Best in the World 2015

tulsaworld.com/bestintheworld2015 a special section of the tulsa world sunday, september 27, 2015

Thank you for trusting us with your healthcare.

From the day Saint Francis Hospital opened in 1960, we have been committed to one mission: to extend the presence and healing ministry of Christ in all we do.

His caring is the model for how we serve patients, families and each other in Tulsa and the surrounding areas.

Over the decades, we have expanded and adapted to the growing needs of the region and to ongoing changes in the healthcare industry. Thank you to the Tulsa World readers for recognizing our physicians, nurses, employees and volunteers for their dedication to serving patients and for making the mission of Saint Francis a reality.

We’re proud to be named Tulsa World’s Best in the World for the following categories: Tulsa World

• Saint Francis Hospital (Best Hospital) • Heart Hospital at Saint Francis (Cardiology) 20 15

• Warren Clinic Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine (Orthopedic Practice) • Warren Clinic OB/GYN (Women’s Health)

• The Children’s Hospital at Saint Francis (Pediatric Care) • Saint Francis Physical Rehabilitation (Physical Therapy) • Health Zone at Saint Francis (Health and Fitness Club)

saintfrancis.com

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

WEEKEND

PAGE 3

Congratulations to the

Best in the World

C

ongratulations to our winners in the Best in the World contest.

We cover the businesses and events that make our city great every day in the Tulsa World.

And, as Tulsans, our staff members have their favorite places and things to do. We tell you about them often in Weekend magazine.

But we wondered: Which ones do readers relate to most?

Which festivals do you — our readers — attend year after year? Where do you go to concerts? Where do you take your families to eat?

Who do you trust to do the right job in your home?

That’s why we created the Best in the World contest. It’s all about you. And it’s a great reference tool for any Tulsan.

We hope you’ll go through this magazine and flag places to try, businesses to frequent and events to attend.

Or, just look in the windows of these winning businesses for our Best in the World seal, and you’ll know you’re in the right place.

— Bill Masterson ­

Publisher, Tulsa World Media Company

WEEKEND

PAGE 4

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

T

ulsans know how to have fun. Whether it’s sipping beer at Linde Oktoberfest, hitting the jackpot at the casino, dancing the night away at Cain’s Ballroom or exploring the galleries in the Brady Arts District’s First Friday Art Crawl, fun rarely ends in Tulsa. Now, voted on by you, here are the activities that keep Tulsa bustling.

CASINO

Crafts/Hobby Store

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa

Hobby Lobby

777 W. Cherokee St., Catoosa 800-760-6700 hardrockcasinotulsa.com

Four Tulsa-area locations 800-888-0321 hobbylobby.com

T

W

ulsans looking to get lucky head to Catoosa. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa not only offers a huge array of games but also music, food, plenty of libations and a place to stay.

And it’s an experience they hope to keep growing and expanding, said Jon Davidson, senior director of hospitality for Hard Rock.

“Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa is the only Tulsa destination where guests can get the best of entertainment at one location. Guests can enjoy a great meal at one of the many restaurants, get tickets to see a favorite band at The Joint, hang out with friends at one of the nightspots, play a round of golf or enjoy some electronic gaming. Plus, it isn’t unusual to run into a celebrity or special guest while you are here,” Davidson said.

“The property is undergoing renovations to enhance the resort experience by add-

Finalists Andy B’s 8711 S. Lewis Ave. 918-299-9494 andybtulsa.com

Main Event Entertainment 7830 S. Santa Fe Ave. West 918-477-1200 mainevent.com

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa is the Best in the World, according to Tulsa World readers. STEPHEN PINGRY/Tulsa World file

ing a new luxury spa and pool, as well as expanding the existing fitness center. By listening to our guests and understanding what they expect from the Hard Rock experience, and providing them unmatched hospitality, we remain the region’s market leader in entertainment.”

Finalists Osage Casinos Four locations in the Tulsa area osagecasinos.com

hen inspiration strikes, Hobby Lobby is there to help you make the most of it. Many Tulsans turn to Hobby Lobby for their wide range of craft needs, from picture frames and canvases to floral arrangements and decorations.

Hobby Lobby has nearly everything one would need to fuel a creative fire. It’s something Hobby Lobby is proud of.

“We are very blessed to have outstanding employees and customers in Tulsa, and this recognition is directly attributable to them,” said Zack Higbee, spokesman for Hobby Lobby.

“Our goal and the goal of

Finalists Ehrle’s Party & Carnival Supply 5150 S. Sheridan Road costumespartyandevents. com

Michael’s 4927 E. 41st St. 7424 S. Olympia Ave. 11119 E. 71st St. michaels.com

our employees is to serve the needs of our customers at the highest level in Oklahoma and across the country. We believe Hobby Lobby provides a unique combination of super savings and super selection that make us stand out in the crafts and home décor market.”

River Spirit Casino 8330 Riverside Parkway riverspirittulsa.com

BOWLING ALLEY

Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge 211 S. Elgin Ave. | 918-430-3901 dustbowlok.com

S

tepping through the huge doors at Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge is like stepping into another era. What Dust Bowl offers is not only a night at the lanes in what looks like an alley straight out of the 1970s, but also a creative and de-

licious menu and full bar serving delightful craft cocktails.

While it is a prime destination for bowling, it’s also a great place to meet up with friends for a lively night in downtown Tulsa.

And with a private room with its own lanes, it’s a great place for all kinds of parties. Let loose your inner The Dude and strike some pins downtown.

Tulsa World readers named Hobby Lobby the Best in the World craft store. CORY YOUNG/Tulsa World file

GO ONLINE FOR MORE: TULSAWORLD.COM/BESTINTHEWORLD2015

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

WEEKEND

ad 100155764-01

PAGE 5

WEEKEND

PAGE 6

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE (LARGE)

BOK Center 200 S. Denver Ave. West 918-894-4200 bokcenter.com

A

shining hub of music and fun, Tulsa’s BOK Center recently celebrated its seventh anniversary and perhaps its biggest year yet. It included huge shows with Rush and Garth Brooks, packed events such as the Rock ‘N Rib Festival and Winterfest, and lots of sports with hockey and the (formerly) Tulsa Shock. Jeff Nickler, general manager of the BOK Center, an SMGmanaged building, said the community support for the BOK Center events continues to surprise officials.

“We have always known that Tulsans love and support music in this city, but

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

LIVE THEATER VENUE

Tulsa Performing Arts Center 110 E. Second St. | 918-569-7111 tulsapac.com

Finalists Brady Theater 105 W. M.B. Brady St. bradytheater.com

Cain’s Ballroom 423 N. Main St. cainsballroom.com

we did not expect this level of continuous support over the years, from the regular ticket buyer to our corporate community,” Nickler said. “This is not something that we take for granted and know this is not the case in every city around the country. We, SMG, are honored to be part of the music history in Tulsa and to win this award.”

T

here’s a good chance that one can find something to do at the Tulsa PAC nearly every night of the week. The Tulsa PAC is not just a hub for huge touring stage productions but a home for many local theater companies and performers, large and small.

“At times during the performance year, all four theaters run shows simultaneously,” said Nancy Hermann, director of marketing at the Tulsa PAC. “For the last decade, we have logged more than 500 event days every year. No other theater venue in Tulsa has that much activity occurring at one time under one roof. We truly are a center for arts and entertainment and an economic engine for the community.”

And organizers are looking to the future to see what will change for the theater. Those plans are still up in the air, but look for things to improve in the next few years.

Patrons leave the Tulsa Performing Arts Center.

TOM GILBERT/Tulsa World file

Finalists American Theatre Company 308 S. Lansing Ave. 918-747-9494 americantheatrecompany.org

Brady Theater 105 W. M.B. Brady St. 918-582-7239 bradytheater.com

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE (SMALL)

Guthrie Green 111 E. M.B. Brady St. 918-574-2421 guthriegreen.com

A

s a music venue, Guthrie Green is a go-to spot for musicians, local and national acts included. Even the Tulsa Symphony takes over the large stage for regular concerts.

This downtown urban greenspace features a packed schedule of a whole variety of events, but the concerts are sure to draw big crowds of families and friends on blankets and chairs.

“The music that plays at Guthrie Green isn’t confined to four walls. It makes its way down the streets and alleyways of the Brady Arts District and is accessible to everyone from the people in the park, to the artists in their studios, the shop owners, the galleries, people walking their dogs, walking home from work, etc.,” said Meg Webb with Guthrie Green.

Finalists American Theatre Company Studios 308 S. Lansing Ave. 918-747-9494 americantheatrecompany.org

Vanguard Music Hall 222 N. Main St. thevanguardtulsa. com The Tulsa Symphony performs at Guthrie Green.

Courtesy

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

LOCAL BAND

Barrett Lewis Band facebook.com/barrettlewisband

W

hat Barrett Lewis hopes people leave his show with is a smile. Lewis plays guitar and sings with bandmates Rick Huskey, Alan Ranson and Tom Hoffstatter. Together, they are the Barrett Lewis Band, and they want to make people happy.

“We play anything from Bruno Mars to Merle Haggard to Hanson,” Lewis said. And if they don’t know it off the top of their heads — and they probably do — they figure it out so that folks who came to see the show get what they want.”

Playing together as the Barrett Lewis Band for about four years now, the members of the band have known one another and played together much longer.

And, yes, they take about any request the crowd can throw at them. That makes sure everyone, including the band, leaves happy.

Members of the Barrett Lewis band Barrett Lewis (left), Rick Huskey and Alan Ransom are the winners of best local band in Tulsa. IAN MAULE/Tulsa World

“I think that’s why a lot of people like us. We try to do everything,” Huskey said.

Finalists Nuns nunsnun.com

We The Ghost wetheghostmusic.com

PARK

Guthrie Green 111 E. M.B. Brady St. 918-574-2421 guthriegreen.com

G

uthrie Green is certainly not the largest park in Tulsa. But no other park has the volume of programming that Guthrie Green packs onto its schedule.

From concerts to Food Truck Wednesdays, festivals to fitness, Guthrie Green, a privately owned public space run by the George Kaiser Family Foundation, has something for everyone. And that’s just what they hope: To be a central place to gather

Finalists River Parks riverparks.org

Woodward Park 2435 S. Peoria Ave. tulsagardencenter.com

for all Tulsans.

“More and more parks are tearing down community centers and offering less and less programming,” said Guthrie Green’s Meg Webb.

“Because of GKFF and our community partners, we have the resources to bring

in national and regional bands, keep costs low for local nonprofits who want to use the park to bring awareness to their cause, provide free programming and entertainment, and free fitness in a beautifully landscaped and well-maintained space.”

“You can drop a green space into the heart of a city, but you have to give people a reason to use it. As a staff, we are encouraged to dream big dreams for Guthrie Green and have the support of the Foundation to turn them into a reality. I am personally so thankful that this special space exists in the city I call home.”

PAGE 7

WEEKEND

PAGE 8

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

DANCE FLOOR

MOVIE THEATER

Cain’s Ballroom

Warren Theatre

423 N. Main St. 918-584-2306 cainsballroom.com

1700 W. Aspen Creek Drive, Broken Arrow 918-893-3545 warrentheatres.com

T

housands of music fans have gathered under the neon star at Cain’s Ballroom to dance the night away to their favorite bands.

The wood floor moves with the crowd, sending waves through the room as concertgoers cheer for an encore.

Cain’s Ballroom is a true gem in Tulsa.

“Well, it’s hard to describe what makes the Cain’s dance floor so unique or special. I think some of it stems from the fact that there have just been so many people who have danced or watched shows on that same Cain’s dance floor. Same thing with the stage and the

Finalists Caravan Cattle Company 7901 E. 41st St. 918-663-5468 caravantulsa.com

Club Majestic 124 N. Boston Ave. 918-584-9494 clubmajestictulsa.com

artists who have played it before the current artists,” said Chad Rodgers, general manager of Cain’s. “We are honored and look forward to continuing to present many wonderful events on that same Cain’s dance floor, that has already seen so many wonderful years and will see many, many more in the future.”

T

he Warren Theatre in Broken Arrow opened in December to rave reviews: Gigantic screens and balconies in its Grand Infinity theaters, art deco and retro murals making for a beautiful design, and food-and-drink service at your seat.

The Warren is a state-of-the-art showplace.

Frequent moviegoers, as well as people who haven’t been to the movies in years, are visiting the movie palace, and owner Bill Warren has kept people coming — and happy.

“I always dreamed of building the best movie theaters in the world. I’m honored and grateful to the people of Oklahoma for helping me realize that dream,” Warren said of the poll’s results.

“I want to operate the best theater possible. That’s my name on the theater, and I’m proud of what we do, and now I’m extremely humbled and pleased that people are liking what we do there.”

FESTIVAL

Linde Oktoberfest Tulsa tulsaoktoberfest.org

R

aise a stein to Tulsa’s own Linde Oktoberfest, one of the nation’s largest and one that keeps growing each year.

Thousands of people drink thousands of beers and sing and dance on picnic tables while celebrating German heritage at the annual event, now entering its 37th year.

“Where else in Tulsa but at Linde Oktoberfest Tulsa can you find thousands gathering in German trachten (lederhosen and dirndls) toasting ‘Prosit!’ with beer-filled MassKrugs while chicken dancing atop picnic tables beneath beautifully decorated grosse (huge) BierGarten and signature bier Zelts resembling Munich’s famous festival halls?” said Tonja Carrigg, event director for Linde Oktoberfest.

Nowhere is the answer. So brush up on the German you’ve surely forgotten and get ready, as your favorite festival is just around the corner.

The Broken Arrow Warren Theatre is a favorite for Tulsa moviegoers. CORY YOUNG/Tulsa World file

Finalists AMC Southroads 20 4923 E. 41st St. 918-622-6011 amctheatres.com

Brady Arts District

I Finalists Center of the Universe Festival centeroftheuniversefestival.com

Tulsa International Mayfest tulsamayfest.org

10 S. Lewis Ave. 918-585-3504 circlecinema.com

ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT thebradyartsdistrict.com

Linde Oktoberfest Tulsa was named Best in the World

by Tulsa World readers. TOM GILBERT/Tulsa World file

Circle Cinema

t would have been hard to find many folks walking around the Brady Arts District 10 or 15 years ago, but it’s now a hub of culture, food and fun in downtown Tulsa. And Bob Fleischman, president of the Brady Arts District Business Association, said the district’s unique makeup has kept it vibrant and quintessentially Tulsa.

“I think we can say that we have a great balance down here between corporate and foundation investment and investment by the proverbial mom-and-pop shops,” said Fleischman, who also owns Chrysalis Salon and Spa in the district. “What makes it great

Finalists Blue Dome District bluedometulsa.com

Brookside brooksidetheplacetobe. com

is the balance between the artistic community and the services that help make this an all-day destination.”

One of the district’s biggest draws is the First Friday Art Crawl. When it started eight years ago, the Guthrie Green and museums to the south were just warehouses. Now, thousands come downtown each month.

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAGE 9

TRAVEL AGENT

T

World Travel 7645 E. 63rd St., Suite 101 918-743-8856 worldtraveltoday.com

W

hen booking a vacation, you want to know all of your options. You also want the best deal, but you’re not sure where to look. The process can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be.

You can call World Travel, this year’s winner — again — as the best travel agents in the city, according to voters in the Tulsa World’s Best in the World poll.

World Travel specializes in vacation planning, whether it’s your honeymoon or your grand family vacation trip, as well as business travel for companies large and small.

When traveling, especially out of the country, there are many details to consider. World Travel’s professionals help cut through the noise and present clear information about the best way to enjoy a vacation.

ulsans love their pets and, just like all pet lovers, they want the very best in veterinary care, grooming services and shops where they can find everything to keep those pets happy. Tulsa World readers voted these local businesses as the Best in the World.

VETERINARIAN

Dr. Meredith Dooley, Woodland West Animal Hospital 9360 S. Union Ave., Jenks 918-299-1208 woodlandwestanimalhospital. com

M

eredith Dooley has wanted to be a veterinarian since she was 4 years old and met her first horses.

At 7, she moved down the street from Woodland West Animal Hospital and Woodland West Pet Resort in Jenks, and she started volunteering at the resort at 14. She continued to help at the resort throughout high school

Finalists Feline Specialties 9702 Riverside Parkway 918-299-8222 felinespecialties.com

Southern Agriculture Eight locations in the Tulsa area 918-488-1993 southernagriculture.com

and college.

Dooley, who gradu-

Southern Agriculture Eight locations in the Tulsa area 918-488-1993 southernagriculture.com

lots of money.”

Southern Agriculture is also known for its huge inventory of everything for dogs and cats to reptiles eing family-owned and birds, plus gift items and operated by for animal lovers, he said.

Tulsans could be “If we don’t have a prodone of the reasons uct that a customer wants, Southern Agriculture was we make every effort to voted Best in the World find that product. Seventy pet shop for the second percent of the time, we can year in a row, said compa- get it for them, and that ties ny president Robbie Hicks. into our customer service.”

“That, our customer serSouthern Ag, as it is vice and the fact that we known, also works with have veterinarians on staff local rescue groups. at seven of our eight loca“We like to work hand in tions,” Hicks said. “We also hand with them as much have low-cost vaccination as possible, and we do a lot clinics and veterinarian of donations for them,” he fees so we can save folks said.

B

AAA Travel Services 17 locations in the Tulsa area 866-877-2450 ok.aaa.com

9999 S. Mingo Road 800-875-7944 thetravelgroup.biz

Meredith Dooley, a veterinarian at Woodland West Animal Hospital, sits with one of her patients, an English setter named P.J., at the facility in Jenks. CORY YOUNG/Tulsa World

PET SHOP

Finalists

The Travel Group

ated from Oklahoma State University with a degree in physiology and earned her veterinary degree in 2010, spent four years working for the Animal Emergency Center. Married to a special forces sniper, she and her husband were stationed in Germany for three years and had four military deployments.

They returned to Tulsa, and she joined the staff of Woodland in February 2014.

Woodland West Animal Hospital is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week.

Robbie Hicks, president of Southern Agriculture, shows off the wide variety of pet toys available at his Tulsa store at 71st Street and Sheridan Road.

STEPHEN PINGRY/Tulsa World

Finalists Dog Dish 1778 Utica Square 918-624-2600 thedogdish.com

PetSmart Five locations in Tulsa, Broken Arrow and Owasso 918-622-6900 petsmart.com

WEEKEND

PAGE 10

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PET GROOMER

Rachel’s K-9 Designs 6703 E. 81st St. 918-495-1801 rachelsk9designs.net

R

achel Trumbley’s clients bring their dogs to her grooming salon because they know they can count on professional care and friendly people who know what they are doing and love working with dogs.

