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The best
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Which Sauce is Boss Ribs to stick to The final score
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in this issue
MAY 2017
Features
44
BAR-B-QUEST
Oklahomans take their ribs, brisket, pulled pork and sides very seriously, so when we hit the road to find great barbeque, we discovered a whole lot to love. Central Oklahoma is home to a collection of outstanding sources for meat-filled meals, and these are the 20 we tried in our search for the 405’s best – including one that’s the greatest of them all.
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FRESH-FACED AND SMILING
With the winter doldrums well and truly behind us, it’s time to pull those tank tops, shorts and swimming suits out of the closet … but if you want to give yourself a bit of a self-care pickme-up first, these sensational spa treatments for springtime rejuvenation will help you put your best face (and hair, and skin) forward.
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in this issue
MAY 2017
In the 405
Dining
17 Artist Skip Hill
75 Disparate cuisines fuse into a delicious whole at Norman flavor experiment El Toro Chino; Packard’s chef Chris McKenna shares a favorite warm-weather recipe; advice from experts about coming to grips with cooking octopus; appreciating the baked goods and great German cooking at Ingrid’s; May might be the perfect time to enjoy a Sooner Swirl on The Mont’s patio.
balances a yearning for travel with an enduring affection for Norman; reminiscing about music, mirth and career longevity with legendary entertainer Roy Clark; new craft breweries add fresh flavors to OKC’s beer scene; good vibes, great gifts and memorable shopping at Norman boutique Stash; suggested items to be stylishly equipped for fun in the sun; checking in on the lengthy legacy of Corn Bible Academy; graduations are a time for sincere advice (and humorous quips); why a few quality serums can be superior to a drawer filled with lotions; remnants of the American west still lingering in London.
Travel
90 An ideal blend of accessibility, amenities and natural splendor, Missouri’s Big Cedar Lodge makes a blissful getaway amid the Ozarks.
Events
105 OKC Broadway
Culture
62 Statistics don’t tell the whole story of drug addiction; finding a more personal perspective may be helpful in formulating more humane – and effective – solutions.
Home
67 A speedy, stylish renovation added more light and vitality to Sheli Reynolds' Nichols Hills home; while the dining room might have a smaller role in families’ daily lives, tables like these still command appreciative attention.
ON THE COVER
8
London Calling
40
There’s quite a gap between the civility of Merrie Old England and the roughand-tumble mythos of the Wild West – but 130 years after Buffalo Bill performed for Queen Victoria, M.J. Alexander discovers some traces of the American prairie that still linger in the heart of London.
brings the spectacle of the savannah to the metro with a touring production of “The Lion King”; artists turn their eyes to the skies for the National Weather Center Biennale; a weekend of entertaining art events in Edmond and Norman; Science Museum Oklahoma looks under the skin in Bodies Revealed.
In Every Issue 12 From the Editor 14 Web Sights 34 On the Scene 82 Food and Drink 108 On the Radar 112 Backstory
A carnivore’s dream come true: the massive, mouthwatering beef ribs at Texlahoma. Photo by Scotty O’Daniel
405 MAGAZINE MAY 2017
OWN YOUR PASSION. OWN YOUR SPACE.
MAY 2017
VOLUME 3 • NUMBER 5
Editor-in-Chief Heidi Rambo Centrella heidi.centrella@405magazine.com go for some Could really w (p.44) ribs about no
EDITORIAL Managing Editor Steve Gill
steve.gill@405magazine.com
LIMITED Y BILIT V A AIL A S IN IT N U R FO 1 PH A SE
Style Editor Sara Gae Waters saragae.waters@405magazine.com
RESERVE YOUR SPACE NOW
Garage Condos of Oklahoma is a community of first-class, affordable, completely customizable garage suites.
Fashion Editor Jennifer Salyer jennifer.salyer@405magazine.com Editorial Coordinator Hasn’t yet been in a tornado warning (fingers crossed)
Louise Scrivens Contributing Writers
M.J. Alexander, Mark Beutler, Christine Eddington, Lauren Hammack, Greg Horton, Elaine Warner ART Art Director Scotty O’Daniel scotty.odaniel@405magazine.com Graphic Designer Brian O’Daniel brian.odaniel@405magazine.com Design & Production Coordinator Tiffany McKnight
READER SERVICES 405 Magazine 729 W. Sheridan, Suite 101 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Phone 405.842.2266 Fax 405.604.9435 info@405magazine.com, 405magazine.com Story Ideas and Letters to the Editor Your views and opinions are welcome. Include your full name, address and daytime phone number and email to editor@405magazine.com. Letters sent to 405 Magazine become the magazine’s property, and it owns all rights to their use. 405 Magazine reserves the right to edit letters for length and clarity. Back Issues Back issues are $9.50 (includes P&H) each. For back issue availability and order information, please contact our office. Bulk Orders For multiple copy order information, please contact our office. Subscriptions 405 Magazine is available by subscription for $14.95 (12 issues), $24.95 (24 issues) or $34.95 (36 issues). Subscription Customer Service 405 Magazine P.O. Box 16765 North Hollywood, CA 91615-6765 Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. CST Phone 818.286.3160 Fax 800.869.0040 subscriptions@405magazine.com 405magazine.com/subscribe Ha ADMINISTRATION Distribution Raymond Brewer
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tiffany.mcknight@405magazine.com Contributing Photographers M.J. Alexander, Justin Avera, David Cobb, Shannon Cornman, Terrell Fry, Charlie Neuenschwander ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Tom H. Fraley III tom.fraley@405magazine.com Executive Director of Advertising Cynthia Whitaker-hill cynthia.whitakerhill@405magazine.com Account Executives Melissa Bake melissa.bake@405magazine.com
405 Magazine Volume 3, Number 5, May 2017. 405 Magazine is published monthly by 405 Magazine, Inc. at 729 W. Sheridan, Suite 101, Oklahoma City, OK 73102, 405.842.2266. © Copyright 2017 405 Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of 405 Magazine content, in whole or part by any means, without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. 405 Magazine is not responsible for the care of and/or return of unsolicited materials. 405 Magazine reserves the right to refuse advertising deemed detrimental to the community’s best interest or in questionable taste. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of ownership or management. Basic annual subscription rate is $14.95. U.S. single-copy price is $4.95. Back issues are $9.50 each
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FROM THE EDITOR
Beauty and the Best (Barbeque)
HEIDI R A MBO CEN TRELL A Editor-in-Chief heidi.centrella@405magazine.com
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405 MAGAZINE MAY 2017
PHOTO BY SIMON HURST
WITH SPRING IN FULL SWING, this is the month we can appreciate our gardens, the start of summer vacations and, of course, our mothers. As a mother of two – a teenager and a 20-something – the best Mother’s Day for me would be spent binge-watching documentaries, rom-coms and pretty much any series on Netflix … I’m quite versatile that way. I also would have a bell to ring for every need; think food, wine or the clicker I can’t find. (Yes, I said “clicker.” I spent many formative years in the South.) However, if the aforementioned scenario were off the table, I wouldn’t turn down a spa extravaganza – living the life of luxury, even if just for one day. Facials, wraps, a mani-pedi, a blowout, a massage or three. And wine. Lucky for us gals who enjoy such outings, Christine Eddington has done all the legwork and is ready to share some wisdom about the myriad options for getting our beauty on right here in the metro (pg. 54). On a completely unrelated note, because I’m certainly not implying anything about differences between the sexes, some of the guys here at 405 HQ – Steve, Scotty and Brian – have traveled near and far in search of the best barbeque in the area code. And it turns out that there’s a good deal of competition. North, south, east, west – in a mere 10 days, they managed to visit 20 eateries and consume what we’ve estimated to be more than 40 pounds of meat, in addition to massive quantities of sides and even some desserts (perspective: my 3-year-old grandson, Rocco, weighs in at around 30 pounds). They came back full of knowledge – and also full – so if you’re hankering for some exquisite beef, pork, turkey or carbs, check out the recommendations on page 44. And if you’re daring enough to recreate this experience, we’ll have a drawing on May 25 for gift cards to these fine local restaurants. Up for the challenge? Look for the link on 405magazine.com. Whether you’re in search of rejuvenation, ribs or a bevy of other attractions, don’t forget to look down I-35 to Norman. As a nod to our city to the south, this is a special Norman Now issue, wherein you’ll find plenty of content showcasing its businesses, artists, restaurants and events. You just might feel inclined to spend a few weekends exploring all that Norman has to offer – and with the OU semester coming to a close and the weather so inviting, there’s no time like the present.
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Web Sights What’s online at 405magazine.com
Barbeque + You
From savory hot links and an avalanche of curly fries at Jake’s Rib in Chickasha to Van’s Pig Stand’s beautifully tender chopped
brisket and smoky mac and cheese in Shawnee, we relished every bit and bite of our travels through the 405 in search of the best barbeque. If reading the results (see Bar-B-Quest, p. 44) in this issue makes you hungry for a road trip, we have some mouthwatering news for you: We’re giving one lucky reader the opportunity to go on his or her own flavor odyssey in our Best Barbeque Giveaway. Visit 405magazine.com/bbqtour to enter, then circle the giveaway date of May 25 on your calendar. And trust us – the winner will be in for some serious carnivorous satisfaction.
Weekly Feasting
With spring bringing renewed vitality to the metro and reawakening Oklahomans’ desire to get outside, we thought this would be the perfect time to revive one of our most popular giveaways – the Friday $50 is back. Each Friday in May, we’ll be giving away $50 worth of gift cards to one of the excellent local eateries featured in this month’s issue, To enter, keep an eye on our e-newsletters (you can sign up for free at 405magazine.com/ newsletters/) and be ready to click the link within. We’ll draw a winner at random each Friday at noon … so you could be on the verge of closing out the week in delicious style.
for More Information Call 405.202.8783 14
405 MAGAZINE MAY 2017
What’s New, Now
With the pace of development in Oklahoma City and beyond as impressive as it is, we think keeping you informed more frequently than once a month is a must. That’s the goal for 405 Now, a section atop our home page that updates multiple times per week to share fresh new articles and information beyond what appears in the magazine. We hope you’ll keep an eye on it, and feel free to share tips with us by emailing feedback@405magazine.com.
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405
in the
PHOTO BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER
Finding Focus Skip Hill’s life has been defined by creativity – “I have never known not having an interest in art,” he says – and that impulse has in turn been shaped by exposure to varied locales through frequent travel. But as necessary as he finds wandering the world, his special connection to Norman continues to bring him back to the 405.
MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405 CREATIVES
THE TRAVELOGUE OF LIFE Skip Hill and the search for inspiration BY MARK BEUTLER PHOTO BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER
SK IP HIL L is well traveled, and so is his art – he and
his work have been spotted everywhere from Ardmore to Amsterdam, OKC to Rio de Janeiro, and a number of other exotic locales in between. After traveling the world, Hill chose to settle in Norman, and works out of his studio at Nedpoint Ranch just south of Pauls Valley. His gift for art came naturally and was apparent at a young age. He grew up on the barefoot beaches of Padre Island, Texas, where a large part of his childhood was spent reading and drawing cartoons. “I remember a features reporter from the local paper came to interview me, and later that week, my cartoons and I were featured in a half-page spread in the Sunday edition of the Corpus Christi Caller,” Hill says. “That was a big deal for a 12-year-old.” During his early years, Hill said he managed to avoid taking any formal art classes. He attended Oklahoma City University and studied advertising marketing, ultimately working in various creative positions in the industry. Eventually, he relocated to southern California and worked as a freelance graphic designer around San Diego County. “But I spent much of my time languishing in Baja, Mexico,” he says with a laugh. The lure of wanderlust took him to Southeast Asia and Thailand, where he worked as an art director and writer for a Bangkok business magazine. “After that I spent time at a Buddhist meditation retreat and explored the country by motorcycle,” he says. “Then I settled in the Netherlands and began an intensive study of Art History. Frequent visits to the great European museums provided the aesthetic experience that sparked my interest in creating art for its intellectual and sensuous pleasure rather than for strictly commercial use.” Throughout that period, Hill traveled extensively. He visited Germany, then Prague, and fell in love with Morocco. He returned to the United States, where a reunion with his estranged father in Alabama led him to even more eclectic influences. “He would introduce me to the work of Southern Folk artists Lonnie Holley, Jimmy Lee Suddeth and Mose Tolliver, whose art was created through ancient rituals, shaman mystics and the ghosts of Africa,” he says.
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Then for the first time, Hill studied fine arts in a formal setting by enrolling at the University of Oklahoma. “I curated and created a poignant installation for the exhibition Heaven to Earth/Casting Stones at the Fred Jones Museum of Art in reaction to the bombing of the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City,” he says. “After that, I returned briefly to the Netherlands, where I was commissioned by a Dutch cultural foundation to execute a mural in the luxurious garden of a 14th-century estate.” After many years of living in the Oklahoma City area making and selling his art around the country at art fairs, Hill moved to Norman in 2011. “I had good memories of Norman from my time in art school, and appreciated the more progressive energy of living in a university community with a sense of history,” he says. “I love Tulsa and Oklahoma City, but Norman is special. My stint serving on the board of the Norman Arts Council has created relationships and opportunities with many of the best people the community has to offer.” Hill and his work have been featured nationally on CNN, Black Entertainment Television and ABC’s “Extreme Home Makeover.” His work hangs in the Oklahoma State Art Collection in the Betty Price Gallery at the State Capitol, and the bulk of his work is in his Nedpoint Ranch studio, which is open to visitors by appointment and during open studio tours. “Inspiration finds me when I’m working and struggling in the studio, or walking the pastures at the ranch,” Hill says. “Inspiration comes from walking the streets of Amsterdam, and sitting under a bird-filled mango tree in Aimores, Brazil. Travel has been my essential inspiration. When I get that itch, I have to get out of Oklahoma to refresh and renew my eyes. I have never known not having an interest in art. Art has always been more who I am than something I do.”
SIGHT SITES
Skip Hill’s art is in public and private collections throughout the United States, France, the Netherlands, Colombia, Mexico and Brazil – for more information on Hill and his work, visit https://tinyurl.com/skiphillart
“Inspiration finds me when I’m working and struggling in the studio, or walking the pastures at the ranch.” SK IP HIL L
MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405 CONVERSATION
Still Picking, Still Grinning ON E OF T HE M USIC industry’s true living legends is being honored with a new exhibit at Oklahoma City’s American Banjo Museum. The recently opened “America’s Super Picker: Roy Clark” gives guests a glimpse into Clark’s life, featuring stage costumes and musical instruments from the artist’s personal collection. Clark has been making music for more than a half-century, and has won multiple Entertainer of the Year awards from both the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music. In 2009, Clark was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, and has been a member of the Grand Ole Opry for more than 30 years. While he’s most commonly known as a country entertainer, he has also had hit records on the pop charts, including “Yesterday When I Was Young” and the novelty hit “Thank God and Greyhound She’s Gone.” Clark hosted “The Tonight Show” multiple times, was a guest on “The Muppet Show” and even appeared on “The Beverly Hillbillies.” Since the mid-1970s, Clark has made his home in Tulsa. 405 Magazine had a chance to sit down and visit with the “Hee Haw” star during a recent press junket in Bricktown.
How long have you lived in Tulsa? “I was living back east, and in 1976 I went on a concert tour of Russia. I was the first country music entertainer to ever perform in the Soviet Union. When I got back to the States, one of my first shows was in Tulsa. So in one tour, I left as a Yankee and came back as an Okie.”
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You have some longtime roots in Oklahoma, having performed with our own “Queen of Rockabilly” Wanda Jackson. “Yes, I was in Wanda’s band, the Party-Timers, back in the early ’60s. She is a sweetheart. She is actually the one who put me in touch with Capitol Records. I just saw her last week in Nashville.” On “Hee-Haw,” you and Buck Owens were known for your “pickin’ and grinnin’” with you on the banjo. Was that the first instrument you learned
to play as a kid? “Yes, it was. When I was starting to learn, I had to go where the instrument was, because we couldn’t afford to buy one. My uncle had a mandolin, so I learned to play that. And my dad had a tenor banjo. After the mandolin and banjo, I graduated to guitar. That’s when I decided there’s more to this than I was aware of, so I went out and decided to see if I could make a living at it.” Do you remember the first time you were on television? “Yes, I was still living at home with my parents and
PHOTO BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER
Catching up with legendary entertainer Roy Clark
appeared on the old DuMont network in 1947. That was a long time ago. I saw Bob Hope on “The Tonight Show” one time; they asked him how long he had been on TV, and he said something like 40 years at that time. I thought to myself, ‘I’ve been on TV longer than Bob Hope!’” “Hee-Haw” came along in 1969, and was sort of a cornpone version of “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In” that was on the air until 1992. How long did it take you to shoot that? “We only got together twice a year, in June and October, and did all our shows for the season in about two weeks.” Do you ever catch yourself on the reruns? “Every chance I get! Sometimes I will see myself and think, ‘Well, that’s not too bad.’ Then other times I’ll see something and think, ‘Oh, why did I do that?’” Back in the late ’60s, you appeared on “The Beverly Hillbillies” as Cousin Roy Halsey, and even did a dual role in drag as Cousin Roy’s mother, Myrtle. What do you remember about that? (Laughs) “Well, they had me in a miniskirt and go-go boots, but they couldn’t find any pantyhose that would fit me. So I went out at lunch and bought the biggest pair of pantyhose I could find, and cut the feet out of them. When you saw the scene of me in the go-go boots, you couldn’t tell the pantyhose didn’t have feet!” You’re going to be inducted into the American Banjo Museum’s Hall of Fame in September, so will you be coming back to Oklahoma City? “Oh, you bet! You can’t get rid of me yet.” - MARK BEUTLER
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MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405
Brewery News Crafting fresh beer developments T R ACK I NG T HE E X PA NSION of craft beer has become
something of a dog-chasing-its-tail endeavor in the past few years – new trends are around every corner. In conjunction with a wave of new breweries came a growing emphasis on barrel aging; in the past decade, more whiskey barrels have been used to make beer than whiskey, it seems. The market is so glutted with beers aged in old whiskey, brandy, cognac and wine barrels that it would hardly be surprising if the next phase were aging brews in Hellmann’s mayonnaise jars or Juicy Juice bottles. Mixed in with the “beer that tastes like fruit” and “beer that tastes like whiskey” trends, though, is the ongoing growth of the craft beer industry in central Oklahoma, most notably in the form of new breweries, taprooms and pubs.
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Bricktown Brewery and Belle Isle Brewery have been around for decades, but they were prohibited by law from brewing strong point beer on the premises until last year, and even now Inside the new taproom at Twisted Spike Brewing Co. there are some restrictions related to licensing. However, the change in legislation means that new brewpubs will be opening in Oklahoma City in the very near future, even as existing breweries
PHOTOS BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER
ON TAP
have already added taprooms and distribution logistics to take advantage of the new legislation. One of the first of those new taprooms downtown is Twisted Spike, right on the edge of the railroad tracks on NW10. Bruce Sanchez – co-owner with his wife Donna – is an Edmond native who spent twenty years as a home brewer before retiring from the FAA with 28 years of service and launching his own beer business. “We started planning this about three years ago when it seemed obvious that our alcohol laws were headed for modernization,” Sanchez says. “The craft beer festival increased 100 percent five years in a row, so we knew this was a good time to start the brewery and taproom.” Joel Irby, owner and brewer at the soon-to-be-opened Stonecloud Brewing Company, which occupies the old Sunshine Laundry building on NW Classen, echoes that sense of timing. “Oklahoma City is in this remarkable revitalization period,” Irby says, “and so I NEW BREWS FROM moved back to be near my NEW BREWERS family and to be a part of (AND AN OLD FAVORITE) this craft beer expansion. I think the city is on the cusp COOP SATURDAY SIREN of being this ridiculously A dry-hopped Pilsner, which will amazing place.” make for a hoppy, refreshing summer seasonal. Irby’s resume is solid in the beer industry, having ELK VALLEY OLD GRIZZLY worked for Avery in AMERICAN BARLEYWINE Colorado before returning Only a limited number of kegs to Oklahoma. Setting will be available, and Oak & Ore will have some. It’s a relatively up shop in the historic low-point barleywine, at only building gives him one of 11.5 ABV. the highest profiles in the beer business so far. Still, NOTHING’S LEFT he said he is a “couple STRAWBERRY BLONDE Expected to be in cans by early of months out” from an May, it’s a wheat beer made with official opening. strawberry puree, so it’s going to Also some way off is the be perfect for summer. Prairie Artisan Ales brewpub, slated to be located PRAIRIE ARTISAN ALES PRAIRIE FLARE on NW 8. Zach PrichMade with dried lime and ard, president of Krebs orange peels, this Gose-style Brewing Company, said beer will be the brewery’s first construction is ongoing ever in cans. and July or August of this STONECLOUD GRAPEFRUIT IPA year “seems very realistic” This will be the first widely for an opening date. available brew from Irby, but he John Elkins, ownalso has a sour aging in wine er and brewer at Elk barrels right now, which will be Valley Brewing Company, out later this year. recently announced that TWISTED SPIKE he would be moving his DIRTY BLONDE SANCHEZ brewing operations to Bruce recommends this Belgian Midtown as part of Pivot blonde ale – “it’s named for my Project’s restoration of wife,” he explains.
The vintage sign remains over what will soon be Stonecloud Brewing.
the Uptown Theater on NW 11 and Hudson. A mid-2018 date was announced for opening, but Elkins says, “I am pushing my butt off to make it happen by January 1. “It’s not going to happen that soon, but I’m pushing for it,” Elkins says. “Realistically, we’re looking at an opening between February 1 and April 1, 2018.” Tulsa-based Nothing’s Left Brewing Company has been contract brewing at Urban Farmhouse Brewing since mid-2016, and owner/brewer Travis Richards said he will continue to work with Pat Lively of Urban and Anthem Brewing for the foreseeable future. “I came to Oklahoma City because Pat has a system that is small enough for what I need right now,” Richards explains. “A lot of the brewers wanted a 50-barrel-or-up minimum, but I only needed a 30-barrel system.” The name Nothing’s Left came from his search for a “cool name” for his brewery. “We tried all the normal ideas, and some stuff like Big Red Giant or a Viking-themed name for a couple of weeks. At the end, there was really nothing left, so we went with it.” The openings in 2017 are likely just a smattering of what is to come for Oklahoma City. With the change in laws, brewpubs will be able to make strong point beer on-site, while serving food and maintaining a full bar. Those changes will come in 2018, though. For now, just enjoy the array of flavors that call OKC home, and look forward to what’s on tap. - GREG HORTON MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405 FAVORITE THINGS
Soaprock in turquoise, $15 “Beautiful specimens of glycerin that look like gemstones but are actually finely crafted bars of gentle soap. Available in many different gemstones, these are as gentle and fragrant as they are beautiful.”
