Oklahoma City surprised us with its vibrant energy! This city offers a mix of history, culture (howdy, cowboys!), and – the most important part for me – amazing food. From the lively Bricktown to the moving Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, there was something for everyone. There are so many fun things to do in Oklahoma City and so many great restaurants to eat at!
This time, this is Ismail Mpiana, husband and foodie side of our business, @MyCulinaryAdventures_ sharing my experience at some of our favorite Black owned restaurants we tried while in Oklahoma City!
But who is the real star of the show? The food scene. Oklahoma City goes way beyond just chicken-fried steak (although, trust me, there’s a place for that too!). No OKC trip is complete without experiencing its fantastic selection of Black-owned restaurants. These spots weren’t just delicious, they were like cultural adventures taking my taste buds around the world.
Supporting Black-Owned Businesses
You may ask, why specifically focus on Black-owned restaurants? We’ll let this article on how Black owned restaurants help close the racial wealth gap explain most of it. Despite making up 14.4% of the population, only 2.7% of black people are employed by small businesses, even though the rest of the population makes up 70% of the small business workforce. The average white household makes $215,000 more than the average Black household. There’s simply not enough representation, and many Black people still feel the generational impact of Jim Crow era policies in addition to the current issues (see the story from Scrambl’d) in addition to having less wealth to invest in businesses.
Supporting Black-owned businesses is a chance to help close that gap. Many times we hear the argument, “it’s not about race, it’s just about good food”. However, if that were the case we would see a percentage of Black owned businesses compared to the percentage population of Black people to the same degree as white businesses and population. We would also see an equal amount of average wealth. However, this is not the case, which shows a greater underlying problem.
Scrambl’d
Scrambl’d, a vibrant brunch spot bursting with color and flavor, is more than just a restaurant. Founded by veterans Cordell Love and Jacob Williams, Scrambl’d embodies resilience and a commitment to community. Inspired by the thriving Black brunching scene in Houston, Cordell sought to bring the same energy to Oklahoma City, facing significant hurdles along the way.
For four years, Cordell encountered systemic racism and redlining firsthand. Bankers and investors, solely based on the location and income of the area, dismissed his vision, refusing to invest in Black-owned businesses in that specific area. Their response was a reminder of the racial inequalities embedded in the financial system. Undeterred, Cordell and Jacob persevered, finally securing the investment needed to turn his dream into reality.
Scrambl’d quickly filled a void, becoming the first Black-owned brunch spot in Oklahoma City. The restaurant, with its almost tiffany blue walls, is a pop of color, reflecting the vibrancy of the community it serves. They serve creative dishes like Oaty’s Lamb Chops, French Toast, and the Luther Burger. They also have a unique twist on a cheeseburger, featuring glazed doughnuts in place of the bun.
Scrambl’d isn’t just about food; it’s about creating a space where the community can gather, enjoy delicious meals, and celebrate their culture. The long lines and wait times on weekends are a testament to Cordell’s success. It proves that his vision – fueled by resilience and a commitment to his community – has not only overcome obstacles but thrived.
- Hours: Tuesday to Friday at 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM ; Saturday & Sunday at 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Closed on Mondays
- Reservation: Not Required
- Menu: Scrambl’d Main Menu
- Map: Scrambl’d Map
- Contact Number: +1 405-900-5972
Grey Sweater
Chef Andrew Black, the mastermind behind Grey Sweater Restaurant, is a 2023 James Beard Award winner for Best Chef Southwest. He is also the 2022 James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Chef. His culinary journey has been featured by some well-known magazines, such as The Wall Street Journal, Wine Enthusiast magazine (50 Best Restaurants 2022), Zagat Stories, and Thrillist.
At Grey Sweater, a restaurant located in the Deep Deuce District, Chef Black takes diners on a unique culinary adventure through his blind-tasting menus. Get ready for a selection of main dish like Pink Moon Oysters, Pan-Seared Scallops, Australian Lamb Tenderloin with Jamaican allspice, a unique compressed cucumber foam, and Pistachio Crumble with Orange Chai Ice cream for dessert.
Grey Sweater’s menu changes regularly, giving each guest a little bit of surprise. We loved having to guess what we were taking bites off because they only tell you what you’re having after you take a guess per course.