“The dogs even like to come in,” said Trumbley, who is also a groomer. “They come busting through the front doors glad to see us.”

She and her staff — groomers Kyla Hearn and April Nollner and bathers Linda Musgrove and Kyah Crombie — finished second in last year’s Tulsa World reader poll and are “super excited” to win this year, she said.

Finalists Patty & Terrie’s Pet Grooming 6022 S. Sheridan Road 918-499-2344 pattyandterriespetgrooming.com

Woodland West Pet Resort 9380 S. Union Ave. 918-299-5720 woodlandwestpetresort.com

“I think people appreciate the open space of our grooming salon, the services we provide and the fact that we will groom any size dog — no breed exclusions,” she said.

Owner Rachel Trumbley grooms her giant schnauzer at Rachel’s K-9 Designs.

JAMES GIBBARD/Tulsa World

“The salon is set up so that the largest dogs walk up a ramp into the dog bathtubs.

There is also a playpen up front filled with doggy toys and beds so the big dogs aren’t crammed in a kennel.”

Her salon also does not use heat-element dryers, only professional dryers used in an open kennel with air movers. And, every groomed pet leaves wearing bows and/or bandanas.

ad 100157070-01

ad 100155539-01

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

WEEKEND

ad 100135412-03

PAGE 11

WEEKEND

PAGE 12

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

CHILD-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

W

hen it comes to children, parents value recommendations from friends and family as to where they should stage their child’s first birthday party or what restaurant will have a menu to their little one’s par-

ticular tastes.

Parents can also place a good amount of trust in the results from the many parents who voted in this year’s poll: These Best in the World winners are some of the area’s best options for food, fun and finding friends.

Hideaway Pizza Seven locations in the Tulsa area hideawaypizza.com

“W

e know pizza and children go together, and it means the world to us that your readers chose us as their choice for child-friendly restaurants in the Best in the World contest,” said Janie Harris, spokeswoman for Hideaway Pizza.

Kids get their own menus with games, coloring sheets and brainteasers at Hideaway Pizza. But that’s not the only reason they love to go to the restaurant.

A big draw is the restaurant’s pizza-making window.

Always a big hit with the kids, the staff makes the pizza right in front of your eyes.

STEPHEN PINGRY/Tulsa World file

Finalists The Bros. Houligan 2508 E. 15th St. 918-747-1086 9701 E. 61st St. 918-254-1086 broshouligan.com

Tulsa’s Incredible Pizza Company 8314 E. 71st St. 918-294-8671 tulsaincrediblepizza.com

“We try to make dining out with your children an enjoyable experience and are glad they feel that way about Hideaway Pizza,” Harris said.

The Tulsa Zoo is a reader favorite. STEPHEN PINGRY/Tulsa World

CHILD-FRIENDLY VENUE

Tulsa Zoo 6421 E. 36th St. North 918-669-6600 tulsazoo.org

T

here are lions and tigers and bears, and, oh my, so much more to enjoy at the Tulsa Zoo. The Best in the World winner in the category of best child-friendly venue lets the little ones visit Africa in one section of the park, a rainforest in another, and there’s still Asia and the oceans and many islands to go.

That’s a lot for any child to enjoy in one day, which is what keeps them coming back. Hands-on demonstrations, camps and classes,

rides and attractions — what’s not to like?

“Thank you to all of the Tulsa World and Tulsa Zoo fans who took the time to vote,” said Ellen Averill, director of marketing and public relations for the zoo.

“The Tulsa Zoo is an ideal place for families to unplug, connect with the natural world and have fun. Recent zoo guests will know we have big changes underway as we create an even better zoo for the animals in our care and for our guests. The zoo broke ground on the Lost Kingdom exhibit complex, which is set to open in 2017.”

Finalists Oklahoma Aquarium 300 Aquarium Drive 918-296-3474 okaquarium.org

Tulsa Children’s Museum 560 N. Maybelle Ave. 918-295-8144 tulsachildrensmuseum.org

ad 100156686-01

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

WEEKEND

Kid’s STORE

Tulsa Toy Depot 10114 S. Sheridan Road | 918-938-0555 tulsatoydepot.com

T

ulsa Toy Depot has only been open since June, but it already has developed quite a following — enough of one to be selected as the Best in the World winner for favorite children’s store.

Walk inside the colorful south Tulsa shop to find toys that are unique and high in quality.

There are puzzles, puppets and plush toys.

The Tulsa Toy Depot features puzzles, puppets Books, building blocks and bird feeder kits. and plush toys, books, building blocks and so much And so much more. more.

Store owner Ryan McAdams did his research to find toys that last and can help a child develop motor skills, social or verbal skills, and reading Finalists and writing competence.

“We just opened in June, and we’ve had really good feedback from customers about how Kiddlestix Learning Express interactive our store is for their children and 3815 S. Harvard Ave. Toys the selection that we offer, from the toymakers 918-749-8697 7891 E. 108th St., to the educational focus of the toys,” McAdams facebook.com/KidSuite X-8 said. dlestix 918-970-6999 “Then there’s the children’s books. We eslearningexpress.com sentially have a library’s worth of books here, so that makes us stand out.”

PAGE 13

PLACE TO HOLD CHILD’S BIRTHDAY

Tulsa Zoo 6421 E. 36th St. North | 918-669-6600 tulsazoo.org

W

hen children celebrate their birthdays at the Tulsa Zoo, they have permission to become real party animals.

“Being selected for Best in the World for kids’ birthday parties is such an honor,” said Ellen Averill, director of marketing and public relations for the zoo.

“The zoo makes birthday parties simple for families by offering complete packages or a la carte options for those who want to create a custom experience in a unique setting.”

Finalists Bounce U 8922 S. Memorial Drive, Suite A 918-249-0090 bounceu.com

Tulsa’s Incredible Pizza Company 8314 E. 71st St. 918-294-8671 tulsaincrediblepizza. com

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAGE 15

BANK

Bank of Oklahoma 39 locations in the Tulsa area bankofoklahoma.com

B

ank of Oklahoma has served Tulsans for more than 100 years and its approach and commitment to the community and client values help the financial institution continue to stand out as the best.

“Tulsa is not just a place we do business,” said Pat Piper, executive vice president for consumer banking services. “It’s where our clients and employees live and raise their families.”

BOK takes a proactive approach to investing in the community through donations of funds or goods to meet the needs of local nonprofit groups and to employees giving their time

Finalists Arvest Bank 29 locations in the Tulsa area arvest.com

First Oklahoma Bank 100 S. Riverfront Drive, Jenks 918-392-2500 4110 S. Rockford Ave., Tulsa 918-392-2500 firstoklahomabank.com

and talents as volunteers for different events around the community.

“By giving back to Tulsa, Bank of Oklahoma strengthens and improves the community we all call home,” Piper said.

Bank of Oklahoma takes a proactive approach to investing in the community through donations of funds or goods to meet the needs of local nonprofit groups. CORY YOUNG/Tulsa World

WEEKEND

PAGE 16

FINANCIAL ADVISER

BOK Financial bokf.com

B

OK Financial’s staff take financial planning seriously and are there for customers in all matters of planning for the present and the future. Clients can expect an easy and painless approach to financial planning when they see a BOK Financial adviser.

“Our advisers take a longterm approach to financial planning and spend time understanding the needs and objectives of the client,” said J. Robert Cole, manager of retail brokerage BOSC Inc./ Bank of Oklahoma.

With diverse investment options, clients can get a tailored plan designed specifi-

Finalists Edward Jones 105 locations in Tulsa area edwardjones.com

Fidelity Investments 2020 S. Lewis Ave., Suite 100 918-712-7628 fidelity.com

cally for them.

“From conservative growth strategies to life insurance products, our team will formulate the best approach to help clients reach their financial goals,” Cole said.

BOK Financial is housed in the BOK Tower in downtown Tulsa.

Tulsa World file

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAGE 17

CREDIT UNION

TTCU The Credit Union

Finalists

14 locations in the Tulsa area ttcu.com

D

elivering extraordinary service and earning members’ trust are driving principles that help TTCU The Credit Union stand out as the best. “TTCU cares about every one of our members,” said Donita Quesnel, TTCU’s vice president of marketing.

TTCU is not for profit and member owned, allowing the organization to return earnings to members in very specific ways such as lower fees, higher earnings on deposits

TTCU The Credit Union has multiple locations in the Tulsa area. Sheila Haynes/For the Tulsa World

and lower loan rates.

With multiple locations in the Tulsa area, TTCU staff members are committed to making every experience

helpful and uncomplicated.

They also offer member services in-person, on the phone, online and through mobile devices.

First Tulsa Federal Credit Union

Oklahoma Central Credit Union

12747 E. 41st St. 918-619-9770 firsttulsafcu.org

Nine locations in the Tulsa area oklahomacentral.org

WEEKEND

PAGE 18

T

ulsa is filled with places that promote beauty, wellness and health.

It’s important to find a gym or fitness club that suits your needs.

And, if you are looking for a weightloss program, you definitely don’t want to waste time with one that

doesn’t work.

Shopping one of Tulsa’s stores dedicated to healthy products can also make the path to wellness a little easier.

But don’t forget: We all deserve a little pampering.

So, set aside some time for a mani

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

and a pedi.

Get a facial or massage to unwind.

Here are some of Tulsa’s best places to get healthy and to let go of the stress that builds up in the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life.

COSMETIC SURGERY CENTER

Plastic Surgery Center of Tulsa 2107 E. 15th St. | 918-712-0888 | pscoftulsa.com

Courtesy

HEALTH & FITNESS CLUB

Saint Francis Health Zone 5353 E. 68th St. 918-494-1671 saintfrancis.com/health-zone

H

ealth Zone at Saint Francis is a medically based program that is held to hospital-level standards for high-quality wellness programs.

Renovated in 2011, the Health Zone is a 70,000-square-foot facility with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, a wide array of exercise classes, two indoor saltwater pools and much more, said Graydon Yohe, director of Health Zone at Saint Francis.

Upon joining Health Zone, each member receives a fitness screening and a personalized exercise and wellness plan. A physician medical consultant can offer guidance and provide special programming to educate members about various health and wellness topics.

D

r. Greg Ratliff and his staff at the Plastic Surgery Center of Tulsa offer an array of professional services.

The services include breast-enhancement procedures, tummy tucks, liposuction, facial procedures and more.

Ratliff has performed more than 6,000 augmentation surgeries.

Board certified in plastic surgery, he is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and teaches other plastic surgeons.

Finalists Aesthetic Surgery Institute of America 2811 E. 15th St., Suite 103 918-939-8339 nicolepatel.com

Utica Square Skin Care 1325 E. 35th St., Suite B 918-712-3223

TANNING Finalists Lifetime Fitness 10642 S. Memorial Drive, Bixby 918-364-8500 lifetimefitness.com

St. John Siegfried Health Club 1819 E. 19th St. 918-744-2484 stjohnhealthsystem.com/ health-club

“Each day, the staff at Health Zone is dedicated to help members achieve and maintain their wellness goals no matter what their age or fitness abilities. And as a part of the Saint Francis Health System, this is just one way we work to support healthy lifestyles in our community,” Yohe said.

Bahama Sun 3732 S. Peoria Ave. 918-748-9971 bahamasuntanandspray.com

Bahama Sun of Brookside offers a variety of tanning services.

B

ahama Sun started as a small tanning salon on Brookside in 2002.

Since then, owners Jack and Pam Pinson have established a booming business with many new updates, as well as new services.

Bahama Sun offers beds of many different levels, as well as a leg tanning booth, spray tan booths and custom airbrush tanning, which is popular for events. One session in the booth or with an airbrush does the trick.

The salon is located on Brookside behind Charleston’s.

Courtesy

Finalists Sunsations

Tan Your Moon

6532 E. 71st St., Suite 103 918-491-1826 tulsasunsations.net

8222 E. 103rd St., Suite 113, Bixby 918-369-4826 1085 N. Ninth St., Broken Arrow 918-251-8555 tanyourmoon.net

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

HAIR SALON

Reveal Salon & Aesthetics 8929 S. Memorial Drive, Suite 170 918-891-9634 revealtulsa.com

R

eveal Salon and Aesthetics offers hair, nail and skin care services for men, women and children.

The small salon just celebrated its third year in business, and this is its second year in a row to win the best hair salon title in the Best in the World contest.

Among the list of services offered are anti-aging and acne treatments, microdermabrasion, hair extensions and hair-smoothing treatment, said owner and aesthetician Nicole McGinnis.

Reveal recently began offer-

PAGE 19

WEIGHT LOSS CENTER Finalists Ihloff Salon and Day Spa 1876 Utica Square, Suite 1A 918-587-2566 8343 S. Memorial Drive 918-587-2566 ihloffspa.com

Z Studio 4516 S. Peoria Ave. 918-743-5353 zstudiotulsa.com

ing a new service, OxyGeneo, an anti-aging skin treatment alternative that exfoliates and oxygenates the skin.

“We felt really excited and very appreciative of our customers for voting for us,” McGinnis said. “We are a small salon, and we appreciate the support of our small business.”

Weight Watchers 18 meeting locations in the surrounding area | weightwatchers.com

F

or more than 50 years, people have been losing weight by keeping track of Weight Watcher points.

In the early ’60s, Weight Watchers founder Jean Ni-

Finalists 10 Gym Four locations in Tulsa and the surrounding area 10gym.com

Pure Barre 8921 S. Yale Ave., Suite C 918-494-4977 3807 S. Peoria Ave. 918-933-6006 purebarre.com

detch began inviting friends into her New York home once a week to talk about how best to lose weight.

Now that group of friends has grown to millions of women and men around the

world who’ve joined Weight Watchers to lose weight and lead healthier lives.

Weight Watchers consistently wins national recognition as a favored weight-loss plan.

WEEKEND

PAGE 20

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

NAIL SALON

Bella Vita Spa and Salon 10424 S. 82nd East Ave. 918-369-8482 bellavitaspaandsalon.com

A

Sprouts Farmers Market was voted best health food store in Tulsa. CORY YOUNG/Tulsa World file

HEALTH FOOD STORE

Sprouts Farmers Market 4123 S. Harvard Ave. 918-858-8850 10111 S. Memorial Drive, Bixby 918-364-7272 851 E. Hillside Drive, Broken Arrow 918-806-0810 9601 N. 133rd East Ave., Owasso 918-516-6656 sprouts.com

W

Finalists Akin’s Natural Foods

Whole Foods Market

7807 E. 51st St. 918-663-4137 3321 E. 31st St. 918-742-6630 12003 S. Memorial Drive, Bixby 918-366-8400 akins.com

1401 E. 41st St. 918-712-7555 9136 S. Yale Ave. 918-879-0493 wholefoodsmarket.com

ith the opening of the new Owasso store earlier this year, Sprouts Farmers Market now has four stores in the Tulsa experience for both healthy area. foodies and the average The chain first moved Tulsa shopper,” said Donna into the area in 2013, and shoppers love its specials on produce and other healthy foods.

Inside the stores, you’ll find mountains of fresh fruits and vegetables; barrels of wholesome grains, nuts and sweets; and full-service deli, meat and seafood counters.

You’ll also find fresh-baked goods, gourmet cheese, vitamins and supplements, and thousands of natural, organic and gluten-free groceries.

“We are thrilled to win best health food store in Tulsa by offering a full grocery

Egan, Sprouts Farmers Market director of corporate communications.

t Bella Vita Spa and Salon, clients can enjoy a wide selection of spa services and shop a fun boutique, too.

We were elated to learn that we won the best nail salon category for the second year in a row, said Jeannette Nazarian, who owns the spa, along with Lee Behling.

“Really, what it comes down to is having an absolutely amazing staff. It is not about Lee and Jeannette, it’s about the 35 women who work here who are passionate about what they do,” Nazarian said.

The spa and salon spe-

Finalists Hollywood Nails of Brookside 1342 E. 41st St. 918-712-8858 hollywoodnailsofbrooksidetulsa.com

Posh Nails and Spa 3743 S. Peoria Ave. 918-749-7674 facebook.com/ POSHNailsBrookside

cializes in massage, body wraps and scrubs, facials, waxing, HydraFacial treatments, hair coloring, cuts, extensions and natural nail treatments, Nazarian said.

WEEKEND

PAGE 22

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

T

ulsa diners literally have hundreds of choices when making a decision on where to go for food and beverages.

Tulsa restaurants offer cuisines from all over the world — Mexican, South American, Asian, American, French, British, Italian and more.

Tulsa World readers have chosen their favorites — the Best in the World.

PIZZA

Hideaway Pizza

Finalists

Seven locations in Tulsa area hideawaypizza.com

Andolini’s Pizzeria and Italian

B

ig Country. The Boz. Little Kahuna. Pizza of the Gods. Paradise Pie. If you recognize the names of those menu items, Hideaway Pizza is certainly not “hidden” from you.

Founded in Stillwater in 1957, Hideaway Pizza spread to other cities and “conquered” Tulsa.

“Hideaway Pizza is thrilled to have been voted Tulsa’s No. 1 best pizza in the Tulsa World’s Best in the World contest,” spokeswoman Janie Harris said.

“It has become a badge of honor to win the best pizza award in all the communities across Oklahoma where we have restaurants, and especially in Tulsa, where we first branched out. We are so proud to have truly become Oklahoma’s Pizza and thank all the Tulsa World readers who took the time to vote for us.”

1552 E. 15th St. 918-728-6111 12140 E. 96th St., Owasso 918-272-9328 andopizza.com

Savastano’s 8211 E. Regal Place 918-369-9387 savastanospizzeria. com

The Paradise Pie is among reasons why Tulsans love Hideaway Pizza.

STEPHEN PINGRY/Tulsa World file

BAR/LOUNGE

BARTENDER

Hodges Bend

Jamie Jennings

823 E. Third St. 918-398-4470 hodges-bend.com

Hodges Bend 823 E. Third St. hodges-bend.com

H

odges Bend is the place in the East Village to hang out with friends and enjoy a classic cocktail, such as a Harvey Wallbanger or Gibson, or one of its specialty drinks, such as Dark Passenger or Fox Hunt.

Sommeliers can direct you to the perfect wine for the evening, perhaps to pair with a dish from Hodges Bend’s own food truck, The Parish.

It’s not all alcohol, either. Barristas are on hand to prepare your favorite coffee or tea drink, as well.

“We started this place wanting to build a community around the best beverages we could serve to Tulsa from the locally roasted Topeca coffee to an Old-Fashioned made with our house tobacco bitters,” said co-owner Noah Bush. “If it wasn’t for the love and support of Tulsa, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do. For that we thank you Tulsa.”

