Your Guide to Oklahoma’s Culinary Renaissance

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As we step into a new year, I’m struck by the realization that we are now entering the first full quarter of this decade. Reflecting on the past 25 years, and particularly the last 5 to 10, it’s impossible to ignore the transformative shift taking place in Oklahoma’s food scene. The state is beginning to shatter the outdated stereotypes often associated with its cuisine—“steak,” “burgers,” “fast food,” and “deep-fried everything.”

When I ask people outside Oklahoma about their perceptions of “Oklahoma food,” these clichés are the responses I still hear. What they don’t realize is that Oklahoma is home to some of the most talented bakers, chocolatiers, and chefs in the United States, redefining what food in this state means. These culinary visionaries are crafting dishes that are as innovative as they are memorable, elevating Oklahoma’s reputation in the process.

The moment is pivotal. Oklahoma is no longer just a fly-over state for destinations like Texas, Las Vegas, California, Chicago, or New York. It is becoming a destination in its own right. For Oklahoma’s culinary reputation to continue growing, it is vital to recognize the chefs and restaurants truly leading this renaissance—those who are weaving extraordinary tapestries of taste and texture, redefining what it means to dine in Oklahoma.

This is a time of cultural and culinary awakening, and the future of Oklahoma’s food scene depends on celebrating those who drive this progress—not perpetuating tired stereotypes or false idols. The work of these chefs is putting the nation on notice: Oklahoma is here, and it’s worth every stop.

Jeff Chanchaleune, Ma Der Lao Kitchen, Oklahoma City, OK

Jeff Chanchaleune is, without question, the embodiment of culinary guardianship and creativity. As the beating heart of Oklahoma’s culinary renaissance, he has introduced Laotian cuisine to the state and helped elevate it to a national stage. A multiple James Beard finalist, Jeff is renowned for his legendary pop-up collaboration dinners, where he masterfully fuses Laotian flavors with influences from seafood, Japanese, Guatemalan, and other cuisines.

In 2025, Jeff is set to open Bar Sen, the highly anticipated follow-up to Ma Der Lao Kitchen. This opening carries the weight of an entire state’s expectations, and there is no doubt that Jeff will deliver flavor and innovation once again.

Lisa Becklund, Living Kitchen, Farm Bar, & Il’Seme, Tulsa, OK & Depew, OK

If Jeff Chanchaleune is the heart of Oklahoma’s culinary renaissance, Lisa Becklund is its soul. Known for fusing Oklahoma’s produce with exceptional skill, Lisa helms three standout restaurants forming a culinary trinity: FarmBar, Il Seme, and The Living Kitchen Farm & Dairy, which epitomizes the Oklahoma dining experience.

FarmBar, a cornerstone of Tulsa’s dining scene, offers everything from a 10-course tasting menu to the legendary $10 Backyard Burger. A James Beard-nominated chef, Lisa has also mentored top talent like Jordan Hawley (James Beard Semifinalist), Caleb Mohr, and Zack Pittman. Her dedication to her craft, community, and family sets her apart as a true icon of Oklahoma cuisine.

Cat Cox, Country Bird Bakery, Tulsa OK

Cat Cox is, without a doubt, the best baker in Oklahoma—and quite possibly the Southwest. Her bakery, Country Bird Bakery, has earned national acclaim, being named one of the “Top 22 Best Bakeries in the United States” by The New York Times. Cat mills her own grains, sourced locally from the region, and transforms them into amber waves of golden perfection, from her bread to her specialty butter. While the bakery's hours are limited, the experience is worth every moment. Cat’s brilliance as a baker, paired with her vibrant personality and deep love for food and Tulsa, ensures every visit is unforgettable.

Alex Figueira, Doctor Kustom, Tulsa OK

The best sandwich in Oklahoma (the Picanha)? Frijoles soup? Brazilian fried pockets? And what might be Tulsa’s finest private dining experience at the legendary Chef’s Table—this is the magic Chef Alex Figueira brings to Doctor Kustom’s at Mother Road Market.

With his wife, Gi, and chef daughter, Duda Bach Figueira, Alex creates more than fine dining; it’s a family legacy of generational talent. A James Beard Semifinalist, Alex is set to open up a new location in a stand alone restaurant outside of Mother Road Market in Tulsa.