Air plant, $25, and handmade ceramic holder by Elizabeth Benotti, $48 “Air plants bring any space to life and are the lowest maintenance plant around. They purify the air, and when paired with this ceramic holder, add beauty to a room. The ceramic holder is made in the USA and comes in a variety of shapes and colors.”
Traveler’s tall wallet by Simpleton Goods, $165 “Hand-stitched locally and built thin to maintain dexterity and functionality for travel and everyday use.”
Saint Woody candle, $15 “This Land Press has created a line of decorative candles that canonize the secular saints of middle America, starting with Woody Guthrie, the patron saint of protesters, trespassers, rabble-rousers and troubadours.”
Pendleton saddle blanket, $160 “This classic, American-made wool blanket features a Southwest-inspired design including stepped triangles, thought to symbolize the landscape, and arrows, which signify protection. A stunning accent that adds color and interest anywhere in your home.”
Stash’s Treasure Trove Finding good gifts in a Norman original MISE E N PL ACE is a French culinary phrase that means “everything
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“Will Rogers Sunset” by Catherine Freshley, $130 “Each month, Stash features a local artist [such as] Catherine Freshley. From her studio in Enid, she paints the photographs she captures while driving and out and about, watching the clouds. A collection of her prints and cards is currently in the shop.”
Turquoise cuff, $725 “This turquoise cuff is Native-made in Chimney Butte, and is a modern piece that incorporates very old, high-quality turquoise from the San Bernardino mine in Colorado. The best of the old world and new world combined.”
PORTRAIT BY GREER INEZ, ALL OTHERS BY SCOTTY O’DANIEL
Dan Harris mug, $35, and Bison Brew coffee, $12 “Legendary local pottery artist Dan Harris has a unique technique when throwing pottery into mugs, bowls, platters and other household treasures. His mugs pair well with a cup of fresh, locally roasted Bison Brew Coffee; originally established to inspire a spirit of curiosity among coffee drinkers, they create brews you’ll enjoy every day with your friends and family.”
in its place,” conveying a well-thought-out spirit of preparedness. While Rebecca Bean isn’t a chef, you might see the correlation when you enter her enchanting store, Stash, 412 E Main in Norman. With consideration informing every detail, not a single thing is out of place. Bean’s love for giving a good gift and background in garage sales with her mom gave her an appreciation for “old, well-made things,” she says. “Stash happened organically with the intention to give people an outlet for their work, and to give shoppers an alternative to the disposable gifts that can be found elsewhere.” Staying true to fair trade practices and supporting local creators are priorities. They carry work from more than 100 different artists from Oklahoma, plus items from far beyond. And Stash not only provides a unique cornucopia of retail; it’s home to many community events, with rental space in the back and frequent food truck gatherings out front. It’s easy to see how they’re embodying their motto, “Good Things for All.” “We hope that Stash is an experience. It’s art and handcrafted, it’s old and new, it’s the smell of Santa Fe piñon incense with a fresh food truck outside – and on some days, Stash is even a puppy adoption event with a mural going up in the lot to a background of live music,” says Bean. Some might even say Stash is an example of what good retail should be: personal, distinctive and not to be forgotten. - SAR A GAE WATERS
in the 405 TRENDS
Black tassel tote, $50 from Tulips
Palm leaf round beach towel, $56 from Tulips
Current/ Elliot cactus muscle tee, $118 from Cayman’s
L.A. S’well Bottle, $38 from Tulips
Flexx hair band (set of 4), $10.50 from Cayman’s
Hummingbird coverup, $39.95 from The Clothing Bar
Joia flip flops, $19.95 from Blush
Winky Lux lipstick, $14 from Cayman’s
Stylish Vacation Essentials
Natura Bisse sun protection, $64, and vitamin splash, $55 from Cayman’s
Accessories are in the bag
I T ’S HER E: the time to grab your favorite tote, throw in all the
necessities for a day in the sun and head out for some time to decompress. Don’t forget the sunscreen – this Natura Bisse protection is the best of the best – as well as a stylish pair of shades … and you can’t go wrong with a cover-up in all the right colors. A water bottle is a must, as well as a hat and black leather flip flops to deck yourself out head to toe. All you need to add is a patch of grass, a sandy beach or lakefront view. - SAR A GAE WATERS Tassel key chain, $12, with Mermaid at Heart charm, $14 from Tulips
Fan Girl fan for iPhone/ Android, $10 from Tulips
Hat Attack sun hat, $98 from Cayman’s
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PHOTO BY SCOTTY O’DANIEL
Tulips 570 Buchanan, Norman; Cayman’s 2001 W Main, #105, Norman; Blush 566 Buchanan, Norman; The Clothing Bar 2001 W Main, #103, Norman
White round sunglasses, $24 from Tulips
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in the 405 OKLAHOMYTHS
Crusaders for Knowledge The lengthy legacy of Corn Bible Academy DU R I NG T HE 1892 Cheyenne-Arapaho Land Run, 18 homesteaders established what would become Oklahoma’s largest Mennonite town, named after the German word for grain: Korn. With their hopes and belongings, they brought seeds for a hardy strain of winter wheat called Turkey Red, and the seed and the colony flourished in the Washita County soil. More than 90 families, many of them arriving from Kansas, settled in the area by winter of the following year. The Korn post office was established two years later, and eight Mennonite churches were established within 10 miles of the town center. The school – originally known as the Washita Gemeinde Schule – was established in 1902. The name of the town was anglicized to Corn in 1918 to avoid anti-German suspicions during World War I, and the school became known as the Corn Bible Academy.
FACT CHECK: False. The Corn Bible Academy was established in 1902, and although its founding predates statehood, it is not even the oldest Christian school in Oklahoma. That honor goes to Holy Trinity Catholic School of Okarche, in continuous operation since it was established in Oklahoma Territory in 1897. Several other schools operating west of the Mississippi River were founded in the 19th century. Among them: • Saint Louis University High School, Saint Louis, Mo., 1818 • Academy of the Sacred Heart, Grand Coteau, La., 1821 • Bellarmine College Preparatory, San Jose, Calif., 1851 • Notre Dame High School, San Jose, Calif., 1851 • Mount St. Mary Academy, Little Rock, Ark., 1851 • St. Michael’s High School, Santa Fe, N.M., 1859 • Loyola High School of Los Angeles, 1865 • Incarnate Word Academy, Houston, 1873 • Christian Brothers High School, Sacramento, Calif., 1876 • Saint Mary’s High School, Stockton, Calif., 1876 • The Academy of Our Lady of Peace, San Diego, 1882 • Gonzaga High School, Spokane, Wash., 1887 • TMI: The Episcopal School of Texas, San Antonio, 1893 CLAIM 2: The academy is the fifth-oldest Christian high school in the United States.
CLAIM 1: The Corn Bible Academy is the oldest Christian school west of the Mississippi River.
SOURCE: The Oklahoman, January 31, 1993
SOURCE: Travel Oklahoma, travelok.com/article_page/ oklahomas-amish-and-mennonite-communities
FACT CHECK: This is also incorrect, by more than a century. The oldest religiously based school in the United States
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in the 405 OKLAHOMYTHS
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was established nearly 400 years ago on the island of Manhattan by leaders of the Dutch Reformed Church and the Dutch West India Company. The Collegiate School suspended operations only once since 1628, when the British occupied New York City during the American Revolution. Collegiate settled in its current home in 1892, next to New York’s West End Collegiate Church. Although now non-denominational, the K-12 school is ruled by a 25-member board of trustees including representatives of the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church of the City of New York. Yearly tuition is $47,500. Perennially listed in the national rankings of top Christian schools are Quaker-founded institutions that have been in operation for more than three centuries: The Friends School in Philadelphia, founded in 1689; the William Penn Charter School of Philadelphia, founded in 1689; and the Abington Friends School, founded in 1697. The Friends’ mission: “respect for all, simplicity, the peaceful resolution of conflict and a constant search for truth.” Established in 1727, the Ursuline Academy of New Orleans is the oldest continuously operating school for girls and the oldest Catholic school in the United States. In Pennsylvania, the Moravian Academy of Bethlehem sprung from a school for girls founded in 1742 by the Moravian Church, a Protestant denomination established in Bohemia whose adherents would go on to do missionary work in Indian Territory. The Moravians also founded Linden Hall in Lititz, Penn., in 1746. Both schools remain in operation today. British-inspired Episcopal boarding schools loom large in the history of New England. Favorites include St. George’s of Rhode Island (established in 1896), St. Mark’s of Massachusetts (established 1865) and St. Paul’s of New Hampshire (1856), home to the United States’ first squash courts. Several Catholic schools in and around Washington, D.C., have been
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in session since before the Civil War. Among them: Georgetown Preparatory School, the nation’s oldest Jesuit high school, founded in 1789; Gonzaga College High School, founded in 1821; and St. John’s College High School, established in 1851. Other institutions recognized on a recent The Best Schools ranking of the 30 Top Christian Boarding Schools in America include the Baptist-funded King’s Academy of Seymour, Tenn., founded in 1881; the Methodist Pennington School of New Jersey, founded in 1838; St. Timothy’s Episcopal Diocesan School for Girls in Maryland, chartered in 1832; and the Scattergood Friends School of West Branch, Iowa, founded by Quakers in 1890. ROOM FOR GROWTH: Today, Corn’s population hovers around 500. The school is home to around 90 students, enrolled in seventh through 12th grade. They travel the 13 miles up OK-54 to Weatherford and onto I-40 to traverse the state, representing Corn in the annual Oklahoma State Fair Marching Band Competition and singing the national anthem before a Thunder home game. The school has big plans, and last year broke ground for a new site: a $10 million project that includes a new 43,000-square foot main building on a 40-acre campus just south of Clinton. At its annual fundraiser – the 53rd annual German Feast & Auction, held in February – friends and family raised $109,807 with a lunch, bake sale, silent and live auctions and supper. The sale of the traditional schnetka pastries alone grossed $7,245, at $15 a dozen. After moving into its new home, the Corn Bible Academy – the second-oldest Christian school in Oklahoma – hopes to nearly double its enrollment, to 200 students. - M.J. ALEXANDER
Editor’s note: Oklahoma is rich with history, lore and fun facts, but some of them aren’t quite factual. In this series, M.J. Alexander hunts for the accuracy – or lack thereof – behind some of our state’s stories.
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in the 405 LAUGH LINES
Words of Gradu-Wisdom Advice to heed if you remember nothing else SOM EON E YOU K NOW is about to flip a tassel this month,
and you’ll probably be scanning the card section for the right message to give the graduate. Save yourself some shopping time: The message the graduate (or anyone, come to think of it) wants to receive is simply, “Here’s some money.” Commencement speakers also could take a tip from this jar. Year after year, everyone at any graduation across the country knows what the keynote speakers are going to say. They’ll open with a friendly, perhaps humorous, story or quote before touching on a personal account of how they, as life’s uninitiated, imagined their future would be. Then they’ll close with some kind of advice about following your dream. For a million dollars, I couldn’t tell you who delivered the commencement speech at my high school graduation, what his educational credentials were or the subject of his speech. I do, however, vividly remember the urgency in his delivery of this advice: “If you remember nothing else I say to you tonight, remember this.” That’s it. I was so mesmerized by the all-or-nothingness of his “remember this” message that I don’t remember anything that came before or after that line, which very well could have been the secret to happiness and fulfillment, the shortcut to success or the combination to his safe deposit box. I’ll never know. Instead, I stumbled blindly into my postgraduate life – unarmed for the tribulations of young adulthood – blazing a trail less traveled, all because I missed the big road sign of life that old what’s-his-name, the keynote speaker, cautioned us to remember. It’s probably too late for me. The rest of you should save yourselves: Worry less about following your dreams and more about the practical advice you’ll probably never hear at your graduation, but need to hear before you go. Travel. Doesn’t matter where – just go as far and as often as you can. Get the longest extended warranty available. You’ll need it, exponentially so, for items that have a lot of features. That means more to break. Don’t tell people everything you know. Keep a little mystery. Don’t buy crappy tires or you’ll be buying tires all the time. Get the best tires available (with the best replacement warranty) or you’ll spend more money replacing crappy tires than you would have spent on good ones to begin with. This is a hard and fast rule that applies to everything from boots to lipstick, too: get the good one first and be done with it.
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Keep your face out of the sun or you’ll never be able to lie about your age. Perennials to annuals: Work with a ratio of 3:1. Take a lot of photos between now and age 27. Your metabolism has a maximum shelf life of 28 years. Enjoy it now. You’ll look like the rest of us soon enough. Always know someone with 1) a pool; 2) a pickup truck; 3) a prescription pad. Leggings aren’t pants. Tunics aren’t dresses. Stop trying to defeat this axiom of good judgment, for all of us. Don’t stress about math. Math is hard for (almost) everyone and most people don’t care if you’re not good at it. On the other hand … You must learn to spell. You’re killing the souls of readers everywhere, especially when you leave your manifesto on every news story thread you find on the Internet. There’s still time to get a handle on this, so do it. Make a bonnet for your DirectTV dish. If you insist on going this way, you should either live in an extremely arid climate (where you’ll be glad you’ve started that skincare regime) or you must protect the dish from the rain if you ever want to spend a rainy Sunday afternoon watching old movies. Learn how to thread and use a sewing machine. You’ll need a good costume one day. Check your oil or you’ll be sorry. And it will be after midnight, on a weekend, when it’s raining sideways. Know at least one reliable person you can call to fetch you after midnight, on a weekend, when it’s raining sideways and you’ve burned up the engine of your oil-starved car. Be kind in all instances. At the very least, strive to be kind in all instances. Nothing will enrich your life more. If you remember nothing else, remember that. - LAUREN HAMMACK
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MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405 ON THE SCENE
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Best of the 405
1. Ana Rodriguez, Nadeen and Dr. Kamal Sawan, Justene Jones, Anna Butler, Lorinne Lambeth, Lori Flalkowski, Darla Brown 2. Harry and Dana Meister, Terry Clark 3. Stephanie Courtney, Katelynn Calonkey, Cat Bishop 4. Joe Dorman, Brittany Leemaster, Chad Linville 5. Nate Webb, Jane Jenkins, Meg Salyer 6. The courtyard behind PhotoArt Studios makes a relaxing conversational oasis. 7. Courtney Viljoen, Nancy Gibson, Daniel Mathis 8. Keith Paul, Steve Mason 9. Guests browse the variety of tasty treats.
PHOTOS BY TERRELL FRY
A beautiful evening in the Plaza District is filled with festivities, food, giveaways and good company as winners and guests help us celebrate the Best of the 405.
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A FRESH APPROACH TO NAILS AND MORE
(l to r) AMY YOWEY, AIMEE AHPEATONE and BEZA YOSEF owners of Well Beauty
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MASON REALTY INVESTORS
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FROM CUTTING EDGE TO CLASSIC
(l to r) JULIUS IBONI, CAMERON MARTIN, PHILLIP “FITZ” JORDAN (owner) and BUDDY HOPKINS
1204 N Pennsylvania Ave OKC 73107 405.609.1994 | fitzgeraldsokc.com
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MASON REALTY INVESTORS MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405 ON THE SCENE
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Champions of Youth
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1. Brandon Appling, Ann and Tracy Caine, Craig Clemons 2. Harry Merson, Mick Harroz III and Susan Harroz 3. Sandra and Sherman Rochell 4. Clay and Louise Bennett 5. Charles and Ji McFarland
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Chris Poore, DDS, MS
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For more On the Scene events, visit 405magazine.com
THIS MOTHER’S DAY, GIVE YOUR MOM THE RENAISSANCE ESSENTIAL DUO FOR ONLY $136!* A HYDROPEPTIDE SKIN CARE TREATMENT FOCUSING ON ANTI-AGING + A RELAXING FULL BODY MASSAGE. *PRICE VALID THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017. $170 THEREAFTER.
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The Boys and Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County honor those who show exemplary dedication to Oklahoma’s youth at this gala, where the Lifetime Achievement Award was renamed in honor of mentor and patron Aubrey McClendon.
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in the 405 HEALTH
“It’s your face, so why not work with a skincare PROFESSIONAL to make sure you’re doing the right thing?”
Serum Truth Selecting better facial products K R IST Y M U R ROW makes a salient point: “How many tubes
and bottles of half-used products that didn’t work do you have in a drawer? For the amount of money you wasted doing that, you could have bought one or two really good products, recommended by a skincare professional, that actually create results.” Murrow is the public face and managing partner of Mariposa Aesthetics and Laser Center in Oklahoma City, and she loves nothing more than answering questions such as these: What’s the difference between a serum and a cream? What’s the proper sequence for the arsenal of beauty products you’ve probably amassed in the bathroom drawer? Can you pare this down at all? “Serums are a really vital tool, but people often have questions about exactly what they are and what they do,” she says. Serums first slid onto the skincare scene about 20 years ago, and those early incarnations were designed to deliver doses of vitamin C deeper into the dermis. “Vitamin C was the first antioxidant the industry really focused on. Certain ingredients need to penetrate the skin to a certain depth before they are effective; most serums are formulated to penetrate deeper into the skin.” The problem with over-the-counter drugstore or department store products is that they often fail because the ingredients are
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right but the formulations are wrong, and the educational component is missing. “There is some truth to the old adage ‘you get what you pay for’ with skincare,” Murrow says. “Products you buy in a physician’s office and what you buy [over the counter] may have the exact same wording on the package, but maybe the percentage of active ingredient is too small to be effective.” According to Murrow, two or three quality products are all you really need. “Spend money on a few great products instead of the eight or nine you’ve got in your graveyard. Save money on things that it makes sense to pay less for, like cleanser or lip balm. You don’t need to spend a lot on a cleanser; just don’t use soap.” She says most of us over 35 just need growth factors, antioxidants, retinol, sunscreen and an eye product. “You can definitely bundle them into just a couple of products as long as you are careful. Formulation is important. It’s your face, so why not work with a skincare professional to make sure you’re doing the right thing?” The serum she loves is the TNS Essential Serum. At $278, it’s pricey, but not if you’re not wasting money on nine $30 grocery store products. “The serum has a dual chamber, so you’re getting two products, each with active ingredients formulated for optimal results. One side has the TNS Recovery Complex, which is a growth factor. The other side is a moisturizing base with antioxidants and peptides. One pump two times a day and you will see results,” she says. Murrow anticipates bold new technologies in the serum industry. “I think we will be seeing more with stem cells. Their use has developed rapidly through injectables, with things like platelet-rich plasma, and I think scientists are working on ways for them to be used topically. But I’m waiting for the studies to come out, because anyone can just put a droplet of something somewhere and make a claim.” - CHRISTINE EDDINGTON
PHOTO COURTESY MARIPOSA AESTHETICS AND LASER CENTER
K R IST Y M U R ROW
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territory ahead remarkable happened: the queen rose to her feet, and bowed in front of the flag. An amazed Cody recalled, “Then – we couldn’t help it – there arose such a genuine heart-stirring American yell from our company as seemed to shake the sky. It was a great event. For the first time in history, since the Declaration of Independence, a sovereign of Great Britain had saluted a star-spangled banner.” One hundred thirty years after that event, only the spirit of that day lives on. Earls Court Exhibition Center was knocked down last year, and the plaque that was placed there to commemorate the hundreds of performances by Buffalo Bill and company has been lost to history. Glimmers of the American West, however, survive in the English capital – if you know where to look.
The Mysterious Headdress in the Tower of London
The American West In London Traces of transatlantic fascination
BY M.J. ALEX ANDER
On May 9, 1887, Buffalo Bill Cody’s Wild West Show made its debut in London before a crowd of 28,000 in the first-ever performance at the outdoor arena at Earls Court. The extravaganza – and it really was – featured “cowboys, sharpshooters, musicians, 97 American Indians, 180 horses, 10 elk, 10 mules, five Texas steers and the old Deadwood stage coach.” The show caused such a sensation that the reclusive Queen Victoria, in mourning since the death of her husband a quarter of a century earlier, requested a private performance. Black Elk, the Oglala Sioux warrior who would survive both Little Big Horn in 1876
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and the Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890, noted, “She came to the show in a big, shining wagon, and there were soldiers on both sides of her.” Sitting in the royal box with an entourage of 25, “We stood right in front of Grandmother England. She was little but fat and we liked her.” At the start of the show, a horse and rider galloped into the arena carrying the American flag. The ringmaster announced that the flag represented peace and friendship. And then something
Past the suits of armor and ancient lances, within the mighty stone walls of the Tower of London, visitors wander centuries-old passages worn smooth by the feet of those who plotted royal intrigue, wore the crown jewels, devised torture chambers and pronounced doom on the luckless prisoners who would never again see the world beyond the castle walls. But as tourists turned a corner in a darkened room, an unexpected relic, brightly lit and encased behind plexiglass, held a place of honor against
AMERICAN WEST FOR SALE
a bright blue background: an American Indian war bonnet. I was one of those tourists, startled to come across the relic in 2015. It looked authentic, a little weathered and old. Back in Oklahoma, I’d sometimes think of the headdress and wonder how it went from the Great Plains to London’s most famous fortress. Was it taken in battle? Given as a ransom? Presented as a gift? It turns out that it was nothing as romantic as I’d imagined. Returning to London earlier this year, I found the piece no longer on display. In its place was a wooden statue known as the Lumley Horseman – a carved depiction of King Edward III on horseback, commissioned in the 1580s, thought to be the oldest surviving English equestrian statue. But what happened to the headdress? Bridget Clifford, Keeper of the Tower Armouries, was able to shed some light. Known now as Inventory Number M.61, the headdress was purchased at the Birmingham-based auction house Weller & Dufty in 1994. “It was described as a feathered war bonnet, and has eagles’ feathers with four ermine skins hanging loose at the brow,” she says. “It was displayed with six arrowheads said to have come from
Blackfoot Indians, given to the great aunt of the donor in about 1900 while traveling the Ohio trail. They were presented in 2002 to the museum. We have other American material in the Collection, but little of native origin.” As the Lumley Horseman glistens on display, the headdress has now been returned to storage in the museum collections, far from curious eyes and the towering skies of the Great Plains.
The Albert Memorial A bison paws the ground in Kensington Gardens, holding down one of the four corners of the world at the Albert Memorial, Queen Victoria’s elaborate salute to her beloved husband. Planning began a month after his death from typhoid at the age of 41, and took nearly 15 years to complete. At the center of the universe is Albert, glistening under a golden canopy, surrounded by statues representing the continents of Europe, Asia, Africa and America. The charging bison anchors an allegorical tableau of indigenous Americans in various states of undress, created by the sculptor John Bell. “The Spirit of America,” wearing a Native headdress, rides the bison
Littered among the clothing stalls, antique shops and food vendors of Portobello Market in Notting Hill is memorabilia of the American West, real and imagined: faded vintage U.S. flags, Easy Rider posters, well-worn cowboy boots, mass-produced dreamcatchers, replica Route 66 signs and tinny Indian Territory sheriff badges made in China.
