Lined with murals and galleries, the Plaza District is one of Oklahoma City’s most artistic destinations—including when it comes to food. Between the district’s eclectic vintage shops and boutiques, you’ll find an equally vibrant mix of restaurants and bars, each one as colorful and creative as the famed Plaza Walls.
Authentic Asian Cuisine
In recent years, the Plaza has become a hub for authentic Asian cuisine, with award-winning spots like Ma Der Lao Kitchen leading the way. Helmed by Hometown Hero Jeff Chanchaleune, the restaurant specializes in traditional Laotian and Thai dishes, including Nam Khao (crispy rice salad) and Sai Oua (Lao sausage)—recipes the chef grew up with. Next door, Chanchaleune opened BAR SEN, a Lao noodle and cocktail bar serving comforting dishes like Khao Piek Sen (Lao chicken noodle soup) and pandan cinnamon rolls. Both are located on the eastern edge of the Plaza, right alongside galleries and shops.
Down the street, Takaramono brings an authentic Japanese izakaya experience to the Plaza. Inspired by Japanese pub culture, the cozy, wood-clad space serves tapas-style small plates, from grilled skewers to chili-spiced chicken wings, along with a full slate of ice-cold beers.
Comfort Food Spots
The Plaza is also home to beloved comfort food spots like Empire Slice House, which has spent over a decade elevating New York-style pizza with innovative toppings. Along with local beer, garlic knots and whole pies served in a punk-rock space with a covered patio, Empire’s slice of the day lineup features bold flavors, including the Joezilla, with roasted chicken, red bell pepper, red onion and BBQ Sriracha drizzle.
For a different kind of pie, Pie Junkie is a quaint dessert shop nestled amongst the Plaza’s galleries, known for its decadent slices like Kentucky Bourbon, Red Velvet Cream and S’More. On the savory side, their chicken pot pies are legendary.
Meanwhile, classic American cheeseburgers take center stage at New State Burgers, where the sizzle of the griddle sets the mood in a rustic, art-filled space. The signature cheeseburger comes with Dijonaise, diced pickles and red onion, but diners can also dig into killer patty melts, fried chicken sandwiches and house-battered chicken nuggets. Right next door to New State, the same owners run Good For A Few, a dimly lit, speakeasy-style bar crafting spot-on renditions of classic cocktails, like French 75s and Vespers.
Meet for Brunch
For those who love a good brunch, the Plaza District and surrounding areas offer some of the best spots to enjoy a sweet and savory morning or mid-day meal.
Aurora takes a scratch-made approach to food and serves brunch daily. Indulge in savory favorites like house-made biscuits and gravy, burgers and avocado toast or satisfy your sweet tooth with fruit-topped pancakes and cinnamon rolls. To complement your meal, Aurora offers specialty coffee, tea and a full bar featuring mimosas, wine and beer.
For another daily brunch spot, head to The Press, where Southern comfort meets Southwestern flavors. Signature dishes include shrimp n’ grits, a brekkie bowl with cheddar-whipped grits, green chile, two over-easy eggs, bacon bits, cheddar and green onion, along with breakfast tacos and biscuits and gravy. It’s also very vegetarian-friendly, with dishes like the vegan breakfast hash and the vegetarian chilaquiles. Pair your meal with a Michelada made with Modelo, house mix and a spicy rim, or a refreshing mimosa.
Available only on weekends, The Mule— famous for its hot sandwich melts and beer—also serves up an impressive brunch menu. Its offerings include avocado toast, egg wraps and signature cocktails like Bloody Marys.
