Eating Out: A Taste of Tulsa

My feelings towards these traveling food shows is somewhat bittersweet. This relatively new phenomenon has caught on like STDs on prom night but is it really something new? For many years I've traversed up and down the Northeast Corridor, enjoy many fine eateries (and dumps, ok mainly dumps) from Maryland to Maine. Before I come off sounding too bitter, I am writing to occasionally share my experiences. One of my most recent food journeys found me in Sooner country and I was prepared. Prior to my arrival, I sent over my hit list of must haves and my hosts were more than willing to accommodate. It's also a great feeling to find hidden gems in a city that the locals were unaware of. 

That said, our Tulsa trip begins with lunch at Stutts House of Bar-B-Que (at right). This was an unknown join to over a dozen locals that I spoke with and I am glad I did my homework. The place is small and unassuming, the smell is strong and inviting. Walking into the door at Stutts is an affirmation that you are in store for a great meal.

My main goal when in OK was to not get too bogged down with Brisket, which is easy to do if you are not careful. That said, I ordered a platter that included Ribs, Hot Links, Slaw, Baked Beans, and some buttermilk pie for dessert. Dessert stole the show as the buttermilk pie was the best I've ever had and I can still taste it even though I'm 1500 miles removed from Tulsa. This was all washed down with a carafe of home brewed sweet tea that was perfectly sweetened. Who knew that ordering a sweet tea would result in such a large serving? I surely didn't, nor did I complain.

Next up was a trip to Ty's for some burgers, Tulsa style. Ty's has the requisite style to attract yours truly. Over 3 dozen sold? Maybe every minute. This place is along a main artery in Tulsa and it does its best to clog the arteries of those that dine therein.

What meal shouldn't start like this? Those are some loaded fries w/chili, jalapeños, cheese, etc. etc.That was followed up with some chili cheese fries and a double hickory burger with cheese. If in Tulsa, go here.
    The saga continued with a stop at the famous Elmer's, tag line, "It be bad." The home of the "Badwich" did not disappoint. Food, aroma, service, decor, check check check check. This is a spot that is a must for all out-of-towners and locals alike. I've grown tired of reading complaints from people to have claimed a bad experience here. The staff is so pleasant it's just unfathomable. Now, on to the interior. As you may see in the photo, this is a Blueseum, photos of many blues legends adorn the walls and there's some other cool items on display. But let's be serious, are you going to Elmer's to see pictures and stare at old record players? Not quite so thank goodness there's a badwich waiting for you.

Behold the Badwich. Sides included some smoked green beans that had delicious chunks of smoked ham and fried okra which left a little to be desired. Why the pickle spear didn't make the Badwich party is beyond me. The rib probably was excluded because of the bone but I'm glad the folks threw it on the plate.