Randy Page, Cricket & Fig Chocolate, Tulsa, OK

About 20 years ago, Randy Page had a legendary falling out with Willy Wonka—a moment that Willy never quite recovered from. While Tulsa has its share of established chocolatiers, Randy Page stands in a league of his own. His work demands comparison to his true peers: Denise Castronovo, Jacques Torres, Christopher Elbow, and Michael Recchiuti. Page's creations embody the artistry, innovation, and excellence that define the highest level of chocolatiers in the United States. He also makes a good burger, incredible coffee, and a “breakfast situation.”

Zack Walters Sedalia’s Oyster & Seafood, Oklahoma City, OK

Zack Walters’ Sedalia's is undoubtedly one of Oklahoma's premier culinary destinations. His mastery of seafood, highlighted by his innovative use of acidity, is redefining Oklahoma’s cuisine, breaking stereotypes, and setting a new standard for excellence. With his wife Silvana bringing a Latin flair to the table, many of his dishes transform into what can only be described as “a symphony of acidity,” creating odes to flavor that are both bold and unforgettable.

Sami Cooper, Big Dipper Creamery, Tulsa, OK

Nationally recognized and luxurious in both taste and texture, Big Dipper elevates ice cream to an art form. With a base that embodies perfection, they expertly merge it with high-quality ingredients, crafting flavors that balance simplicity and complexity with finesse. Every scoop is a testament to excellence, placing Big Dipper on par with celebrated creameries like Toscanini’s in Massachusetts and Mount Desert Island Ice Cream in Maine.

Justin Donaldson, Baron’s on 1st, Tulsa, OK

Justin Donaldson is redefining fine dining in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with a level of refinement rarely seen across the state. His innovative approach to cuisine reflects the sophistication typically associated with Michelin-starred establishments. While Baron’s is still in its early stages, it already demonstrates immense potential. With time, it could undoubtedly secure a place among Oklahoma’s top five dining destinations, and perhaps even beyond.

Kevin Lee, Birdies by Chef Kevin Lee Oklahoma City, OK

Kevin Lee is a true Oklahoma food celebrity, having showcased his culinary talents on hit cooking shows like Beat Bobby Flay, Alex vs. America, Guy’s Grocery Games, Superchef Grudge Match, and Tournament of Champions, earning considerable success along the way. What many may not know is that he is also the chef and owner of Birdie’s, a modern Korean steakhouse where he masterfully blends Southern and Korean cuisines to create extraordinary dishes. Alongside him is sous chef Jesse Gomez, an emerging talent who continues to elevate Oklahoma’s culinary scene to new heights.

Shinichi Okamoto, Akai Sushi Ya & Izakaya, Oklahoma City, OK

Rounding out the top 10 is a refined dining experience in Oklahoma City's Wheeler District, capturing the heart and soul of Japan’s famous Toyosu Market. Owner Viet Pham brought in chef Shinichi Okamoto to redefine sushi in Oklahoma, presenting traditional Japanese dishes with a level of artistry and precision that elevates the dining experience to new heights. Now with local chef Luke Fry as executive chef, Akai is bringing the next level of sushi and Japanese dining to Oklahoma.

Garrett Hare, Nonesuch, Oklahoma City, OK

In less than five years, Nonesuch has seen a dynamic evolution in ownership and leadership. Now, with Kelly Whitaker—bringing Michelin-starred and James Beard Award-winning expertise—leading the way, alongside talented chefs Garrett Hare and Chad Luman, the restaurant is entering an extraordinary new chapter. Recently, Nonesuch also hosted a remarkable collaboration dinner with chef Brian Baxter, formerly of The Catbird Seat, further cementing its place as a centerpiece of Oklahoma’s burgeoning culinary scene.

Marco Herrera, Noche Woodfire Grill & Agave Bar, Tulsa OK

Sheamus Feely and James Beard semifinalist Marco Herrera bring an exciting blend of Mexican and Latin fusion to Tulsa’s historic Greenwood District. At Noche, they offer a diverse menu inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Mexico City, skillfully blending authenticity with innovation. Their combined talent has earned national acclaim, with The New York Times naming Noche one of America’s 50 Best Restaurants, ranking it as impressive.

