Because you can’t live a full life on an empty stomach.
Many restaurants that call OKC’s Plaza District home have perfected the classic recipes we know and love, others introduce us to dishes we’ve not yet tried. Where else do you get to choose between hearty, homemade biscuits and gravy, Laotian sticky rice, NY-style pizza and a slice of pie even grandma would approve? We’re excited to share some of the Plaza’s signature dining experiences that make this ever-growing area so exciting. Whether you’re in the mood for a taste of home or want to explore international flavors, we suggest heading to the Plaza District.
Lua Mediterranean & Bottle Shop
The latest addition to the Plaza District’s food scene is Lua Mediterranean & Bottle Shop. Set to host its official grand opening Halloween weekend, Lua is bringing fresh, unique flavors and all the tasty tzatziki your heart desires. Its signature item? The Chalupa: lamb meatballs, mint pesto, veggies and feta cream wrapped in a golden fry bread. We can’t wait to see what comes from this joint!
The Press
This is comfort food in its purest form. Biscuits come covered in country gravy topped with eggs of your choice and a side of home fries. We recommend the pork belly for this one! The Press serves up food that soothes the soul – like the green chile chowder, chicken fried ribeye, pot roast and even more classic dishes – with vegan options for most. If you’re in the mood or something lighter, salads from The Press are every bit as delicious and satisfying. And the vegan dumpling soup is perfect for chilly evenings.
Pie Junkie
Pie Junkie pies, like the Orange Bourbon Pecan, freeze well and are every bit as decadent after baking at home. It’s made with a brown sugar filling, big toasted pecans, notes of orange and a healthy splash of bourbon. Take-and-bake frozen pies, like the assortment of crumbles, are available for pickup daily, but you can never go wrong with stopping in for pie by the slice to round out your adventures in the Plaza District.
Ma Der Lao Kitchen
The latest from OKC’s Chef Jeff Chanchaleune, a James Beard Foundation nominee, is his full-circle take on Lao cuisine: Ma Der Lao Kitchen. “Ma Der!” is a Laotian phrase meaning “Come eat!” And you will, family style, as you enjoy dishes like papaya salad, sticky rice, fried pork spareribs and the spicy mushroom stew: wild mushrooms, bamboo, dill and lots of herbs. Signature cocktails round out a unique and flavorful menu, a must-try if you haven’t yet!
Mexican Radio
Perfect for happy hour and brunch, Mexican Radio offers a colorful, laid-back environment for cold drinks, tacos and creative small bites with big flavors. You’ll be missing out if you don’t start with the jalapeño pimento cheese empanadas, served with local honey for the perfect contrast in flavors. The menu boasts specials like a green chile pork burrito with smoked green chile pork, refried beans, crispy rice, chihuahua cheese, chipotle crema and avocado puree. Tacos are served a la carte with smoked brisket, fried chicken, grilled jerk pork and ahi tuna tartare as a few options. Don’t forget to order the crowd-pleasing dole whip margarita!
Neon Coffee Bar
You’ll know this spot when you see its colorful neon ceiling, which lights up the corner of 16th and Indiana. As a new Plaza District addition, Neon has been exciting visitors with its creative coffee drinks, gourmet donuts and craft beer selection. How could you resist the donut French toast topped with pepitas, peaches and blackberry maple syrup? This is the place to come to brighten up your morning with a breakfast sandwich, a cold brew or maybe a pistachio white mocha if you’re in the mood. But for fans of all-day breakfast, you’ll be pleased to know Neon has you covered.
Roxy’s Ice Cream Social
Your sweet tooth will be no match for Roxy’s selection of cane sugar sodas, ice cream floats, sundaes, cookie sandwiches and double-dip cones. Classic flavors range from salted caramel, coffee & cream and graham cracker to cherry, mango and coconut. Plus, Roxy’s vegan German chocolate is a big hit for those who avoid dairy. Be sure to ask about the eight special flavors that rotate seasonally, and then go big! Make it a sundae like the Donatello: pecan ice cream with classic hot fudge and caramel sauce topped with fresh whipped cream, candied pecans and a cherry.
Empire Slice House
One trip to Empire Slice House and you’ll see why it’s become a Plaza District staple over the years. The menu and dining space is inspired by iconic pop culture references, making it a fun environment for all generations. One fan favorite is the Joezilla, with BBQ marinara, feta cheese, roasted chicken, red bell pepper, red onion and BBQ sriracha drizzle. The loaded garlic knots and mini meatballs are perfect for tiding you over as your NY-style pizza is prepared. Local craft beers and signature cocktails round out the quirky menu, perfect to enjoy in the outdoor dining space. Having a slice of Empire is a must-do for any Plaza first-timer.
Which Plaza District restaurant are you excited to try? Let us know down below!
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