At Harrod’s, the five-acre luxury department store on Brompton Road now owned by the nation of Qatar, high above the specialty foods and nestled among the upper-floor restaurants is the Disney Wild West Cafe, featuring Woody, Jessie, Bullseye and Monument Valley vistas.
Even on the London Underground, travel posters beckon with images of abandoned highways stretching to the horizon, and dusty mountain bikers pausing amid the red rocks of the Southwest. MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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territory ahead
side-saddle, spear in her right hand, shield in her left. She is flanked by two women representing Canada and the United States, with two men representing Mexico and South America seated behind them. Alone among the continental groups, the Americas were infused by Bell with an expression of “present progress and general onward movement,” led by an armed woman “mounted on a bison, charging through the long prairie grass.” Meanwhile, back in the American West, during the 1862-1875 span of the memorial’s planning and construction, the slaughter of the bison was in full force. Their numbers plummeted from a population estimated as high as 60 million to near-extinction, with only 300 remaining by the turn of the century. At the same time, the Native Americans idealized in marble were engaged in losing battles for their homelands west of the Mississippi. Nevertheless, back in London, the depiction of the Americas with a Native flavor pleased Queen Victoria, who
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had the last say about the hundreds of components in her husband’s elaborate memorial. The America group went through several changes, based on her preferences. One of her notes on Bell’s early sketches disapproved of the animals that were included: “I don’t think much of the Beaver.” By the next version, the beaver had disappeared, leaving in its place a poetic version of the wild Americas, memorialized in marble.
The Texas Embassy Tucked away down an arched alleyway called Pickering Place, not far from St. James Palace in the heart of London, a plaque in the shadows marks the former location of an outpost of the American West. The 60-foot-long alleyway leads to the smallest square in Great Britain, where it is said the last public duel was fought. Its seclusion made the tiny courtyard a natural choice for shady enterprises including bear-baiting, gambling and houses of ill repute. But the location also was
convenient, near the Palace of St. James, and many rented space in the building, owned then and now by Berry Bros. & Rudd – wine merchants and makers of Cutty Sark Scotch Whiskey. Among the tenants was the Embassy of the Republic of Texas, one of two established in Europe by the independent nation. (The other was in Paris, at the Hotel de Vendome.) But they were not to last. The Texas representative, Dr. Ashbel Smith, skipped town as it became clear the Republic was about to join the Union, leaving behind an unpaid rent bill of $160. In 1963, former Gov. Price Daniel attended the unveiling of the historical plaque at Pickering Place, sponsored by The Anglo-Texan Society, which had been founded a decade earlier by author Graham Greene. In 1986, to mark the 150th anniversary of the founding of the Republic, 26 Texans traveled to No. 4 St. James Street to pay the overdue bill. The men dressed in buckskins and paid the $160 — in Republic of Texas bills.
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3 Men. 200-Plus Miles. More Than 20 meateries.
Bar-bquest 405 Magazine Brings You:
The Search For The Metro’s Best Bbq
It is a truth universally acknowledged (I’ve always wanted to open an article that way) that people like to talk about food. It’s one of the prime topics of general conversation, along with the weather and the fortunes of local sports teams. And this is not my first rodeo in discussing some of the metro’s culinary highlights for this magazine – I’ve written about breakfasts, pizza, cheap eats, consulted on burgers – but this topic is a little touchier than most. I learned very quickly that while people like to talk about food, Oklahomans love to talk about barbeque.
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See, you can chat with people about Caesar salads or club sandwiches or paella, but they aren’t exactly conversational dynamos. Ribs, are the other hand, genuinely are bones of contention. There’s a lot of pride tied up in the barbeque process (including among customers, apparently), and for the duration of this project, we have had intense, prolonged interest from everyone to whom we’ve mentioned it, inside the office and out. At one point I was on the phone with my dad, who lives three hours away, and as soon as I casually mentioned that I was researching a barbeque article, his immediate response was to lament that County Line BBQ closed a few years ago. I honestly found it a trifle intimidating to tackle a subject so near and dear to people’s hearts (and stomachs), so we cast a wide net – fueled by a love for quality meats and many emphatic suggestions, Scotty O’Daniel, Brian O’Daniel and I traveled farther than we have for any feature before. From Guthrie to Chickasha, Yukon to Shawnee, we put together a list of truly outstanding sources for meat-filled meals; read on to follow along, and plan a trip of your own.
By Gill e v e t S y tos b P ho i el ’Dan O y tt o c S
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The Butcher BBQ Stand
Caveats: It’s only open Friday/Saturday/Sunday. It’s well away from the heart of OKC, along Route 66. It has only picnic tables under a roof – no walls, no indoor plumbing. And it sells out regularly, because it is fantastic. We arrived and ordered as it opened at 11 a.m. one Friday; before noon there was a line 30 people deep. The burnt ends (which they call “meat candy”) are amazing, although the brisket is plenty thick, tender and savory on its own. And for that matter, the glazed crust on the ribs is noticeably, marvelously sweet. The only thing I can complain about is its inaccessibility, and if it were any more convenient it would probably implode from the press of customers. Must, must-try. 3402 OK-66, Wellston
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Van’s Pig Stand
There are five total locations and even two in Shawnee, but come on: This is the oldest family barbeque in Oklahoma, so you want the almost-original location, in a brick building that’s been standing since the ’30s. There’s a cozy feeling from the wood paneling throughout, much of which has been amply graffitied over the years, and if you get a chance, peek downstairs into the Charcoal Room dining area. The pulled pork and chopped beef are both excellent; try them in a baked potato if you’re not too worried about starches, because the mac and cheese is divine. Multiple locations, including 717 E Highland, Shawnee
Swadley’s Bar-B-Q
This is another local place I had known about forever and am glad to finally try. There’s a sign in the Bethany location referring to “Swadley’s Grand Champion Hogs,” which if it’s of the same lineage as the restaurant, might help explain why this was one of the only places we encountered ham, and also why the sausage was so rich and delectable. Pretty much everything in the Oklahoma Sampler’s collection of turkey, ham, sausage, brisket and a rib was good, but when I come back on my own it’ll be for the sausage and the creamed corn. Multiple locations, including 4000 N Rockwell, Bethany
Texlahoma BBQ
Finding and adding places like this to my repertoire is why I look forward to this kind of story so much. Tucked into a strip in north Edmond, a space you could drive by a dozen times without noticing, it’s home to some completely spectacular flavors. The atmosphere is spare but comfy – the mismatched chairs are a nice design touch, and I appreciated the blues soundtrack while we were there. The pulled pork is great, the brisket is cut from Iowa Premium beef and the ribs are amazing, especially if you make the trip in on Saturday for beef ribs. Highly, highly recommended. 121 Waterloo, Edmond MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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Mr. S prigg’s Back Door Barbecue
First-time visitors might feel a touch of spatial dissonance, given that the owners have put a lot of design effort into making this ample space on the bustling 23rd Street look rustic. I especially like the wall map of famous OK barbeque locales, including the old Wild Horse Mountain in Sallisaw – as a Poteau native, it was my go-to example of excellence for decades. Back Door’s variety of sauces helps put whatever flavor spin you’re in the mood for onto the meats, which are very good across the board, especially the blackpeppered beef sausage and smoked turkey. Keep an eye on the specials board when ordering, as the rotating combinations of ingredients that go into the daily Beastwich often pay delicious dividends. 315 NW 23rd, OKC
Bedlam Bar-B-Q
Its location a straight shot up Lincoln from the Capitol might be a factor, but Bedlam is quite popular – we encountered a full house with a line out the door on a random Wednesday – and comfortably crowded inside, where the plushly appointed décor is a far cry from the rows of cafeteria tables that filled its earlier incarnation. The menu ranges a bit farther afield than some others on this list, including combo sandwiches, smoked chicken and sides such as broccoli rice and Vietnamese egg rolls. The Bedlam sandwich is a mélange of pork, chicken, beef and hot link all chopped together and served on a bun, and this might sound hyperbolic but I kinda want to eat it every day for the rest of my life. 610 NE 50th, OKC
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Robert Frost wrote that “Nothing gold can stay,” and sadly this Midwest City destination is no longer at 1017 S Air Depot; it moved down the street a little. The good news, though, is that it’s always tender and meat still falls off the bone. (If that doesn’t ring any bells, search for “mr spriggs bbq” on YouTube and enjoy.) The ribs are a pleasure, especially with some potato salad and okra. 700 S Air Depot, Midwest City
Beef &Bun
From the name, you might be expecting a burger place – but finding this little repurposed fast-food restaurant on the east side of I-35 will put you in front of some wonderful brisket, as well as what is easily among the best fried catfish in OKC. If you’re early enough, you might even be able to get some cobbler before it sells out, as it perpetually does. 2741 NE 23rd, OKC
Leo’s BBQ
You can’t fake Leo’s feeling of long-lived authenticity or buy a reputation like it has, and we loved all of it. The ribs are less sweet and more smoky than several we tried, but right up there in the uppermost tier, the chopped brisket was lean and tender with a scattering of near-crispy black tips (so pretty much perfect) and the hot links and smoked bologna disappeared almost immediately. Through it all, the sauce is sneakily addictive, with a little vinegar up front and slight but palpable heat in the back. I’ve lived in central Oklahoma for 20 years now and just set foot in Leo’s for the first time; learn from my mistake and don’t deprive yourself. 3631 N Kelley, OKC
Roy’s Bar-B-Q
Jake’s Rib (pg. 52) may be a Chickasha institution, but Roy’s is even more venerable – this side-street stop is about to hit its 45th anniversary, in a building we were told is pushing 80. It is unmistakably, perfectly old school … down to its inability to accept credit cards. Try the delicious-looking smoked chicken or chopped brisket sandwich, with the house special of waffle potatoes, which are basically giant, thick-cut, ridged chips with a little seasoning. First-time customers get to try them for free, so you can’t miss. 309 W Missouri, Chickasha
Iron S tar
It’s hard to believe this OKC staple is merely 15 years old; it feels like it’s been around a good deal longer. The atmosphere is perfect (as can be expected from a Good Egg Dining Group project), and you’ll probably want a combo plate because the meats are all stars, perhaps especially the pulled pork and brown sugar-cured brisket. Don’t forget the cornbread, mac and cheese and, potentially, pie. 3700 N Shartel, OKC MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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idual v i d n I rs Hono
Bosses of Sauce I was a little surprised at how many places either have one sauce or two (regular and hot), the end. Some of them are quite good – Leo’s and Jake’s, for example – but you have to appreciate the range of Railhead’s six varieties and Back Door’s five. In the end, despite Railhead’s tip-top molasses and honey sauces, I’d give the nod to Back Door for the trifecta of classic, XXX2 and espresso.
Barons of Brisket
Bad Brad’s BBQ
I’m a fan. It has a little more of a “full-service restaurant that happens to specialize in barbeque” feel than most of the other places – there’s an appetizer section on the menu, and 100 percent more fish tacos than we found anywhere else – but they really do specialize in it: The Saddle Buster’s pile of pulled pork, brisket, hot links and ribs is tasty all the way through, especially with some cornbread and coleslaw. Plus, the fried triangles of batter-coated macaroni and cheese from that appetizer section are outstanding. 700 W Main, Yukon; 3317 E 6th Ave, Stillwater
S teve’s Rib
First of all: I don’t know what the scribbly cartoon mascot is supposed to be. Secondly, Steve’s is a sports bar that has barbeque on the menu, so someone could easily eat here all the time by sticking to burgers, salads or club sandwiches. Third, that hypothetical person is missing out on the enticing red chili honey glaze that’s basted onto the baby back ribs; he needs to get with the program. Finally, the real tragedy would be for this imaginary guy to forego the cobbler. It’s spectacular. 1801 W Edmond, Edmond
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Central Oklahoma does damn good brisket; there are no losers in this race. With that said, The Butcher BBQ Stand outdid Van’s, Oklahoma Station and even Leo’s and Texlahoma in what we had. And they’re all spectacular! But Butcher’s brisket is the kind of great that makes your nostrils flare, your eyelids flutter and your inner monologue tell you that everything’s going to be better from here on out. Yup, it might actually change your life.
Pulled Pork Paragons
Good: Oklahoma Station. Better: Bad Brad’s. Best: Probably due in part to sourcing it from the renowned Seaboard Farms in Hennessey, Okla., you’re not likely to find anything to top Iron Star.
Turkey Titans The best provider of this occasionally underappreciated protein is a close race to call – the gold easily could go to Earl’s or Iron Star. Full disclosure: My naming of Back Door as the victor might have been influenced by adding strips of crispy pork belly, basil mayo and espresso sauce. Further full disclosure: I regret nothing.
Sultans of Sausage The black pepper variety at Back Door is truly excellent, but the moment my teeth broke the skin to sink into that rich, juicy and succulent Swadley’s sausage, this contest was over.
George’s Happy Hog
If you’re approaching from the west, don’t be thrown by driving through the residential area of Lincoln Terrace – you’ll find the small shopping center that houses this restaurant, which has the vibe of a spot that’s been a favorite neighborhood hangout for a long time. The counter service gives you an opportunity to watch the expert wield a cleaver, and the results are worth it: Try the ribs (or rib ends, but they’re a little more effort to navigate), smoked bologna and homemade potato salad. 712 Culbertson, OKC
Earl’s Rib Palace
Rib Royalty As much as we loved the smoky savor of Leo’s and tender sweetness of Butcher’s, my favorite ribs reside at Texlahoma. Head honcho Brian let us take a peek inside his smokehouse one Saturday morning while describing the process (it includes 12 hours in the smoker and a finish in the oven for texture), and speaking of Saturdays, that’s the only opportunity to lay hands on the massive size and impeccable bark of their beef ribs – consider that a strong suggestion.
I don’t know how much I can tell you about someplace so ubiquitous on the OKC barbeque scene, but here’s a quick piece of trivia: We’ve done a Best of the 405 poll for five years now, and this local landmark has won Best Barbeque five times. Its name might be Earl’s, but around here it’s the King. You’ll do fine with about anything on the menu – they even do a quality bacon cheeseburger – but we opted for the two-meat sandwich called the Big Earl. Actually, speaking of trivia, the lady at the register said we were the first party to order a double Big Earl (Great Big Earl?), the better to enjoy the pulled pork, sliced brisket, hot link and turkey, as well as the visual. Multiple locations, including 216 Johnny Bench, OKC
S tars Among S ides Get the fried potatoes at KT’s. I’m not burying the lede here, go do it. I love the curly fries at Earl’s, Iron Star’s mac and cheese and Swadley’s creamed corn, and Butcher BBQ puts apple pie filling in its baked beans, which is crazy enough to be completely great. However, this serving of seasoned potatoes lightly fried with onions and green peppers was the single best side we had, hands down.
Dukes of Dessert The cobbler is delicious at both Oklahoma Station and Steve’s Rib, and KT’s makes their own fried pies in cherry, chocolate, peach and other flavors. But Leo’s strawberry-banana cake is justly renowned; a light, sweet, delicate palate cleanser to send you out into the world with a smile. MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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KT’s Smokehouse
Up on a hill overlooking the beautiful countryside on the outskirts of Blanchard, KT’s feels a bit like a banquet hall, very spacious and comfy and clean but convincingly rustic thanks to corrugated tin cladding on the walls and old license plates and taxidermy scattered around. I urge you to get the ribs (sweet, sticky and great) and catfish special – I know catfish isn’t barbeque, but it is a house specialty here, and you’d be crazy to miss it. This is another place I’d love to revisit in the future. 8329 N Council, Blanchard
Jake’s Rib
I get the impression that the word of the day at Jake’s is “big,” and I mean every day. I am not making this up: At the table behind us, the waitress advised a woman against ordering the curly fries as a side, because someone else at the table already had “and they’re ginormous.” They are; multiple potatoes’ worth in an order, and one example of how determined Jake’s is that no one will leave hungry. We had plenty of leftovers from our enormous, savory pork ribs (they achieve a really nice crackle on the skin) and mound of hot links. And to my friend Sarah, who recommended it when we were at OU 20 years ago: You were right all this time. 100 Ponderosa, Chickasha
Further Reading (AND EATING)
One of the best parts of this endeavor wasn’t the experience itself of eating so much goodness, but the pleasure of anticipation in knowing not merely that so many of these places are eminently worth eating again; there are also so many more places to try that eluded even our (fairly exhaustive) efforts. Once our cholesterol levels subside a trifle, it might be time to give these a test taste:
Billy Sims
multiple locations
Blake’s Barbecue 2100 N Eastern, Moore
JT’s Barbeque
505 S Sunnylane, OKC
Ken’s Steak and Ribs 408 E Main, Amber
Maples Barbecue 318 NW 11th, OKC
Ray’s Smokehouse 1514 W Lindsey, Norman
Robb’s Smokehouse 2321 Kickapoo, Shawnee
Rudy’s
multiple locations
spencer’s Smokehouse 9900 NE 23rd, OKC
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Oklahoma Station
It’s celebrating its silver anniversary this year and feels older than 25, what with the train theme – it’s not very luxurious, but it’s also not very expensive, and the options are legitimately worthwhile. Try the pulled pork, or better yet, the tender sliced brisket replete with smoke flavor paired with thoroughly wonderful fried potatoes. And don’t leave without trying the apple cobbler. 4331 NW 50th, OKC
Billy Boy
More than 30,000 people live in Shawnee, not to mention the major interstate that serves to ferry untold thousands more into and through town … yet this bustling café manages to hang onto a faint small-town community vibe. As we were perusing the menu, a lady at the next table paused on her way out to praise a couple of dishes and recommend the proprietors’ family steakhouse (Paul’s Place) nearby, for when we got hungry again. It would have taken a while, especially since we elected to augment our ribs with the house specialty of the chicken bite basket – the owner told us they serve around 400 pounds of chicken bites a week. 120 W MacArthur, Shawnee
Railhead BBQ Now this is legitimately rustic. A gravel lot, tables on a concrete floor with metal folding chairs, plastic utensils – it feels even farther out in the wilderness than it is, to the point that you might have trouble getting cell service. The food is really good, especially the ribs. We had planned to order, take a few bites, get some to-go boxes and move on to the next place; I’m still a little vague on the details, but we cleaned our plates down to the bones and I’m not sure all the bones were left afterward either. I’m fairly certain I ate part of my napkin. Be sure to avail yourself of the multitude of sauces … if you can avoid slipping into some kind of meat-fugue. 13978 S Douglas, Guthrie
S imply theBest
But when all is said and done, you want to know which spot is the best of the best, right? So we kept track as we traveled hither and yon, then sat down and made top-five ballots and scored them Heismanstyle (five points for first place, four for second, etc.) – and we reached a near-unanimous decision. 5. Oklahoma Station (2) 4. Back Door Barbecue (5) 3. Leo’s BBQ (10) 2. Texlahoma (12) Aaaaaand finally: 1. The Butcher BBQ Stand (14) That’s one second-place and two first-place votes, which you’ll have to admit is pretty impressive. Wellston is a bit of a jaunt, but the trip is worth it. Just remember to bring a Pikepass or some change for the tollbooth. MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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Fresh-Faced
Smiling and
It’s such a surprise. Each year, without fail, spring rolls around not long after we recover from the shock of holiday weight gain, shrug off the failed promise of New Year’s resolutions and survive the assault to our circadian rhythms that is Daylight Saving Time. Happy just to be here, we begin to plan for summer and all that it brings: warm weather, travel, sunshine, swimming and sunning. Hallelujah, we think. Shorts and bathing suit season, we think.
Male or female, old or young, there’s likely not a one of us who hasn’t thought that thought, paused, looked askance at the person in the mirror and muttered, “Hold on, maybe I should do something about that.” Now the "that" in this story will vary from person to person, and so will the thing done (or not done). We’ve got a few ideas to get the ball rolling, though, and some of them are even gender-neutral. Further-
more, there’s nothing compulsory about this – we’re not encouraging anyone to take aesthetic action based on gender norms or societal pressures. You do you. We do, however, consider it a universal truth that everyone likes a little pampering, and everyone likes to look nice. So in that spirit, away we go, smoother and more hairless than ever before, ready to take on summer like a chicken on a June bug.
BY CHRISTINE EDDINGTON PHOTOS BY SHANNON CORNMAN
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The Skinny on Skin
At Aura Spa+Beauty Studio in Norman, owner Merlyn Zientkowski is adamant about taking the long view when it comes to skin care. While she does offer treatments designed to yield instant results, her passion is helping clients embrace a holistic approach to caring for their skin.
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Like Oxygen, Baby?
One face treatment with beautifully noticeable short-term results is an oxygen facial. “Education is a big part of what we do at Aura,” Zientkowski says. “We place a lot of emphasis on the importance of daily home care of the skin, and we help our clients understand that nutrition, hydration, sleep and sun exposure have a big effect on how healthy our skin is.” For spring self-care, Zientkowski is a fan of exfoliating. Whether it’s a blueberry sugar scrub for the body or dermaplaning the face with a 10-gauge surgical scalpel, a thorough removal of the skin’s dead, dull outer layer is de rigeur. “Dermaplaning is the removal of the top layer of the skin with a surgical blade,” she explains. “We do it before a peel, during a facial, to remove all of the dead cells and hairs so that the pores will be open and absorb treatments better. The skin will absolutely glow. It doesn’t hurt, it feels like scraping. I tell my clients to relax, but do not move when I begin.” Combined with a peel, and administered deftly by Zientkowski, the sensation is very soothing, and there’s a tiny element of danger. (But seriously: You’re in good hands.) It feels different on different parts of the face. On the cheeks, the scraping feels very faint and soft, like the bristles of a small, soft toothbrush. On the upper lip, the scraping is more pronounced and there is an acute awareness of potential mishaps … best not to let the mind wander at that point. The softness of the skin post-dermaplaning cannot be overstated. It’s due partly to the total absence of peach fuzz, but mostly to the total absence of a single dead skin cell. When the breeze caresses your skin on the way to your car, it’s a startling sensation. You may surprise yourself by inviting people to touch your face. You may touch your own face much, much, much more than usual. Aura Spa+Beauty Studio is a gorgeous space. It’s been open for less than a year and occupies a large chunk of Norman’s coveted Carriage Plaza. Its sleek, feminine, white-on-white interior smells like mint and essential oils, and stepping across the threshold instantly washes the rest of the world away.