CORY YOUNG/Tulsa World file

Finalists Fassler Hall

R Bar & Grill

304 S. Elgin Ave. 918-5767898 fasslerhall. com

3421 S. Peoria Ave. 918-3924811 rbartulsa. com

J

amie Jennings loves introducing customers to the classics.

Jennings started as a hotel bellman at the Renaissance Tulsa Hotel and eventually worked his way behind the bar, working at the White Owl before joining Hodges Bend at the request of co-owner Noah Bush.

He has made a name for himself among respected cocktail artisans, in part, due to his work ethic and passion.

Finalists Breeze Waitkus R Bar & Grill 3421 S. Peoria Ave. rbartulsa.com

Read Richards Valkyrie 13 E. M.B. Brady St. valkyrietulsa.com

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAGE 21

SPA

Spa Lux Day Spa 8922 S. Memorial Drive, Suite B 918-615-3339 spalux.org

S

pa Lux was created to be a true day spa, providing guests with ultimate relaxation.

Owner Taras Tikhomirov opened Spa Lux in 2007.

“From the very beginning, I knew that we wanted open as Finalists to a true day spa with no Bella Vita Spa salon services beand Salon cause that 10424 S. 82nd East allows us Ave. to create a 918-369-8482 very calm, bellavitaspaandsarelaxing lon.com environment,” TikIhloff Salon homirov & Day Spa said.

1876 Utica Square, Clients Suite 1A won’t hear 918-587-2566 loud music, 8343 S. Memorial people Drive talking on 918-587-2566 cellphones, ihloffspa.com the noise of hair dryers or the smells associated with nail treatments, he said.

And guests can also enjoy the Turkish steam room and the lounge where they will be treated to a foot bath before services.

“That is how we differentiate ourselves,” Tikhomirov said. “We are a true day spa.”

Spa Lux owners Taras (left) and Cynthia Tikhomirov opened the spa in 2007. CORY YOUNG/Tulsa World

MASSAGE

Finalists

Spa Lux Day Spa 8922 S. Memorial Drive, Suite B 918-615-3339 spalux.org

T

town.

aras Tikhomirov is proud to say that he has the best massage team in

Tikhomirov, owner of Spa Lux Day Spa, was pleased to hear that customers agree with him by casting enough votes to earn Spa Lux best massage in the Best in the World contest.

Spa Lux opened in 2007

Bella Vita Spa and Salon and strives to offer a calming, peaceful environment where customers can unwind.

The massage team specializes in every massage modality traditional to North America, Tikhomirov said.

“I don’t like to brag, but we offer very good massages,” he said.

This was the second year for Spa Lux to be a finalist for best massage in the Best in the World competition, and this year, it took the title.

10424 S. 82nd East Ave. 918-369-8482 bellavitaspaandsalon.com

Ihloff Salon & Day Spa 1876 Utica Square, Suite 1A 918-587-2566 8343 S. Memorial Drive 918-587-2566 ihloffspa.com

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

WEEKEND

PAGE 23

BARBECUE

BurnCo Barbecue 1738 S. Boston Ave. 918-574-2777 burnbbq.com

I

The Happy Plate is popular at BurnCo Barbecue. Tulsa World file

Finalists

Albert G’s f there is something in particular you want for lunch at Bar-B-Q BurnCo, you better go early.

2748 S. Harvard Ave. The line starts forming down 918-747-4799 the sidewalk 30 minutes before 421 E. First St. opening time most days, and most 918-728-3650 days the food is gone before closing. albertgs.com Cousins Adam Myers and Robby Corcoran have perfected the fine Oklahoma Joe’s art of smoking meats — and, really, Bar-B-Cue pretty much anything else — on Hasty-Bake grills. Myers spent 12 333 W. Albany St., years working for Hasty-Bake doing Broken Arrow cooking demonstrations and teach918-355-0000 ing classes.

423 N. Main St. The kitchen is a maze of 11 918-960-2017 stainless Hasty-Bake grills, where okjoes.com all the cooking is done over hardwood charcoal. The Fatty (bacon wrapped around chopped sausage, ground sausage and finely minced hot links) is popular. So is the smoky macaroni and cheese.

WEEKEND

PAGE 24

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

BAKERY/BAKED GOODS

Merritt’s Bakery

Three Tulsa locations merrittsbakery.com

M Diners are drawn to P.F. Chang’s for its famous lettuce wraps with dipping sauces, traditional Chinese fare and innovative modern Asian cuisine. MICHAEL WYKE/Tulsa World file

ASIAN

P.F. Chang’s 1978 E. 21st St., Utica Square 918-747-6555 pfchangs.com

T

his national chain has drawn enthusiastic crowds to Utica Square since it came to town in late 2002.

Diners are drawn to its famous lettuce wraps Finalists with dipping sauces, Pei Wei traditional Asian Diner Chinese Four locations in fare and the Tulsa area innopeiwei.com vative modern Ri Le’s Asian 4932 E. 91st St., cuisine.

Suite 102 Among 918-496-2126 its more popular dishes are orange peel shrimp tossed with hot chilies, Mongolian beef and oolong marinated Chilean sea bass.

“We’re excited to be voted the restaurant for best Asian food,” said operating partner Kristi Fugate. “A lot of heart goes into making our Asian-inspired recipes. Our kitchen staff is here early hand-folding dim sum, and our servers work hard to give our guests the best dining experience. It’s definitely a team effort, and we love what we do. Thank you to our guests for your continued support.”

erritt’s Bakery just celebrated its 36th anniversary in Tulsa.

In the mornings, the bakery is busy serving all manner of breakfast pastries, including a wide range of doughnuts, eclairs and muffins.

Merritt’s also is a go-to place for sandwiches, dessert pastries, and birthday and wedding cakes.

“There are a lot of really good bakeries in Tulsa, so winning is a very heartwarming experience for us,” owner Larry Merritt said. “Our bakers and cake decorators take a lot of pride in their work, and this award means a lot to each and every one of us.”

Finalists Ann’s Bakery 7 N. Harvard Ave. 918-834-2345 6820A E. 41st St. 539-664-4158 annsbakery.com

Michael V’s Restaurant 8222 E. 103rd St. 918-369-0310 michaelvsrestaurant.com

Cookies from Merritt’s Tulsa World file

BANQUET FACILITY

Glenpool Conference Center 12205 S. Yukon Ave., Glenpool 918-322-5409 glenpoolconferencecenter.com

T

he Glenpool Conference Center is a modern, flexible event venue with meeting spaces to accommodate parties of eight to 800 in the center’s meeting rooms, board rooms, exhibition hall, grand foyer and outdoor amphitheater.

The center hosts everything from board meetings to trade expos, wedding receptions and family reunions.

“It was an honor to be nominated, and we are thrilled to be chosen as the

Finalists Harwelden Mansion 2210 S. Main St. 918-584-3333 harweldenmansion.com

Mayo Hotel 115 W. Fifth St. 918-582-6296 themayohotel.com

newest large-scale venues, we are grateful for the way The Glenpool Conference Center hosts everything from the entire Tulsa metro has board meetings to trade expos, wedding receptions and family embraced and supported reunions. Courtesy our facility. We love being the backdrop for our cusbest banquet facility in the Reed, conference center tomers’ special occasions Tulsa area,” said Lea Ann director. “As one of the and events.”

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAGE 25

FAMILY RESTAURANT

Hideaway Pizza Seven locations in the Tulsa area hideawaypizza.com

A chicken-fried steak with gravy and mashed potatoes is served at The Bros. Houligan.

F

MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World file

COMFORT FOOD

The Bros.

Houligan 2508 E. 15th St. 918-747-1086 9701 E. 61st St. 918-254-1086 broshouligan.com

B

rothers Pat and Tim McMurchy have been operating The Bros.

Houligan for more than 25 years, serving heaping helpings of chicken-fried steak and fried chicken livers alongside burgers, steaks and sandwiches.

That’s what they call “comfort food,” and it’s a concept that voters in the Best in the World contest have determined that Bros.

Houligan does better than anyone else.

“We have such a great customer base, and we are so appreciative of them,” Pat McMurchy said.

The Boz is a fan favorite at Hideaway Pizza. The restaurant chain’s atmosphere and food helped it claim the best family restaurant title in the Tulsa World’s Best in the World contest. MIKE SIMONS/Tulsa World

Finalists Charleston’s Three locations in the Tulsa area ehsrg.com

Weber’s Superior Root Beer Restaurant 3817 S. Peoria Ave., 918-742-1082 webersoftulsa.com

BuFfet

624 Kitchen & Catering 624 S. Boston Ave. 918-779-6333 624catering.com

E

Finalists Tally’s Good Food Cafe 1102 S. Yale Ave. 918-835-8039

The Brook Restaurant & Bar 3401 S. Peoria Ave. 918-748-9977 7727 E. 91st St. 918-392-9977 brookrestaurant.com

amily time together is so important, and any mom or dad knows families have to pick a place where everyone can enjoy their meal, even the picky eaters, said Hideaway spokeswoman Janie Harris.

“We are honored the readers of the Tulsa World voted Hideaway Pizza best family restaurant! It means so much to us to have the votes of the families who come to share a pizza with us,” she said. “We promise to continue providing the best pizza we can in an enjoyable, family-friendly environment. Thank you to all who voted for us.”

It helps that Hideaway Pizza has a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, on top of the variety of pizza crusts, sauces and toppings, she said.

“They can choose from great appetizers like our world-famous fried mushrooms, as well as wonderful salads, sandwiches and pastas, so everyone can get something they want,” Harris said.

“We love being a restaurant where everyone can be at ease and enjoy their favorite food with their family in the special time they have together.”

624 Kitchen & Catering is an upscale venue for events and catering created by Justin Thompson.

It hosts special events and brunch every Sunday. JACKIE DOBSON/Tulsa World

xtravagant, elegant and beautiful are three words to describe Sunday brunch at 624 Kitchen & Catering, part of chef Justin Thompson’s JTR Group of restaurants.

The food stations are as awesome as the surrounding dining area, located in the ornate former ONG building with its 20-foothigh ceilings, marble columns, terrazzo floor accents, custommade moldings and intricate ceiling details. It’s an art deco paradise.

“Thank you to everyone who voted for 624 Kitchen & Cater-

Finalists Buffet at Hard Rock Casino 777 W. Cherokee St., Catoosa 800-7606700 hardrockcasino

tulsa.com

India Palace 6963 S. Lewis Ave. 918-492-8040 theindiapalace tulsa.com

ing,” said Thompson, proprietor of the JTR Group of restaurants.

“It’s such an honor to be voted Best Buffet and be embraced by the city we love.”

PAGE 26

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

FOOD TRUCK

Lone Wolf Banh Mi 520 E. Third St. | 918-804-1345 lonewolftruck.com

B

anh mi. Kimchi fries. Fried rice.

Put them all together and you’ve got a Tulsa favorite — the Lone Wolf Banh Mi food truck.

“We are continually humbled by the graciousness of Tulsa,” said Finalists co-owner Philip Phillips after learning Lone Wolf Lola’s Gypsy was chosen best food truck in Tulsa. “Thank Caravan Trailer you to our amazing 1347 E. 11th St. ‘wolf pack.’ ” 918-269-6076 Phillips launched the facebook.com/ food truck with his wife, LolasCaravan Danielle, in September 2012. Lone Wolf made a Mr. Nice Guys quick and positive im918-991-2357 pression. It was chosen facebook.com/ to be spotlighted during mrniceguystulsa the second season of the CNBC show “Restaurant Startup.”

A schedule and menu for Lone Wolf are available at lonewolftruck.com

Kimchi Fries and Banh Mi sandwiches are Lone Wolf’s specialties. JOHN CLANTON/Tulsa World

HOT DOG

Coney I-Lander Seven locations in the Tulsa area

T

Coney I-Lander is top dog in Tulsa. Do you like your coneys with cheese or without?

STEPHEN PINGRY/Tulsa World

he Coney I-Lander slogan is this: “Since 1926 we haven’t changed a bite!”

If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.

“We are beyond grateful to the readers of the Tulsa World for voting Coney I-Lander best hot dog for 2015,” director of business development Kyle Cermak said.

“It is a privilege for our family to serve the great citizens of Tulsa and the surrounding communities, and we look forward to a bright future together.”

Cheese? Onions? You can answer “yes” or “no” at Coney I-Lander locations all over the metro area. The Coney I-Lander brand began as an offshoot of the Coney Island Hot Weiner Shop that started in downtown Tulsa in 1926.

Finalists Siegi’s Sausage Factory 8104 S. Sheridan Road 918-492-8988 siegis.com

The Dog House 1101 S. Detroit Ave. 918-810-9330 doghousetulsa.com

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

CHEF

Michael Minden, Michael V’s Restaurant 8222 E. 103rd St., Suite 137 918-369-0310 michaelvsrestaurant.com

M

ichael Minden of Michael V’s has a long fine-dining background from coast to coast.

Minden worked at Disney properties — he has a large collection of Disney memorabilia — and private resorts before taking the executive chef job at The Chalkboard in downtown Tulsa.

He and wife Carol then took over Back Street Bistro for eight years and soon will celebrate their 10th anniversary at Michael V’s. Minden specializes in classic preparations and twists on classic American cuisine.

“I am very honored and

CATERER

Michael V’s Restaurant 8222 E. 103rd St., Suite 137 918-369-0310 michaelvsrestaurant.com

M

ichael’s V’s restaurant specializes in classical American cuisine, and chef Michael Minden describes his catering room as “gorgeous and comfy.”

Michael V’s has event space that seats 100 people but can hold 140 for receptions. Minden and his wife, Carol, also do offsite catering events.

Chicken Marsala, chicken Parmesan, sliced roast beef, and pork loin with a cherry and apple sauce and candied pecans are some of their catering specialties. And

Finalists Justin Thompson, Justin Thompson Restaurants jtrgroup.com

Trevor Tack, McNellie’s Group mcnelliesgroup.com

humbled to win this award two years in a row,” Michael Minden said. “We are going into our 16th year of feeding Oklahomans a consistent quality product of classical cuisine and great desserts, all made in-house at a great price value. Thanks, Tulsa.

You make me proud.”

Finalists Lambrusco’z to Go 114-A S. Detroit Ave. 1344 E. 41st St. 918-496-1246 lambruscoz.com

Ludger’s Catering 6120 E. 32nd Place, Suite A 918-744-9988 ludgerscatering.com

Minden’s desserts, such as his coconut-cream tarts, are another popular pick.

“We both have extensive catering backgrounds, so whether we’re helping a corporate get-together or creating a menu for a social occasion, we stay flexible and work with their budgets,” the Mindens said. “We have catered in our own banquet rooms, at fields outside, in corporate board rooms, people’s houses, churches and other catering venues inside and out of the Tulsa area.”

Michael and Carol Minden own Michael V’s Restaurant. CORY YOUNG/Tulsa World file

PAGE 27

PAGE 28

Ti Amo Ristorante has been a go-to destination for Italian food for years.

STEPHEN PINGRY/ Tulsa World file

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

ITALIAN

Ti Amo Ristorante Italiano 6024 S. Sheridan Road 918-499-1919 219 S. Cheyenne Ave. 918-592-5151 tiamotulsa.com

W

hether dining in the expansive south Tulsa location with enough private dining areas to accommodate any size group or in the cozy, romantic basement-level dining room of the downtown restaurant, TiAmo has an ambiance for everyone.

Owner Mehdi Khezri offers a lengthy menu of traditional Italian fare and specialty dishes, including the Pasta Mista, an item that also includes servings of fettuccine alfredo, lasagna, cannelloni and meatball, as well as a choice of soup or salad.

Linguine Bolognese, raviolis, seafood fettuccine, bruschetta and house-made desserts are other smart choices.

“We want to thank Tulsa for the support the people have given us over 26 years,” Khezri said. “We appreciate it very much. It’s an honor to be voted best Italian restaurant.”

Finalists Dalesandro’s 1742 S. Boston Ave. 918-582-1551 dalesandros.com

Mondo’s Italian Restaurant 3410 S. Peoria Ave. 918-561-6300 mondositalian.com

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAGE 29

Televisions are plentiful at Treys Bar & Grill.

MIKE SIMONS/ Tulsa World

SPORTS BAR/GRILL

Treys Bar & Grill 7891 E. 108th St., Suite 22 918-970-4950 treys.co

A

sports bar should be TV-friendly, right? Treys Bar & Grill has an 11-foot projection screen that is of movie-theater quality, as well as 10 other high-definition TVs around the bar.

“We literally built the place for watching sports,” said Travis Davidson, who co-owns Treys Bar & Grill with Michael Nelms and Matt Lopez. “It was built and designed by bartenders, not just by random people who put some money together to build a bar.”

But the kitchen is what sets Treys apart from the typical sports bar, Davidson said.

He said a majority of items are made from scratch, and Treys has a creative-yet-simple approach to food, with menu items like the Bixby Chees-

Finalists Leon’s 3301 S. Peoria Ave 918-933-5366 eatatleons.com

Louie’s Grill and Bar 6310 E. 101st St. 918-298-5777 813 E. A St., Jenks 918-298-5300 1640 N. Ninth St. Broken Arrow 918-355-0421 ehsrg.com/louies

esteak, 108th Street Tacos and Treys Sweet Cream Pancakes.

Treys opened in November 2014, but has made an impression in a short amount of time.

“We are appreciative of those who voted for us, and we look forward to a busy football season and beyond,” he said.

El Guapo’s Mexican Cantina MICHAEL WYKE/Tulsa World file

DINING VIEW

El Guapo’s Mexican Cantina (downtown rooftop) 332 E. First St. 918-382-7482 elguaposcantina.com

A

n expansive view of downtown Tulsa and a festive atmosphere await diners who make the climb to the rooftop of El Guapo’s Mexican Cantina.

It’s a great spot to relax with friends and family over dishes such as chicken chimichangas, chile verde wet burrito and shrimp tacos.

Imported Mexican beers and margaritas top the bev-

erage list.

During breezy, balmy evenings on the rooftop, some groups like to share a Little Neddy Goes to War, a whopping 70-ounce margarita that sells for $18.99.

El Guapo’s, which opened a southside sister restaurant last year at 81st Street and Harvard Avenue, was launched in 2007.

It’s part of Elliot Nelson’s McNellie’s Group of restaurants that also includes Yokozuna, Dilly Diner, Fassler Hall, McNellie’s Pub and The Tavern.

Finalists Blue Rose Cafe 1924 Riverside Drive 918-582-4600 bluerosecafetulsa.com

In the Raw (south) 6151 S. Sheridan Road 918-524-0063 intherawsushi.com

WEEKEND

PAGE 30

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

LIQUOR STORE

Parkhill’s Warehouse Liquors & Wine 5111 S. Lewis Ave. 918-742-4187 parkhillsliquor.com

Tulsans “heart” Glacier Confection. Tulsa World readers selected Glacier Confection as the best chocolatier.

