Tulsa brings big-time comfort with a mix of Route 66 nostalgia, Southern staples, and Native and Tex-Mex influences.
Expect generous portions, plenty of smoke, and desserts that feel like grandma’s kitchen.
Nola’s Creole & Cocktails
Step into a cozy, candlelit space and settle into plates that taste like New Orleans via Tulsa.
Shrimp and grits, chicken and andouille jambalaya, and rich crawfish étouffée deliver soulful comfort with a bayou drawl.
The beignets arrive hot with a snow of powdered sugar, and the cocktails lean classic—French 75s, Sazeracs, and Hurricanes done right. It’s warm, festive, and reliably delicious.
El Rancho Grande
A Route 66 staple since the 1950s, El Rancho Grande is comfort in a red-sauce Tex-Mex hug.
Enchiladas, crispy tacos, and sizzling fajitas keep regulars loyal; the queso is creamy and blissfully simple; and the tamales taste like someone’s family recipe.
The vibe is timeless, the chips keep coming, and the margaritas are exactly what you want after a long day.
Tally’s Good Food Cafe
Open early to late, Tally’s is the classic diner that does everything well—chicken-fried steak with gravy, meatloaf with mashed potatoes, giant cinnamon rolls, and patty melts with oozing cheese.
The Route 66 decor sets the scene, and the service is quick and cheerful. It’s comfort with a retro wink and a massive menu of crowd-pleasers.
Burn Co BBQ
Burn Co is a pilgrimage for Tulsa barbecue lovers, famous for its Hasty-Bake grilled meats that bring a unique kiss of fire.
The ribs are meaty and well-rendered, the bologna (yes, trust it) is smoky and addictive, and the sausage boats are a cult favorite. Sides like cheesy potatoes and beans round things out.
It sells out—arrive early and come ready to devour.
Mother Road Market
For groups or indecisive days, Tulsa’s food hall offers a choose-your-own-comfort adventure.
From fried chicken sandwiches and mac bowls to ramen and pizza, it’s all about casual abundance.
Grab a seat, mix and match, and finish with a big cookie or soft-serve. It’s communal and fun, with options for everyone.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