Haley Horn, aesthetician at Flutters Lash Studio in north OKC, swears by them – specifically the Image O2 Lift Facial. “This is a facial that fights aging and damaged cells,” Horn says. “The shortterm results, the luminous glow and fullness of the skin, last three to five days. The longer-term benefits are the collagen boost and the anti-aging properties.” It’s a five-step facial, administered in Horn’s serene private room at Flutters. Once her client is happily ensconced on Horn’s heated, cushy memory foam bed, swaddled under cozy blankets, she gets to work. After a good cleansing, Horn begins the exfoliation process with a gentle enzyme peel – effective, but not so aggressive that recovery time is needed. It does sting a little more than a little. Extractions follow, if needed, and then comes the main event: oxygenation. “This step provides a moisture surge and antioxidants, which plump and brighten the skin,” Horn says. It feels fizzy on the face, in a pleasant way. You can definitely tell something is happening. This is great to do before a vacation. The skin is plumped, dewy and radiant when we’re done.” Last, an antioxidant-rich treatment is slathered on. It’s filled with stem cells and potent botanicals that fight aging and tackle damaged cells. Results are immediately visible, and are noticeable to others. Skin around the eyes looks thicker and firmer, wrinkles on the upper lip are magically (alas, temporarily) nearly erased and pores have shrunk. There is a fullness imparted by the process that may send you straight down memory lane, back to the days when you had collagen to spare but didn’t appreciate it. Horn suggests a regimen of regular facials, spaced six to eight weeks apart, to gain long-term results. “The type of facials we recommend at any given time are seasonal. We look at doing brightening facials and microdermabrasion at the end of summer, to remove any sun damage and counteract summer wear and tear.” In the cooler months, Horn says, skin dulls and we lose vitamin D. “So that’s a better time for extensive treatments that require downtime. When the skin is dormant, in the winter, you can do more to repair it.” MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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How ‘bout a Brazilian? Blowout, that is. (If you’re thinking about the other kind of Brazilian, that’s later in the story.) A Brazilian Blowout keratin treatment is a specific type of straightening and texture-refining treatment for hair, and Cat Reed, stylist at Flux Salon in Bricktown, has been straightening hair with keratin for a dozen years. She even uses the treatments herself.
“The most common misconception is that it’s a reverse perm, but it isn’t. If you straighten the hair using a perm solution, it’s much more damaging to the hair and when it grows, the ends will always be straight. There will be a clear line of demarcation. With a Brazilian Blowout, there isn’t. The hair gradually reverts back to its old texture over time,” Reed says. It does take some time, and it’s not an inexpensive process; pricing starts at $250 and increases depending on hair length and thickness. However, the treatment works beautifully on any ethnicity, and it requires no wait time before getting it wet. It also repairs split ends, and locks in color. “It’s a simple process, but it’s a little time-consuming,” Reed says. “You paint on a very thin layer of the solution, and then you blow it dry. After that, you straighten the hair with multiple passes of a flat iron. The more you go over it, the straighter the result will be. And the number of times we iron the hair depends partly on how curly it was to start, and what its natural texture is. After we’ve ironed the hair, we shampoo it, and then we dry it again and it’s set.” As Reed explains the process, the woman in her chair, Amy Moore, nods. She’s been getting Brazilian Blowouts about every 12 weeks for years, except while she was pregnant, and she’s excited to be back. Her hair looks thick and healthy, falls midway down her back and is slowly being painted with a thin layer of a pudding-like solution by Cat. It smells pleasant, slightly floral. “What I love is how much it cuts down on drying and styling time. It adds so much shine and softness, too. When I don’t have it done, it takes about 40 minutes to dry and flat-iron my hair. With a Brazilian, it takes me six to eight minutes to dry it and that’s it. This is a game-changer,” Moore says. Reed encourages clients to optimize their Brazilian Blowout results by caring properly for their newly silky strands once home. Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, such as those from the Unite line of haircare products. “Also, salt water absolutely will ruin a Brazilian Blowout,” she says. “So if you’re thinking you can get one and look perfect on a beach vacation, you can … but only if you keep your hair out of the ocean.”
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But … How ‘bout a Brazilian? At Udånder, it’s all about removing stress, and also sometimes about removing hair.
From your bathing suit parts. “We offer three kinds of bikini waxing services: the traditional bikini, the Brazilian and the Shy Brazilian,” says Yvonne Trigoso, Udånder’s lead aesthetician. “With a Brazilian, we remove all of the hair from everywhere – front, back and what we refer to as the undercarriage. The Shy Brazilian is middle ground, and with that we remove the hair from the back and undercarriage but leave the front, and with a regular bikini, we just do the sides of the front, and part of the undercarriage.” But the pain, right? Katie Goodrich, Udånder’s co-owner, assures us that the pain is overhyped. “People tend to fear waxing because of what they’ve seen in the movies. It never fails. Women come in to get a Brazilian, and they walk out saying it wasn’t nearly as bad as they thought it would be.” Trigoso agrees. “If it was as bad as the movies make it out to be, nobody would do it. I’d say on a scale of one to 10, the pain factor is maybe a five. Part of it is using the right wax for the right body part; I use a hard wax for bikini and Brazilians because it leaves no stickiness behind. Another reason my waxes are less painful is that I’m fast. I work from the outside edges inward, an inch at a time.” A hard wax is one that hardens as it cools, meant to be applied to the skin and speedily peeled off. Soft wax is applied to the skin and a strip of fabric is pressed into it and quickly ripped off, bringing with it lots of hairs you no longer have attached to your body. Either way, regular exfoliation post-wax is key. “To prevent ingrown [hairs] as hair grows back, use a mechanical exfoliant like a scrub, but not immediately after a wax,” Goodrich advises. MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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Forget About the Quick Fix Skincare is a Marathon, Not a Sprint
Ditch Your Mascara and Go for a Lift and Tint It’s a perm and color for your eyelashes. The curl lasts about 10 weeks, and the color about four. “You have the look of curled lashes and mascara without doing a thing. This is great if you’re in the pool or at the lake a lot in the summer,” Horn says. “We glue the lashes around a small rod, and apply the curl solution. After 10 minutes, we apply the setting lotion and then we add the tint, which gives you dark, black lashes.” The whole shebang costs $99, with a touch-up color for $20, and gives you a mascara-free summer.
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Heather Mitchell, an aesthetician at Broadway 822 Salon, is not a believer in the quick fix. She’s all about a steady, thoughtful approach, combining great skincare, both professionally and at home, with the things your mother told you to do to look your best. Drink plenty of water, eat clean, healthy food and get lots of sleep. Oh, and there’s one thing she says will make more of a difference than anything else: “Use sunscreen. Every day. That is the biggest age fighter there is. It needs to at least be SPF 30, and it needs to block UVA and UVB rays,” she says. Mitchell swears by a vitamin C-infused sunscreen from Pevonia, the skincare line she’s used for 22 years. “Vitamin C fights the effects of free radicals, which come from things like air pollution and smoke. The science behind free radicals is complicated, but the end result is that they create lines and crepeyness. UVA rays age the skin, and UVB rays can cause skin cancer. All of this will make the skin dull, ruddy and muddy.” Pevonia’s tinted sunscreen is Mitchell’s perfect solution for summer. “It has coverage but isn’t a heavy foundation, which you don’t want to wear in the summer anyway. If you’ve never used Pevonia before, start with the sunscreen. It’s important and people tend to be leery of sunscreen, but this is light, non-comedogenic [meaning it doesn’t clog pores and cause breakouts], it hydrates and has nice coverage.” Although Mitchell has spent more than two decades studying skincare, her protocol is refreshingly straightforward.
Haley’s Tips for a Better Looking Summer
First and foremost, use a moisturizer with an SPF of 20 or greater every day. Tinted moisturizers are great and provide a little bit of coverage, so you can forego foundation. “Generally, everyone should have a morning routine and an evening routine. In the morning you’ll cleanse, tone, use an eye gel or cream and a moisturizer with sunscreen. That’s it. You can add a serum between toning and moisturizing if you need it. In the evening, cleanse, tone, a heavier eye cream, a serum or oil and a moisturizer. Exfoliate two or three times a week. That’s it.” Her treatment room is immaculately planned, and the products she uses on clients are not available to the public. “I use the spa lines, which are much more potent. I do a great treatment for rosacea, which is a problem for many people. Everything I do to treat rosacea is about soothing. I use Pevonia’s RS2, which is a highly concentrated serum, and a four-layer mask that feels warm at first, and then cool.” She knows that establishing a skin care regimen can be overwhelming, and has perhaps the most sensible piece of advice you’ll hear: “Just do something. Start with something. Something is better than nothing.”
Exfoliate at home. Find an exfoliator you like and use it. Some people can exfoliate daily, others with more sensitive skin should stick to two to three times a week.
Schedule regular facials. Mix them up according to your skin’s needs and the seasons.
Stay on top of your skin care regimen. “Being consistent will keep your skin at its most youthful,” Haley Horn says. MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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culture
BLURRED LINES
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Human Costs Working to combat Oklahoma’s opioid crisis THIS STORY IS GOING TO BE ROUGH. Much like a sequence in a movie in which the camera opens on a shot of the Earth from space and then zooms in by stages to a lone man on the corner of an intersection, the nationwide discussion about opioid addiction needs to move from the number – 330,000 overdose fatalities and counting since 2011 – to the young woman, the individual human being, with a needle in her arm or a pill bottle on her nightstand. Luke Cathey was 19 when he died on Feb. 27. His father, Dave Cathey, who is the food editor for The Oklahoman, not only endured a parent’s most horrific experience – he found his deceased son – he posted a tribute to Luke in that paper on March 1. Rather than avoid the difficult truths that the family has to navigate after a tragic death, Cathey went at it directly, writing, “Luke battled depression starting at 13 and was never completely free of it.” Luke was not number 329, 997 to his family and friends. He was a young man who hoped to make a career of food – not quite like his father, but in kitchens as a chef. To those who knew him, he was kind and often sad, but quick to joke and daring to a fault. Cathey remembers that his son had a tendency toward being the one who would try things that others wouldn’t. “He would jump in,” Cathey says. “He’d say, ‘I’ll do it,’ and that cost him his life.” Cathey is talking about heroin there, a drug Luke said frightened him because of its potency. Like many people who struggle with depression, Luke started using early, and opiates seem to be the preference to combat depression. There is a euphoria attached, sure, but there is also a mind-numbing quality to the drugs that removes the cares of life; not in the “I can overcome them” way, but in that they simply don’t seem to register as long as the brain is numbed. Heroin is also cheaper than prescription opiates, but that, too, is fraught with complexities. Fentanyl is a synthetic opiate, and it’s often used to cut heroin, which brings the price
BY GREG HORTON
down but increases toxicity. When we spoke, Cathey said the family was still waiting for Luke’s toxicology report, but he said he had indications that the heroin Luke used was in fact cut with Fentanyl. The current national obsession with opioid addiction has generated more news stories and segments than are possible to watch or read. John Oliver ran a special segment on “Last Week Tonight” in October of last year. NPR, ABC, CNN and all the other three- and four-letter networks have run special reports. The aggregate noise can have the unwanted effect of encouraging us not to pay attention, an effect made worse by over-reliance on numbers instead of names. People with names have stories attached, not so with numbers. Public Radio International bothered to ask the obvious question at the close of 2016: “What’s fueling the epidemic?” There is no easy answer, it turns out, but excessive prescribing is helping to exacerbate the problem. The medical community is aware, and some doctors are taking steps to curtail the prescription of opiates post-surgery.
“I regularly see patients who have been on opiates and could easily have been using anti-inflammatories or even Tylenol [instead].” DR . RYA N N EL SON
Dr. Ryan Nelson, an orthopedic surgeon in Oklahoma City, works at the HPI Community Hospital and is the founder of the Shoulder and Orthopedic Institute. Nelson is one of many surgeons nationwide who has started injecting Exparel, a non-opiate analgesic, into patients during surgery. Exparel is the brand name of bupivacaine, which Nelson said lodges in fat cells and then slowly seeps out – he used the word “elutes” – over a two to three day period, mitigating the need for post-surgical pain meds. “Exparel continues to work after the nerve block expires,” Nelson says. “The block typically lasts about 18 hours. With the use of Exparel, we are seeing minimal or no morphine use post-surgery.” MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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you’re an addict, you enter into “When increasing isolation and separation from the important areas of your life. ” BR I A N HOWA R D
Nelson said he has seen firsthand the cycle of opiate addiction, and because he works with shoulders and knees, including replacement surgeries, his patients range in age from very young to senior citizens. “I was shocked to see patients in their 60s and 70s coming in addicted,” he says. “I regularly see patients who have been on opiates and could easily have been using anti-inflammatories or even Tylenol [instead].” The cycle of addiction is famously difficult to treat. Heroin withdrawals can have a life-threatening intensity, so stepdown measures are often warranted, including and especially methadone. When taken properly, the drug induces no high, but it feeds the receptors that have become accustomed to opiates. Methadone is ingested daily in doses of 60-100 mgs, and the program is ideally two years – one to recondition the receptors, and one to wean off the methadone. Oklahoma City is home to five public methadone clinics, and one associated with the VA hospital. A daily commitment to a regimen of non-high-inducing drugs can be a task for any addict, therefore alternative treatments are being considered, as well. Brian Howard, a licensed drug and alcohol counselor, works at a methadone clinic in the metro, but he also runs One Life Treatment in Edmond, an alternative program for addicts. Howard is a recovering addict himself, so he understands the cycle and the cost of sobriety. “Yeah, I got the free T-shirt, too,” he jokes. “The One Life program is a six-month outpatient program designed so that people can keep living their lives.” One Life focuses on the whole person, not just the addiction. It combines individual and group counseling with spirituality, financial considerations, physical health and what Howard calls purpose and service. The idea is to get participants “out of themselves.” “When you’re an addict, you enter into increasing isolation and separation from the important areas of your life,” Howard says. “The program helps them reconnect with all these areas, and it helps them avoid ‘the cliff.’”
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The cliff is the drop-off that occurs at the end of a treatment cycle. After two years of methadone treatment, what’s next? The daily dosage, the meeting with the counselor, the consultations with the doctor or nurse all end … and the recovering addict is left to face life without the drugs and without the support network. One Life hopes to provide that network without the two-year methadone cycle. The treatment, like the causes, is going to have to be multi-faceted, and that includes legislative remedies. Many Oklahomans were angered this year when legislators, including bill author Sen. Ralph Shortey – who, as of this writing, has resigned from the Senate and is facing criminal charges – overturned the results of State Questions 780 and 781, criminal justice reforms that passed with overwhelming multi-partisan support. The reforms included reclassifying some possession charges as misdemeanors instead of felonies, which is a point of agreement, it seems, among Oklahomans of all demographics. “I have been talking to parents who have had similar struggles since Luke’s death,” Cathey says. “One of those stories involved a young man who overdosed among friends. Those friends were afraid to pick up a phone and call 911. They didn’t know what the criminal penalties would be. Can we at least make it possible for someone to call for help without the fear of jail?” Related to that appeal, we contacted the Oklahoma City Police Department about increased arrests or cases related to heroin in the metro. Gary Knight, the assistant public information officer, wrote: “After visiting with the captain over our Special Projects Unit, it doesn’t appear that there is [any] spike or significant increase in the amount of heroin cases that we are seeing at this time. He said heroin use might be up a little bit, but again, no significant increase.” Tragically, that may simply mean that people don’t call out of fear – or like Luke, that the overdose happens when they are alone. For now, Cathey said he and his family are going to focus on policy and legislation. It’s a way to remember Luke’s struggles, work for others caught in the cycles of depression and addiction, and in Cathey’s words, “be present for others.”
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home Welcome Warmth
PHOTO BY DAVID COBB
Sheli Reynolds knows her way around a kitchen – she’s one of the family trio in the name of the new Stone Sisters Pizza Bar, and specializes in crusts made from organic spelt dough – so the heart of her cozy Nichols Hills home was redone to include more open space and emphasize function, as well as sleek, lovely form; part of an ambitious redesign from her friend Jennifer Welch.
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home HABITAT
A Recipe for Family Inside the Reynolds’ blended roost BY CHRISTINE EDDINGTON PHOTOS BY DAVID COBB
SHEL I R E Y NOL DS, her fiancé Phil and their
three daughters, Julia, Liv and Emma, live in a beautifully remodeled home on Camden Way, a cheerful street in the tiny, tony burg of Nichols Hills. This is a story of precision, pizza, creativity, entrepreneurship, a dash of reality TV and two slightly Machiavellian 13-year-old besties … without whom there would be no story at all. Julia and Liv are BFFs. They met at Westminster School, and played volleyball together. The pair was inseparable, often sleeping over at each other’s houses, and in constant communication in that full-throttle way to which teenage girls are prone. They were as close as sisters, but could they actually become sisters? The girls hatched a plan to bring their In the family’s large dining room, wallpaper from Elitis lends neutral texture to the room. Underfoot, a wool-and-silk rug warms the floor and anchors the custom table and chairs. parents, both unattached, together as often The chandelier, another incredible piece, is the Strada by Kelly Wearstler. Art from the as possible – to see whether sparks would fly. couple’s own collection finishes the effect. Conversations lingered during picking up and dropping off, and lo and behold, the girls were right! “Between the volleyball and sleepovers, Phil and I got to know each other,” Reynolds says, smiling. “We got engaged last year.” It’s been a whirlwind of a year for Reynolds. Engagement, combining families and renovating and moving into a new home would be enough for most people, but most people don’t have Sheli Reynolds’ energy level. She and her sisters, Traci and Tami, decided to open a restaurant, too – an organic pizza joint called Stone Sisters Pizza Bar, located in the old Borden’s ice cream shop at Broadway and NW 21. Reynolds explains, “Years ago, after my husband passed away, I began to seriously learn about health and nutrition. The transformation was perhaps the most dramatic in the study, My sisters and I started a healthy living business, cooking and which became a room to gravitate toward after its renovation. Black shopping for people who wanted better health. We had a party lacquered cabinetry is filled with antique books and interesting bricfor our clients, and I made pizza.” And so it began. a-brac, harmonizing with a lithograph by Pablo Picasso.
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(Above) In the spacious living/family room, which opens into the kitchen, a vividly patterned custom cowhide rug by Kyle Bunting defines the space. Four beautiful Verellen swivel chairs flank a custom sofa of Welch’s design. A bold painting by former NBA star Desmond Mason hangs above the mantel, and a whimsical chandelier by Oly works perfectly with the scale and sensibility of the room. (Left) In the entryway, a Fortuny chandelier welcomes guests from on high. It is handpainted silk, from the Venetian design powerhouse that was founded in 1906. Fortuny was originally a fashion house, known for its beautiful draping and intricate pleats. This is one of Phil’s favorite pieces.
People told the sisters they needed to market their pizzas. Reynolds created the crusts, and Tami made the sauce. “At first we sold dough balls, but nobody wanted to roll out their own dough,” she says. Around the same time, a friend of a friend had purchased a full complement of pizza equipment, and the women were asked if they’d ever thought about opening a pizza place. “I said no way,” Reynolds laughs. But the universe has a way of making things happen. The stars (and logistics) aligned, and the sisters said yes. Chef Cally Johnson, of Big Truck Tacos, Boulevard Steakhouse and more, has come on board to develop the menu, and each of the sisters will be in charge of her own piece of the pie, so to speak: Sheli is the president, Traci is business manager and Tami, an organic chef, will fill up the eatery’s to-go case with soups, salads and pizzas. MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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home HABITAT
(Above) “We wanted a slightly vintage, old Hollywood feeling in the master bedroom,” Welch says. She almost always places benches at the end of beds, for practical and aesthetic reasons. “They look good and they are functional. You need a place to sit down and tie your shoes, or to put the bed pillows on at night.” This one is upholstered in a soft, blush-colored leather, while Italian fabric curtains by Donghia and a vintage-inspired bed add serene impact. (Left) The master bath was gutted, and the incredible, screen-printed marble tile by Stone Impressions (inset) became the star of the show. A vintage-Hollywood chandelier, grayish white Venetian plaster walls and a new steam shower complete the feeling that you have entered an oasis. “The floor is the focus,” Welch says. “Everything around them is quiet.”
But back to the home. Reynolds and her blended brood found their Camden Way home and immediately brought longtime friend and talented interior designer Jennifer Welch to the property. (By the way, Welch, her ex-husband and two best friends star in the Bravo reality show “Sweet Home Oklahoma.”) Welch served as the contractor for the endeavor, and when Reynolds told her about their ambitious, mandatory timeline, Welch pushed pause on other projects and made it happen. “I knew the home had great bones,” Welch says. “But it was dark, and needed a serious update to work for Sheli. We opened up the kitchen and created a vibrant, happy home, which suits her perfectly. And we did it in 60 days from start to finish.”
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MARK T. HANSTEIN, DDS
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home DÉCOR
The mahogany-topped Nicolet II by Theodore Alexander (left) and expandable Victory Oak Jupe II by Theodore Alexander, from Mister Robert Fine Furniture, 109 E Main, Norman
Room for Change The unstable role of the dining table
I T SHOU L DN ’ T BE surprising that the concept of the “dining
room” has changed. Our culture, at least from the design side of things, seems to have embraced a more casual approach to sitting down and sharing a meal. (Does handing food to the back seat count as eating together?) No matter who you are, the odds are good that your life feels faster-paced than it once did, and the idea of routinely having formal, sit-down meals isn’t as prevalent as it used to be. In many homes, we see the space that had been intended as the formal dining room being used for something else, and dining
Clockwise from above: The faux limestone and ash Campagne by Atelier, oval Mercer by James River and geometric Oliver by Hable for Hickory Chair, from 30A Home, 115 NW 44, OKC
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areas made more a part of the living space. We may eat together – or do homework, or look at a laptop – at a less traditional kind of table, whether it’s a large bar area with tall stools or a banquette that is nestled in the kitchen. Let’s not get too ahead of ourselves, though. While this more casual space is very popular, the formal dining room is still alive and well. No matter which kind you prefer, the dining room table is the centerpiece for a vital part of our lives. And whether formal or casual, beautiful choices for the middle, corner or side of the room abound. - SAR A GAE WATERS
NORMAN NOW
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dining The Bold and the Bountiful
PHOTO BY SCOTTY O’DANIEL
It seems safe to presume that chef Gerry Reardon isn’t a huge believer in pigeonholes. New restaurant El Toro Chino is a mouthwatering testament to the potential benefits of cross-cultural culinary fusion, and richly flavorful dishes such as these dynamite wonton-chip nachos await diners ready to explore his experiments in an underserved area of Norman.