MIKE SIMONS/Tulsa World

CHOCOLATIER

Glacier Confection 15 E. Brady St. 918-938-6368 glacierconfection.com

G

lacier Confection’s mission is to raise support and funds for the country’s fallen heroes and their families.

It really is a sweet mission.

Glacier Confection was selected as best chocolatier in the Best in the World poll.

“This award is the result of all the hard work, dedication and commitment to excellence by the entire Glacier Team. They are committed to legendary customer service and education through chocolate. I am so proud of all their work,” according to a message from Glacier.

“The people of Tulsa are exceptional, and we love it here! In 2015, we have seen the transition of many

Finalists Nouveau Atalier de Chocolat 205 S. Main St., Broken Arrow 918-258-2877 nouveauchocolates.com

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory 10114 S. Sheridan Road 918-299-7623 rockymountainchocolatefactory.com

clients from a basic love of chocolate, to the savoring of ‘fine chocolate.’ This is what we strive for: the preservation of heirloom fine flavor cacao and introducing it to our clients.

“Let’s all celebrate. This is your chocolate shop!”

P

arkhill’s Warehouse Liquors & Wine has been a fixture at 51st Street and Lewis Avenue for decades and was in the forefront of bringing fine spirits and wines, as well as craft beers, to Tulsa.

It’s one of the largest liquor stores and wine shops in Tulsa and offers one of the widest selections of French and other European wines in the state.

In addition to wines, Parkhill’s offers a wide selection of some of the best scotches, bourbons and whiskeys in the world.

“We are obviously happy and proud to win the award,” said wine manager Milton Leiter. “Our staff works really hard to do the best job they can, and without our customers, we would be nothing. We thank them for their support over the years.”

Parkhill’s Liquors & Wine is one of the biggest liquor stores in Tulsa. CORY YOUNG/Tulsa World

Finalists Parkhill’s South Liquors & Wine

Ranch Acres Wine & Spirits

10018 S. Memorial Drive 918-528-6700 parkhillssouthtulsa. com

3324 E. 31st St. 918-747-1171 ranchacreswine.com

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAGE 31

COFFEE

Topeca Coffee 115 W. Fifth St. 918-592-9090 topecacoffee.com

Finalists

W

Topeca’s baristas make the visual experience of the drinks match the quality of the coffee itself.

TOM GILBERT/Tulsa World

hen Coffee House on TulCherry Street sans 1502 E. 15th St. want 918-779-6137 to stay “grounded,” thecoffeehouseon­ they go to Topeca cherrystreet.com Coffee, voted the city’s best coffee.

Shades of Brown Responded Topeca’s John 918-747-3000 Gaberino: “While 3302 S. Peoria Ave. thinking about shadescoffee.com how to word our ‘thank you’ for this award, we were hard-pressed to come up with a speech that was neither too ‘Taylor Swift’ nor too ‘Kanye West.’

“So in keeping with the middle ground, we appreciate that Tulsa has shown us as much love over the years as we love our city. Tulsa truly is a unique place to foster community, empower the entrepreneurial spirit and to innovate markets.

We’re thrilled to be a part of our city’s continual growth and super thankful that you enjoy having us here, too.”

WINE LIST

Michael V’s Restaurant 8222 E. 103rd St. 918-369-0310 michaelvsrestaurant.com

T

he finely crafted wine list at Michael V’s is slanted toward California wineries to match the New American cuisine and twists on classic dishes at this fine-dining restaurant.

Owners Carol and Michael Minden work to keep the wine offerings constantly updated and relevant.

Enjoy a glass of wine at lunch or dinner, or sit in the cozy bar area with brick fireplace, fiber-optic lighting and glass blocks.

“I am so honored to win the award with all the great wine lists in this city,” Carol Minden said.

“I built our list to comple-

Finalists The Wine Loft 7890 E. 106th Place South 918-970-4766 thewinelofttulsa.com

Vintage 1740 Wine Bar 1740 S. Boston Ave. 918-582-0700 vintage1740.com

ment what Michael V’s restaurant is: unpretentious, some classic favorites, mostly American and moderately priced. There’s something for everyone’s taste buds without being overwhelming or intimidating by the wineries.”

Michael V’s Restaurant has one of the best wine lists in the city, according to customers.

CORY YOUNG/Tulsa World

WEEKEND

PAGE 32

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

FINE DINING

Slow-roasted bone marrow is served at Tallgrass Prairie Table.

STEPHEN PINGRY/Tulsa World file

Tallgrass Prairie Table

Finalists

Steak and lobster is a standout dish at Mahogany Prime Steakhouse. MICHAEL WYKE/Tulsa World

McGill’s

Mahogany Prime Steakhouse

1560 E. 21st St. 918-742-8080 6058 S. Yale Ave. 918-388-8080 dinemcgills.com

313 E. Second St. 918-933-4499 tallgrasstulsa.com

T

allgrass Prairie Table opened to much fanfare in late 2013 and was named the Tulsa World’s No. 1 new restaurant for 2014 with dishes such as smoked and roasted bone marrow and short brisket burger.

“Thank you, Tulsa, for your continued support of Tallgrass Prairie Table and all the farmers and ranchers who work so hard to put food on your plates,” said executive chef Michelle Donaldson. “See you at the table.”

Michael V’s Restaurant 8222 E. 103rd St., Suite 137 918-369-0310 michaelvsrestaurant.com

6823 S. Yale Ave. 918-494-4043 ehsrg.com/mahogany

M

ahogany Prime Steakhouse is part of the impressive, Norman-based Hal Smith Restaurant group and features custom-aged U.S. prime Midwestern beef known for its excellence in marbling.

Mahogany also boasts one of the finest wine lists in town and excellent service in a Chicago-style dining room with rich mahogany woodwork and separate rooms for private dining.

CASINO DINING

Finalists

McGill’s on 19, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa

Johnny Rockets, River Spirit Casino

777 W. Cherokee St., Catoosa 918-760-6700 dinemcgills.com

M McGill’s on 19 is located on the top floor of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. Stephen Pingry/Tulsa World file

cGill’s on 19 is located on the top floor of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa with breathtaking, panoramic views of the Oklahoma landscape.

The upscale menu includes delicious steaks and seafood. Diners may enjoy their meals in one of four private dining booths located in the center of the restaurant, el-

evated to provide an unobstructed view. It also has two private dining rooms for business or dinner meetings.

An outdoor balcony provides beautiful views to the east and west.

“We thank Tulsa for the votes,” said Greg McGill, who owns the McGill’s steakhouses with Hal Walker. “It’s a proud distinction for the vote to go in our favor. We’ve enjoyed our association with Hard Rock and the Cherokee Nation, and we all will enjoy the award.”

8330 Riverside Parkway 918-995-8518 riverspirittulsa.com

Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa 777 W. Cherokee St., Catoosa 918-760-6700 hardrockcasinotulsa. com

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PLACE TO FIND CRAFT BEER

McNellie’s Pub 400 E. First St. 918-382-7468 mcnellies.com

Finalists

E

Fassler Hall ver since 304 S. Elgin Ave. Elliot Nelson 918-576-7898 first opened fasslerhall.com James E. McNellie’s Public Leon’s House, better known just as McNellie’s 3301 S. Peoria Ave. Pub, it has been a 918-933-5366 go-to place for beer eatatleons.com lovers.

Nelson has brought R Bar & Grill in dozens of import3421 S. Peoria Ave. ed beers and keeps 918-392-4811 them listed on paper rbartulsa.com menus that change with what is available. Some regulars keep their own steins at McNellie’s, which also offers a superb pub food menu.

A proper Guinness is poured at McNellie’s Public House. TOM GILBERT/Tulsa World

PLACE TO SIP A COCKTAIL

Hodges Bend 823 E. Third St. 918-398-4470 hodges-bend.com

P

art of what makes Hodges Bend a destination in Tulsa is its high level of service from the baristas, sommeliers and bartenders.

They serve locally sourced and roasted coffee, hand-picked wines, classic cocktails and fun interpretations.

And the chic atmosphere makes it a great place to sit and sip. Try the Moscow Müller. It’s a Moscow Mule with a twist. In place of lime juice, they’ve added Müller Thurgau wine.

But Hodges Bend is also popular because it is always adapting to find new ways to satisfy customers.

In 2015, Hodges Bend rolled out a food truck called The Parish at Hodges Bend. It acts as the kitchen for the trendy bar and coffee shop and serves small plates and charcuterie.

Finalists Cosmo Café 3334 S. Peoria Ave. 918-933-4848 cosmo-cafe.com

Valkyrie 13 E. M.B. Brady St. 918-295-2160 valkyrietulsa.com

PAGE 33

PAGE 34

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

SUSHI

In the Raw 3321 S. Peoria Ave. 918-744-1300 6151 S. Sheridan Road 918-524-0063 216 S. Main St., Broken Arrow 918-893-6111 intherawsushi.com

S

ushi fans flock to the quirky original in Brookside, the restaurant on the hill with sweeping views of the Tulsa skyline and the newest one in the downtown Rose District of Broken Arrow.

“The In the Raw sushi family of Brookside, On the Hill and Broken Arrow are very humbled by winning best sushi in your annual citywide voting contest,” said owner Greg Hughes.

“We do not take it lightly that Tulsa has embraced us

Finalists Yokozuna 309 E. Second St. 918-508-7676 9146 S. Yale Ave., Suite 100 918-619-6271 yokozunasushi.com

Zanmai Modern Japanese Cuisine 1402 S. Peoria Ave., Suite 200 918-556-0200 zanmaiok.com

so well over the last 17 years.

Our loyal customers have made us who we are, and we strive to give them the best experience possible.”

Hazel Turner takes a lunch order out to customers at White River Fish Market.

JOHN CLANTON/Tulsa World

SEAFOOD

White River Fish Market & Restaurant 1708 N. Sheridan Road 918-835-1910 whiteriverfishmarket.com

red snapper, perch, buffalo, scallops, orange roughy, crab, tilapia, flounder, Alaskan cod and salmon. Lobster dinners hite River Fish are served Tuesdays and Market has been Wednesdays. around since the Many diners like to pair 1930s and the their seafood with gumbo restaurant almost as long. It’s or red beans and rice, then where Tulsans from all walks have a piece of buttermilk of life dine at communal pie or sweet potato pie for tables, and some even pick dessert. out the exact fish they want “Thank you, Tulsa,” said cooked from a display case. general manager Chad BrinIt has the widest choice son. of seafood dishes in Tulsa, “We are blessed to be part perhaps in Oklahoma, and of such a wonderful commuthe selections include catnity with such great customfish, shrimp, rainbow trout, ers. What an honor.”

W

Finalists Bodean Seafood 3376 E. 51st St. 918-743-3861 bodean.net

Bonefish Grill 4651 W. Kenosha St., Broken Arrow 918-252-3474 bonefishgrill.com

Chef’s Choice sushi is prepared at In The Raw in downtown Broken Arrow. MICHAEL WYKE/Tulsa World

WEEKEND

PAGE 36

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

MEXICAN (AUTHENTIC)

El Rio Verde 38 N. Trenton Ave. 918-592-2555

I

Finalists

f you’ve never been to El Rio Verde, it’s so close to the highCafe Ole way near downtown Tulsa — 3509 S. Peoria Ave. and yet so close to Mexico.

918-745-6699 Participants in the Best in the cafeolebrookside.com World poll selected El Rio Verde in the category of best authentic El Tequila Mexican Kitchen Mexican food.

Wet burrito? It’s a favorite of 5001 S. Harvard Ave. diners. Try it, and you’ll understand 918-895-6262 why.

8118 S. Memorial Drive El Rio Verde isn’t just a lunch 918-459-7677 and dinner spot. The doors open at 12500 E. 86th St. North, Owasso 8:30 a.m. Walk through those doors 918-274-0931 and the menu will transport you to a 1113 N. Elm Place, Broken Arrow different place.

918-258-5454 “Since 1998, the Gonzalez family eltequilatulsa.com has worked hard at our only location to provide you with quality food at affordable prices,” owner Roman Gonzalez said. award, and we thank you for your “We are honored to receive this patronage.”

Torta Ahogada is served at El Rio Verde.

Tulsa World file

Shrimp fajitas are among menu items at Los Cabos Mexican Grill & Cantina. MIKE SIMONS/Tulsa World

MEXICAN (TEX-MEX)

Los Cabos Mexican Grill & Cantina 300 Riverwalk Terrace #100, Jenks 918-298-2226 151 Bass Pro Drive, Broken Arrow 918-355-8877 9455 N. Owasso Expressway, Owasso 918-609-8671 loscabosok.com

L

os Cabos came to the Tulsa area in 2005.

Ten years later, thumbs up.

Chef/consultant Jimmy Blacketer, upon learning that Tulsa World readers had voted Los Cabos atop this category, said, “First of all, let me say how humbled and thankful we are to be picked by your readers as the Best of the World in Mexican food. My family and I continue to strive every day to deliver the best Mexican food possible. We just celebrated our 10-year anniversary in May, and we look forward to another 10-plus years. None of this would be possible without our great employees, some of which are still with us from day one. Thank you again.”

The Blacketer family had a long and successful background in the

Finalists Chuy’s Mexican Restaurant 10808 E. 71st St. 918-252-0405 8120 S. Olympia Ave. West 918-445-8007 chuys.com

El Guapo’s Cantina 332 E. First St. 918-382-7482 8161 S. Harvard Ave. 918-728-7482 elguaposcantina.com

food-service industry before Los Cabos opened its doors.

The family saw a need for a casual upscale Mexican concept, and the goal was to blend exceptional food and an outstanding service with a slant of fun never before seen in Oklahoma, according to loscabosok. com.

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAGE 35

CHEAP EATS

QuikTrip 55 locations in Tulsa area quiktrip.com

T

he best “cheap eats” in Tulsa won’t be found at a restaurant, according to those who participated in the Best in the World reader poll.

You can get them at a convenience store, QuikTrip, which has locations all over the metro area.

“We appreciate the award, and as we continue to grow and add more options of our fresh food, we hope the customer is going to continue to choose QuikTrip because we recognize they have a lot of choices,” QT spokesperson Mike Thornbrugh said.

QT has long made pre-packaged sandwiches, wraps and salads available for customers. But QT took its food offerings to another level with the creation of QT Kitchens. Visitors can order personal pizzas, toasted sandwiches, flatbread sandwiches, pretzels and kolaches, which are made fresh to order.

QT Kitchens, plus myriad drink selections, make QT a regular stop for Tulsans.

Boho Sno Shaved Ice co-owner Nicole Sullivan prepares a Zombie Blood snow cone at her business in Glenpool. Boho won best in the shaved ice category. JAMES GIBBARD/Tulsa World

SHAVED ICE

Boho Sno 2800 W. 121st St. South, Glenpool 918-760-2465 facebook.com/BohoSno

A

mong 80-plus flavor options at Boho Sno Shaved Ice are customer favorites named in honor of Zombie Blood and Bob Marley.

Zombie Blood ingredients: green apple and black cherry with a sour gummy worm.

Bob Marley ingredients: strawberry, pineapple and lime with Pop Rocks on top.

What’s not to like?

Tulsa World readers liked Boho Sno well enough to vote the Glenpool business as the best in the shaved ice category, and co-owner Nicole Sullivan described the news

Finalists Harper’s Hut Shaved Ice 1124 E. Charles Page Blvd., Suite 700 Sand Springs 918-671-6352 harpershutshavedice.com

Josh’s Sno Shack Multiple locations in Tulsa area joshssnoshack.com

as “awesome.”

“I appreciate all their (voters’) support,” Sullivan said.

“Without my customers, we wouldn’t be here. This is ultimately why we did it. We did it for them.”

The creation of QuikTrip Kitchens, inside many QT locations, led to more food choices for Tulsans. CORY YOUNG/Tulsa World

Finalists Coney Island Hot Weiner Shop 107 N. Boulder Ave., Suite D 918-587-2821 coneyislandtulsa.com

Taco Bueno 25 locations in the Tulsa area tacobueno.com

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAGE 37

MARGARITA

Cafe Ole 3509 S. Peoria Ave. 918-745-6699 cafeolebrookside.com

W

hether sipping on a traditional margarita with fresh-squeezed lime and gold tequila or indulging in a specialty margarita, such as the prickly pear margarita with gold tequila, prickly pear syrup and fresh lime juice, Cafe Ole’s patio is the place to be.

The enclosed patio with a fireplace is cozy in the winter and a refreshing place to hang out most of the remainder of the year with a tall, cool margarita in hand.

“It’s pretty cool,” said coowner Don Jones.

“Over the years, our margarita is one of the

Finalists El Guapo’s Cantina 332 E. First St. 918-382-7482 8161 S. Harvard Ave. 918-728-7482 elguaposcantina.com

Los Cabos Mexican Grill & Cantina Three area locations loscabosok.com

things Ole is known for.

I don’t know that it has won anything on this scale before. The recipe never has changed. The only thing better than a margarita on our patio maybe is two margaritas on our patio.”

BURGER

Fat Guy’s Burger Bar 140 N. Greenwood Ave. 918-794-7782 7945 S. Memorial Drive 918-893-2232 fatguysburgers.com

F

Finalists Brownie’s Hamburgers & Brownie’s Gourmet Burgers 2130 S. Harvard Ave. 918-744-0320 6577 E. 71st St. 918-398-6615 1730 Utica Square 918-747-7935 brownies-hamburgers.com

at Guy’s Burger Bar, located next to ONEOK Field and in south Tulsa, is locally owned

by Mike Meehan and chef Chris Dodge.

It features an array of gourmet burgers, including the Fat & Juicy with two patties stuffed with butter Goldie’s Patio and bleu cheese or American cheese.

Grill Don’t go away without trying the fries that come with a choice of 18 Nine area locations dipping sauces. goldies.com “It is a great honor for us that Tulsa has voted Fat Guy’s as their favorite burger restaurant for the second year in a row,” Meehan said. “We will keep striving to be the best hometown burger joint Tulsa has to offer. Thank you Tulsa for your loyal support.”

A margarita is served at Cafe Ole. MIKE SIMONS/ Tulsa World file

WEEKEND

PAGE 38

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

BRUNCH

Dilly Diner 402 E. Second St. 918-938-6382 dillydiner.com

Finalists

D

Brookside by Day’s Eye Opener Omelet is among popular dishes at the restaurant. Tulsa World file

BREAKFAST

Brookside By Day 3313 S. Peoria Ave. 918-745-9989 brooksidebyday.com

B

Finalists

rookside by Day has been a longtime fixture on Peoria Avenue for breakfast and lunch. Its quirky dining areas and sidewalk patio add to the charm of Kyle Phillips’ restaurant.

