The last 35 years flew by. We think these seasoned local eateries have a lot in common with Oklahoma Gazette (other than longevity): Theyre not afraid to buck the trends and are unapologetically true to themselves.
By Devon Green Photos by Mark Hancock and Shannon Cornman
MORE 35TH ANNIVERSARY COVERAGE: OKC, OKG grew together as paper chronicled citys revival. Timeline: A brief history of Oklahoma Gazette. Reader response: What you love most about OKG. Leaders share Gazette memories. OKG Eat: Practice makes perfect! Chef Kurt Fleischfressers curiosity helped establish citys love of localized menus. OKG arts groups have persisted, prospered for decades. As OKG grew, so did OKC's performing arts scene. Oklahoma music scene is still a work in progress.
Papa Dios Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
10712 N. May Ave.
papadiosokc.com755-2255
An institution run by three generations of the Bonadio family, Papa Dios welcomes all guests, from large family groups to intimate dates. Its split in half, with a casual side thats family-friendly and a more formal white tablecloth side. The restaurant offers over 160 menu items (not including daily specials).
Anns Chicken Fry House
4106 NW 39th St.
943-8915
If you havent set foot in this unassuming converted house on historic Route 66, its high time you did. Knowing that consistency and quality are a winning combination, the Coca-Cola mural and the pink Cadillac out front are signs that youve hit the right place to try the official state meal.
Interurban
6100 W. Memorial Road
interurban.us720-8680
This eatery has been around for so long that its often overlooked, and thats a shame. Since Interurban was established in 1976, it has grown to include eight locations statewide. For nearly four decades, Interurban has maintained a solid menu with daily specials that vary by location. Practice does, in fact, make perfect.
VZDs Restaurant & Club
4200 N. Western Ave. #D
vzds.com524-4203
This restaurant/music venue/bar has long been a favorite stop for bands, and its show history is a veritable whos who of music. If you were hanging out in OKC during the 90s, chances are you saw The Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Reverend Horton Heat and Michele Shocked at VZDs. The venue serves daily specials, a fresh and varied lunch menu and locally sourced, fresh ingredients.
Legends Restaurant
1313 W. Lindsey St., Norman
legendsrestaurant.com329-8888
If theres something that Okies love as much as good food, its a great story, and Legends has both. It started in 1967 as a pizza delivery service. Owner Lemuel B. Legend tooled around town, distributing pies via Rolls Royce roadster. In 1972, Lemuel expanded into the brick-and-mortar special occasion destination known today. Maybe spending time with your in-laws isnt always a blast, but meeting them at Legends will be.
The Mont Restaurant
300 Classen Blvd., Norman
themont.com329-3330
Since the 20s, The Mont has remained one of Normans most popular venues. It went through a string of ownership from 1969-75 before it was bought by three OU fraternity brothers and its place in history and its menu were restored. Today, it offers quality food, a great patio and some of the best margarita swirls in the metro.
Jamils Steakhouse
4910 N. Lincoln Blvd.
525-8352There are only a few dining experiences that come close to Jamils. The converted house on Lincoln Boulevard serves a diverse menu of gorgeous hand-cut steaks, classic sides and nods to the owners Lebanese heritage. If the food isnt enough trust us; it is the service will keep you coming back for more.