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dining
LOCAL FLAVOR
BRAVE NEW WORLDS El Toro Chino’s culinary commingling
BY STEVE GILL PHOTOS BY SCOT T Y O’DANIEL
NORT H W E ST NOR M A N has seen a large and increasing amount of growth in recent years, especially since the Norman Regional Healthplex opened in 2009, but mostly in residential and professional developments – witness the surrounding cluster of medical offices and the enormous new Anatole at Norman apartment complex on Tecumseh. North of the venerable Brookhaven Village, there’s been little to see in terms of places to shop or dine until you approach W 19 in Moore. That left an
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opportunity for an establishment willing to be a bit of a pioneer, and along with partners Scott and Kathleen Schuler, the husband-wife team of Gerry and Jennifer Reardon have seized the bull by the horns by opening Asian-Latin fusion restaurant El Toro Chino. The feel is spacious and comfortable with plenty of gloss and a lot of style. Check out the glass-enclosed fireplace by the entrance, the visual pop of red tile over the black wood bar and the constantly rising bubbles in the aerated water panels that separate the bar area from the row of high-backed booths clad in tufted black leather. A good deal of thought and effort clearly has gone into the planning of architectural elements and smaller design accents alike, down to the enthusiastic menu font and dish of postprandial Hot Tamales waiting for departing diners. At lunch, the menu is mainly a wrapsand-bowls affair, with a large list of ingredients both Latin and Asian from which you can forge a custom meal (I should have had pickled rather than sautéed onions in my chicken wrap, but the Sriracha-bacon rice and citrus-marinated jicama are both excellent additions) or choose a pre-programmed combo. Lunch is speedy and good, with plenty of variety to experiment around, but dinner is when the lineup really impresses. The Fusion Nachos would be a meal in itself – the chips are made of seasoned wontons, so they’re crisp and crackly, loaded with slivers of tender beef in a sweet (and deceptively spicy) hoisin, along with sautéed onions, black beans, cheese and spiced sour cream. Among starring entrees, the salmon is pan-seared and served over a succotash of chickpeas, fennel and chorizo, and the brisket is a beautiful strip of Akaushi beef, marinated in brown sugar and soy sauce and presented under a cilantro-lime sauce with Spanish rice and mushrooms. When I asked chef Gerry whether he has any dishes on the menu that are special favorites, he smiled and praised the brisket and the shrimp empanadas (“Oh, those are so good,” Jen interjects); I posed the same question to her, and after a moment’s thought she cited the spicy crab cake and called the brunch chicken sandwich known as Closed on Sunday “a life-changer.” Whatever you get, I promise you won’t regret ending with a scoop of caramel and sea salt gelato in an edible bowl made of churros. Plus, as is evident from the first EL TORO CHINO glance and confirmed by the first bite, 2601 36 Ave NW, Norman it’s all combined and presented with 405.701.8676 care. With a rueful laugh about the eltorochino.com
GOOD VIBRATIONS Gerry and Jen have decades of restaurant experience, notably at Café 501, but manager Rachel Ferren said that the chef’s been working on this menu for years and that this has always been the dream. He’s clearly enjoying himself, too. He was all smiles while telling us that they’ve begun special events – they had their first wine dinner the night before our visit and are periodically hosting local bands such as Heartbreak Rodeo – and asserting that they value an atmosphere that’s enjoyable for everybody. “We take the food seriously, we take the service seriously, but everything else is supposed to be fun.”
magnitude of their produce bill, Gerry runs through a mini-checklist of everything they take the extra effort to do in person: “We juice everything in-house for our cocktails (P.S. The blackberry and rosemary gin fizz and watermelon-enhanced El Toro Tiki are delicious), all our desserts are made in-house. We’re making carnitas every day. We make beans every day. We make rice … maybe every other day.” The results of their efforts speak for themselves; now to see what kind of following the resulting restaurant, which will hit its six-month mark in a few weeks, can build. “We’re excited for the long haul,” Gerry says, noting that the whole area of 20 acres or so surrounding them is primed for development. That’s good news for the prospective future, but they’re still pioneers in a sense – and I’d like to see El Toro Chino’s adventurous spirit pay off. Heed their slogan, “Flavor favors the bold,” and go exploring. MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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CHEF’S TABLE
Old School Savor Chris McKenna goes where the flavor is
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HOW IT’S DONE Shrimp Cocktail
3 cups ketchup 1/2 cup Clamato 2.5 cups V8 1 cup lime juice 1/2 cup Cholula 1.5 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1.5 tsp salt 1 large white onion, diced small 1 bunch cilantro, finely chopped Mix all ingredients in a bowl. In large pot, bring water to a boil and add one large pinch of salt and one package Zatarain’s shrimp boil. Add 1-2 pounds of shrimp, remove from heat and stir. Once shrimp are poached, remove to ice bath until chilled. Add to cocktail sauce mixture, garnish with sliced avocado and serve with tortilla chips or saltine crackers.
PHOTOS BY SHANNON CORNMAN
CHR IS MCK E N NA , executive chef at Packard’s New American Kitchen, grew up in Edmond, but he spent many of his childhood days at his grandparents’ house in Guthrie. The family had a “huge garden” and several animals, and McKenna remembers it being the place where he was exposed to the idea of fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables. It was also the place where he learned a certain work ethic. “Working with my grandfather on the farm showed me the hard, yet rewarding, work it takes to be self-sufficient,” McKenna says. In terms of culinary influences, though, McKenna’s mother is foremost. “My family ate a lot of comfort food,” he says, “and because we didn’t have a lot of money, we ate whatever mom bought on sale.” Growing up, his mother made a dish she called “elegant steak.” It was whatever cheap cut of steak she could find, cooked well, sliced and served with caramelized onions, rice, and brown gravy with sherry. McKenna said he always looked forward to “devouring” it. “She was a great cook, and she taught me how to cook with what we could afford and what we had in the house,” he says. The idea of cooking well with whatever is available shapes McKenna’s cooking even as a professional. Biscuits and gravy – perhaps the ultimate comfort food in Oklahoma – is one of McKenna’s chosen “last meals,” and sampling the dish during brunch at Packard’s will make it clear why it’s still in his cookbook: rich, simple, flavorful, filling and delicious. “I like the recipes that are in those dusty church cookbooks,” he says. “They are simple ‘old school’ dishes, and if you focus on keeping it simple and letting great ingredients shine, you don’t have to overdo a recipe.” Dining at Packard’s, 201 NW 10th in OKC, it’s easy to see how his childhood influences affect the menu. Yes, McKenna can do elegant, and does, but he also does rustic, old school comfort food with a chef’s flair. In the restaurant business, he focuses on fresh and local more than he would have growing up – but fresh, local ingredients make great comfort food, too. He’s not locked into a specific locale for inspiration, either: Every region has comforting dishes, so you’ll see crawfish étouffée, curry with rice and vegetables, bangers and mash and many other dishes from all over the world on the restaurant’s menu or feature board. “I love ethnic food,” McKenna says. “I love learning about new ingredients and eating new dishes. Honestly, I do quite a bit of research in cookbooks, and I owe much of my knowledge to fellow chefs.” McKenna started cooking professionally at County Line BBQ, where he said he fell in love with the restaurant business. All of his training has come on the job, and since he started, he has never not been cooking in a restaurant kitchen. That means his wife, Hailey, does most of the cooking at home, and McKenna calls her “an excellent cook in her own right.” As for free time, he doesn’t get much of that, and when he does, it’s Thunder basketball or OU football, but mostly it’s eating at other local restaurants to see what other chefs are doing, or traveling to cities to try their regional cuisine. Last year, that meant New Orleans, and his vacation itinerary is really a report of all the places he and Hailey ate. “Food is my life,” McKenna says. “The restaurant business, too.” Doing what he loves means we get to experience a chef whose main goal is to make us feel like we did as kids when our parents put comfort food on our plates: mac and cheese, chicken and dumplings, huge burritos, hot sandwiches, a great burger. Keeping it simple, for McKenna, means making sure it’s delicious. Speaking of simple, the recipe he chose is one he makes at home, especially as the months get warmer. It’s the same recipe he uses at Packard’s, too. - GREG HORTON
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dining
KEY INGREDIENT
Octo-Pizazz W HE N A CHEF BEGI NS A DV ICE with “be prepared to ruin a lot of it before you’re good at it,” you know you’re up against a different animal, so to speak. In this case, the subject is octopus, and the chef offering the advice is Jonathan Krell, executive chef at Patrono, 305 N Walker. “Cooking with octopus is like baking, in that the dish lets you know right away you didn’t do it right,” Krell says. “The best advice I can give is to try it dining out so you know what it’s supposed to taste like first … if you insist on making it at home.” The caveat is not chef-ly arrogance, though: Octopus is famous for being one of the most difficult ingredients to work with. Gordon Ramsay once used profanity on a televised cooking show (which isn’t a vanishingly rare thing) when a contestant chose to work with grilled octopus. Octopus has long been a staple of east Asian and Mediterranean cooking, but the cephalopod doesn’t usually find its way onto OKC menus … with some notable exceptions. Tokyo Japanese Restaurant, 7516 N Western, serves it in several of its rolls, and in Takoyaki – a traditional dish that uses minced, sliced or ground octopus in dumplings – and Takosu, a salad with Patrono’s sliced octopus. The dishes are exceptional, octopus like everything else Tokyo does, and if you appetizer are looking for a solid introduction, that is a great place to begin. Jason Campbell, executive chef at The challenge of octopus is not really the Mary Eddy’s Kitchen in 21c Museum “It’s the kind of dish I LIKE flavor. Most diners, when trying octopus Hotel, 900 W Main, loves working with for the first time, find the taste pleasant – TO EAT when I’m dining octopus, too. assuming it’s prepared properly. It’s a little out, but I rarely do unless I bit briny, a little sweet and not at all “fishy,” “It’s the kind of dish I like to eat when I’m dining out, but I rarely do unless I know who prepared it. IT’S which is a word Campbell never wants know who prepared it,” Campbell says. servers using to describe seafood. A TRUST THING.” “It’s a trust thing.” “It’s really its own thing,” Campbell says, CHEF JA SON CA M PBEL L Campbell, who has his high quality “and it’s incredibly versatile. The difficulty Spanish octopus flown in, said he was of octopus is the texture and the skin.” nervous about putting it on Mary Eddy’s menu, but guests have Octopus needs to be boiled or braised before it can be used responded well. in a dish. Krell said he has boiled a large-ish octopus two hours “We are on the third set of octopus, and it’s one of my favorite and 45 minutes. Most home cooks don’t have that kind of time, things on the menu,” he says. and even if they do, the boiling is only step one.
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PHOTOS BY SHANNON CORNMAN
Embracing a tricky taste treat
“The skin is where it can really go bad,” Campbell says. “If you peel the skin, the octopus can dry out quickly, but if you don’t get the skin crispy, you’re left with something that is really … gelatinous.” He paused before using the word, but it’s totally accurate. The two most common complaints about octopus are “slimy” skin and chewy texture. If it is overcooked, it can make overcooked calamari seem tender by comparison. To crisp the skin, Campbell flash fries the tentacles after braising and rolling them in very light batter. Krell opts for a hot grill. Either method requires high heat, to dry the skin quickly without drying the meat. If the preparation is done properly, the octopus will be crispy outside and tender but al dente chewy within. From that point on, it can be used in a variety of dishes, but both chefs typically prefer it as an appetizer. “I’ve seen it used many ways,” Campbell says, “even as a main course with pasta, but I like to have a few bites and then move onto something else.” The Mary Eddy’s preparation involved citrus, garlic, cilantro, onions, charred shishito peppers and housemade sambal, a hot sauce most often associated with Indonesia, Malaysia and other southeast Asian nations. Campbell changes his menu constantly based on availability, so preparation likely will have changed when this issue arrives. Krell will change his preparation, as well. His first octopus appetizer at Patrono featured crispy potatoes, pickled onions, garlic-lemon aioli and fresh radishes. From a chef’s perspective, the beauty of octopus is that it can be used with an almost unlimited number of dishes in any season – or as Campbell puts it, “There are 1,001 ways to prepare it.”
Grand House, 2701 N Classen Blvd., uses thinly sliced cephalopod in its octopus salad, and it’s also available as a sashimi option. You can find it frozen in a few specialty grocers, but Krell warned against it. “It’ll most likely be terribly chewy,” he says. Always heed the caveats of good chefs – but when you find a source you like, get your tentacles on it, because octopus can be a true treat. - GREG HORTON
FIND YOUR ANTHEM
TOURS + TAPROOM MON-WED 12-6 / THURS-SAT 12-9 908 SW 4TH ST, OKLAHOMA CITY / 405.604.0446 MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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$ most entrees under $10 $$ most entrees $10 to $25 $$$ most entrees over $25 outdoor dining reservations accepted valet parking new or updated entry
American 3SIXTY RESTAURANT & BAR While the menu is filled with upscale casual taste temptations and it boasts a stocked and loaded bar, this hotspot’s ace in the hole (or sky) is its panoramic views from atop Founders Tower. 5900 Mosteller, OKC, 418.7686 $$ ANCHOR DOWN Sip a beer or specialty cocktail and munch on a selection of gourmet corndogs in this fresh Deep Deuce concept housed within repurposed shipping containers. 30 NE 2nd, OKC, 605.8070 $ AURORA Its warmly comfortable atmosphere makes a perfect backdrop for a quick cup of Hoboken coffee or hearty breakfast or lunch assembled from superb ingredients – just be certain not to miss the beautiful secluded backyard area. 1704 NW 16th, OKC, 609.8854 $ BACON Sometimes the name says it all. Noted OKC chef Sean Cummings fills a menu – from soup and salads through sandwiches, entrees and desserts – with tempting taste combinations that feature one of America’s favorite theme ingredients. 7523 N May, OKC, 848.4868 $$ CAFÉ 501 Rustic stone oven pizzas, fresh salads and specialty sandwiches on house-made artisan breads. Add welcoming atmosphere and enjoy. 501 S Boulevard, Edmond, 359.1501; 5825 NW Grand, OKC, 844.1501 $$ DEEP FORK GRILL Crisply elegant atmosphere complements the menu of superb seafood (wood-grilled cedar plank salmon is a house specialty), steaks and accoutrements. 5418 N Western, OKC, 848.7678 $$ EDDIE’S BAR & GRILL This stylish spot not far from UCO is equally ideal for a casual drink, appetizers while watching the game or a dinner date. And bear in mind that the wings are outstanding. 930 E 2, Edmond, 285.7725 $$ FAT DOG This flavor-filled kitchen and bar dishes up treats from fish and chips to a killer Cobb salad … but if you just want to
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cool your heels on the patio with burgers, hot dogs and beer, you’re in the right place. 1234 N Western, OKC, 609.3647 $
FLINT Approachably casual style, plus the kitchen’s impeccably serious attention to detail in the outstanding contemporary cuisine, winningly combined in the Colcord Hotel. 15 N Robinson, OKC, 601.4300 $$ HATCH They call it “early mood food,” and if you find yourself in the mood for a sumptuous made-from-scratch breakfast (or lunch), it should be right up your Automobile Alley. 1101 N Broadway, OKC, 232.3949 $$ THE HUTCH ON AVONDALE The all-time classic Coach House receives an update with a more modern menu sprinkled with experimental twists, and a full suite of tempting cocktails, wines and spirits. 6437 Avondale, OKC, 842.1000 $$ HEFNER GRILL Upscale fare of handcut steaks and seafood plus a tempting brunch to boot, enhanced by a live piano and a spectacular view overlooking scenic Lake Hefner. 9201 Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 748.6113 $$ KITCHEN NO. 324 A seasonally inspired café and craft bakery serving spectacular rustic American cuisine. Open for lunch and dinner, and a thorough treat for breakfast or brunch. 324 N Robinson, OKC, 763.5911 $ LEGACY GRILL The décor is rich with artifacts and imagery honoring Oklahoma’s great leaders and stars, and the menu’s collection includes more than a few greats of its own. 224 Johnny Bench, OKC, 701.3535 $$ MARY EDDY’S Inside the inviting environs of Film Row anchor 21c Museum Hotel, this showplace of a restaurant turns out a seasonally driven menu of expertly tuned flavors and dishes meant to be shared. 900 W Main, OKC, 982.6900 $$ MEATBALL HOUSE The focus in this Campus Corner restaurant is right where the name says, but the variety in salads/ sandwiches/pizza/pasta gives a surprising breadth of satisfying dining options. 333 W Boyd, Norman, 701.3800 $$ NIC’S PLACE Already justly renowned for his skill at the grill, burger master Justin Nicholas offers breakfast, dinner, drinks and late night treats served in outstanding style at this Midtown diner and lounge. 1116 N Robinson, OKC, 601. 9234 $$ PACKARD’S NEW AMERICAN KITCHEN They’re not kidding about the “new” – the entire lunch and dinner menus are filled with innovative tastes for a distinctive dining experience. 201 NW 10th, OKC, 605.3771 $$
PICASSO CAFÉ Their neighbors in the Paseo are painters, potters and sculptors, so it’s apt that creativity abounds in these zippy sandwiches, salads, pizza and surprises, including plentiful selections for vegetarians. 3009 Paseo, OKC, 602.2002 $
THE R&J LOUNGE AND SUPPER CLUB A sentimental dining experience
with vintage recipes and atmosphere. Seating is limited but the patio is a year-round treat, and the drinks menu is a thing of beauty. 320 NW 10th, OKC, 602.5066 $$ REDROCK CANYON GRILL Rotisserie chicken, enchiladas, pork chops and steak by the lake in a casual, energetic, hacienda-style atmosphere of stone walls and mahogany beams around an open kitchen. 9221 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 749.1995; 1820 Legacy Park, Norman, 701.5501 $$ SATURN GRILL A star of the lunchtime stage in Nichols Hills Plaza, its rotation of daily specials and tasty twists on pizza, sandwiches and salads keep it crowded on weekdays. Calling ahead is recommended. 6432 Avondale, OKC, 843.7114 $ SCRATCH Isn’t that the best place for food to come from? Top-of -the-line ingredients are combined into entrees and sides that are carefully concocted in-house, as are the bevy of wondrous craft cocktails. 132 W Main, Norman, 801.2900 $$ SUNNYSIDE DINER A new day dawns for breakfast and lunch on the west side of downtown as a former service station becomes a no-pretense, made-fromscratch diner. Order up! 916 NW 6th, OKC, 778.8861 $ SYRUP The most important meal of the day is also the most enticing at this unique breakfast boutique serving a heaping helping of signature dishes (the crunchy French toast is something special) and Stumptown coffee. 123 E Main, Norman, 701.1143 $ VAST Keeping your attention on the steaks, seafood and other temptaitons might be difficult; the view from atop the Devon Tower is truly unparalleled in Oklahoma, making this a fantastic date spot. 280 W Sheridan, 49th floor, OKC, 702.7262 $$$ VICEROY GRILLE Opulent décor, comfortable environs and some outstanding cuisine make a strong recommendation for the Ambassador Hotel’s in-house restaurant; don’t overlook the brunch options. 1200 N Walker Ave, OKC, 600.6200 $$ WAFFLE CHAMPION A food truck that expanded into a brick-and-mortar location in Midtown, its gourmet flavor combinations use waffles as the
foundation for sweet and savory sandwich treats. 1212 N Walker, OKC, 525.9235 $ WHISKEY CAKE High-quality locally sourced ingredients, prepared using slow cooking techniques that’s a prime recipe for outstanding dining. Enjoy – and don’t forget the namesake dessert. 1845 NW Expressway, OKC, 582.2253 $$
Asian CHAE This pan-cultural treat puts a delectable influence on embracing traditional Korean cuisine and showcasing its versatility by blending its ingredients with dishes from around the world. Grab your chopsticks and enjoy. 1933 NW 23rd, OKC, 600.9040 $$ CHICK N BEER Wings and brews are food for the soul; these freshly fried beauties are done Korean-style, and with serious flavor. Grab some kimchi fries and a local beer and enjoy. 715 NW 23rd, OKC, 604.6995 $ EL TORO CHINO Big, bold flavors from disparate cuisines are blended in this self-described “Latin + Asian Kitchen” - creating results that are as excitingly distinctive as they are delicious. 2801 NW 36th, Norman, 708.9472 $$ GUERNSEY PARK A hidden treasure on an Uptown back street, reflecting traditional Asian flavors expertly fused with a hint of French influence. Try the chicken lollipops and curry salmon. 2418 N Guernsey, OKC, 605.5272 $$ O ASIAN FUSION Sublime quality in a wide span of culinary influences – freshly rolled sushi to fiery curry – in cool, vibrant digs. Call ahead for dinner, because it becomes a packed house in a hurry. 105 SE 12th, Norman, 701.8899 $$ SAII With a dark, rich ambiance that elevates it over its surroundings, the captivating Saii serves expertly done Japanese, Thai and Chinese fare plus an extensive and adventurous sushi menu. 6900 N May, OKC, 702.7244 $$
Bakery BELLE KITCHEN Doughnuts, macarons, pastries and ice cream created from scratch, in small batches – making treats like these with care and passion makes a difference that’s easy, and a pleasure, to taste. 7509 N May, OKC, 430.5484; 30 NE 2nd, OKC, 541.5858 $ CUPPIES & JOE The name is only part of the story: the Uptown nook holds cupcakes and coffee as well as pie, live music, a cozy, trendy vibe and more. Park around back and take a peek. 727 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.2122 $