Specialty breakfast dishes include the murrito with scrambled eggs, sausage, green onions and cheddar cheese wrapped in a flour tortilla and served with fresh guacamole, sour cream, picante and home fries.

French toast, eggs Benedict and a variety of omelets are among other popular dishes.

Savoy Restaurant 6033 S. Sheridan Road 918-494-5621 savoyrestaurant.com

Tally’s Good Food Cafe 1102 S. Yale Ave. 918-835-8039

“We’re so appreciative for the loyalty of BBD customers,” Phillips said.

“They are simply the best.

It will be 24 years Oct. 3, and if I have my way, I’ll be here 24 more.”

Brookside by Day STEPHEN PINGRY/Tulsa World

624 Kitchen & illy Diner recently Catering changed 624 S. Boston Ave. its concept 918-779-6333 and name from Dilly 624catering.com Deli, but whatever name it goes by, this SMOKE on Cherry popular spot in the Street Blue Dome District always has been 1542 E. 15th St. a great place for a 918-949-4440 weekend brunch. smoketulsa.com Peach cakes, brioche French toast, breakfast tacos, frittatas and the decadent bananas French toast are among the creative dishes from the Dilly Diner kitchen.

“We couldn’t be happier,” said Trevor Tack, executive chef for the McNellie’s Group of restaurants. “Our goal is to be the absolute definitive breakfast-brunch place in Tulsa. Thank you very much.”

Chocolate chip waffles are served at Dilly Diner. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World file

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

WEEKEND

PAGE 39

ICE CREAM, CUSTARD, FROZEN YOGURT

Freckles Frozen Custard 8011 S. Sheridan Road 918-252-2663 5138 S. Harvard Ave. 918-749-5663 frecklesfrozencustard.com

A

Mahogany Prime Steakhouse boasts excellent service in a Chicago-style dining room with rich mahogany woodwork and separate rooms for private dining. Tulsa World file

STEAKHOUSE

Mahogany Prime Steakhouse 6823 S. Yale Ave. 918-494-4043 ehsrg.com/mahogany

M Steak and lobster is served at Mahogany Prime Steakhouse.

MICHAEL WYKE/Tulsa World

Finalists Jamil’s

Prhyme Downtown Steakhouse

3823 E. 51st St. 918-742-9097

111 N. Main St. 918-794-7700 prhymetulsa.com

ahogany Prime Steakhouse features custom-aged U.S. prime Midwestern beef known for its excellence in marbling.

Though steaks, broiled at 900 degrees to lock in the cornfed flavor, are the featured attraction, Mahogany also offers some excellent seafood, including Australian rock lobster.

Mahogany also boasts one of the finest wine lists in town and excellent service in a Chicago-style dining room with rich mahogany woodwork and separate rooms for private dining.

Mahogany is part of the Norman-based Hal Smith Restaurant Group.

ny idea that pleases taste buds is worth borrowing.

Two college pals experienced the “incredible” treat known as frozen custard while in St. Louis. They decided Tulsans would like frozen custard just as much as they did.

And Freckles Frozen Custard was born.

“Fifteen years ago, we started filling a void we felt existed in the frozen dessert market,” Freckles Frozen Custard owner Don McKinney said. “Our frozen custard is made fresh every day, and we are excited by the new customers we have each day.

We look forward to serving future generations of Tulsans.”

Customers at Freckles Frozen Custard get to feast on their own creations. They

Finalists Braum’s Ice Cream and Dairy Store Numerous locations in the Tulsa area braums.com

STG Gelateria 114 S. Detroit Ave. 5233 S. Sheridan Road 918-960-2011 stgitalian.com

can choose flavors, ingredients and toppings.

Premium specialties are also on the menu. Among the specialty items are The Driller (vanilla custard, peanut butter, brownies and hot fudge) and Chocolate Allie (fresh chocolate blended with hot fudge and Snickers — and it’s topped with whipped cream and chocolate chips).

Who’s up for some frozen custard?

Customers can feast on their own creations at Freckles Frozen Custard locations. STEPHEN PINGRY/Tulsa World

PAGE 40

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

W

e proudly call northeast Oklahoma “home,” but that word gets even more personal when we’re talking about the actual walls and roof that define our individual living quarters. How you outfit that space says a lot about who you are.

Tulsa offers many choices when it comes to urban, suburban and rural living, whether you’re building a house, renovating one, or renting a place. The best part is you have so many professionals who are just a phone call or click away to help you keep everything running well and looking spiffy.

APPLIANCE STORE

Hahn Appliance Warehouse 6710 S. 105th East Ave. 8160 E. 41st St., (outlet) 918-622-6262 hahnappliance.com

Finalists Lowe’s

L Lee Sherman, owner of Hahn Appliance Warehouse, bought the company from its original owner, Shelton Hahn, 12 years after he began working for him.

JAMES GIBBARD/Tulsa World file

ee Sherman can easily be mistaken as “Mr. Hahn.”

He is not, however, the founder of Hahn Appliances, although Sherman now owns the company.

Hahn Appliances is one of those Tulsa institutions in the retail trade. You might start shopping at other stores, but sooner or later you’re going to end up at Hahn. And, as Sherman would add, you’re going to find the best selection and service there.

Shelton Hahn started the company in 1958. It wasn’t until 1971 that Sherman met Hahn and began working for him as a salesman. Twelve years later, Sherman bought the company from Hahn

Eight locations in the Tulsa area lowes.com

Metro Appliance & More 5313 S. Mingo Road 918-622-7692 metroappliancesandmore.com

when the founder decided to retire.

The company has continued to expand. The longtime location on 41st Street now serves as an outlet store for scratch and dent appliances at discounted prices while the main showroom and store is prominently located off Highway 169 just north of 71st Street.

HVAC

Air Assurance

Finalists

Airco Service

1301 S.W. Expressway Drive, Broken Arrow 918-894-5760 | airassurance.com

Air Comfort Solutions

11331 E. 58th St. | 918-252-5667 aircoservice.com

avid Rampey, company co-owner, takes pride in his employees at Air Assurance. Rampey’s team is composed of well-trained, experienced professionals who provide customers with excellent service while they are in the field.

“They earn trust and build relationships,” Rampey said.

Air Assurance is constantly training employees not just in technical expertise, but also in customer service and interpersonal communication, which brings customers back for their service needs.

Air Assurance specializes in heating and air conditioning, but the staff goes above and beyond to provide excellent service.

2732 N. Sheridan Road 918-743-2300 aircomfortsolutions.net

D

Air Solutions Heating, Cooling & Plumbing 108 Wellston Park Road, Sand Springs 918-994-0880 callairsolutions.com

A

irco Service has a daily mission to never let customers go without air-conditioning, heating, plumbing or electrical service. The company’s dedication to its craft is what keeps customers returning again and

again.

“We always put our customers first,” said Tom Boyce, whose family owns the company.

Airco Service has been in business since 1961 and has grown from running one truck with two employees to having more than 100 trucks and more than 150 employees. Airco has maintained a family atmosphere since the day it started.

“Airco Service was founded on a strong work ethic and a desire to provide excellent customer service,” Boyce said.

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

WEEKEND

ad 100135916-02

PAGE 41

WEEKEND

PAGE 42

OUTDOOR LIVING

Jack Wills Outdoor Living Finalists Metro Outdoor Living 6235 S. Mingo Road 918-893-2960 metrooutdoorliving. com

Oklahoma Outdoor Living 918-859-3621 oklahomaoutdoorliving.com

8411 E. 41st St. 918-663-3730 jackwills.net

J

ack Wills began in 1939 as a small furniture and drapery store in downtown Tulsa. The company shifted its focus to outdoor furniture in 1969, and Jack Wills Outdoor Living continues that tradition today with a store in Tulsa, two in Arkansas and one in Tennessee.

Jack Wills III now serves as the third-generation company president.

The company is committed to helping customers make the favorite room in their house the one that’s outside. It offers a wide range of products from outdoor furniture and fireplaces to barbecue grills and outdoor play equipment. Jack Wills prides itself on selling products made in the U.S.A. that are of a superior quality.

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

WEEKEND

ad 100157853-01

PAGE 43

WEEKEND

PAGE 44

PLUMBER

DOOR & WINDOW REPLACEMENT

Mullin Plumbing

Windows by Jeff

118 S. Elm Place, Broken Arrow 918-258-6636 mullininc.com

105 W. Main St., Jenks 918-528-6230 windowsbyjeff.com

M

ullin Plumbing employs 115 people and has a fleet of 97 easily recognizable red trucks ready to meet your needs.

“We strive for 100 percent satisfaction guaranteed — regardless of what that takes to meet our customers’ needs and wishes,” CEO Robert Morris said.

The local company covers all of northeastern Oklahoma and has an office in Moore to meet needs in the central part of the state.

Mullin began in 1973 as a drain-cleaning and septic system company. Over the last four decades, Mullin has branched into a full-service plumbing company that handles everything from fixing clogged sinks, faucets, toilets, bathtubs and sprinkler systems to rerouting pipes, installing French drains and sealing gas leaks. It’s now a 24/7 operation that prides itself on being there when a customer needs help.

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

Mullin Plumbing is a longtime fixture in the Tulsa plumbing scene. Tom Gilbert/Tulsa World file

Finalists Air Assurance

Airco Service

1301 S.W. Expressway Drive, Broken Arrow 918-894-5760 airassurance.com

11331 E. 58th St. 918-252-5667 aircoservice.com

J

eff Ford was a Tulsa firefighter who started installing windows in his downtime. He soon realized a greater need for the service and decided to go full time.

That’s how Windows by Jeff was born.

Since 1999, Ford has grown his Jenks-based business into what he calls “The Name You Trust.” It was made official by the Better Business Bureau when Windows by Jeff was named a 2013 Torch Award winner. Only a few local companies earn the

Finalists The Window Source of Tulsa 6549 E. 46th St., Suite 6 918-561-6200 thewindowsourcetulsa. com

Thermal Windows 12805 E. 31st St. 918-663-7580 thermalwindows.com

award each year. It honors companies who demonstrate marketplace trust and integrity in how they conduct business.

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

REMODELER

Residential Repair 7628 E. 46th St. 918-621-1020 residentialrepairinc.com

R

esidential Repair owner Jonathon Knapp said he is honored to be named best remodeler for the second year.

“We are a unique company that builds a long-term relationship with our clients,” Knapp said. “As a full-service home repair and remodeling company, we can save our customers time and money by keeping a good portion of their project in-house.

Our team comes with a vast structural knowledge of homes and knows how to blend the old and new for the perfect installation of trims, cabinets and finishes.”

Residential Repair can

Finalists Re-Bath of Tulsa 6570 E. 41st St. 918-731-4830 tulsaokbathroomremodeling.calls.net

Sonrise Construction 918-357-7777 sonrisehardscaping.com

do small jobs from opening up one wall and updating a building’s current layout to adding an entire extension to a customer’s property.

“We have remodeled many bathrooms and kitchens, as well as home restorations due to insurance losses,” Knapp said.

PAGE 45

WEEKEND

PAGE 46

ROOFER

Royal Roofing & Construction 7628 E. 46th St. 918-398-6500 rrcok.com

J

onathon Knapp, owner of Royal Roofing & Construction, has a vast knowledge of roofing products, applications and what works best with the entire structure. This allows him to deliver a superior final product that will last for years and look great with the home architecture.

As a preferred contractor with Owens Corning and CertainTeed Roofing products, Royal Roofing & Construction offers a longer warranty than most. Royal Roofing is also a member of the Oklahoma Roofing Contractors Association.

“The roof surface has a larger presence than everything else on most homes, and

Finalists A-Best Roofing 1411 E. Third St. 918-587-1426 abestroofing.com

T-Town Roofing 5770 E. Skelly Drive 918-445-4400 t-townroofing.com

it should fit the style and design of the house,” Knapp said.

“There are so many choices for roofing products, and there is a perfect selection to give the home its wow factor.”

Royal Roofing & Construction offers complete exterior restoration including roofing, patios, siding, gutters and paint.

BUILDER

Magnolia Homes 131st Street and Sheridan Road 918-254-1118 magnolia-homes.com

M

any people drive through a Tulsa area neighborhood admiring beautiful houses without ever knowing who built them. That can especially be true for Magnolia Homes, which builds many custom houses.

The company’s portfolio includes multiple houses in exclusive neighborhoods such as River’s Edge, Eagle Rock, the Villages of Ashton Creek and Forest Ridge.

But those represent only the latest efforts of what company founder Chuck Schwartz has done in the last 20 years in the Tulsa area.

Finalists Brian D. Wiggs Homes 302 W. Main St., Jenks 918-518-5678 briandwiggs.com

Yorktown Builders, LLC 5711 E. 71st St., Suite 120 918-494-4004 yorktown.builders

“A lot of our homes are ones we build on land people already own,” said Schwartz’s wife, Nancy.

“One of the most fulfilling things about this business is watching people get excited as their dream home becomes a reality.”

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

WEEKEND

PAGE 48

CARPET/FLOORING

Grigsby’s Carpet, Tile & Rug Gallery 4417 S. Sheridan Road 918-627-6996 grigsbys.com

Finalists

T

he staff at Grigsby’s Carpet, Tile & Rug Gallery has been earning praise from Tulsans for more than a halfcentury, but employees never tire of hearing it.

“It’s one thing for us to think we’re great, but it’s another thing to know our customers think we do a great job,” said Penny Carnino, director of operations. “We certainly strive to be the best.”

Selection is one reason customers prefer Grigsby’s.

The store carries more than a dozen national brands of carpet, as well as hardwoods and laminates, ceramic and porcelain tile, vinyl, natural stone, decorative surfaces and area rugs.

Carpet One 6551 S. Garnett Road, Broken Arrow 918-771-4059 3940 S. Sheridan Road 918-982-6155 7841 S. Olympia Ave. West 539-777-2311 9000 N. Garnett Road, Owasso 918-602-4353 carpetone.com

Mill Creek Carpet & Tile 6845 E. 41st St. 918-621-4000 9342 S. Memorial Drive 918-488-9300 millcreekcarpet.com

ELECTRICIAN

Aspen Electrical Services 5031 E. Admiral Place 918-277-9119 aspenelectricalservices.com

J

eremy Parchman is living his childhood dream. All he’s ever wanted to do since he was 7 years old is be an electrician.

Parchman opened his own company, Aspen Electrical Services, nine years ago, and he was recently voted best electrician in the Tulsa area.

“We strive to be the best,” Parchman said. “We try to do the right thing in every situation, and we don’t cut corners.”

Parchman’s love of electrical things goes back to his great-grandfather, who was an electrician. Jeremy now employs five family members as part of his 14-member staff.

Aspen Electrical services

Finalists Airco Service 11331 E. 58th St. 918-252-5667 aircoservice.com

Houchin Electric 9134 E. 46th St. 918-663-1818 houchinelectric.com

residential customers, as well as commercial projects. And he loves taking on interesting projects such as the First Oklahoma Bank in Jenks. His company installed the lights atop the iconic six-story structure that can be seen from miles around.

“We get to do a lot of really cool stuff,” Parchman said.

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAGE 47

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE COMPANY

Chinowth & Cohen Realtors Nine offices in the Tulsa area cctulsa.com

S

heryl Chinowth and Lee Cohen cofounded a real estate brokerage in Tulsa in 2004 with one office and 25 sales associates.

Today, their firm operates nine area real estate offices and employs more than 350 sales agents. Tulsa World readers have voted Chinowth & Cohen the best residential real estate company in the area.

Chinowth attributes its success to three things: the knowledge, professionalism and expertise of its agents.

It’s why Chinowth & Cohen is one of the state’s largest

Finalists Coldwell Banker Select

ad 100140105-02

12 offices in the Tulsa area 800-521-2152 cbtulsa.com

McGraw Realtors Seven offices in the Tulsa area 918-592-6000 mcgrawrealtors.com

real estate companies.

“It’s the commitment of our agents and staff to serve the communities they live in,” Chinowth said proudly.

ad 100157367-01

ad 100139754-02

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

GARDEN/NURSERY STORE

PAGE 49

FURNITURE STORE

Southwood Landscape Mathis Brothers Furniture & Garden Center 9025 S. Lewis Ave. 918-299-9409 southwoodgardencenter.com

S

outhwood Landscape & Garden Center stands like a tall oak in south Tulsa, having established itself as the best in the business.

Its roots go back to 1982, when the company began as a landscape design firm at 71st Street and Riverside Drive. It moved to 91st Street and Lewis Avenue three years later and continues to thrive, with its own growing facilities nearby.

Marketing Manager Paul James says the secret to Southwood’s continued success is that the staff has grown more than plants

6611 S. 101st East Ave. 918-525-5655 mathisbrothers.com

Finalists Grogg’s Green Barn 10105 E. 61st St. 918-994-4222 groggsgreenbarn.com

Sanders Nursery & Distribution Center 20705 E. 161st St., Broken Arrow 918-486-1500 sandersnurseryok.com

over the years. Southwood has grown relationships with great people.

“We work with the best in the business,” James said, “from our employees to our vendors and suppliers.”

I

t’s difficult to walk into the Mathis Brothers Furniture showroom off 71st Street and Highway 169 and think that this massive operation began in the 1940s when two brothers began buying and refurbishing refrigerators and selling them at local appliance stores. It didn’t become a furniture store until 1960.

Today, it’s the largest furniture retailer in Tulsa and in Oklahoma City. The company is now in the hands of the fourth generation of Mathis family members.

The Tulsa store expanded last year, allowing Mathis Brothers to display even more furniture on its showroom floor. And it’s done so by expanding individual departments such as bedrooms, living rooms or dining areas.

“We have a lot more selection,” said store manager Chris Mefford. “We have some of the largest furniture departments in Oklahoma — not just the largest overall store.”

That volume also allows Mathis Brothers to offer the lowest prices, he adds.

Mathis Brothers executive Brad Woessner and Store Manager Chris Mefford stand in the Tulsa store. SHEILA HAYNES/for the Tulsa World

Finalists Luxe Furniture & Design

Sunshine Furniture

9922 Riverside Parkway 918-459-8950 luxetulsa.com

7178 S. Memorial Drive 918-250-7880 sunshineok.com

HOME DECOR STORE

HOME IMPROVEMENTS STORE

T.A. Lorton

Lowe’s

Finalists

1325 E. 15th St. 918-743-1600 talorton.com

Eight locations in the Tulsa area lowes.com

The Home Depot

I

hen it comes to home improvements, Lowe’s is the retail leader in the Tulsa area, according to Tulsa World readers.

