“We have a lot of regulars who get the same thing every time,” Durow said. “Some of them come in for dinner multiple times a week and just order whatever special we have that night.”

Those dinner specials — rib-eye steaks, lasagna, Alfredo pasta and pork tenderloin can pop up on any given night — are starting to gain a following of their own. They are sold until gone, and being that there is no full dinner menu (other than the sandwiches, soups and salads), they can go fast.

right, the pesto garden with blackened chicken

The homemade food is just a little better than what you can find at home and pairs well with the cozy, modest atmosphere that nods to bistro ambience: open, airy and nearly always filled with lively, talkative guests.

All in all, The Stuffed Olive seems to be successful in its endeavor to make food that makes one feel right at home.

“There aren’t many strangers in here.

People see their neighbors,” Durow said. “We have a lot of customers, but they all seem to be close-knit. It’s a good community over here.”

Oklahoma Gazette’s restaurant review policy is to highlight the positive aspects, and include constructive criticism regarding food, ambience or service when appropriate.

Photos by Mark Hancock