Protein is the centerpiece of most big meals. At Thanksgiving, its a turkey. Christmas often includes a ham. Some folks dont consider breakfast, lunch or dinner a meal unless theres meat on the table. How nice, then, that carnivores craving something meaty find themselves in Oklahoma City, where steaks, chops, burgers, wings, sausages and so much more are available morning, noon and night.
By Greg Elwell
Photos Garett Fisbeck
The Meat House
2249 W. Danforth Road, Edmond
405-509-2900
In stark contrast to the work of The Brothers Grimm, The Butchers Grimm told stories with only one moral: Eat meat. In their stories, Ham-sel and Gretel found The Meat House. There was no witch inside. Instead, there was a glorious selection of fine steaks, pre-marinated cutlets, cheese, sausage and more. That tradition carries on today in Edmond, where discerning carnivores will find ready-to-grill favorites, marinades, rubs and more for a perfect protein party.
The Beef Jerky Emporium
9346 N. May Ave.
405-751-6275
Oklahoma City is so blessed to have The Beef Jerky Emporium. Not only does this gem carry different varieties of jerky beef, venison, wild boar, turkey, salmon and many more but the staff is a knowledgeable resource for dried meat newcomers to find just what theyre looking for. The Emporium also carries bacon candy in case the jerky isnt enough.
Georges Happy Hog Bar-B-Q
712 Culbertson Drive
405-525-8111
Breasts get all the glory when it comes to chicken, but migrate a little farther south and find the real MVP: dark meat. Georges Happy Hog Bar-B-Q slow-smokes ribs, brisket and hot links, and those in the know will find tender, delectable chicken full of juicy, grilled flavor in the Dark Meat Delight. Whether taking home three legs and thighs to eat off the bone or grabbing a smoky, deeply seasoned rack of ribs, Georges has everything needed for a ridiculously satisfying meal with friends.
Hideaway Pizza
835 SW 19th St., Moore
405-604-0777
Servers at Hideaway Pizza should have to read this to diners who order The Capone: Attention, hungry patrons. This pizza isnt messing around. When you order The Capone, you are taking on the responsibility of eating a pie so famously delicious, we named it after the best-known gangster in history. Stacked high with Italian sausage, pepperoni, bacon, salami, garlic, olives and red onions, The Capone is meant to be shared and cherished.
Bellinis Underground
6305 Waterford Blvd, Suite 100
405-848-1065
The name couldnt be simpler or more enticing: Salumi y formaggi meat and cheese. Before digging into an irresistible plate of fettucine carbonara or a mix of shrimp and gnocchi, indulge in a plate of cured meats, fine cheeses and crispy, garlicky crostini. Bellinis Underground serves a salumi y formaggi that is a perfect way to start a meal or just as a snack to nibble on while enjoying a glass of wine.
Musashis Restaurant
4315 N. Western Ave.
405-602-5623
The phrase chop-chop takes on new meaning after dining at Musashis, home of some of Oklahoma Citys best teppanyaki chefs. Sometimes confused with a hibachi, the teppanyaki is that long, flat brazier and grill on which talented chef-performers prepare plates of sizzling shrimp, succulent chicken and melt-in-the-mouth steaks with panache. Theres nothing quite like watching an expert on the griddle make a great meal into an indelible experience.
The Garage
1117 N. Robinson Ave.
405-602-6880
When the engine is running rough and the fuel tank is nearing empty, the best spot to fill up is The Garage. This haven for bodacious burgers doesnt shy away from topping patties with mountains of fixings that are bursting with flavor. If a bun filled with perfectly grilled ground beef doesnt sound like enough, then try the Egg-o-nator with bacon, egg and American cheese.