And why not? This North Carolina-based company now operates more than 1,845 stores in the United States, Canada and Mexico, including eight locations locally from Bixby to Bartlesville.

Despite its size, the company prides itself on offering personal service.

“Our focus has been on helping people love where they live,” says Chris Waller, Lowe’s district manager for Eastern Oklahoma.

“We understand that for our customers, they’re dealing with their largest investment – their home. It helps our employees connect with the customers.”

f you’re looking for home furnishings for yourself or a special gift for someone else, you really should start your search at T.A. Lorton.

This Cherry Street boutique specializes in one-of-a-kind items, from linens and table-top accessories to lighting and wall art. It’s the perfect place to shop to beautify your home.

Owner Tracy Lorton Salisbury prides herself on constantly changing her inventory. “I always want the store to feel fresh,” she said. “I try really hard to sell things you don’t find other places.”

Salisbury travels around the country looking for items, as well as finding ideas in magazines and on the Internet. She especially loves handmade products and regularly invites artists to appear at trunk shows at her store.

Stop by to see her “ever-changing selection of unique finds and treasures.”

You’ll be glad you did.

W T.A. Lorton sells all kinds of unique accessories for your home, including these items for a bedroom.

Courtesy

Finalists Hobby Lobby 5130 S. Harvard Ave. 9717 E. 71st St. 720 W. New Orleans St., Broken Arrow 9002 N. 121st East Ave., Owasso hobbylobby.com

Old Time Pottery 8939 S. Memorial Drive 918-505-0030 oldtimepottery. com

Five locations in the Tulsa area homedepot.com

Westlake Ace Hardware Five locations in the Tulsa area westlakehardware. com

WEEKEND

PAGE 50

W

e like to think of our readers as really smart people. Well, they ought to be: Tulsa is home to some great schools.

It starts from kindergarten through high school. Parents have many quality choices about where to send their kids to receive a private education in academics or the arts.

Whether they decide on public or private edu-

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

cation, their students also can begin learning a job skill through the state’s biggest technical training program.

Two private universities call Tulsa home, and both of the state’s largest institutions of higher learning operate extension campuses here. We also have trade schools and smaller colleges that can help put residents to work.

DANCE/ART/MUSIC SCHOOL

Tulsa Ballet 1212 E. 45th Place South 918-749-6030 tulsaballet.org

plished through hard work and dedication in the dance studio,” says Jessica Novak, Tulsa Ballet’s marketing and sales manager. ulsa Ballet isn’t just an Tulsa Ballet offers classes that internationally renowned range from pre-professional level professional ballet comto open division for children ages pany, but it is also home 3, all the way to adults just looking to Tulsa Ballet’s Center for Dance to have fun and incorporate dance Education. Students who train at in their fitness regimen. the school get the unique opportuTulsa Ballet also just broke nity to interact with professional ground on a satellite school in dancers while being immersed in Broken Arrow, Tulsa Ballet’s world-class performances.

Hardesty Center for Dance Educa“Students are able to see on a tion, which will open in August daily basis what can be accom2016.

T

Students practice at the Tulsa Ballet studio.

Courtesy

ADULT EDUCATION

TRADE SCHOOL

Tulsa Tech

Tulsa Tech

Seven campuses in the Tulsa area tulsatech.edu

T

ulsa Tech offers many opportunities for adults to retool or finish their majors.

One opportunity is through Tulsa Tech’s Accelerating Independence Scholarship. This scholarship allows for adult students through the age of 23 who have graduated from a Tulsa Tech partnering high school the abil-

Finalists

ity to complete their career major tuition-free once other financial aid resources are applied, said Scott Williams, associate superintendent of instruction and student services.

Tulsa Tech offers students entrylevel classes for majors like pre-engineering to obtaining certification in fields like radiologic technology.

“An investment in yourself through Tulsa Tech is an investment in a successful future,” Williams said.

Finalists St. Gregory’s

Tulsa Community College

5801 E. 41st St., Suite 900 918-610-8888 stgregorys.edu

Five locations in the Tulsa area tulsacc.edu

Seven campuses in the Tulsa area tulsatech.edu

T

ulsa Tech serves eight counties and encompasses 15 public school districts, allowing students excellent opportunities in a variety of locales.

Tulsa Tech was founded in 1965 as part of Tulsa Public Schools and, in 1973, became an independent school district.

Since its start, Tulsa Tech has continued to grow and expand to offer many different fields of study for high school students and adults.

“Serving such a diverse population, we focus on achieving the best outcome for each individual student,” says Scott Williams, associate superintendent for instruction

Miss Shelly’s School of Dance 8032 S. Sheridan Road 918-496-9549 missshellysschoolofdance. com

Footprints Dance Studio 10125 S. Sheridan Road, Suite B 918-845-6988 footprintsdancestudio.com

Finalists Clary Sage College 3131 S. Sheridan Road 918-298-8200 clarysagecollege.com

Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology 8820 E. Pine St. 918-836-6886 spartan.edu

and student services.

Graduates of Tulsa Tech are put in a position to be successful and are armed with skills that are valued in their chosen industries.

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PRIVATE SCHOOL (K-12)

COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY

University of Tulsa

Bishop Kelley High School

800 S. Tucker Drive 918-631-2000 utulsa.edu

T

3905 S. Hudson Ave. 918-627-3390 bishopkelley.org

T

he staff at Bishop Kelley High School helps students grow not only in academics, fine arts, clubs and athletics, but Finalists also put a special Cascia Hall emphasis on the Preparatory whole School person of their 2520 S. Yorktown students.

Ave. “We 918-746-2600 take our casciahall.org students’ spiritual Holland Hall lives very 5666 E. 81st St. seriously 918-481-1111 and put hollandhall.org a lot of time and energy into events, retreats and activities that help students grow in their faith,” says Father Brian O’Brien, president of the high school.

Bishop Kelley has students from all over Tulsa and the surrounding area totaling 56 different ZIP codes. The diverse backgrounds of students makes the high school well-rounded.

PAGE 51

The new dorm, Hardesty Hall, opened this year on the TU campus.

STEPHEN PINGRY/Tulsa World

Finalists OSU-Tulsa 700 N. Greenwood Ave. 918-594-8000 osu-tulsa.okstate. edu

Tulsa Community College Five locations in the Tulsa area tulsacc.edu

he University of Tulsa is all about preparing students inside and outside the traditional classroom setting. TU is host to many local students, but it also attracts out-of-state and international students. Top undergraduate majors at TU include petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, finance, management, psychology, communications, nursing and exercise/sports science.

“TU offers many traditional classroom courses, as well as hands-on learning in labs and many internships,” said Mona Chamberlin, director of marketing and communications.

Examples include a real-world marketing studio, Studio Blue in the Collins College of Business, and a PR design firm, Third Floor Design in the Kendall College of Arts & Sciences.

WEEKEND

PAGE 52

P

reventive health means regularly checking the pulse of a patient and running a few basic tests to ensure everything’s working well. That’s exactly what we did when it comes to evaluating the quantity and quality of health services available in our community.

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

Tulsans should feel good about the network of support options in our region for maintaining healthy lifestyles and addressing physical needs when they arise. That’s true whether it’s your teeth, eyes and ears or your heart, bones and joints.

CARDIOLOGY

ORTHOPEDIC PRACTICE

Heart Hospital at Saint Francis

Warren Clinic Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine

6161 S. Yale Ave. 918-205-2050 saintfrancis.com

T

he Heart Hospital at Saint Francis continues to offer patients some of the best cardiac technologies in Tulsa.

For example, it was the first to bring the subcutaneous defibrillator to northeastern Oklahoma last year, according to Doug Williams, vice president of the Heart Hospital.

This procedure does not require the implantation of hardware into the heart, which is a great option for a subset of patients, specifically young people.

And just this month, Saint Francis became the first in northeastern Oklahoma to implant the left atrial appendage device called the Watchman. Williams said this new device has the potential to revolutionize

6475 S. Yale Ave., Suite 202 918-494-4460 10507 E. 91st St. South, Suite 450 918-307-3170 saintfrancis.com

The Heart Hospital at Saint Francis SHANE BEVEL/Courtesy

the treatment options for patients suffering from atrial fibrillation.

“We’re also fortunate to have excellent, well-trained physicians, nurses and staff who are passionate about treating cardiovascular disease,” he said. “It’s the people who provide care to our patients who truly make the Heart Hospital special.”

Finalists Oklahoma Heart Institute 1120 S. Utica Ave. 918-592-0999 oklahomaheart.com

St. John Heart Institute 1923 S. Utica Ave. 918-744-2598 stjohnhealthsystem.com

D

r. Steve Sanders, vice president of medical affairs at the Warren Clinic, recognizes the trust that patients’ families place in the Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine physicians and staff to provide comprehensive and compassionate care.

“Everything we do is centered on easing a patient’s anxiety with a team of individuals solely focused on providing the most advanced medical care,” he said.

It’s that team approach that makes all the difference, Sanders added. “We have a great multidisciplinary team

FINALISTS Tulsa Bone & Joint 4802 S. 109th East Ave. 918-494-4460 tulsaboneandjoint.com

Central States Orthopedics Six locations in the Tulsa area 918-481-2767 csosortho.com

of doctors and mid-level providers who work collaboratively to help patients with bone and joint problems.

Each has a specialty that complements the other, and they aggressively track quality information to improve the care of their patients.”

ORTHODONTICS

Cooper Chockley Orthodontics 3916 E. 91st St. 918-876-7846 cooperchockleyortho.com

D

r. Jonathan Cooper and Dr. Brenda Chockley are a husband-and-wife team who created their orthodontics practice with a singularly focused mission:

“To improve the lives of the patients we serve by helping them achieve the smiles that they have always dreamed of.”

“The reward we receive is the relationships we build with our patients and their families,” Dr. Cooper said.

“We are so grateful for the wonderful patients who

choose us to be their orthodontist.”

Drs. Cooper and Chockley are especially proud of the staff they have hand selected.

Together, these professionals have a combined 150 years of providing orthodontic services.

“We love what we do here at Cooper Chockley Ortho-

Finalists dontics,” Dr. Cooper said.

“Our desire is to provide an incredible patient experience.”

That includes making patients feel relaxed and comfortable, straightening teeth with precision and providing affordable monthly payment options.

The Brace Place 4550 S. Harvard Ave. 918-749-8817 thebraceplacetulsa.com

Tulsa Braces by Dr. C 3305 E. 45th St. 918-932-2707 tulsabraces.com

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PEDIATRIC CARE

PAGE 53

DENTISTRY

The Children’s Hospital Dieterlen Dentistry at Saint Francis 3015 E. 91st St. | 918-299-2400 teethteeth.com

6161 S. Yale Ave. 918-502-6000 saintfrancis.com/ childrenshospital

FINALISTS South Tulsa Pediatrics

T

he Children’s Hospital at Saint Francis is the only facility in the community dedicated to the unique healthcare needs of children. Since opening in February 2008, the hospital has been able to recruit new physicians, notably pediatric specialists to the Tulsa area.

“The Children’s Hospital is staffed and equipped to care for the most critical pediatric patients, whether it be as a result of injury or illness,” says Shannon Filosa, executive director of Women’s and Children’s Services for Saint Francis Health System. “It is also

7512 E. 91st St. 918-728-2000 southtulsapediatrics.com

Warren Clinic Pediatrics 3218 S. 79th East Ave., Suite 300 918-728-6850 saintfrancis.com/warren

home to the Henry Zarrow Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the only facility in the area with a Level IV NICU, meaning we can provide care for the most critically ill newborns.”

D

r. Brett Dieterlen has been practicing dentistry locally for 22 years and has been named by readers as the best in the area.

“This recognition is indeed flattering, because there are so many exceptional dental offices throughout the city,” Dieterlen says. “Tulsa is truly blessed to have such an outstanding dental community.”

Dieterlen is a second-generation dentist and practices what he calls “conservative dentistry.”

“I think that this is what tends to set us apart,” he says. “Our patients choosing us for this award, I believe, is a testament to the integrity that we have. Our staff is very dedicated, and we all work carefully with our patients to ensure that they are always treated fairly with regards to their dental needs and personal financial situations.”

The office offers a full range of general dental services, plus extractions, Invisalign invisible braces, implant restorations and same-day dental crowns.

CHIROPRACTOR

Dr. Rick Huskey

Eastern Oklahoma Wellness Center

C

hiropractic care has come a long way over the years to be a trusted partner in the medical community.

Dr. Rick Huskey can attest to that. The Tulsa chiropractor has been specializing in restoring joint motion and muscle function for 27 years.

“Most of my patients now come from medical doctors referring them to me,” he said.

“I treat nonsurgical joint and muscle functions.”

Huskey has privileges at three hospitals and works as a staff chiropractor at Cancer Treatment Centers of America’s

Dr. Rick Huskey has been specializing in restoring joint motion and muscle function for 27 years.

TOM GILBERT/Tulsa World file

Southwest Regional Medical Center in Tulsa. He also worked directly for three years with a medical practice in Sand Springs. Huskey’s daughter is now attending chiropractic college to carry on her father’s legacy of treating patients.

Huskey uses the active release technique in treating muscle injuries and employs two massage therapists. He also does joint manipulation and now utilizes a cold laser in his practice.

CORY YOUNG/Tulsa World

Finalists My Dentist Eight locations in the Tulsa area mydentistinc.com

Perfect Smile Tulsa 5301 S. Lewis Ave. 918-742-8100 perfectsmiletulsa.com

PHYSICAL THERAPY Finalists

3820 E. 51st St., Suite A 918-747-0939 drrickhuskey.com

Brett Dieterlen’s office, Dieterlen Dentistry, was named Tulsa’s best by Tulsa World readers.

1717 N. Peoria Ave., Suite 5 918-615-3433 6117 S. Mingo Road, Suite C 918-615-3433 8556 E. 101st St., Suite H 918-369-9144 eowc.net

Snyder Chiropractic & Acupuncture 4146 S. Harvard Ave., Suite F-5 918-749-7772 drjustinsnyder.com

Saint Francis Outpatient Rehabilitation 6585 S. Yale Ave., Suite 445 918-481-2977 saintfrancis.com

S

aint Francis Health Systems offers a wide variety of specialty health care, including inpatient and outpatient physical therapy.

“Our large and diverse staff is highly trained with specialty certifications in a number of areas,” said Marilynn Bartel, vice president of Ancillary Services for Saint Francis Health System. “Our therapists are able to treat any type of patient: children to seniors, neurologically impaired patients and high-level athletes.”

FINALISTS Central States Orthopedics Six locations in the Tulsa area 918-481-2767 csosortho.com

Warren Clinic Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine 6475 S. Yale Ave., Suite 202 918-494-4460 10507 E. 91st St. South, Suite 450 918-307-3170 saintfrancis.com

WEEKEND

PAGE 54

URGENT CARE

St. John Urgent Care Five locations in the Tulsa area 918-872-6800 stjohnhealthsystem.com/ urgent-care

S

t. John Urgent Care offers convenient health services seven days a week at five locations: two in Tulsa and one each in Sand Springs, Broken Arrow and Claremore. St. John Urgent Care provides an on-site laboratory, X-ray services and medical professionals who can treat a diverse array of illnesses and injuries.

St. John Urgent Care accepts most major insurance plans and provides online medical record access to patients through the St. John Online patient records portal.

“St. John Urgent Care offers a team approach to providing urgent care and occupational health services to the community,” said spokeswoman Joy McGill.

Finalists Saint Francis Urgent Care 6160 S. Yale Ave. 918-495-2600 saintfrancis.com

Warren Clinic Five locations in the Tulsa area saintfrancis.com/ warren

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAIN MANAGEMENT

HOSPITAL

Pain Management Finalists of Tulsa

Saint Francis Hospital

6802 S. Olympia Ave., Suite 100 918-447-9300 pmoftulsa.com

Oklahoma Pain and Wellness Center

P

Tulsa Pain

ain Management of Tulsa strives to be the leading provider of pain-management services in Northeastern Oklahoma.

“Helping someone with chronic pain to attain improved function and lessened pain is very rewarding,” Dr. Scott Anthony said. “A patient living a better quality of life are what we strive for in our practice. It is incredibly rewarding to know you have worked with a patient and helped control some-

2811 E. 15th St., Suite 102 918-935-3240 okpainandwellness.com 2000 S. Wheeling, Suite 600 918-742-7030 tulsapain.com

thing such as pain that can be such a life-changing experience for them and their families.”

The medical staff offers a wide range of pain-management services to patients and stays up to date in the latest therapies available.

6161 S. Yale Ave. 918-494-2200 saintfrancis.com

S

aint Francis Hospital began in 1960 as a Catholic organization “to extend the presence and healing ministry of Christ in all we do.” It now encompasses more than 8,500 employees and 900 physicians.

In the past year, the hospital saw its largest expansion with the opening of the new Trauma Emergency Center and 150-bed patient tower, the opening of the new Saint Francis Cancer Center facility near 51st and Highway 169 and expanded orthopedic services with the Saint Francis Joint Replacement Center.

“The hospital maintains 24/7 critical care and trauma physician coverage with

FINALISTS Hillcrest Medical Center 1120 S. Utica Ave. 918-579-1000 hillcrest.com

St. John Medical Center 1923 S. Utica Ave. 918-744-2598 stjohnhealthsystem.com

newly expanded capabilities to care for the most critical patients,” said Lynn Sund, senior vice president/chief nurse executive of Saint Francis Health System and administrator of Saint Francis Hospital.

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

WOMEN’S HEALTH

Warren Clinic OB/GYN 3902 E. 51st St. 918-497-3400 saintfrancis.com/warren

W

ith more than 5,000 deliveries last year, Saint Francis Health System delivers the most babies in the state of Oklahoma.

“At Saint Francis Hospital, we build in safety for new mothers and babies with a specialized obstetrical (OB) hospitalist program,” says Shannon Filosa, executive director of Women’s and Children’s Services for Saint Francis Health System.

“Through this program, a board-certified obstetrician is in the hospital 24 hours a day to step in and assist with any problems, or if the patient’s obstetrician is on the way to the hospital or in

FINALISTS The Women’s Health Group 9001 S. 101st East Ave., Suite 350 918-293-6200 twhg.com

Tulsa OB/GYN Associates 2000 S. Wheeling Ave., Suite 800 918-747-9641 tulsaobgyn.com

another surgery.”

Saint Francis Hospital also provides the area’s only Level 4 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the highest designation for NICUs.

PAGE 55

WEEKEND

PAGE 56

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

HEARING AID CENTER

Clear-tone 2323 S. Sheridan Road 918-838-1000 cleartonetulsa.com

C

lear-tone has been providing hearing aids to Tulsans for more than 30 years and now shares its products with customers around the world.

