Twenty years after the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, the area around The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum has come back stronger than ever before. These restaurants are part of our urban renaissance and proof that we dont wither before a challenge and we fight fiercely to retain our character. by Greg Elwell, photos by Mark Hancock and Garett Fisbeck
Red Primesteak
504 N. Broadway Ave.
redprimesteak.com232-2626
Housed in the historic 1911 Buick Building, Red is an old-school steakhouse with a flair for modern technique and design. The vision of architect Rand Elliot, its best features include crimson neon, top-quality service and, of course, delicious prime steaks. Make this gorgeous spot a stop on your tour of downtown.
Chili Dog Express
329 NW Fourth St.
601-7516A relative newcomer to the downtown landscape, Chili Dog Express is all about the dogs. Great for those on the go or just people who enjoy a well-cooked wiener, its affordable fare includes all the classics sauerkraut and chili and some new twists Fritos, nacho cheese and brisket.
Nourished Food Bar
131 Dean A. McGee Ave.
nourishedfood.com740-7299
Proof that eating healthy doesnt mean boring food, Nourished Food Bar plies fresh soups and salads alongside delectable cookies, muffins and ready- to-eat granolas. If youre looking for a satisfying snack as you wend your way across downtown, crunch your way through a bag of savory kale chips.
Pelotón Wine Bar & Cafe
900 N. broadway Ave.
pelotonwinebar.com605-0513
Hidden behind Schlegel Bicycles is the utterly charming Pelotón Wine Bar, where patrons can belly up to a selection of more than 50 wines and a bevy of beers or relax with a bite to eat on the spacious patio. As the summer months descend, the fans and misters keep customers cool while the herbaceous tuna melt keeps bellies full.
Hobbys Hoagies
325 N. Walker Ave.
hobbyshoagies.com605-3131
Chow down with the locals at Hobbys Hoagies, which has been serving this arts district for over six years. With freshly baked Italian rolls and Hobbys special hoagie peppers, these sandwiches pack quite a punch, which is why they pack in the crowds on a daily basis.
Park Avenue Grill
1 Park Ave.
parkavegrill.com702-8444
For a true city experience, visitors love a stay at the historic Skirvin hotel, which is within walking distance of plenty of downtown eateries. Or they can just walk downstairs to Park Avenue Grill for great modern, Southern-style meals. Say yes to braised bison short rib or the Skirvin burger with house-made pastrami.
Hot Tamale Grill
100 N. broadway Ave.
232-1184Add a little spice to your tour experience with Hot Tamale Grills selection of street tacos and self-proclaimed best hamburgers in town. With a spot in the beautiful Chase Tower, its a great place for authentic tamales or a fully loaded Southwest Burrito to fuel your legs for a jaunt around the city.
Print headline: Urban renewal