ESCA VITAE Food for Life, the name promises, and visitors may well find themselves feeling revitalized after sampling this European bakery and café’s espresso drinks, selection of deli sandwiches and vast selection of tempting breads and baked goods. 1114 N Classen Drive, OKC, 601.0402 $ LA BAGUETTE Comfort and exquisite baking make a tres chic destination for brunch and beyond. They supply pastries throughout the metro, but the source is especially delicious. 1130 Rambling Oaks, Norman, 329.1101; 2100 W Main, Norman, 329.5822 $ PIE JUNKIE A Plaza District haven for serious pie aficionados. Call ahead to order a whole pie or quiche or walk in and choose from what’s on hand; either way the flavors are incredible, and you may never find a better Key lime. 1711 NW 16th, OKC, 605.8767 $ SARA SARA CUPCAKES The ambiance and milk bar make great additions to the variety of specialty cupcakes - selections range from traditional chocolate to blueberry honey and even bacon, egg and cheese. 7 NW 9th, OKC, 600.9494 $
cuisine like shepherd’s pie and shrimp and chips, but the equally ample bar makes it a great spot to relax over drinks as well. 4308 N Western, OKC, 525.6682 $ BLU FINE WINE & FOOD Just south of Main Street, this sleek bar stands out due to quick, courteous service and a menu with gourmet range from mojitos to barbeque chicken pizza to fresh hummus. 201 S Crawford, Norman, 360.4258 $$ THE MONT While the food should tempt palates inclined toward a Southwestern zing, it’s beverages like the beloved Sooner Swirl and the primo patio (with misters) for which this landmark is justly renowned. 1300 Classen Blvd, Norman, 329.3330 $ OAK & ORE A Plaza District port of call built with repurposed rustic materials, it offers more than a handful of creative sandwiches that practically require a knife and fork, as well as a tantalizing selection of lovingly chosen craft beers. 1732 NW 16th, OKC, 606.2030 $
Bar & Pub Food
O’CONNELL’S IRISH PUB & GRILLE Beloved by students, alumni and townies alike, it’s served up killer burgers, beer and festive atmosphere since 1968. A St. Patrick’s Day must. 769 Asp, Norman, 217.8454 $
THE BARREL The menu is well-stocked with intriguing and delicious twists on pub
PUB W Multiple sections provide a choice of atmosphere, but the menu filled
with choice beer and “new classic” fare from barbeque wings to pork chops is a constant pleasure. 3720 W Robinson, Norman, 701.5844; 3121 W Memorial, OKC, 608.2200 $$ REPUBLIC GASTROPUB Part beer bar and part upscale eatery, this noisy, amply attended locale pairs a vast selection of quality brews with tasty menu items, including a great burger selection. 5830 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 286.4577; 13230 Pawnee, OKC, 907.5900 $$ SLAUGHTER’S HALL A good-vibe hangout in the heart of Deep Deuce, it’s home to great sandwiches and brunch options, a strong beer selection, a notoriously tasty take on poutine and some of the best mac and cheese in the city. 221 N Central, OKC, 606.6063 $$
Barbeque EARL’S RIB PALACE A popular choice among locals in a genre that’s hardly lacking in options, the local chain pounds out hit ribs and turkey as well as a top-tier burger. 6 metro locations, earlsribpalace.com $ IRON STAR URBAN BARBEQUE Iron Star specializes in “a unique and tasty spin on comfort food.” While its entrees are excellent, the sides here are equal players as well. 3700 N Shartel, OKC, 524.5925 $$
LEO’S BAR-B-Q Dense, rich flavor and tender texture, delivered in genuine unpolished style for commendable value – no wonder its ribs and brisket are favorites among Oklahoma connoisseurs. 3631 N Kelley, OKC 424.5367 $ TEXLAHOMA BBQ Family owned and fabulously flavorful, its meats (especially the beef ribs) are eye-rolling good. Don’t forget the espresso barbeque sauce! 121 E Waterloo, Edmond, 513.7631 $$
Burgers & Sandwiches COW CALF-HAY This tempting burger spot offers ample flavor combinations, and the delicious never-frozen patties are mmmmmassive. Don’t forget the onion rings. 3409 Wynn, Edmond, 509.2333; 212 N Harvey, OKC, 601.6180 $ THE FIXX Massive, monstrous burgers and hot dogs, put together with thought and care. Don’t forget to get a shake or something from the full bar. 644 W Edmond, Edmond, 285.2311 $ THE GARAGE BURGERS & BEER It can get noisy in the sports-bar atmosphere, but even so your focus will likely be on savoring the many tempting flavor possibilities of huge, juicy burgers and fries. 8 metro locations, eatatthegarage.com $
Saturday and Sunday Brunch 10:30 am - 2:30 pm
BLOODY MARY BAR & MIMOSAS BY THE BOTTLE
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Stella
STELLAOKC.COM 405.235.2200 1201 N WALKER AVE
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IRMA’S BURGER SHACK Hand-cut fries, hand-breaded onion rings and simply great burgers, especially with No Name Ranch patties - lean and flavorful thanks to a local breed of cattle. 1035 NW 63rd, OKC, 840.4762; 1120 Classen Drive, OKC, 235.4762 $
RED CUP Comfortably ramshackle surroundings encourage curling up for conversation over great coffee, baked treats, vegetarian-friendly breakfast and lunch specials, and live music. It’s highly recommended. 3122 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 525.3430 $
THE MULE Solid beer and beverage selection plus a delectable array of gourmet grilled cheeses and melts fill the menu at this relaxation destination in the Plaza District. 1630 N Blackwelder, OKC, 601.1400 $
T, AN URBAN TEAHOUSE Proving that an establishment’s focus can be at once narrow and broad, these retreats offer over 100 varieties and expert counsel to explore a world of possibili-teas. 519 NW 23rd, OKC $
NIC’S GRILL It’s small, it’s crowded … and it’s incredible. It’s only open for lunch and the lines are often long, but the colossal burgers are easily among the metro’s best. Don’t forget some money, since it’s cashonly. 1202 N Penn, OKC, 524.0999 $
Continental
S&B’S BURGER JOINT Good news: these burgers’ exquisite flavors - including such ingredients as peanut butter or a coffee crust - come as sliders too, the better to sample more kinds. 5 metro locations, sandbburgers.com $ TUCKER’S ONION BURGERS With one burger, one side dish (fries) and one salad, the menu is easy to remember - and the execution makes the meal unforgettable. Add a shake and enjoy. 4 metro locations, tuckersonionburgers.com $
Love and Lebensmittel The German goodness of Ingrid’s H E ART Y, R IC H, SAVORY, robust, delicious … whatever adjective
is your go-to descriptor for German food, you’ll be using it a lot on a visit to Ingrid’s, 3701 N Youngs in OKC – and then some. The out-of-the-way café’s Deutsche specialties are extremely good – Debbi Johnson and Maggie Miner are happy to serve up sausages from Seigi’s in Tulsa that are bursting with flavor, tender breaded veal schnitzel and sterling examples of traditional sides such as red cabbage, sauerkraut and German potato salad. But that’s only the beginning, and the best idea is to try more than just the wurst. Ingrid’s is also home to some very well-executed breakfasts and a Sunday brunch buffet, plus the baked goods that come out of its kitchens are among the very best in the city. Simple pleasures such as thumbprint cookies to more fanciful creations in the vein of a cream puff’s delicate pastry filled with raspberry mousse, white and dark chocolate and almonds, their inescapably appealing appearance and aroma makes it surprisingly difficult to place an order at the counter without adding, “Give me one of those too, please. And one of those. And those.” With all these tasty temptations in combination, it’s not hard to see how Ingrid’s has been an OKC favorite for 40 years. After all, die Klassiken never go out of style. - STEVE GILL
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Coffeehouse & Tea Room ALL ABOUT CHA Universal standards and unusual concoctions (the sweet potato latte is a wonder) in a cheerful atmosphere; the food options are worth investigating, as well. 5 metro locations, allaboutcha.net $ CAFÉ EVOKE Outstanding coffee drinks and other beverages from one of the area’s great caterers; if patrons wish to stick around to sample soup, sandwiches, snacks or sweets, so much the better for their palates. 103 S Broadway, Edmond, 285.1522 $ CLARITY COFFEE The vibe is crisp, clean and cool while remaining welcoming and comfortable – including seating for sipping or getting some work done – and the brewers have their beverages down to a science. As the sign says, “Drink the Coffee.” 431 W Main, OKC, 252.0155 $ COFFEE SLINGERS Rocking a brisk, urban vibe on Automobile Alley, it has become a gathering place for genuine java enthusiasts, especially during its periodic educational sampling seminars. 1015 N Broadway, OKC, 606.2763 $ ELEMENTAL COFFEE Seriously spectacular coffee roasted in-house - the passionate staff is always eager to share knowledge about the process - augmented with locally sourced salads, breakfast options and other treats. 815 N Hudson, OKC, 633.1703 $ ELLIS ISLAND Their brews use Eote Coffee (thumbs up), but there’s much more in store in this clean, cozy hangout spot – local beers, a selection of wines, treats from La Baguette and Epic Pops and more are waiting to be enjoyed. 130 N Broadway, Edmond, 726.8831 $
BIN 73 Think of it as a wine bar but don’t overlook the tasting menu - diners can fill up on filet mignon or simply top the evening off with tapas while enjoying the full gamut of libations and chic ambiance. 7312 N Western, OKC, 843.0073 $$ BLACKBIRD A Campus Corner gastropub pairing succulently creative dishes like pot roast nachos with a broad beer, wine and whiskey list. There’s little on the menu that won’t tempt palates. 575 S University, Norman, 928.5555 $$ CHEEVER’S Southwestern-influenced recipes (the chicken-fried steak is a house specialty) and love of seafood drive the contemporary comfort food in one of the city’s finest dining destinations. 2409 N Hudson, OKC, 525.7007 $$ EN CROUTE A warmly welcoming, comfortable café in Nichols Plaza offers treats all day long, from fresh pastries to select spirits and beer, with special emphasis on artisanal cheese and charcuterie. 6460 Avondale, OKC, 607.6100 $ LUDIVINE The menu adjusts constantly to reflect availability of elite-quality, locally sourced ingredients - but every dish is the result of genuine culinary artistry. 805 N Hudson, OKC, 778.6800 $$$ THE MANTEL Marvelous steaks, seafood and other specialties combine with a refined atmosphere and outstanding service to set the stage for a truly memorable meal, especially if you have a date to impress. 201 E Sheridan, OKC, 236.8040 $$$ THE METRO A perennial favorite that feels comfortably upscale without exerting pressure to impress on its clientele, the farreaching menu covers culinary high points from vichyssoise to crème brulée. 6418 N Western, OKC, 840.9463 $$ MICHAEL’S GRILL Thoroughly urbane dining in an intimate setting: the steaks, chops, seafood and pastas are all reliably excellent, and the Caesar salad prepared tableside is the stuff of legends. 2824 W Country Club, OKC, 810.9000 $$$ THE MUSEUM CAFÉ A setting as inspiring as the OKC Museum of Art warrants something special in cuisine: delicately light or delectably robust, its European-inspired menu delights for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. 415 Couch, OKC, 235.6262 $$ PARK AVENUE GRILL A one-of-a-kind dining experience inside the luxurious Skirvin Hilton, blending traditional steak
PHOTO BY SHANNON CORNMAN
GOOD TASTE
and seafood with the high style of its 1930s setting. 1 Park, OKC, 702.8444 $$$ PASEO GRILL Quiet and intimate inside, cheerful and comfortable out on the patio, with an award-winning menu filled with distinctive flavors inspired by the cuisines of Europe in both areas – try the duck salad. 2909 Paseo, OKC, 601.1079 $$$ THE PRITCHARD WINE BAR Tempted by tempranillo? Musing about muscat? This Plaza District stop is amply stocked with an extensive list of exceptional wines, and sampling the varied dishes is a pleasure in itself. 1749 NW 16th, OKC, 601.4067 $ ROCOCO An “East Coast-style” restaurant with a diverse menu of international dishes, all set off by carefully selected wines to create the perfect dinner pairing. 12252 N May, OKC, 212.4577; 2824 N Penn, OKC, 528.2824 $$ SEVEN47 A Campus Corner hotspot boasting sleek, swank décor, an appealingly broad menu including a tantalizing brunch and a consistently celebratory vibe - in toto that makes this a winner. 747 Asp, Norman, 701.8622 $$ SIGNATURE GRILL Unassuming locale; magnificent culinary rewards. The expertly considered menu mixes French and Italian flavors to present a
wide spectrum of amazing flavors in a few select dishes. 1317 E Danforth, Edmond, 330.4548 $$$ WEST Expert staff and stylish décor augment a menu filled with treats from beef pad thai to roasted airline chicken. Don’t forget the zuccha chips! 6714 N Western, OKC, 607.4072 $$
French LA BAGUETTE BISTRO Les Freres Buthion have deep roots in the city’s culinary landscape, and this flagship combines fine dining with a great bakery, deli and butcher on site. 7408 N May, OKC, 840.3047 $$
German DAS BOOT CAMP Longtime fixture for Deutsch festivities Royal Bavaria has brewed up a second round of exceptional cuisine and magnificent beer in a less expensive, faster-paced location in downtown Norman. 229 E Main, Norman, 701.3748 $ FASSLER HALL Bringing German flavor to Midtown via house-made sausages, warm soft pretzels with cheese sauce, duck fries and a heftig beer menu, plus a weekend brunch – what’s not to love? 421 NW 10th, OKC, 609.3300 $
INGRID’S Authentic German fare at its best, including outstanding Oklahomamade bratwurst. Join weekend regulars for breakfast, and remember the bakery counter. 3701 N Youngs, OKC, 946.8444; 6501 N May, OKC $$ ROYAL BAVARIA Superb takes on traditional dishes like Weinerschnitzel, Jagerbraten and sausages, plus fantastisch house-brewed beers. The time spent is a worthy investment in this familystyle dining hall. 3401 S Sooner, Moore, 799.7666 $$$
Indian GOPURAM - TASTE OF INDIA A fullservice restaurant whose richly appointed interior and attentive staff accord patrons the feel of fine dining, even during the plentifully stocked lunch buffet. 4559 NW 23rd, OKC, 948.7373 $$ MISAL OF INDIA A Norman institution for over 30 years, specializing in tandooricooked delicacies and boasting healthy, natural, delicious cuisine served amid splendid ambiance. 580 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman, 579.5600 $$ TAJ A tremendous set of Indian staples and delicacies - the menu has sections for vegetarian, tandoori, South Indian and Indo-Chinese specialties - plus full lunch and dinner buffets. 1500 NW 23rd, OKC, 601.1888 $$
Italian & Pizza BELLINI’S Tasteful in décor and Italian offerings alike, this romantic nightspot quietly, confidently exudes elegance. It’s worth a visit even if only for a couple of the namesake beverages on the shady patio. 6305 Waterford, OKC, 848.1065 $$ BENVENUTI’S Subtly flavored minestrone to rich, hearty ragouts, the splendid menu keeps the booths full and diners planning return trips to this vintage building by the railroad tracks; don’t overlook Sunday brunch. 105 W Main, Norman, 310.5271 $$ EMPIRE SLICE HOUSE Reigning over the Plaza District in New York style (that means thin, flexible crust with a lot of surface area to cover in cheese and tasty toppings), it offers whole pizzas or slices, a full bar and a primo patio. 1734 NW 16th, OKC $ FLIP’S WINE BAR & TRATTORIA Managing to feel rustic despite its location in a busy corridor of OKC, this cozy Italian joint keeps extended hours, and tends to get busier and louder as the hour gets later. 5801 N Western, OKC, 843.1527 $$ HIDEAWAY PIZZA If you’ve been serving a devoted following for over half a century, you’re doing something right. In this case, that’s incredible pizza in
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jovial surroundings. 8 metro locations, hideawaypizza.com $$ HUMBLE PIE PIZZERIA There’s really no need to be humble about this true Chicago-style pizza, boasting perhaps the best crust known to man. It’s one of our favorites; choose your toppings and think deep thoughts. 1319 S Broadway, Edmond, 715.1818 $ KNUCK’S WHEELHOUSE Homemade daily with sauces from scratch and local beer in the crust, it’s a tasty and varied stopover for Bricktown wanderers as well as a pizza-lover’s destination in its own right. 103 E California, OKC, 605.4422 $ MONI’S Handmade, New Jersey-style brick oven pizza and authentic pasta recipes from Southern Italy in a casual, comfy ambience (ideal for dates). 17200 N May, Edmond, 285.5991 $$ OTHELLO’S Garlic bread and warm mussels to tiramisu and coffee – all you could want in a romantic Italian café. The Norman location regularly hosts live music, too. 434 Buchanan, Norman, 701.4900; 1 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.9045 $$
Pre-Summer Priorities Go al fresco at The Mont
TO B E C LE AR , there are good reasons to visit Norman institution The Mont, 1300 Classen Blvd. in Norman, all the livelong year: The menu is broad, the burgers and enchiladas are good for the taste buds (and the loaded cheese fries are even better) and the slightly worn interior feels welcoming and comfortable. The bar wears its 40-plus years well. But while you could go anytime, its best days are right about now. One of the pillars of its enduring popularity is the spacious patio, and with Oklahoma’s tendency to lean into summertime temperatures a trifle early, May is generally an exceptional month for soaking up a little sunshine (but not too much; the Mont’s patio is equipped with plenty of table umbrellas and a delightful misting system). Another draw is the ample drinks menu that gives patrons a little refreshment to enjoy on that patio – so whether you prefer to bask alongside a Sea Breeze or Velvet Hammer or simple rum and Coke, the bartenders can give you the right accessory. A word of advice, though, and one that echoes decades of patrons and the bar itself: Try a Sooner Swirl. The tangy frozen margarita encircled by a stripe of sweet sangria is a house specialty, and a wonderfully delicious concoction to sip over a leisurely conversation. With the weather getting balmier and OU students moving out by Mother’s Day, this is an excellent opportunity to toast the patio life. - STEVE GILL
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PIZZA 23 The tempting selection of specialty pies on especially buttery, flaky crusts is available for takeout, but dining in is recommended; the Uptown joint’s good beer selection and crisp, urban décor add savor to the flavor. 600-B NW 23rd, OKC, 601.6161 $$ PIZZERIA GUSTO Neapolitan-style pizza (which harnesses an extremely hot fire to quickly cook superfine flour crusts and quality ingredients) stars alongside Italy-inspired salads, pastas and appetizers. 2415 N Walker, OKC, 437.4992 $$ STELLA MODERN ITALIAN CUISINE A luscious spate of legitimately Italian tastes for a casual lunch, or romantic dinner, amid stylish scenery. The weekend brunch offerings are especially superb. 1201 N Walker, OKC, 235.2200 $$ STONE SISTERS Seeking a healthier take on one of the world’s most popular foods? Stone Sisters aims to dish out deliciousness while focusing on superior ingredients, especially in its organic spelt crusts and vegan-friendly options. 2124 N Broadway, OKC, 609.6599 $$ TOMMY’S ITALIAN-AMERICAN GRILL An old favorite returns to the metro to provide fresh, plentiful doses of primo pasta and pizzas, always served with plenty of ambiance. 5516 W Memorial, OKC, 470.5577 $$ UPPER CRUST A chic, contemporary pizzeria and wine bar specializing in wood-fired, thin-crust New York-style pies complemented by a full menu and wine list. 5860 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.7743; 1205 NW 178th, Edmond, 285.8887 $$ VICTORIA’S A comfortable atmosphere, with local art on its walls and the art of pasta on its plates – the chicken lasagna and linguine with snow crab are especially excellent. 327 White, Norman, 329.0377; 3000 SW 104th, OKC, 759.3580 $
VITO’S RISTORANTE Homestyle Italian cuisine in an intimate setting where the staff and management treat customers like guests in their home. It’s a small space, so calling ahead is recommended. 7521 N May, OKC, 848.4867 $$ VOLARE A flavor-filled variety of Neapolitan-style pizzas, produced with haste from a specially imported oven, fill this stylish Campus Corner space boasting a serious rooftop patio. 315 White, Norman, 310.3615 $$ THE WEDGE Wood-fired pies crafted from fresh ingredients (the possibilities range from pepperoni all the way to figs or truffle oil) and made-from-scratch sauces. 230 NE 1st, OKC, 270.0660; 4709 N Western, OKC, 602.3477 $$
Japanese // Sushi CAFÉ ICON Tempting sushi, Japanese specialties and delicious spectacles like steak cooked at the table on a sizzling stone fill the menu to bursting with visually splendid and palate-pleasing treats. 311 S Blackwelder, Edmond, 340.8956 $$ DEKORA Splashy, neon-accented décor sets off a sea of delicious sushi creations in a Bricktown dazzler. Lots of variety, big drinks menu, extreme yum. 200 S Oklahoma #130, OKC, 702.1325 $$ GORO An “izakaya” is a Japanese pub; visitors to the Plaza District will quickly come to associate the term with expertly crafted deliciousness thanks to this cheerful spot for ramen, yakitori, bar snacks and more. 1634 Blackwelder, OKC, 606.2539 $ INAKA The main draw of this Casady Square spot is the fresh, savory sushi: with these imaginative combinations, names like Amazing Roll and Fantastic Roll feel like stating the obvious. 9321 N Penn, OKC, 242.2224 $$ MUSASHI’S Exquisitely flavorful Japanese cuisine prepared with genuine artistry, thanks to the skilled chefs executing culinary performance art at tableside hibachi grills. It’s a great spot for a special occasion. 4315 N Western, OKC, 602.5623 $$ SUSHI NEKO An established OKC favorite combining style (sleek, brisk, classy) with substance (in the form of an especially wide-ranging and creative sushi menu). 4318 N Western, OKC, 528.8862 $$ TOKYO It’s neither huge nor lavishly appointed, and the menu focuses on tradition rather than creativity; but it’s palpably fresh and routinely cited as among the metro’s best sushi. 7516 N Western, OKC, 848.6733 $$ VOLCANO Creations from the hibachi grill or dazzling displays of handcrafted sushi prowess – this restaurant might not have much seating, but it’s certainly far from short on flavor. 2727 S I-35, Moore, 759.3888 $$ YOKOZUNA The noodles, entrees and snappy drinks menu beckon, but it’s the rolls that stand out in this heavyweight contender for local sushi supremacy –
PHOTO BY SHANNON CORNMAN
AT THE BAR
personally, we’re partial to the 405 Roll. 13230 Pawnee, OKC, 500.1020 $$ YUZO Variety is the word in this sushi tapas bar, boasting a tempting swirl of Colombian, Brazilian and Japanese culinary influences. 808 N Broadway, OKC, 702.9808 $$
Mediterranean & African HAIGET’S Vegan-friendly – and friendly in general, due to the influence of the warm, patient namesake owner – this gem rewards the adventurous with Ethiopian and Kenyan specialties to explore and share. 308 W Edmond Road, Edmond, 509.6441 $$ MEDITERRANEAN IMPORTS & DELI The menu is stocked with authentic, quick and savory options from Greek salad to eye-watering cabbage rolls, and there’s even a mini-grocery stocked with select staples. 5620 N May, OKC, 810.9494 $ QUEEN OF SHEBA Practically the definitive example of a hidden treasure, the spicy, vegan-friendly menu of Ethiopian delights awaits the bold. Bring friends and be prepared to linger. 2308 N MacArthur, OKC, 606.8616 $$ ZORBA’S For well over 20 years, Zorba’s has satisfied appetites and pleased palates.