The family-owned and -operated business takes pride in being an innovative leader in the industry by manufacturing its own hearing aids. Most of all, though, the staff enjoys helping its customers enjoy a better quality of life.

“One of our guiding principles since our founding has been to honor God by putting His Word at the center of all we do,” says Charley Feeley, director of operations. “One of the crucial themes throughout the Bible is compassion and caring.”

Dr. Robert Zoellner has seven optometrists on staff at two locations. CORY YOUNG/Tulsa World file

VISION CARE

Dr. Robert H. Zoellner & Associates

A hearing aid is programmed at Clear-tone.

JAMES GIBBARD/Tulsa World file

Finalists Audiology of Tulsa

Warren Clinic ENT

4564 S. Harvard Ave. 918-745-9052 audiologyoftulsa.com

6160 S. Yale Ave. 918-488-6688 saintfrancis.com

6999 S. Memorial Drive 918-461-2020 3030 S. Harvard Ave. 918-749-2020 drzoellner.com

W

SPINE CARE

Tulsa Spine & Specialty Hospital 6901 S. Olympia Ave. 918-388-5701 tulsaspinehospital.com

T

ulsa World readers voted Tulsa Spine & Specialty Hospital as the best place for spine care, and they’re not alone.

The specialty hospital near Tulsa Hills is one of the best hospitals in the nation, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Tulsa Spine & Specialty Hospital is one of only 7 percent of hospitals nationwide to receive a five-star ranking in patient satisfac-

Courtesy

FINALISTS Spine Center of Tulsa Bone & Joint 4812 S. 109th East Ave., Suite 300 918-392-1400 spinecentertulsa.com

Dr. Rick Huskey 3820 E. 51st St., Suite A 918-747-0939 drrickhuskey.com

tion surveys conducted from July 2013 to June 2014.

It’s also one of only nine hospitals in the state, and one of only three in Tulsa, to receive the top ranking. The surveys measured 11 areas including doctor communication with patients and hospital cleanliness.

The hospital was founded in December 2002 to provide state-of-the-art technology for treating patients with a lower nurseto-patient care ratio, and also has a specialized focus on pediatric and adult ENT, pain management, gynecology, ophthalmology, orthopedic, podiatry, general and robotic surgery.

hen it comes to vision care in Tulsa, a majority of glasses- and lens-wearers only have eyes for Dr. Robert H. Zoellner. He’s known simply as “Dr. Z” to his patients and staff.

The optometrist opened his practice in 1991 and it continues to grow.

Zoellner prides himself on combining quality with convenience and value.

That translates into a large selection of vision wear from which his patients can choose, and they don’t

FINALISTS Eastland Eye Care Associates 10651 E. 31st St. 918-437-6360 eastlandeyecare.com

Triad Eye Institute 6140 S. Memorial Drive 918-252-2020 triadeye.com

have to wait long to see one of the seven optometrists on staff.

His two offices are open seven days a week, and no appointments are required for exams or eyewear.

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAGE 57

W

hat makes Tulsa a great place to live?

We have a high quality of life with a great collection of museums, strong arts groups, glowing accommodations and lots of places to celebrate.

Whether you are looking for a great hotel retreat, an idyllic wedding venue or the perfect retirement community for a loved one, you want the very best.

Here’s what Tulsans say makes our city great.

TULSA PRO SPORTS MASCOT

Hornsby, Tulsa Drillers 201 N. Elgin Ave. | 918-574-8375 | tulsadrillers.com

D

id you know a bull can talk?

Hornsby can.

Hornsby is the big, blue bull mascot for the Tulsa Drillers.

He was tracked down for a comment after being chosen by Tulsans as their favorite sports mascot.

Said Hornsby: “It is humbling to be chosen as Tulsa’s best mascot. It has been my pleasure to entertain the best fans in the world, and I am looking forward to another fun-filled season next spring. In the meantime, catch me this offseason spreading some big, blue love throughout our community and schools. See you soon!”

Hornsby is available for appearances at birthday parties, corporate events, parades, school programs, runs/walks, benefits and charity functions.

FAVORITE TULSA PRO SPORTS TEAM

Tulsa Drillers 201 N. Elgin Ave. 918-744-5901 tulsadrillers.com

W

hich squad did Tulsans select as their favorite professional sports team?

Here’s a hint: Take me out to the ball game.

Take me out to the crowd.

Tulsans love going to ONEOK Field to watch the Tulsa Drillers play baseball games in their downtown home.

“The Drillers are honored to be voted as Tulsa’s favorite pro sports team,” a Drillers spokesperson said.

“It is a tribute to our fans and our great game-day

Tulsa Oilers 9128 E. 46th St. 918-632-7825 tulsaoilers.com

Tulsa Roughnecks 201 N. Elgin Ave. 918-744-5901 tulsaroughnecksfc.com

employees, who both support Drillers baseball so passionately throughout the summer.”

ONEOK Field has been the Drillers’ home since 2010.

The Drillers are a Double-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Captain Cane, University of Tulsa utulsa.edu

Volt, Tulsa Shock shock.wnba.com

TULSA LANDMARK

The Golden Driller 4145 E. 21st St.

Finalists

Finalists

The Golden Driller stands 75 feet tall and weighs 43,500 pounds.

T

owering over Tulsa, the Golden Driller is one of the most iconic symbols of the city.

The 75-foot-tall statue — the fifth largest in the United States — stands outside the Expo Square at the Tulsa Fairgrounds, a concrete and plaster titan with its arm resting on an oil well.

Built for the 1953 International Petroleum Exposition, the Golden Driller continues to draw tourists and locals alike, especially when the Tulsa State Fair comes to town each fall.

Finalists Boston Avenue United Methodist Church 1301 S. Boston Ave. 918-583-5181 bostonavenue.org

Cain’s Ballroom 423 N. Main St. 918-584-2306 cainsballroom.com

WEEKEND

PAGE 58

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

DEVELOPMENT

HOTEL

River’s Edge

The Mayo Hotel

131st Street and Sheridan Road riversedgebixby.com

115 W. Fifth St. 918-582-6296 themayohotel.com

H

ugging the north side of the Arkansas River as it curves toward Bixby is the aptly-named River’s Edge subdivision.

Tucked away along the river, residents of River’s Edge can enjoy all the creature comFinalists forts that Tulsa and Bixby have Forest Ridge to offer while 901 N. Forest Ridge Blvd., still maintaining Broken Arrow a peaceful and 918-357-2787 quite place to call forestridge.com home.

The developStone Canyon ment has a private park and club7500 N. 177th East Ave., house with a pool, Owasso as well as nature 918-376-6764 trails along the stonecanyonliving.com river for residents to get the full experience.

And with lots still available, the development continues to grow.

The Mayo Hotel is a shining jewel of downtown Tulsa.

I

t was a gleaming gem in downtown Tulsa when it was built 90 years ago, and after a 2009 renovation, the Mayo Hotel is once again a destination in downtown Tulsa.

Sure, there’s a hotel for out-of-town visitors and even a few stay-cations, but with the Penthouse Rooftop Lounge The Boiler Room restaurant and bar on the first floor, meet space, apartments and glamorous ballroom, The Mayo Hotel is a unique downtown destination.

A cocktail watching the sun set over the Arkansas River under the glowing Mayo sign makes for a nearly ideal evening.

Tulsa World file

Finalists Ambassador Hotel 1324 S. Main St. 918-587-8200 ambassadorhotelcollection.com/ tulsa

Renaissance Tulsa Hotel & Convention Center 6808 S. 107th East Ave. 918-307-2600 marriott.com

PLACE TO WORSHIP

PLACE TO VOLUNTEER

LifeChurch.tv

Iron Gate

Six locations in the Tulsa area

501 S. Cincinnati Ave. 918-359-9001 irongatetulsa.org

918-938-0900 lifechurch.tv

W

hen it comes to faith, the manner of practice is mostly in the beholder.

For more than 20,000 Tulsans on average, LifeChurch.tv is that practice.

With six locations in the Tulsa region and limitless access to services online, LifeChurch.tv has grown quickly since it first launched in 2002 in the Tulsa area.

The Edmond-based church now has 24 physical locations across seven states.

Tome Dawson, LifeChurch.tv leader for the Tulsa-area locations, said the point, though, is the faith community coming together to strengthen its faith.

“We’re honored that people enjoy worshiping at LifeChurch.tv. We love the people of Tulsa and consider it a privilege to serve this great community,” Dawson said. “We’re thankful to work alongside so many other strong churches and ministry partners who are dedicated to sharing the incomparable hope and love of Jesus with the Tulsa area.”

I Worshippers raise their hands during the launch of the LifeChurch.tv campus in Broken Arrow. Courtesy

Finalists All Souls Unitarian Church

Trinity Episcopal Church

2952 S. Peoria Ave. 918-743-2363 allsoulschurch.org

501 S. Cincinnati Ave. 918-582-4128 trinitytulsa.org

ron Gate provides hot meals to poor and homeless people seven days a week, distributes groceries three days a week and has a kids pantry that distributes snack packs.

Last year, the nonprofit organization provided 220,179 meals through its soup kitchen and 32,116 bags of groceries, according to Iron Gate records.

It takes a large number of dedicated volunteers to achieve those kinds of results, so maybe it’s no surprise that Best in the World voters chose Iron Gate as the best place to volunteer in the Tulsa area.

“Volunteers are the

Finalists Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma 1304 N. Kenosha Ave. 918-585-2800 okfoodbank.org

John 3:16 Mission 205 E. Pine St., Suite 103 918-587-1186 john316mission.org

heart of Iron Gate,” said Meghann Ray, communications director for Iron Gate.

The agency, which started as an outreach by parishioners of the Trinity Episcopal Church in 1978, is named for the iron gate on the south end of the church where guests line up to enter the soup kitchen.

WEEKEND

PAGE 60

WEDDING VENUE

Harwelden Mansion 2210 S. Main St. 918-584-3333 harweldenmansion.com

P

erched on a hill looking over the Arkansas River with beautiful stone and wood to give it a cozy but elegant feel, the Harwelden Mansion is a favorite of Tulsans when they tie the knot.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 1920s mansion, originally owned by the Harwell family, was gifted to the Arts & Humanities Council of Tulsa in the 1970s. It has since served as offices for the group and as a wedding hot spot.

“The Arts & Humanities Council of Tulsa is thrilled that Harwelden Mansion has been voted the top Wedding Venue by Tulsa World readers,” said Lauren Teague spokeswoman for Arts & Humanities Council of Tulsa.

“Hundreds, if not thousands, of weddings and many other events have taken place at Harwelden since the Arts & Humanities Council of Tulsa was gifted the building by its original owners in the early 1970s. Tulsans have hosted memorable events at Harwelden for decades, and we are happy to see that trend continue.”

Finalists Five Oaks 528 E. 121st St. South, Jenks 918-298-6405 fiveoakslodge.com

The Dresser Mansion 235 W. 18th St. 918-585-5157 dressermansion.com

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

GOLF COURSE/PUBLIC

GOLF COURSE/PRIVATE

LaFortune Park Golf Course Finalists

Southern Hills Country Club

5501 S. Yale Ave. 918-496-6200 lafortunegolfclub.com

W

Battle Creek Golf Course

ant to tee up a golf 3200 N. Battle ball? There are opCreek Drive, Brotions aplenty in the ken Arrow metro area. In the 918-355-4850 Best in the World poll, the pick battlecreekgolf.net for best public-access golf course in Tulsa was LaFortune Park Mohawk Park Golf Course.

Golf Course “It’s so nice to have been here to watch LaFortune Park evolve 5223 E. 41st St. into the facility we have today,” North Director of Golf Patrick McCrate 918-425-6871 said. “It’s even nicer to know tulsagolf.org how much Tulsans appreciate and enjoy their course. Thanks, Tulsa.”

LaFortune Park Golf Course, celebrating its 55th birthday in 2015, got a facelift in 2003. Architect Randy Heckenkemper oversaw a renovation that brought the course up to speed for today’s golfers.

2636 E. 61st St. 918-492-3351 southernhillscc.com

S

outhern Hills, where the tradition is thicker than the rough, was voted as the best private golf course in Tulsa.

“On behalf of the membership of Southern Hills Country Club, I want to thank everyone for voting for Southern Hills Country Club as the best golf course in the city,” General Manager Nick Sidorakis said. “We strive for continued excellence and we appreciate your vote.”

Finalists The Patriot Golf Club 5790 N. Patriot Drive, Owasso 918-272-1260 thepatriotgolfclub.com

Tulsa Country Club 701 N. Union Ave. 918-585-8151 tulsacountryclub.com

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

WEEKEND

ad 100152928-01

PAGE 59

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

ARTS ORGANIZATION

Celebrity Attractions 7509 E. 91st St. 918-477-7469 celebrityattractions.com

E

ach year, Celebrity Attractions brings Broadway to Tulsa. And it’s a role it has played for more than 30 years and continues to expand with more shows and some of Broadway’s biggest hits.

Celebrity Attractions CEO Ed Payton said its work has made Tulsa the fourth-largest Broadway season in the country in cities its size.

“Through innovation, leadership, integrity and generosity, Celebrity Attractions strives to enhance the cultural and economic development of our Tulsa community and industry,” Payton said. “Thank you to the city of Tulsa for their vote of confidence.”

Finalists Tulsa Ballet 1212 E. 45th Place 918-749-6030 tulsaballet.org

Tulsa Symphony Orchestra 117 N. Boston Ave., Suite 201 918-584-3645 tulsasymphony.org

PAGE 61

WEEKEND

PAGE 62

MUSEUM

RETIREMENT/ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

Philbrook Museum of Art 2727 S. Rockford Road 918-749-7941 philbrook.org

Finalists

T

ulsa’s Philbrook Museum of Art has so much more to offer than just paintings hanging on the wall.

First off, these aren’t just any paintings but treasured pieces of art. Second, the historic home in which the museum is housed is a step back in time, and finally, the programs offered there make Philbrook a place to visit over and over again.

Those programs include free admission on the second Saturday of every month for Second Saturdays with Family Studio Saturdays each week.

Upcoming programs include works by Andy Warhol, Thomas “Breeze” Marcus on display at Philbrook Downtown and the return of the Festival of

Gilcrease Museum

The Philbrook Museum of Art offers free admission on the second Saturday of every month and Family Studio Saturday every week.

MICHAEL WYKE/Tulsa World

Trees.

“Our upcoming exhibitions showcase how Philbrook strives to feature the finest examples of artistic achievement anywhere,” said Tricia Milford-Hoyt, director of communications at Philbrook.

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

1400 N. Gilcrease Museum Road 918-596-2700 gilcrease.utulsa. edu

Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art 2021 E. 71st St. 918-492-1818 jewishmuseum.net

St. Simeon’s Senior Community 3702 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

918-425-3583 | saintsimeons.org

M

aking the most of your Golden Years means making some big decisions.

At St. Simeon’s Senior Community, they hope to make that process as smooth as possible, said Lindsay Morris, marketing coordinator for St. Simeon’s.

Their sprawling 50-acre campus has been home to many people since it opened more than 50 years ago. With a dedicated staff and a continuingcare retirement community, St. Simeon’s can be a home through all stages late in life.

Finalists Montereau 6800 S. Granite Ave. 918-491-5200 montereau.net

Tulsa Jewish Retirement & Health Center 2025 E. 71st St. 918-496-8333 tjrhcc.org

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

T

he first shopping experience in Oklahoma happened in 1846 after Lewis Perryman built a log-cabin trading post thought to be in the vicinity of 33rd Street and South Rockford Avenue.

Before you knew it, there was a post office and a railroad and this became Tulsey Town.

PAGE 63

Since then, Tulsans have sought out the best and latest furniture, fashions, gadgets, appliances, bargains and antiques, as well as established services that meet their needs and wants.

And they have been able to find it all at Tulsa’s widely varied stores and shops.

JEWELER

Moody’s Jewelry Seven locations in the Tulsa area moodysjewelry.com

T

Moody’s Jewelry has seven locations in the Tulsa area. Courtesy

ulsa families have been depending on Moody’s Jewelry for all their special occasions for 71 years. Customers of the family-owned business return year after year, which is why it was once again voted Best in the World in the jewelry category.

“I think it’s because we have been a part of all these Tulsans’ lives for so many years, and we (have been) blessed with wonderful customers and friends for 71 years,” said company president Tyler Jones. “And we have become a part of Tulsa.

“Most of our staff have been with us for a long time and are very experienced and knowledgeable. It has been a mutual blessing for us with our customers and employees. We are remodeling one of our largest stores on Memorial, and that will open in about a month. We try to keep our stores fresh and updated, and we will change as Tulsa changes.”

Finalists Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels 1700 Utica Square 918-749-1700 brucegweber.com

J. David Jewelry 613 N. Aspen Ave., Broken Arrow 918-251-6300 8200 E. 101st St. 918-364-6300 jdavidjewelry.com

The business was started by Ernest Moody Jr. and wife, Mildred, as a watch and clock repair shop. As it evolved, jewelry was added and the shop expanded to six Tulsa locations and one in Broken Arrow.

Through hard work and its reputation, Moody’s has been able to expand its ability to sell the best brands available in the world.

Tulsa Gold & Silver once again tops the Best in the World list.

GOLD/JEWELRY BUYERS

Tulsa Gold & Silver

6357 E. 41st St. 918-664-1808 tulsacoins.com

E

stablished in Tulsa in the early ’70s and still in the same location, Tulsa Gold & Silver has longevity and customer service going for it.

“We’ve been here a long time,” said owner and president John Davis. “I kind of hand-picked employees to

be honest, friendly and treat people good above all — and that is the key.

“People would rather you be nice, remember their name and talk to them. We have a lot of the same return customers.”

Being honest is also an advantage in the business, Davis said.

“I really believe that if people — over the years — don’t get that honesty, word gets out and your business is dead

— and our business is growing. We have been here since 1974, and that has definitely been the case with us having friendly employees being honest and telling people like it is.”

The store buys pieces from estates; mounted, loose, certified or other diamonds; bullion; rare coins; collectible currency; class rings; vintage and broken jewelry; silverware; watches; necklaces and more.

TOM GILBERT/ Tulsa World file

Finalists Tulsa Gold & Gems 9014 S. Yale Ave., Suite 200 918-743-2274 tulsagold.com

Broken Arrow Gold & Pawn Jeweler 328 W. Kenosha St., Broken Arrow 918-307-0222 brokenarrowgold.com

WEEKEND

PAGE 64

BIKE OR RUNNING SHOP

Fleet Feet Sports Tulsa

A

t Fleet Feet Sports, Lori and Tim Dreiling really know how to run a business — successfully enough that the two running enthusiasts have expanded yet again, opening a third store in downtown Broken Arrow.

