These 2 Historic Oklahoma Restaurants Are Over 100 Years Old
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Ashley
Author
There are not many places in Oklahoma that have been in business for over 100 years, but we found two restaurants that have thrived for over a century in the Sooner State. They are not only historical dining establishments, but their food has become famous across the country and both are worth a visit.
Check them out:
Cattlemen's Steakhouse is the longest operating restaurant in Oklahoma and has been in business since 1910. They are located in the in the historic Stockyard City district of Oklahoma City. They originally served ranchers, cowboys and cattle haulers, but now people from all over the country visit this establishment.
Cattlemen's was one of the few places that stayed open after dark. As you might guess, this also brought in a more rowdy crowd and during Prohibition became known for its "liquid delights."
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The fate of Cattlemen's changed one night in 1945. Hank Frey, the then owner, was in a gambling game with a local rancher, Mr. Gene Wade. Mr. Frey was running out of money and offered up Cattlemen's in the pot, alongside Mr. Wade's life savings. What was the bet you ask? If Wade could roll a 'hard six,' otherwise known as two 3s. And in one roll of the dice, the ownership transferred to Mr. Wade.
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The current cafe side hasn't changed much over the past 50 years. I'm sure lots of conversations and business deals have taken place at these stools over the last century.
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They are famous for their perfectly aged, award-winning steaks and delicious side dishes. They also have a full menu including mouthwatering desserts that are homemade in the bakery.
Ike’s Chili in Tulsa has been serving up warm bowls of chili for over 100 years with their same secret recipe they started with. They are the oldest restaurant in Tulsa and have been serving travelers along Route 66 their outstanding chili that's delicious in all seasons.
They've moved locations several times over the last century and in 2014 they settled into their current Route 66 location.
Locals love visiting Ike's Chili on a weekly basis, and not just for their chili. It's the kind of place that feels like home away from home. As Will Rogers put it, "It's the best place to have a bowl of blessedness." And Martha Stewart agreed when she said: "It's the best chili in the nation."
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The menu offers many options. From burgers and sandwiches to chili and salads, you can get it all at Ike's. They have kept their same secret recipe since they started, and people can't get enough of it.
Have you ever eaten at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse or Ike’s Chili? If so, what did you think about them? If you’re looking for more steakhouses across the state, check out this list.
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