Serving dishes from recipes passed down through generations, they proudly share flavors of Cyprus, Spain, Greece and Morocco. 6014 N May, OKC, 947.7788 $
Mexican & Latin American 1492 Authentic Mexican cuisine in an elegant atmosphere, combining its caliente flavors with fusion decor to make an ideal spot for a romantic evening ... including perhaps the world’s best mojitos. 1207 N Walker, OKC, 236.1492 $$ BARRIOS A serious collection of Latin-flavored deliciousness, including a brunch that’s maravilloso, in a cool Midtown space with a back patio that’s pure paradise. 1000 N Hudson, OKC, 702.6922 $ BIG TRUCK TACOS It’s nearly always standing-room-only at lunch, but don’t let that deter you; spend a few minutes in line and get an ample reward in the form of fast, fresh, imaginative taco creations. 530 NW 23rd, OKC, 525.8226 $ CAFÉ DO BRASIL It’s a long way from OKC to Rio, but the savory menu in this Midtown hot spot covers the distance in a mouthful. Even brunch is a spicy, inimitable treat. 440 NW 11th, OKC, 525.9779 $$
CAFÉ KACAO A sunlit space filled with bright, vibrant flavors from the zesty traditions of Guatemala. Lunch possibilities beckon, but it’s the breakfast specialties that truly dazzle. 3325 N Classen, OKC, 602.2883 $ CULTIVAR A farm-to-fire Mexican kitchen that stresses sustainability, local sourcing and fresh, fast, flavorful food. Gluten-free options, chef-crafted tacos, a substantial bar and plenty more are on the menu. 714 N Broadway, OKC $$ IGUANA MEXICAN GRILL Unique Mexican flavor in a fun atmosphere at reasonable prices - a treat from the housemade salsas to the handcrafted cocktails, and all the tastes between. 9 NW 9th, OKC, 606.7172 $$ MAMA ROJA MEXICAN KITCHEN A festive atmosphere on the scenic shores of Lake Hefner sets off a menu loaded with hand-rolled tamales, vendor-style tacos and signature dishes. 9219 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 302.6262 $$ REVOLUCION You say you want a Revolucion? You easily might once you try this spicy taco-centric haven – start with the queso fundido and don’t stop until you reach the delectable arroz tres leche dessert. 916 NW 6th, OKC, 606.6184 $$ TARAHUMARA’S Beloved by locals (there’s usually a line but it moves quickly),
this airy ristorante serves huge, tasty TexMex classics plus less ubiquitous fare like carnitas de puerco and mole poblano. 702 N Porter, Norman, 360.8070 $$ YUCATAN TACO STAND A Bricktown haven for feisty Latin fusion cuisine such as paella and tamales wrapped in banana leaves plus signature nachos and combos … and a selection of over 75 top-shelf tequilas. 100 E California, OKC, 886.0413 $ ZARATE’S In addition to the familiar joys of enchiladas and the like, the chef’s Peruvian heritage shines in dishes featuring plantains, yuca and imported spices. Try something different; find something tasty. 706 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.6400 $$
Seafood PEARL’S CRABTOWN A huge Bricktown warehouse where the Cajun Crab Boil is a favorite, guests are encouraged to “leave the silverware at home and dig in,” and taste is king. 303 E Sheridan, OKC, 232.7227 $$ PEARL’S OYSTER BAR A perennial OKC favorite for its flavorful seafood and spicy Creole-inspired dishes: Shrimp Diablo, Tabasco-infused Caesar salads, Andouille omelets at Sunday brunch and more. 5641 N Classen, OKC, 848.8008 $$
THE NEW SUMMER STANDARD A crisp and refreshing pilsner built for summer days. The siren’s calling, so pack the cooler and get outside. Available in 6 Pack 12oz Cans or On Draf t
CoopAleWorks.com
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TRAPPER’S FISHCAMP Zesty, widely varied flavor from the Pearl’s family of restaurants finds a comfortable home in a backwoods fishing lodge atmosphere. Don’t forget the bountifully stocked bar, either. 4300 W Reno, OKC, 943.9111 $$ THE SHACK SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR A massive selection of nicely spiced Cajun and Creole cooking, plus fried and grilled seafood, in an atmosphere that’s not shy about being as casual as it can be. 3 metro locations, theshackok.com $$
Soul Food BRENT’S CAJUN Sit down to a massive platter of jambalaya, crawfish etoufee, Pasta Orleans or any of the well-seasoned temptations on the weekend brunch menu – and spice up your life. 3005 S Broadway, Edmond, 285.0911 $$ C’EST SI BON The name is accurate: it is impressively good for lovers of Cajun-style catfish and po-boys. Crawfish etouffee, frogs’ legs, fried chicken and shrimp po-boys are among the highlights, but the award-winning catfish is a must-try. 101 N Douglas, Midwest City, 610.2555 $ THE DRUM ROOM March your own drumsticks in for a heap of crispy, juicy fried chicken (among the city’s best) starring alongside fried okra, waffles and a fully loaded bar. 4300 N Western, OKC, 604.0990 $$
Steakhouse BOULEVARD STEAKHOUSE Perfectly soigné ambiance down to the last detail and cuisine easily in the metro’s elite – a sumptuous, if pricy, masterpiece. 505 S Boulevard, Edmond, 715.2333 $$$ BROADWAY 10 Cruise into the Buick building in Automobile Alley to savor steak supremacy or seafood selections (even sushi) in a cozy enclave amid urban bustle. 1101 N Broadway, OKC, 212.3949 $$$ CATTLEMEN’S Almost as old as the state itself, this Oklahoma institution’s immense corn-fed steaks and matchless atmosphere are history served anew every day. 1309 S Agnew, OKC, 236.0416 $$ JAMIL’S STEAKHOUSE Saving room for your steak, lobster or prime rib is difficult when your gratis appetizers arrive in the form of a Lebanese bounty, but make the effort. Jamil’s has been feeding Oklahoma exceptionally well since 1964. 4910 N Lincoln, OKC, 525.8352 $$$ JUNIOR’S The classic restaurant’s decor sets the perfect stage for hand-cut Angus steaks and lobster to fight for attention with knockout fried chicken. 2601 NW Expressway, OKC, 848.5597 $$$
MAHOGANY PRIME STEAKHOUSE The ambiance and service are sublime, but fine aged steak broiled to perfection is the star. 3241 W Memorial, OKC, 748.5959; 100 W Main, OKC, 208.8800 $$$
RED PRIMESTEAK Visionary design and atmosphere house super-premium steaks, vibrant, imaginative flavors and amenities to make some of the state’s best dining. 504 N Broadway, OKC, 232.2626 $$$
MEAT MARKET REFECTORY The well-aged steaks are excellent, but they’re the tip of the ample menu’s iceberg: fresh seafood and Australian lamb chops command attention as well, and from Hatch green chili crab cakes to champagne sabayon, the carefully selected flavors pop and sparkle in this prime dining experience. 2920 NW 63rd, OKC, 608.8866 $$$
TEXAS DE BRAZIL Inspired by Brazilian churrascarias, this festive establishment offers diners cuts from their choice of skewers laden with beef, pork, chicken and sausage, in addition to excellent sides and a massive salad bar. 1901 NW Expressway, OKC, 362.9200 $$$
MICKEY MANTLE’S This lushly atmospheric social spot in Bricktown serves powerhouse entrées and sides with a full complement of amenities destined to impress. 7 S Mickey Mantle, OKC, 272.0777 $$$ OPUS PRIME STEAKHOUSE It aspires to the ultimate in upscale dining via hand-cut USDA Prime Black Angus steaks, a vast wine selection and intimate ambiance. 800 W Memorial, OKC, 607.6787 $$$ RANCH STEAKHOUSE Effortless opulence, custom-aged hand-cut USDA Certified Prime tenderloins and ribeyes, served amid warm Southern hospitality. 3000 W Britton, OKC, 755.3501 $$$
EARL’S CATERS WEDDINGS, GRADUATIONS, MOTHER’S DAY… You’ve got a lot to plan, so take a little time off your plate. We think you’ll like what we put back on it.
www.EarlsRibPalace.com/Catering
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Thai SALA THAI Pineapple curry, basil squid, fried rice with crab, cinnamon beef ... the variety is exceptional, making this Midtown diner a popular midday option. 1614 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.8424 $ SWEET BASIL The enormous aquarium adds to the cozy ambiance; with its outstanding curries and specialty dishes, it makes a great venue for a dinner date. 211 W Main, Norman, 217.8424 $$ TANA THAI There’s a lot to like about the food in this little spot, from red snapper filet to pad thai. Pay special mind to the varied soups, and do not play chicken with the spice level. 10700 N May, OKC, 749.5590 $$
AMERICA, LET’S DO LUNCH
TM
Maurice McGriff, SINCE 1941. This kind of wisdom can only come from doing one thing: living. Now, he and 1 in 6 seniors face the threat of hunger and millions more live in isolation. So pop by, drop off a hot meal and say a warm hello. Volunteer for Meals on Wheels at AmericaLetsDoLunch.org
21c
’S OKC
Wow! A huge thank you to 405 Magazine readers for voting 21c Museum Hotel and Mary Eddy’s top honors in Oklahoma City. Best Brunch - Mary Eddy’s Kitchen x Lounge Best Chef - Jason Campbell Best Wedding Venue - 21c Oklahoma City
900 W Main Street Oklahoma City, OK 73106 405.982.6900 | 21cOklahomaCity.com 405.982.6960 | MaryEddysOKC.com
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travel STATESIDE
The infinity pool for the Lakeside Cottages overlooks the tranquil water.
HEAVEN IN THE HILLS Big Cedar Lodge brings bliss to the Ozarks BY ELAINE WARNER
In southern Missouri on Table Rock Lake, Big Cedar Lodge is close enough to Branson for visiting the entertainment destination’s shows and shops, but still a world away from the hubbub and bustle of masses of tourists. It combines elegance, comfort and natural beauty in ways that few destinations manage with such grace. 90
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Valley View Lodge (left) and Falls Lodge stand atop a hill overlooking the property.
THE PROPERTY BEGAN LIFE in the 1920s as a country retreat for two wealthy Missouri businessmen and their families. It changed hands and landscape over the years – most markedly when Table Rock Lake was created. When Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, bought it in 1987, its metamorphosis into one of the nation’s best resorts began. Overlooking the lake on 800+ acres, it has been augmented with amenities to create a beautiful blend of the out-of-doors and entertainment, making it a perfect getaway for couples, families, sportsmen and sybarites. WHERE TO STAY There are three lodges on the main property: Valley View Lodge, Spring View Lodge and Falls Lodge. Choose a small cabin, family cabin or cottage dotted around the grounds. Or go for the ultimate in luxury with a stay in the Governor’s Suite – four bedrooms, two balconies overlooking the lake and even its own billiards room. Other unusual choices include the romantic Spa Cottage, perched atop a picturesque stream, and the 1920s Carriage House. Part of one of the original estates, it has been completely remodeled and is full of features its first owners never imagined. WHAT TO DO Water activities are big here – there are several swimming pools on the property and, for lake fun, kayaks, canoes and paddleboats are complimentary for guests. You can always fish from the docks, shore or your own boat. For those who need more equipment, Bent Hook Marina rents bass boats, fishing The mighty wheel of the Dogwood Canyon mill
The comfy Lakeside Cottages feature rustic décor and lake views.
equipment, ski boats, pontoons, party barges, pull tubes, kneeboards, wakeboards, water skis and paddleboards. The Ski School offers lessons on skis, kneeboards and wakeboards. Book a sunset cruise on the Lady Liberty, a 62-foot, double-decker, leisure cruise yacht. The other option is an hour-long cruise on the Goin’ Jesse, a replica of a 1934 Chris Craft boat gleaming with polished walnut and teak. Other activities include miniature golf, Frisbee golf, horseshoes, carriage rides, shuffleboard and volleyball. Hike or jog along paved trails, or visit the fitness center. And for the ultimate in pampering, make an appointment at the Cedar Creek Spa. Opening this year – dates not available at press time – are Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl and Grill and a new Gary Player 12-hole golf course. Uncle Buck’s features 16 lanes of undersea-themed bowling, a 60-game arcade, laser tag, go-carts and bumper cars. The Player course joins the Par3, Jack Nicklaus Signature Course – Top of the Rock – and the championship Buffalo Ridge Golf Course, home of the MAY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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annual PGA Champions Tour Big Cedar Lodge Legends of Golf Tournament. UNIQUELY CEDAR Johnny Morris is all about connecting people with nature. The Lost Canyon Nature Trail and Cave lets visitors experience a twoand-a-half-mile trip by golf cart through the woods, into a cave and past stunning waterfalls.
from the upstairs Osage plus wood-fired pizzas and a more casual atmosphere. Wind down with a beverage and small plate at the End of the Trail Wine Cellar and admire the sunset behind the namesake James Earle Fraser sculpture. Arnie’s Barn, a 150-year-old Pennsylvania barn that was disassembled and moved here, is named to honor Arnold Palmer and overlooks the Top of the Rock Golf Course. Try lunch or dinner here for a Tex-Mex fix. Meanwhile, The Devil’s Pool restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with down-home delights such as pan-seared Missouri trout, chicken and biscuits and St. Louis-style pork ribs. The house salad with signature blueberry/ poppyseed dressing is a do-not-miss. Downstairs from the Devil’s Pool is the Buzzard Bar, with lots of tasty choices plus live entertainment five nights a week by singing cowboy Clay Self. Truman Coffee and Café, with a smaller menu, is the perfect spot for breakfast or lunch – or just a cup of coffee, a milkshake or a smoothie. Plus, if you’re staying in one of the cabins or cottages, you can order a backyard basket filled with treats ready to be prepared in your kitchen or on your grill.
Big Cedar is located on Table Rock Lake, noted for bass fishing.
The Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum gives glimpses into the prehistoric past with skeletons of Pleistocene predators. Add to that the largest private collection of American Indian art and artifacts in the world, and you’ll discover you could spend hours in this museum and not see everything. If shooting sports are your passion, you’ll love the Outdoor Academy, where you can learn and practice six-shot gun disciplines. In addition, there’s an outdoor arena for rodeo, bull riding and BMX. The crown jewel of the collection is Dogwood Canyon south of Big Cedar. Most visitors take the two-hour tram ride through the property, enjoying the meandering streams, waterfalls, trees and wildflowers, and watching for bison, elk, deer and longhorn cattle. That, however, is just the beginning of things to do here. You can walk, bike, Segway or take a horseback ride. The streams are full of trout, and there are opportunities for fishing and for fly-fishing and casting instruction. Watch a miller grind grain at a working grist mill, or look through a microscope in the education center. Plus, visitors of all ages will want to explore the tree house created by Treehouse Masters. Top your visit with lunch or an early dinner in the Canyon Grill, where you can dine inside or enjoy the waterside patio while being serenaded by the splash of a waterfall. ARE YOU HUNGRY? In addition to the new Uncle Buck’s Grill, on-property options include fine dining at the Top of the Rock’s Osage Restaurant and at Buffalo Bar, whose menu includes some of the favorites
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The Dogwood Canyon Grill patio is popular with guests who enjoy listening to music made by falling water.
SAVE ON ADVENTURE Johnny Morris has been called the “Walt Disney of the Ozarks” for his vision and creativity. And he has taken advantage of the amazing Ozark habitat to create a natural equivalent of a first-class theme park – with prices to match. Many of the activities have hefty fees. Check out Adventure Passes for Top of the Rock activities and Dogwood Canyon to save a bit of money; visit bigcedar.com for more information.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
21C MUSEUM HOTEL AMERICAN BANJO MUSEUM CHICKASAW CULTURAL CENTER CITY OF YUKON EDMOND HISTORICAL SOCIETY EXHIBIT C GALLERY FINE ARTS INSTITUTE OF EDMOND FRED JONES JR. MUSEUM OF ART GAYLORD-PICKENS MUSEUM THE HOWELL GALLERY INDIVIDUAL ARTISTS OF OKLAHOMA JRB ART AT THE ELMS KASUM CONTEMPORARY FINE ART NATIONAL COWBOY & WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM OKC NATIONAL MEMORIAL & MUSEUM OKC MUSEUM OF ART OKLAHOMA CONTEMPORARY ARTS CENTER OKLAHOMA RAILWAY MUSEUM RED EARTH SAM NOBLE MUSEUM SCIENCE MUSEUM OKLAHOMA WOODWARD ARTS THEATRE ART: “SPIRITS RISING,” STONEWARE BY CHOCTAW ARTIST CAROLYN BERNARD YOUNG, COURTESY RED EARTH ART CENTER
INTERIOR DESIGN | FINE A RT GALLERY 6 432 N . W ES T ER N AV EN U E | W W W. H OW EL LG A L L ERY.CO M | 4 0 5 . 8 4 0 . 4 437
Kehinde Wiley (American, b. 1977). Shantavia Beale II (detail), 2012. Oil on canvas, 60 x 48 in. (152.4 x 121.9 cm). Collection of Ana and Lenny Gravier. Š Kehinde Wiley. (Photo: Jason Wyche)
MUSEUM & GALLERY GUIDE
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
UPCOMING EXHIBITS & EVENTS 21C MUSEUM HOTEL
900 W Main, OKC, 405.982.6900 21cmuseumhotels.com/oklahomacity/ Through May Labor and Materials This exhibition explores the evolution of industry in the 21st century, from nostalgic to futuristic. 21c offers free guided docent tours through their current collection every Wednesday and Friday. Oklahoma City’s Filmography A free monthly series in partnership with deadCenter Film and OKC Film Society: May 19 Born to Fly Elizabeth Streb’s movement philosophy evolves as she pushes herself and her performers from the ground to the sky. July 21 The Queen of Versailles A billionaire family plans to build the biggest house in America and struggles in the wake of the economic crisis. Aug. 18 Four Sheets to the Wind This endearing, comical and eternally universal love and death story is set among the modern traditions of the Oklahoma Indian.
AMERICAN BANJO MUSEUM 9 E Sheridan, OKC, 405.604.2793 americanbanjomuseum.com
June 24 American FestA rotating roster of bands, including Oklahoma’s own Horseshoe Road and Steelwind, augments an outdoor kids’ area with arts and crafts, photos, summer snacks and sing-a-longs. Sept. 7 Hall of Fame Welcome Reception The welcome reception will be followed by a ceremony at the Devon Tower, ending with a Banjo Fest at the Rose State Performing Arts Center. Through December America’s Super Picker: Roy Clark A retrospective features stage outfits, instruments, photos and videos spanning the amazing career of Oklahoma’s own Roy Clark.
CHICKASAW CULTURAL CENTER 867 Cooper Memorial, Sulphur, 580.622.7130 chickasawculturalcenter.com
May 27-28 Memorial Weekend Festivities include traditional games, cultural demonstrations and family films in the Anoli Theater. June 24 Children’s Festival Featuring fun activities and events for the whole family, this event also coincides with the Chipota (Children’s) Film Festival, featuring a selection of family-friendly Native films. July 15 Holba Pisachi Native Film Festival Enjoy a selection of Native films at the cultural center. Learn about this modern method of storytelling in interactive sessions with filmmakers. Sept. 16 Monarch Butterfly Watch Enjoy Monarch films, outdoor classrooms,
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horticultural tours, children’s crafts and more.
Hacker, George Levi, Dylan Cavin and Lauren Good Day Giago.
Peters, Sonya Terpening and Poteet Victory.
CITY OF YUKON
July 1 Artists Rotation and Reception Chad Earles, Nicole Hatfield, Rhiana Deck and Steven Grounds, who completed the Sheridan underpass mural in Bricktown, showcase their artwork and photography. June 9-11 Live Paint An artist creates a unique painting in front of a live audience.
June 22 Special Care Art Show The Howell Gallery and the Metro Wine Bar & Bistro, together with Lee Allan Smith and Barry Switzer, are proud to host an art show benefiting Special Care.
405.354.1895 cityofyukonok.gov
May 6 Festival of the Child Plenty of fun and creativity for children 12 and younger; kids will be inspired by 50 different activities, including kayaking, inflatables, crafts, pony rides and storytelling. City Park, 2200 S Holly June 3 Chisholm Trail & Crawfish Festival Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Chisholm Trail, Cajun style, it includes Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, gunfights, cow milking and pie eating contests, live Cajun music and more. Kirkpatrick Family Farm, 1001 Garth Brooks June 8-Aug. 3 Concerts in the Park Bring your lawn chairs for free Thursday concerts in the park featuring country, disco, rock, jazz and more. Chisholm Trail Park, 500 W Vandament July 4 Yukon’s Freedom Fest Activities all day for the family, including pony rides and free swimming, give way to free ice cream, music from Superfreak and the OKC Philharmonic and a fireworks display. Chisholm Trail Park, 500 W Vandament Aug. 31 Rock the Route Bringing a rockin’ night of country music to Main Street, the day includes a free concert on Historic Route 66 with food trucks and kids’ activities.
EDMOND HISTORICAL SOCIETY 431 S Boulevard, Edmond, 405.340.0078 edmondhistory.org
June 9 Movie Night in the Park Showing Night at the Museum: Secrets of the Tomb, the museum will stay open until 8:30 p.m. with free crafts. July 20 Annual Meeting & Heritage Awards Sept. 2-Oct. 20 The Power of Children: Making a Difference An exhibition focuses on the lives of Ruby Bridges, Ryan White and Anne Frank, with a special event on Sept. 9 to mark its opening. Through December Barbers in Edmond: A Historic Trade This exhibition tells the story of Edmond’s barbers and their evolving challenges through displaying the tools of the trade, photographs and advertisements.
EXHIBIT C GALLERY
1 E Sheridan, Ste. 100, OKC, 405.767.8900 exhibitcgallery.com Through June 30 Illustrated History: A Showcase of Ledger Art This exhibition features works of ledger art, using specific ledger paper, from artists Paul
FINE ARTS INSTITUTE OF EDMOND
27 E Edwards, Edmond, 405.340.4481 edmondfinearts.com First Thursdays Artists’ Receptions Featuring FAI adult students May 4, Ardeth Goodwin June 1, Stephen Schwark July 6, Realist Project Group Aug. 3 and Joan Frimburger Sept. 7. May 4 5 X 5Art Show and Sale This Fine Arts Institute of Edmond fundraiser offers original art for $55, in advance of the Downtown Edmond Arts Festival May 5-7.
FRED JONES JR. MUSEUM OF ART 555 Elm, Norman, 405.325.3272 ou.edu/fjjma
Through June 4 The Cultivated Connoisseur Creighton Eddy Gilbert was a renowned art historian specializing in the Italian Renaissance; his bequest is focused on prints and drawings from the Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo periods. Through July 10 Journey Toward an Open Mind Adapting themes from a photography exhibition by Will Wilson, students from Mission Academy High School created their own mixed-media self-portraits.
GAYLORD-PICKENS MUSEUM 1400 Classen Drive, OKC, 405.235.4458 oklahomahof.com
Through Aug. 26 Cowboys & Indians A free exhibition showcases artwork by Oklahoma Hall of Fame members Harold T. “H” Holden and Mike Larsen. Second Saturdays A variety of funpacked monthly events; from May 13, themes include Heroes and Helpers, Tribal Traditions, We the People, Outlaws, Lawmen and Cowboys and Sports and Fitness. Summer Thursdays Every Thursday offers family-friendly stories written/ illustrated by or about Oklahomans, along with a creation of an interactive craft, with free museum admission for all.
THE HOWELL GALLERY
6432 N Western, OKC, 405.840.4437 howellgallery.com June 9-11 Prix de West Special The gallery is open extended hours, and features Prix de West artists Andrew
INDIVIDUAL ARTISTS OF OKLAHOMA
706 W Sheridan, OKC, 405.232.6060 individualartists.org May 5 I Think I Know Where I Stand Local filmmaker and choreographer Lauren Bumgarner presents a feature film and live performance piece featuring movement by local dancers and original music by Chase Durrett. May 12 Biting the Apple 2017: Leather and Lace Celebrating 32 years, this annual fundraiser and entertaining party provides a venue for artists working in provocative and erotic subjects.