You can choose from a 7-course ($137) or a 10-course ($187) option, each showcasing his innovative approach to global flavors. We opted for the full 10-course experience along with the Platinum wine pairing, featuring some of the most unique and rare wines in the world. As wine pairings are optional, they have an amazing bar for making craft cocktails to your liking or a glass of wine.
This 3-hour drive from Dallas was well worth it for a truly unforgettable Black-owned tasting experience.
- Hours: Wednesday to Saturday; 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM (Closed from Sunday to Tuesday)
- Reservation: Reservations require credit cards
- Menu: Pricing ; Wine Menu ; Water Menu
- Map: Grey Sweater Map
- Contact Number: +1 405-445-6274
Plus254 – A Taste of Africa
We were so thrilled to find Plus254 – A Taste of Africa, serving authentic Kenyan cuisine in Oklahoma City owned by Chef Stayce and Chef Brian Momanyi. Their menu offers popular Kenyan favorites, making it perfect for anyone wanting to try the region’s unique culinary landscape.
They even have a Kenyan breakfast option (although we couldn’t find much information and recommend you call ahead if going for breakfast). You can indulge in lunch options like chapati with chicken and a side of spinach and Ugali, their signature cornmeal dough. A whole fried fish in coconut sauce with pilau rice and so much more. Plus254’s diverse offerings cater to every tastebud.
They even have a food truck rolling through the city on weekends, making their delicious Kenyan food accessible to everyone. So, if you’re looking for an authentic and flavorful adventure, be sure to check out Plus254 – A Taste of Africa!
- Hours: Monday to Friday at 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM ; Saturday & Sunday at 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Reservation: Not Required
- Menu: Plus254 Menu
- Map: Plus254 Map
- Contact Number: +1 405-276-3177
Naija Wife Kitchen
In the same downtown food hall as Plus 254 you get to try a different African cuisine! Naija Wife Kitchen is a fast-casual haven for Nigerian cuisine. Owned by Tahnee, a passionate cook with a deep love for her adopted Nigerian culture. Chef Tahnee is American but married a Nigerian husband and learned to cook Nigerian cuisine and has since wanted to spread the flavors to more of Oklahoma City. She wanted to bridge the gap between the people of OKC and Northern Nigerian cuisine, making her place very approachable to anyone wanting to try something new.
They offer rich flavors of Nigerian cuisine with their dishes like Egusi, Efo Riro, and Peanut Butter Soup all served with fufu, a staple made from fermented cassava flour. If you’re craving something a little spicy, try their Wings N’ Eggs combo. It comes with four Suya wings and three stewed eggs served over their signature jollof rice.
Vegetarians and vegans can rejoice too. They have a selection of delicious vegan options, like the creamy vegan Peanut Butter Soup, Banga Soup, and Egusi, all served with rice or fufu for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Just make sure to call ahead to make sure they have it.
- Hours: Monday to Friday at 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM ; Closed on Saturdays & Sundays
- Reservation: Not Required
- Menu: Naija Wife Kitchen Menu
- Map: Naija Wife Kitchen Map
- Contact Number: +1 469-315-8724
The Gilded Acorn
Located inside the historic First National Center, The Gilded Acorn is a charming French style pastry shop offering a delightful array of sweet and savory treats. This hidden gem, co-owned by the esteemed Chef Andrew Black of Grey Sweater, is a haven for both casual patrons and those seeking a refined experience.
Whether you’re craving a perfectly brewed cup of coffee alongside a delicate blueberry tart, or a refreshing mimosa paired with a selection of house-made macarons, The Gilded Acorn caters to every whim. For a truly luxurious experience, don’t miss their High Tea service for just $45 per person. It features a meticulously curated selection of finger foods and pastries made in-house and enjoyed in a sophisticated setting. Reservations are required for the High Tea at least 48 hours in advance with prepayment.
- Hours: Monday to Saturday at 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM ; Sunday at 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Reservation: Required with 48-hour notice
- Menu: The Gilded Acorn Menu
- Map: The Gilded Acorn Map
- Contact Number: +1 405-900-6860
Mama Z’s African Supermarket / Restaurant
Mama Z’s in Oklahoma City is a one-stop shop for experiencing the unique flavors and culture of West Africa. This family-owned establishment, run by Olawale Azees and his family, offers a unique experience by combining a grocery store stocked with authentic African ingredients and snacks with a restaurant serving up delicious home-cooked meals.