Their passion has translated into business success, as well as with voters in the Best in the World contest, in which Fleet Feet Sports

ELECTRONICS

Best Buy

Finalists

Four locations in the Tulsa area bestbuy.com

Lee’s Bicycles

B

420 E. Second St. 918-743-4285 leesbikes.com

5968 S. Yale Ave. 918-492-3338 418 E. Second St. 918-492-3338 303 S. Main St., Broken Arrow 918-492-3338 fleetfeettulsa.com

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

Tom’s Bicycles 6861 S. Peoria Ave. 918-481-1818 1506 E. 15th St. 918-592-2453 tomsbicycles.com

crossed the finish line first in the category of favorite bike or running store.

“We are very honored and humbled being nominated and chosen as the best running store in our community, and we’re always striving to do our best to participate in our community in the best way that we can,” Lori Dreiling said.

est Buy offers the latest in appliances, televisions, home theaters, computers and tablets. Then there’s the cellphones, cameras and camcorders.

And let’s not forget audio, automobile electronics, wearable technology, video games, movies and music.

You want service on all of that?

You got it. Geek Squad was the first national 24-hour task force formed to solve our technology challenges around the world.

“We’re ecstatic that the people of Tulsa have — yet again — declared Best Buy their favorite electronics store,” spokesperson Shane Kitzman said.

“Best Buy aims to deliver expert service at an unbeatable price, and knowing that the city of Tulsa appreciates our effort makes it all the sweeter. Thank you, Tulsa.”

Eric Soriano listens to music at a Best Buy store.

JOHN RAOUX/AP file

Finalists Apple Store

Video Revolution

7021 S. Memorial Drive 918-249-7800 apple.com

7030 S. Lewis Ave. 918-495-0586 videorevolution.com

BRIDAL/FORMALWEAR

ANTIQUES

Facchianos Bridal and Formal Attire

River City Trading Post

4910 W. Kenosha St., Broken Arrow 918-461-8697 facchianos.com

301 E. Main St., Jenks 918-299-5998 rivercitytp.com

or the second year in a row, Facchianos was voted Best in the World in the bridal and formal wear category.

Native New Yorker-owner Jennifer Thompson wanted Tulsans to have the same experience she had buying her wedding gown at Kleinfelds, the store featured in the TLC show “Say Yes to the Dress.” And she has achieved it.

“We are really so excited to be two-time winners of Best in the World,” Thompson said. “We are probably the best in the world because we really try to exceed our customers’ expectations. We say we are going to do it, and we deliver. We try to make sure everyone has a good experience and that they feel so excited.”

The full-service bridal salon offers wedding gowns, bridesmaids dresses and mother of the bride gowns, as well as tuxedos, prom dresses, pageant gowns and special occasion formals.

You can also find shoes, accessories and even invitations and wedding day coordination.

teve Eaton has one word for winning the Best in the World category of antiques — “Awesome.”

“We placed second last year, and it was a write-in because we weren’t even on the ballot,” said Eaton, who co-owns the store with his wife, Linda Eaton.

“It just feels great to win.

It tells me we are doing things right, hopefully.”

River City Trading Post has more than 300 independent dealers, with an incredible variety of “antiques, uniques and collectibles.” The building formerly housed a Jenks grocery store owned by Eaton’s grandfather.

F

S Facchianos, owned by Jennifer Thompson, was voted the best store for bridal and formalwear in Tulsa. SHEILA HAYNES/for the Tulsa World

Finalists Beshara’s Formal Wear 3539 S. Harvard Ave. 918-743-6416 besharas.com

David’s Bridal 10123 E. 71st St. 918-250-2595 davidsbridal.com

Finalists Tulsa Flea Market 4145 E. 21st St. 918-744-1386 tulsafleamarket.net

I-44 Antique and Collectibles Mall 5111 S. Peoria Ave. 918-712-2222 I44antiquemall.com

When the couple first started the business in 1994, he thought he “wouldn’t give a nickel for some of the stuff.”

“But over the years, I have changed my tune.

There truly is something for everyone. It’s amazing what people buy.”

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAGE 65

GROCER

MEN’S CLOTHING

Reasor’s

Urban Outfitters

17 locations in the Tulsa area reasors.com

T

he upscale new Reasor’s market in Tulsa’s Brookside neighborhood is just the latest development in what has been a 50-year success story.

Larry Reasor opened his first grocery store in 1963 in Tahlequah, and he became a local TV favorite with his many 1970s commercials for the chain’s move into the Tulsa area.

Reasor’s has expanded by opening new stores all across northeastern Oklahoma. Its service and selection have won over customers, and voters in the Best in the World contest agree: Reasor’s is the best grocer in Tulsa.

Finalists Sprouts Farmers Market Four locations in the Tulsa area sprouts.com

Whole Foods Market 1401 E. 41st St. 918-712-7555 9136 S. Yale Ave. 918-879-0493 wholefoodsmarket.com

“As Tulsa’s local grocery retailer, Reasor’s is very grateful to be chosen by Tulsa World readers as the very best,” said Dennis Maxwell, director of advertising and branding for Reasor’s.

3340 S. Peoria Ave. 918-742-1757 urbanoutfitters.com

“W

e were stoked,” said store manager Jeremy Johnston, in reaction to winning the Best in the World title as a first-time entrant in the Tulsa World reader poll.

“It’s nice being a new store and being embraced by the community.”

The retailer, which opened in midFebruary, carries all the best brands plus UO exclusives such as BDG, cult favorites such as Stussy and Lime Crime, heritage classics such as Calvin Klein and must-have international labels such as Somedays Lovin, Quay and Adidas.

Its uniqueness has helped make it a success in Tulsa, Johnston said.

“I think we are just a very unique retailer that has something for everyone — from apparel to vinyl to candles to greeting cards. Anything for anyone, and we also embrace everyone’s individuality in a relaxed environment so the customer also feels that energy.”

Find stylish jackets and hats like these at Urban Outfitters.

Tulsa World file

Finalists Drysdales

Travers Mahan

10127 S. 71st East Ave. 918-252-7917 3220 S. Memorial Drive 918-664-6481 drysdales.com

8146 S. Lewis Ave. 918-296-4100 traversmahanapparel. com

GIFT BOUTIQUE

FLORIST

Ida Red Boutique

Toni’s Flowers & Gifts

3336 S. Peoria Ave. 918-949-6950 idaredboutique.com

3549 S. Harvard Ave. 918-742-9027 tonisflowersgifts.com

T

ulsa’s rockin’ Ida Red Boutique has once again been voted Best in the World for gift boutique

by Tulsa readers.

This gem in Brookside is well known for its inventory of bottled sodas and old-school candy and gifts that “give back.”

The store sells TOMS shoes, a company that provides a pair of shoes to a needy child for every pair purchased.

Its Oklahoma-centric gifts and Tshirts are also top choices for Tulsans, as well as visitors. And its selection of cool little gifts includes water bottle cozies and pocket-sized books with titles such as “Pickups & Come-Ons” and “Cop-Outs & Alibis.”

Its “awesome customers” are always likely to find lots of funny items that “make people smile and have a good day,” store manager Angelene Wright said.

A

Ida Red offers a huge selection of Oklahoma-themed gift items. MIKE SIMONS/Tulsa World file

Finalists Lyon’s Indian Store

The Perfect Touch

111 S. Detroit Ave. 918-582-6372 lyonsindianstoretulsa. com

4932 E. 91st St., Suite 106 918-496-8118 perfecttouchgiftstore. com

fter 32 years, Toni’s Flowers & Gifts is still making its customers so happy that it was voted Best in the World florist.

“I’m very honored,” owner Toni Garner said.

“We love Tulsa, and we love to do flowers for all occasions for people. For happy occasions and those that aren’t so happy — flowers show feelings and emotions, and we are honored to do that for families.”

Garner said her entire staff — Melissa, Kim, Colleen, Stephanie, Diana, Gwenn, Derek, Lynn and Cathy — all work “very hard to please people. We are people pleasers.”

Finalists Mrs. DeHaven’s Flower Shop 106 E. 15th St. 918-583-0118 mrsdehavens.com

Tulsa Blossom Shoppe 5565 E. 41st St. 918-663-3030 tulsablossom.com

This family-owned and -operated store offers a large inventory of fresh flowers, tropicals, plants, contemporary and traditional arrangements, and silk and dried floral arrangements for all occasions.

WEEKEND

PAGE 66

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

OUTDOORS STORE

Bass Pro Shops

Finalists Academy Sports + Outdoors

101 Bass Pro Drive, Broken Arrow 918-355-7600 basspro.com

B

Mathis Brothers is once again named best mattress store in Tulsa. SHEILA HAYNES/for the Tulsa World

MATTRESS STORE

Mathis Brothers Furniture 6611 S. 101st East Ave. 918-252-5655 1050 E. Kenosha St., Broken Arrow 918-461-7762 mathisbrothers.com

C

hris Medford, manager of Mathis Brothers furniture’s 71st Street and U.S. 169 store, said “it feels good” to be named Best in the World for mattress store again this year.

“Our mattress business has been doing good for a while now. It was good last year and continued to get better with completion of store construction at the end of October 2014,” he said. “We want to thank the people in the community for coming to Mathis

Finalists Mattress Firm Nine locations in the Tulsa area 918-770-9201 mattressfirm.com

Mattress King Four locations in Tulsa area 918-970-2727 mattresskinginfo.com

Brothers and giving us an opportunity to sell them a mattress.”

The retailer carries brands like ecocomfort, Lady Americana, Sealy, Serta, Stearns & Foster and Tempur-Pedic.

ass Pro once again has taken top honors in the Best in the World reader poll, and there are a lot of reasons why.

Bass Pro is “not a typical retailer, it’s a destination attraction,” said General Manager Mike McClure.

“From the moment you walk in the door, the experience is kind of awe-inspiring, from the taxidermy to the waterfalls to the 18,000-gallon aquarium to the diorama with buffaloes being chased by grizzly bears and all sorts of native wildlife and different things are just awesome to see,” McClure said.

Second, he said, Bass Pro Shops’ customer service is “second to none.”

6120 E. 41st St. 918-610-4010 7850 S. 107th East Ave. 918-249-5700 8959 N. Garnett Road, Owasso 918-295-1450 academy.com Bass Pro Shops was voted Best in the World outdoors store by Tulsa World readers.

STEPHEN PINGRY/Tulsa World file

“We want to make sure if a customer has a question we can answer it. If a customer needs an item, we try to have it. And, we do as good a job as possible to equip customers for their experience, whatever it is,” he said.

Backwoods 6508 E. 51st St. 918-664-7850 backwoods.com

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

PAGE 67

SHOES AND BOOTS

WOMEN’S CLOTHING

Dillard’s

Dillard’s

4169 S. Yale Ave., 6919 S. Memorial Drive 918-627-7700 and 918-252-1890 dillards.com

4169 S. Yale Ave. 918-627-7700 6919 S. Memorial Drive 918-252-1890 dillards.com

W

ith Dillard’s, Tulsans have their one-stop shop for every member of the family.

“Shoes complete an outfit,” said Keith Dockery, store manager at the Woodland Hills Mall location. “We love assisting as clients select shoes for their first day of school, prom, interview or date night.”

The assortment at Dillard’s includes the latest trends, with shoes from BCBG, Antonio Melani, Ugg, Frye, Cole Haan and many more.

“Dillard’s is committed to offering you the best selection, but also providing you great service to make your shopping experience enjoyable.

“It is an honor to be recognized as Tulsa’s best,” he said. “Thank you for your business and support. Dillard’s is committed to bringing you the best selection and service every day.”

F Tulsa World readers have voted Dillard’s best shoes and boots in the 2015 Best in the World readers poll.

MATT BARnARD/Tulsa World file

Finalists Drysdales 10127 S. 71st East Ave. 918-252-7917 3220 S. Memorial Drive 918-664-6481 drysdales.com

Fleming’s Comfort Footwear 5914 S. Lewis Ave. 918-743-7463 flemingsshoes.com

ashion is important, and being able to find the right apparel, work suit, little black dress or boho outfit is easy to do at Dillard’s.

That’s why it has been voted Best in the World for women’s clothing.

“Wow! Thank you for selecting Dillard’s as the best,” said Keith Dockery, store manager for the Woodland Hills store.

“Dillard’s appreciates your business and loyalty.

“Dillard’s offers the best selection of dresses, coats, and swimwear and sportswear,” he added. “The dress shops feature your favorite

Finalists Posh 5952 S. Lewis Ave. 918-770-7747 1701 S. Boston Ave. 918-992-6901 poshtulsa.com

Saks Fifth Avenue 1780 S. Utica Ave. 918-744-0200 saksfifthavenue.com

vendors — Calvin Klein, Lauren and Jessica Simpson — with a selection featuring casual, career and evening.”

The coat and swimwear shops also have huge selections.

“Dillard’s features contemporary and classic fashions, and its fashions are updated throughout the season with new colors and styles,” Dockery said.

PAGE 68

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

D

on’t you wish you could buy a car or truck and it would never break down, never get a flat or never get thirsty for a quart of oil?

Sorry. That’s not how it works.

Keeping that four-wheeled chariot of yours running requires some skilled maintenance and even some serious mending when the going gets tough. Fortunately, some of the best in the business operate shops right here in town. Let them take a look.

LIMOUSINE

VIP Limousine 1831 E. 71st St. 800-438-3336 viplimo.net

Y

ou’re sure to turn heads when you’re inside a Cadillac Escalade that seats up to 14 people and is driven by a professional chauffeur. Or maybe you’d prefer to ride in a Mercedes-Benz Limousine Sprinter. That’s the newest model to join the VIP Limousine fleet.

Founded by Chuck Cotton in 1991, VIP Limousine has offices in Tulsa and Oklahoma City.

“We’re starting our 25th anniversary year,” Cotton said.

“We’ve got outstanding professional chauffeurs. That’s what light tours, and VIP Limousine “These new Mercedes-Benz best ever for viewing lights,” makes our company so great.” is already taking reservations Sprinter limos have big picture Cotton said.

Cotton said Tulsans love the for this winter. windows, making them the

Finalists Galaxy Limousine 5540 S. 94th East Ave. 918-481-3374 galaxylimotulsa. com

Kristal Limousine 5110 S. Yale Ave., Suite 500 918-261-5066 limousine-Tulsa.com VIP Limousine offers several models of limousines that can accommodate up to 14 people for any occasion. Courtesy

WEEKEND

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

TIRE SHOP

Robertson Tire There are 12 Robertson Tire locations in the Tulsa area.

12 locations in the Tulsa area robertson-tire.com

S

hane Robertson is director of corporate development for the tire company his grandfather started 53 years ago and bears the family name. Family is defined to him as more than blood relatives alone.

Robertson knows you don’t last more than half-a-century and continue to grow without employees understanding what it takes to be the best.

“We’re most proud that our employees have carried on the legacy built by our family,” Robertson said. “We’re also thankful for the communities and customers we serve.

“We’re going to continue to give the best products and services, and that’s what sets us apart,” Robertson said.

CORY YOUNG/ Tulsa World file

Finalists Discount Tires

Hibdon Tires Plus

7792 S. Olympia Ave. 918-280-1123 1001 E. Kenosha St., Broken Arrow 918-258-8927 discounttire.com

Seven locations in the Tulsa area hibdontire.com

CAR WASH

Mr. Klean Carwash 6510 E. 71st St. 918-494-6091 mrkleancarwash.net

K

atie Short loves being part of a family business. Her grandfather started Mr. Klean Carwash in 1976 before she was born. Her father now owns Mr. Klean, and she serves as general manager.

“My staff is wonderful,” Short said. “I tell them every morning, ‘You’re my family.’ They’re great, and they love what they do.”

Mr. Klean offers customers hands-on service, from vacuuming the vehicle to washing it to hand-drying it. Plus, it offers lots of extra services from spotcleaning carpets and upholstery to waxing exteriors and dressing interiors.

“Many of our customers have been coming here so long that they ask for specific employees by name,” Short said. “I love that we have those kinds of relationships.”

Finalists EcoGreen Mobile Detailing 918-955-7174 ecogreenautoclean. com

Touch of Class Auto Spa 2108 N. Yellowood Ave., Broken Arrow 918-250-6944 touchofclassautospa. com

PAGE 69

WEEKEND

PAGE 70

CAR REPAIR SHOP

European Autospecialist 4121 S. 72nd East Ave. 918-627-2002 europeanautospecialist.net

K

urt Krans says honesty and integrity are the hallmarks of European Autospecialist, and he believes that’s why Tulsa World readers have once again voted his business as the best car repair shop in the area.

The name says it all: the shop specializes in servicing and repairing European automobiles. When Krans opened in 1982, he and his staff worked on six different brands. A few years later, however, Krans fine-tuned his mission to only three manufacturers: BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Mini Cooper.

“These are premium automobiles that need to be taken care of by specialists,” Krans said.

Finalists Bill Knight Collision 4111 S. Memorial Drive 918-526-2300 8324 E. 97th St. 918-526-2370 tulsacollisionrepair.com

Danny Myers 9230 S. 78th East Ave. 918-491-8200 dannymyers.com

Krans and his staff of seven others love what they do. It explains why there’s little turnover in the shop off 41st Street, between Sheridan Road and Memorial Drive.

By specializing in only a few brands, it is able to stay current on all the latest trends and technology related to these German cars.

OIL CHANGE

Jiffy Lube 14 locations in Tulsa area jiffylube.com

G

reg Moore and his father, Pat, own 14 Jiffy Lube franchises in the Tulsa

area.

“We’re nationally known but locally owned,” Moore said.

No appointment is ever necessary for service at Jiffy Lube. The national chain is best known for oil changes, but its shops offer a lot more, including air-conditioning and cooling system service, brake and engine repair, as well as windshield wiper replacement and tire rotations.

Jiffy Lube follows manufacturers’ recommendations so everything is warranty approved.

Finalists European Autospecialist 4121 S. 72nd East Ave. 918-627-2002 europeanautospecialist. net

Robertson Tire 12 locations in the Tulsa area Robertson-tire.com

Tulsa World • September 27, 2015

VOTED BEST IN THE WORLD

Tulsa World

20 1 5

“The Company You Know” • Heating • Cooling • Electrical • Plumbing

918-252-5667 www.aircoservice.com OK Mech. #598 Plumbing #94510 Electrical #71875

YOU GUYS ROCK

Thank you for nominating us for the 2015 Tulsa World Weekend Best In The World in the following categories: Best Casino Dining: McGill’s on 19 – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Best Casino: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

I-44 Exit 240 • 800.760.6700 • HARDROCKCASINOTULSA.COM

Know your limits. Gambling problem? Call 800.522.4700.