best Mexican food is a top priority. It is for me, at least. Don’t spend your time looking around in Tulsa; go to Tacos El Rinconcito. Your first clue that this place is legit is the sketchy outside. Second, is the tripe nachos (I’ll always pass those up, but they have to be an option on the menu to be considered authentic Mexican food).

This place is the reigning champion of street tacos in the area, and you can have them pastor, asada, chorizo, or chicken. They also have delightful tortas and generously sized tamales. You can also get your menudo on the weekends if you stop by 4705 S. Braden Ave.

6. Greatest Chinese & Thai

If you want Asian food that has it all, Sian Restaurant should be your first choice. Sushi, gyoza, tempura, Pad Thai, and everything in between. Sian is known for their clean atmosphere, fresh ingredients, and friendly service.

Whether you’re in the mood for Chinese or Thai, this place will satisfy the craving and call you back for more. Find them in midtown at 3530 S Sheridan Rd.

7. Tulsa’s Favorite Breakfast

“Tulsa’s Favorite Diner” is also Tulsa’s favorite breakfast spot. Good luck finding better chicken & waffles than what’s served at Dilly Diner. Of course, if a cinnamon roll is your idea for breakfast, they top their larger-than-life cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting and candied pecans.

Grab a diner-style sandwich for lunch or get a downhome chicken fried steak dinner in the evening. Did you know one of the three foods Tulsa is most known for is chicken fried steak? Dilly Diner is at 402 E 2nd St. Come any time of the day, and you’ll find breakfast is served.

8. Best Food Truck

Located right between pig country and cow town, Tulsa is also known for its BBQ. That’s why we’re giving a second spot on our 10 best places to eat to call out BBQ. For a unique turn of events, Hot Mess BBQ is a food truck that also does catering.

Their truck menu offers treats from pulled pork hot dogs to tacos and nachos…all slathered in BBQ, of course. Frequently making an appearance at 7123 Bratton Rd, your best bet to find them is to check out their Instagram for location details.

9. Ideal Date Night

Better known for its upscale atmosphere and trendy take on classic dishes, Bird and Bottle is a one-of-a-kind place to visit with options like their butternut squash ravioli or a fried jalapeno chorizo burger.

Photo credit: Bird and Bottle Facebook page

Make a reservation, grab one of their $4 martinis, and have a romantic date night or chic girls’ night out at 3324-A E. 31st St.

10. Best Place to Get Ice-Cream

It’s tempting to think that Cold Stone is always the best place to get a creamy frozen treat in any town, but if you want something more. Something unique. Something authentically Tulsa, then you need to check out Big Dipper Creamery located at 124 S Lewis Ave.

From their famous floats sandwiches to their house-made best cookies and cream (not just in Tulsa, but put a period on that), Big Dipper Creamery owns the title of best ice cream in Tulsa. New flavors pop up regularly, but the classics are also always available.

Check out our Visit Tulsa, Oklahoma post for a fun-filled family vacation to the Ozarks.

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