We enjoyed the diverse and flavorful dishes of West African cooking, with dishes like Jollof Rice with savory goat meat, the most flavorful Jollof Rice we had, Egusi, Efo Riro which is a rich spinach stew, Meat Pies, Moi Moi, and more. Their stews/soups can be paired with pounded Yam and Amala. Feeling adventurous? Try the fiery Goat Pepper Soup, The Asun, fried spicy goat meat, or Giz Dodo, a dish featuring peppered gizzard and plantains – a true explosion of flavor!
Whether you’re looking to stock up on pantry staples or savor a taste of West Africa, Mama Z’s warm hospitality and authentic cooking are sure to leave you satisfied.
- Hours: Monday to Saturday at 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM ; Sunday at 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Reservation: Not Required
- Menu: Mama Z’s Restaurant Menu
- Map: Mama Z’s Map
- Contact Number: +1 405-430-8556
Black Walnut
Another amazing restaurant owned by award-winning Chef Andrew Black is an Oklahoma City culinary treasure near the metro area, offering an innovative take on traditional American cuisine. Black Walnut takes diners on a culinary adventure through it’s ever-evolving menu.
The menu features a diverse selection, showcasing Chef Black’s creativity and passion. Indulge in signature dishes like the Ora King Salmon, which melts-in-your-mouth, or the Branzino with broad bean, lime, roasted tomato, and leek.
As one of the premier Black-owned restaurants in OKC, they cater to a variety of palates with gluten-free options like Pork Tomahawk and Lavender Chicken, and vegan options like the Roasted Cardamom Baby Beet Salad with No Goat Cheese are equally tempting. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening or a memorable meal with friends, Black Walnut promises an unforgettable dining experience. Check their social media accounts to explore their culinary presence.
- Hours: Tuesday to Thursday, Lunch at 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM and Dinner at 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM ; Friday & Saturday at 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Closed on Sundays and Mondays
- Reservation: Required
- Menu: Drink Menu ; Dinner Menu
- Map: Black Walnut Map
- Contact Number: +1 405-445-6273
Chef Dee’s Creations
In Oklahoma City, Chef Dee’s Creations isn’t just a small business, it’s a community hub driven by the passion of Chef Dee, a young entrepreneur with a big heart. After honing his skills catering for friends and family, he opened his doors to serve the wider community with his signature Cajun and Creole creations.
Every week, Chef Dee’s dedication shines through as he not only whips up delicious food for customers, but also wakes up early on Sundays to cook for hundreds of homeless people in Oklahoma City. He sees food as a way to connect with and provide for those in need, always striving for a good cause beyond the restaurant walls.
If you’re looking to support Black-owned restaurants in OKC while searching for a casual meal or catering for an event, Chef Dee’s menu provides options to suit all tastes. Their top sellers, like the Wing Combo with Shrimp Alfredo Pasta and the Chicken Alfredo Shrimp Pastalaya are sure to satisfy any appetite. They even offer delectable specialty cakes, making Chef Dee’s Creations a go-to spot for any occasion.
- Hours: Monday to Saturday at 11:00 AM 0 9:00 PM; Closed on Sundays
- Reservation: Speciality cakes are available for pre-order. 72 hour advance notice is required.
- Menu: Chef Dee’s OKC Menu
- Map: Chef Dee’s Map
- Contact Number: +1 405-501-9322
Embrace the Black History: OKC Black Restaurant Bingo
What could be a better way to support the Black-owned restaurants in Oklahoma City? Participate in their annual OKC Black Restaurant Bingo. During Black History Month, the Oklahoma City Thunder partners with the Bigger Than Food Foundation. This organization led by its Executive Director, Apollo Woods, launches the “OKC Black Restaurant Bingo” campaign. This initiative encouraged fans to explore and dine at participating Black-owned restaurants in OKC.
Black-Owned Restaurants in OKC: Final Thoughts
The city’s culinary scene is richer and more vibrant thanks to the dedication and talent of the Black-owned restaurants in OKC. From the blind tasting adventure at Grey Sweater, to the comforting flavors of Chef Dee’s Creations and the wild flavors of Africa, these best soul food restaurants offer a world of culinary experiences waiting for a good time to be explored.
So, next time you’re in OKC, let’s go and support these local gems. You’ll be treated to delicious food, experience the warmth of the community, and discover a whole new side of Oklahoma City’s diverse flavor.
Last Updated 1 month ago by Jessica Serna | Published: March 19, 2024