JRB ART AT THE ELMS
2810 N Walker, OKC, 405.528.6336 jrbartgallery.com Exhibitions open with an evening reception the first Friday of each month in conjunction with the Paseo’s First Friday Gallery Walk, and continue through the last Sunday of the month. May 5-28 Beth Hammack and Andy Mattern Abstract art and photography June 2-25 Mike Larsen and Allen Birnbach June 11 Best of the West Brunch Celebrating annual Best of the West artists. July 7-30 Take Home a Nude Aug. 4-27 Larry Hefner and Behnaz Sohrabian Abstract and figurative painting Sept. 1-24 Janet O’Neal and Jim Keffer Multiple genres and modern primitive painting
KASUM CONTEMPORARY FINE ART
1706 NW 16th, OKC, 405.604.6602 kasumcontemporary.com Through May 14 Statements in Contemporary Native Culture Peruse a solo exhibition by Native artist Eric Tippeconnic. May 20-June 25 Abstract and Abstract Installation Search for meaning in the works of Brian Allan, Christopher Pendleton and Stephen St. Claire. July 1-Aug. 13 Summer Blues This group theme show features gallery artists, with works focused on the color blue. Aug. 19-Sept. 23 Robinson & Kendall This exhibition pairs the design and installation sculpture of Morgan Robinson with a mini-feature by
MARK YOUR CALENDAR! Mother’s Day Celebration | May 13-14 Tree House Exhibit | May 13-Sept. 11 Armed Forces Day | May 20 Memorial Day Celebration | May 27-28 Father’s Day Celebration | June 17-18 Children’s Festival | June 24 Holba’ Pisachi’ Film Festival | July 15 Labor Day Celebration | Sept. 2-3
SEASONSof
CELEBRATION RATION ATION SPRING & SUMMER EVENTS! Enjoy tours of the Butterfly, Spiral and Village Gardens, and get tips at our new Greenhouse. Plus, don’t miss a host of outdoor events happening from Mother’s Day to Labor Day!
ChickasawCulturalCenter.com Sulphur, OK 580-622-7130
MUSEUM & GALLERY GUIDE
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Elizabeth Kendall. Sept. 30-Nov. 10 Brett McDanel The artist presents reclaimed material sculpture and installations. Nov. 18-Dec. 21 Holiday Art Extravaganza Explore small works (8x8), ornaments and a toy show presented by gallery and invited artists, also featuring weekly holiday pop-ups.
Exhibition & Sale Seminars, receptions and awards accompany the 45th Annual prestigious invitational showcase of more than 300 paintings and sculptures by the finest contemporary Western artists. July 22 National Day of the Cowboy The Museum will celebrate the culture and pioneering spirit of the West on this national holiday.
NATIONAL COWBOY AND WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM
1700 NE 63rd, OKC, 405.478.2250 nationalcowboymuseum.org
Aug. 19-Oct. 22 We the People: A Portrait of Early Oklahoma A display of decades of photographs taken by Henry M. Wantland, who arrived in Oklahoma Territory in 1891 and began recording the daily life around him.
May 12 Premiere of Unbranded Winner of the 2016 Western Heritage Award for outstanding documentary, Unbranded follows four men and a string of wild mustangs 3,000 miles through the wilds of the American West.
From Aug. 25 Life and Legacy: The Art of Jerome Tiger Marking the 50th anniversary of celebrated Oklahoma artist Jerome Tiger’s passing, this exhibition celebrates the life and legacy of this remarkable painter.
May 13 Fancy Dance Celebration Watch and learn about the history of dances and the regalia worn from championship Sac and Fox, Pawnee, Otoe, Ponca, Cheyenne, and Arapaho Nations dancers.
OKC NATIONAL MEMORIAL & MUSEUM
May 27-28 Annual Chuck Wagon Festival This fun-filled family weekend includes food samples, a petting zoo, artisan demonstrations, bandanna decorating, leather stamping, live music, historic Western reenactors and more.
620 N Harvey, OKC, 405.235.3313 oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org
May 14 Mother’s Day Free admission to the Memorial Museum for moms with another paid admission. May 20 Armed Forces Day Free admission to active duty and active reserve members with another paid admission.
June 9-Aug. 6 Prix de West Art
May 29 Memorial Day On our national day of remembrance, remember and honor the 168 persons killed in the Oklahoma City bombing. Come to remember, leave with resolve. June 18 Father’s Day Free admission for dads on Father’s Day with another paid admission.
OKC MUSEUM OF ART
415 Couch, OKC, 405.236.3100 okcmoa.com
June 1-Sept. 30 Guerilla Art Park 2017 Sculptures planned for this outdoor exhibition at NW 11th and Broadway include works in fused glass, steel rebar, acrylic, ceramics and fabricated metal. June 29-Aug. 10 Coded_Couture This exhibition looks at the intersection of fashion and technology and offers a new definition of couture, using computer coding as the ultimate customizing design tool.
Through May 14 The Unsettled Lens The photographs in this exhibition build subtle tensions based on the idea of the uncanny as a sense of displacement, as a difficulty in reconciling the familiar with the unknown.
Through June 11 Jeffrey Gibson: Speak to Me Multimedia artist Jeffrey Gibson’s first Oklahoma solo exhibition features recent artworks that draw upon his Choctaw and Cherokee heritage and intertribal aesthetics and traditions.
June 17-Sep. 10 Kehinde Wiley: A New Republic Presenting 60 of this prolific New York-based artist’s oil paintings, stained glass and sculpture, plus selections from his projects “World Stage” and “An Economy of Grace.”
Every Second Saturday: Make + Take Art Oklahoma Contemporary offers free workshops for artists of all ages: wearable and take-home art May 13, abstract paper hats June 10 and runway outfits July 8.
Through July 2 The Complete WPA Collection Celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Works Progress Administration, which employed 3,500 artists and helped launch the careers of Jackson Pollock and Willem De Kooning.
OKLAHOMA HISTORY CENTER
Cash Bar • Film Screenings • Fancy Dance Demonstrations Panel Discussion Moderated by NPR Radio Free for enrolled members of federally-recognized tribes 1700 Northeast 63rd Street • Oklahoma City, OK 73111 • (405) 478-2250 nationalcowboymuseum.org
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3000 General Pershing, OKC, 405.951.0000 oklahomacontemporary.org
Through May 14 After the Floating World Forest scenes to fierce samurai, a wide range of woodblock prints from two centuries of Japanese history star in this exhibition.
Last chance to view five great exhibits! Western Weekend Wind Down May 12 – 14
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OKLAHOMA CONTEMPORARY ARTS CENTER
800 Nazih Zuhdi, OKC, 405.521.2491 okhistory.org/historycenter June-July Okietales Every Wednesday,
FIND YOUR CREATIVE SELF Free exhibitions
Adult and youth art education
Coming soon to NW 11th and Broadway
@okcontemporary | oklahomacontemporary.org | 405 951 0000 3000 General Pershing Blvd. | Oklahoma City, OK | 73107
MUSEUM & GALLERY GUIDE
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION kids can explore history with books and stories and explore a different topic from the Wild West and Cowboys to Trains and Pioneer Life, in a program aimed at ages 5-9. July 27 OKNHD Bootcamp Join Oklahoma NHD staff for a free introduction to National History Day. Learn the 2017-2018 themes, available primary sources, how to conduct research and the different types of projects. July 1-Aug. 16 Fast Cars of Oklahoma Exhibit featuring 22 cars from Oklahoma collectors.
OKLAHOMA RAILWAY MUSEUM
3400 NE Grand, OKC, 405.424.8222 oklahomarailwaymuseum.org Sept. 29-Oct. 1 and Oct. 6-8 Day Out with Thomas Thomas the Tank Engine will take youngsters and their families on a special ride, with arts and crafts, storytelling, live music, a magic show and giveaways for little ones. May 6 National Train Day Learn about the advantages of rail travel and the history of trains in the United States. The train leaves Oakwood Depot at the museum throughout the day. Trains operate first and third Saturdays through Aug.
RED EARTH
6 Santa Fe Plaza, OKC, 405.427.5228 redearth.org
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April 3-May 30 Carolyn Bernard Young: Spirits Rising Featuring contemporary Native pottery by award-winning Choctaw artist Carolyn Bernard Young. June 9-11 31st Annual Red Earth Festival Offering three packed days of art and events celebrating Oklahoma’s diverse Native heritage, this event includes a huge parade and powwow with hundreds of tribal dancers.
SAM NOBLE OKLAHOMA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 2401 Chautauqua, Norman, 405.325.4712 samnoblemuseum.ou.edu
Through May 7 Roots of Wisdom This exhibition combines the traditional knowledge of four indigenous communities with cutting-edge Western science, showing how they can provide complementary solutions. May 13-Aug. 6 Great Balls of Fire What are asteroids, comets and meteorites, and where do they come from? The Space Science Institute’s Nat’l Center for Interactive Learning has developed this national traveling exhibition. May 20 Kids’ Day with a Scanning Electron Microscope Organized by the Oklahoma Microscopy Society, this event allows families to operate an actual scanning electron microscope to image the ugliest bug they can find.
Through Sept. 4 Ugly Bugs! Celebrating 20 Years An exhibition of larger-than-life photos of insects, this exhibition provides a great opportunity for kids and visitors to learn more about the world around them.
of flight, robotics and space exploration. Presented by Boeing, this action-packed day is all about the science of space, with hands-on activities and live demonstrations.
SCIENCE MUSEUM OKLAHOMA
Aug. 21 Solar Eclipse Experience the first total solar eclipse visible from the continental U.S. since 1979. The museum will have telescopes and astronomy experts on hand to help guests view the eclipse safely.
2020 Remington, OKC, 405.602.6664 sciencemuseumok.org Through August Backyard Bugs Taking Oklahoma’s amazing insects to a largerthan-life level with giant animatronic insects, interactive exhibits and live insect displays to give visitors a unique perspective of a bug’s world. Through Oct. 29 Bodies Revealed This striking exhibition showcases real human bodies, dissected and preserved through a revolutionary process, allowing visitors to see themselves like never before. Through December Sole Expression: The Art of the Shoe Featuring the creations of 25 local, national and international shoe designers and artists, it shows how the shoe has been interpreted in art throughout history. Through June Off the Beaten Path Tour many of Oklahoma’s unusual, intriguing and lesser-known areas in a photo-documented joint art exhibit by husband-and-wife team Scott and Katie Henderson. May 5 Space Day Blast off into a world
WOODWARD ARTS THEATRE 818 Main, Woodward, 580.256.7120 woodwardartstheatre.com July 23-28 Youth Arts Camp
PLAINS INDIANS & PIONEERS MUSEUM
2009 Williams Ave., Woodward, 580.256.6136 Through May 26 An Endless Night: 70th Anniversary of ‘47 Woodward Tornado June 2-30 Jason Yauk, Metal Sculpture July 7-28 Randall May, Painter Sept. 8-Oct. 27 Annual Photo Contest
HISTORIC FORT SUPPLY
Woodward County, 580.766.3767 Open Tues.-Sat. for tours of the original fort that was used as a camp by George Armstrong Custer.
MUSEUM & GALLERY GUIDE
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OKMuseums.org OKMuseums.org The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution. ou.edu/eoo. For accommodations, please call (405) 325-4712.
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events Beast Masters
PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS, © DISNEY
The movie made more than $750 million in its first theatrical run, the musical adaptation is among Broadway’s longest-running shows of all time, more than 90 million people worldwide have witnessed the touring version … and Disney’s The Lion King remains magnificently awe-inspiring. Intricately decorated sets, lavish costumes, detailed puppetry and the beloved Elton John-Tim Rice score combine for an award-winning masterpiece; OKC Broadway is bringing it on the path unwinding to the OKC Civic Center May 9-28.
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events PRIME PICKS
Domicile of Design May 6-21, 4808 Rose Rock Drive, OKC Imagine a blank canvas with an area of nearly 10,000 square feet – it could seem daunting, but a collection of several of the 405’s finest designers and decorators are more than up to the task of creating an incredible array of beauty in the Symphony Show House. Proceeds from tours of this 44th annual design demonstration will help the OKC Orchestra League fund music education; go exploring!
Collision Course May 20-Sept. 10, Sam Noble Museum To be clear, the sky isn’t falling. At the moment. We think. But space is awfully big, and things move through it awfully quickly, and it’s worth knowing a thing or two about the dynamics of asteroids, if only to know whether we should be worried. Through interactive exploration, the Space Science Institute shares knowledge about comets, asteroids, meteors and how they might impact (so to speak) Earth in the exhibition Great Balls of Fire.
Michael Fischerkeller, “Wildfires (Climate Change III)”
Visions From the Skies Through June 19, National Weather Center
Anyone who’s seen a sunset knows that Nature is quite an accomplished artist itself, and this event proves it also makes a magnificent muse. The third NWC Biennale is the result of nearly 600 submissions by artists from around the globe; juror Joe Goode will select the most outstanding portrayals of weather in contemporary art, and the cream of the climatological crop is waiting for you to behold. 106
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Splashing the Party May 18-21, Oklahoma River Depending on its environment, water can be blue or green or brown or clear – by showcasing the mechanics of another color, OKC is about to demonstrate that water is more fun with a little more foam. The inaugural OKC Whitewater Festival combines rafting, canoeing and kayaking in national-caliber races that provide grueling competition for participants, and spectacular visuals for spectators.
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Art All Around Head north and south for celebrations T HER E’S SOM ET HI NG about this time of year, possibly the longer days and warmer weather, that gets Oklahomans feeling a little … creative. That’s one explanation, anyway, for the fact that Norman and Edmond are both home to massive art events on the same weekend – try to make room in your schedule for the Fine Arts Institute’s 5x5, Downtown Edmond Arts Festival, May Fair or all three May 4-7. The weekend starts early on Thursday evening at the FAI, 27 E Edwards: when the doors open at 5 p.m., the varied collection of 5-inch-square paintings from dozens of local artists will be available on a first-come first-serve basis in exchange for a donation of $55 to the Institute’s educational programming. You don’t need directions for the next event – just head toward downtown Edmond May 5-7 and look for the massive crowd filling the streets and enjoying more than 100 artists’ works in disparate media, food provided by more than 20 vendors and live music from choirs, bands and individuals such as Olivia Kay, Edgar Cruz and the Truck Stop Gamblers. It’s a huge blast. Down south, the action of May Fair takes place May 6-7 in Andrews Park, 201 W Daws just north of downtown. The Assistance League’s juried art showcase that rewards exceptional artists is now in its 44th year, which is a recommendation in
ON THE RADAR EVENTS MAY 6 KOLACHE FESTIVAL With a theme such as “Rain or Shine, It’s Polka Time,” how can you go wrong? The namesake tasty pastries are only one ingredient in a day of celebrating Czech heritage and culture. Prague Park, 600 W Main, Prague, 255.7130, praguekolachefestival.com MAY 6 RUN FOR THE ROSES It’s post time for an exciting, and extremely stylish, fundraiser for the Juvenile Diabetes Resarch Foundation - don your Derby Day finest and get ready to dine, watch the race, bid on auction items and enjoy. Bricktown Events Center, 429 E California, OKC, 810.0078, jdrf.org/ centraloklahoma MAY 11 BROADWAY & BREW May evenings are prime times for a sip or two of beer, and Lyric Theatre is happy to oblige with some of the finest OKC has to offer, plus food, music and a few looks ahead to their summer season. Myriad Gardens, 301 W Reno, OKC, 524.9310, lyrictheatreokc.com
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“Owl” by Sharon Caudle for 5 x 5
itself, and offers ancillary enticements such as live music, free children’s art projects, plenty of food trucks and even a signature 5k on Saturday morning. Experiencing the trio will take some LEARN MORE doing, but the rewards in aesthetics edmondfinearts.com and entertainment speak for themdowntownedmondok.com assistanceleague.org/norman selves – get out and enjoy! - STEVE GILL
WANT TO SEE MORE? VISIT OUR ONLINE CALENDAR AT 405MAGAZINE.COM MAY 19 WHAT DREAMS MAY COME Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park is about to raise the curtain on a new season, but you can get an advance look while helping to ensure the shows are all they can be in this fundraiser: wine, appetizers, theatrical magic. OK Shakespeare in the Paseo, 2920 Paseo, OKC, 235.3700, oklahomashakespeare.com
invited to rustle up cowboy grub and learn about archery, making butter, stamping leather, square dancing and more in a Western weekend bash. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org
MAY 19-27 RIVERWIND COMEDY Humor isn’t a universal constant, but Riverwind continues bringing a laudable variety to town for different tastes, presenting Ron White May 19 and Katt Williams May 26-27. Riverwind Casino, 1544 W Hwy 9, Norman, 322.6000, riverwind.com
MAY 2 BRIGHTMUSIC Dvorak provides counterpoint for Mozart, under the baton of guest conductor Michael Haithcock, as the OKC chamber ensemble presents a “Grand Night for Winds.” St. Paul’s Cathedral, 127 NW 7th, OKC, brightmusic.org
MAY 20 SAFARI SOIREE Get an adults-only, up-close look at the wonders of nature that call the OKC Zoo home, while enjoying cocktails, sumptuous flavors and entertainment. OKC Zoo, 2000 Remington, OKC, 425.0618, zoofriends.org
MAY 13 FAITH HILL & TIM MCGRAW Between them they’ve sold around 80 million records, and this is Hill’s first tour in ten years - a perfect opportunity for fans to hear their voices reunited on the Soul2Soul world tour. Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno , OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com
MAY 27-28 CHUCK WAGON FESTIVAL Whoopee ti-yi-yo; the family, especially little wranglers, is
MUSIC
MAY 13 BOSTON The mothership of classic rock mastery is returning
to the metro; Boston has been doing this a long time, and remains one of the all-time kings of the radio. Grand Casino, 777 Grand, Shawnee, 964.7777, grandresortok.com
SPORTS MAY 8 CHIP IN FOR THE ARTS Prizes for the winners? You bet but this is one competition that’s genuinely not about winning as much as enjoying the opportunity to go around the links and benefit community creativity through Allied Arts. OKC Golf & Country Club, 7000 NW Grand, OKC, 278.8944, alliedarts.com
THEATER MAY 25-JUN 3 THE TOXIC AVENGER OKC Theatre Company wraps up its season in brash, exuberant style with a rock musical about a horribly mutated, environmentally conscious superhero crusader. OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker, OKC, 297.2264, okctc.org
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We need your help! Animal Rescue Friends of Nichols Hills helps pets impounded in Nichols Hills find their owners or a new home. Your support will help ARF continue its work in saving strays.
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Donations may be mailed to
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ARF c/o Town Hall 6407 Avondale Drive Nichols Hills, OK 73116
The Inside Scoop Science Museum Oklahoma’s body of knowledge T HE L EG BON E’S connected to the knee bone, the knee bone’s connected to the thigh bone, the gastrocnemius is in there somewhere … look, the human body is a fantastically complex assemblage of interlocking systems that’s more than worth marveling at, and Science Museum Oklahoma is ready to provide a different perspective by going below the surface. Ten years after Our Body: The Universe Within drew massive crowds, a followup exhibition called Bodies Revealed is set to revisit the human form, using real human specimens (not sculptures or reproductions) preserved with a special liquid silicone rubber to show off exactly how we’re put together – down to the (visible) bones, blood vessels, muscles and organs. The stars of the show are standing, stretching, seated atop a bicycle … poses that demonstrate the body’s flexibility and versatility, without skin to obscure the view. “Visitors will get an up-close look inside the skeletal, muscular, reproductive, respiratory, circulatory and other life-sustaining systems of the human body,” proclaims Science Museum CEO Sherry Marshall. “It is rare to get such an in-depth educational and professional look at our amazing bodies and the complicated way they work; we are thrilled to bring this exhibition to Oklahoma City.” Bodies Revealed opened April 29, and will be on display through Oct. 29 at 2020 Remington Place in OKC. You’ll need an extra ticket, because this special exhibition is not covered in regular admission to Science Museum Oklahoma – however, museum members do receive a discount. For hours of operation and more details, visit sciencemuseumok.org or call the information desk at 602.6664. - STEVE GILL
PHOTO BY DAVE ZAPOTOSKY
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backstory
DINING AMONG MIRACLES Milagros’ long-lived family legacy BY MARK BEUTLER
number of favorite Mexican restaurants – Casa Bonita, Chi-Chi’s and El Charrito, to name a few – and for some diners, Laredo’s, a staple of the metro’s Tex-Mex cuisine, was the finest of them all. Tucked away in a quiet area of an otherwise bustling NW 63, Laredo’s opened in 1986 and found an immediate following among locals. It also had ties to one of the first Mexican restaurants in Oklahoma City. “My uncle, Luis Alvarado, opened El Charro way back in 1937,” says Taide Gonzales, who with her husband Julian “Pepe” Gonzalez Sr., were proprietors of Laredo’s. “El Charro was located at NW 10 and Dewey, and was the first Mexican restaurant in Oklahoma City. Eventually, my uncle opened another restaurant in the Paseo District and named it El Charrito.” Gonzalez says her husband Pepe was traveling by bus to Salt Lake City, where he hoped to find work. He made it as far as Oklahoma City before running out of money. He found a job working for Alvarado at El Charrito, and planned to save enough cash to get to Salt Lake City. But fate stepped in, and he decided to make Oklahoma City his home. “When my uncle Luis died in 1975, Pepe and my cousins sold the chain of restaurants to the El Chico Corporation, but we retained the original family recipes,” Gonzalez says. “We opened Pepe’s at 15th and Broadway in Edmond in 1982, and then Laredo’s opened in Oklahoma City a few years later.” The name Laredo’s was Gonzalez’s idea, because she says that’s where she originally was from. She and Pepe served up an array of enchiladas, tacos and special guacamole with their own blend of spices. The restaurant was always packed with hungry customers. “Chesapeake wanted to buy us, and we initially refused,” Gonzalez recalls. “Eventually, though, we decided to sell the location and closed Laredo’s in 2005.” But that wasn’t the end of the story. “Our customers kept saying they were sad about us closing, so we let them know we would re-open as soon as we found another location,” she says. “It took us nearly five years to build the new restaurant. We had problems with contractors, but we reopened at Northwest Highway and Classen near the Belle Isle Shopping Center in 2009.”
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By the time they opened, Gonzalez said another restaurant called Cantina Laredo had opened at the nearby Penn Square Mall. Coincidentally, the El Chico Corporation to which the family had sold their restaurants in the 1970s operated it. “My son Julian had traveled extensively, and came up with a new name,” Gonzalez says. “He named it Casa De Los Milagros, but my husband thought the name was much too long. So it has simply become known as Milagros.” The name translated means “House of Miracles,” Gonzalez says. The interior of the restaurant reflects that theme, and the longtime family recipes from Laredo’s, El Charrito and El Charro remain on the menu. Old family photos of Alvarado and the Gonzalez family adorn the walls, along with memorabilia from the previous restaurants. “Our family has a history in Oklahoma City of serving delicious Mexican food to our customers,” Gonzalez says. “If you liked Laredo’s, we are still here. And when you come into our restaurant, you are still family.”
PHOTOS COURTESY GONZALEZ FAMILY COLLECTION
BACK I N T HE DAY , Oklahoma City was home to a
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