Trevor Tack, Lofi, Tulsa OK

Trevor Tack’s return after Lowood’s tragedy is a triumph. With Lofi, he elevates artisanal pizza by blending fine dining with creative appetizers and plates, showcasing his culinary brilliance. Partnering with Noah Bush, who brings a passion for wine and music, Lofi offers a unique and immersive dining experience. In 2025, Tack and Bush will debut Ava June, a French brasserie that promises to expand Tack’s impressive portfolio and redefine French cuisine in Oklahoma.

Jared’s Top 10 Restaurant experiences for 2024

1. Ma Der Lao Kitchen, Oklahoma City, OK

Jeff Chanchaleune is quite possibly Phra Phum Jao incarnate, embodying the spirit of culinary guardianship and creativity. He is the beating heart of Oklahoma’s culinary renaissance, introducing Laotian cuisine to the state and helping to usher in an entire food genre to a national stage.

2. FarmBar Tulsa, OK

Remarkably unpretentious, FarmBar stands out in Oklahoma’s fine dining scene. Lisa’s extraordinary body of work spans Living Kitchen Farm and Dairy and Il Seme, and her culinary legacy includes mentoring exceptional chefs like Jordan Hawley, Caleb Mohr, and Zack Pittman. Her dedication to her craft, family, and community makes her achievements truly unparalleled.

3. Grey Sweater, Oklahoma City, OK

James Beard Best Chef Southwest winner Andrew Black's crowning achievement remains the ultimate example of modern fine dining in Oklahoma, delivering New York and Chicago-level excellence right in the heart of Oklahoma City.

4. Living Kitchen Farm & Dairy, Depew, OK

Each of these restaurants has achieved a score of 90 or above out of 100 on my list, with two—FarmBar and Living Kitchen—firmly in the pièce de résistance range. Both are owned by Lisa Becklund. If Jeff Chanchaleune is the heart of Oklahoma’s culinary renaissance, then Lisa Becklund is undoubtedly its soul.

5. Fait Maison, Edmond, OK

Classically trained in Michelin-starred restaurants in France, I have yet to dine at a more technically precise and flawlessly executed restaurant in all of Oklahoma. The level at which he operates rivals what you would expect to find in New York, showcasing a rare and extraordinary talent.

6. Baron’s on 1st, Tulsa, OK

When you turn down a job offer from Thomas Keller, you know you’re operating on another level. In less than eight months, Justin Donaldson and Baron’s on 1st have revolutionized Tulsa’s fine dining scene—and all of Oklahoma—and this culinary storm is just beginning.

7. Sedalia’s Oyster & Seafood, Oklahoma City, OK

Zack Walters Sedalia's is undoubtedly one of the top culinary destinations in Oklahoma. His mastery of seafood, particularly his innovative use of acidity, is redefining the boundaries of what Oklahoma’s cuisine can be, breaking stereotypes and setting a new standard for culinary excellence in the state.

8. Copper Dome, Tulsa, OK

Chef Tyler Whiston and Nathaniel Christenson are redefining fine dining in Oklahoma. With a unique flavor profile and style, they elevate local produce to new heights, combining elegance and refinement typically reserved for high-end restaurants on the coasts.

9. Akai Sushi Ya & Izakaya, Oklahoma City, OK

Rounding out the top 10 is a refined dining experience in Oklahoma City's Wheeler District, capturing the heart and soul of Japan’s famous Toyosu Market. Chefs Shinichi Okamoto and Luke Fry are redefining sushi in Oklahoma, presenting traditional Japanese dishes with a level of artistry and precision that elevates the dining experience to new heights.

10. Nonesuch, Oklahoma City, OK

This is the rollercoaster of the list. In less than five years, Nonesuch has experienced a whirlwind of changes in ownership and chefs. Now, with Kelly Whitaker bringing Michelin-starred and James Beard Award-winning experience to the helm, Nonesuch’s rebranding marks the beginning of something extraordinary for Oklahoma’s culinary scene.