20 Best Cant-Miss Restaurants in Norman Oklahoma

Chances are – if you’re reading this – you are from out of town and looking to eat in some of the best restaurants in Norman. Well, we’ve got you covered.

Home to the university of Oklahoma, Norman is the third-largest city in the U.S. state of Oklahoma.

You will definitely be satisfied no matter the meals you are looking for.

You can also discover restaurants providing substantial American classics and food from many nations.

Whether you are familiar with Norman or are visiting for the first time, come dine at one of the best dining scenes in Oklahoma.

Restaurants in Norman

1. Legend’s Restaurant

Legend’s restaurant is where you want to celebrate if you have any occasion. Out of the restaurants in Norman, Legend stands out.

Legend’s has been a staple of Norman for more than 50 years, going all the way back to the era of “bottle” clubs.

The fact that some bottle lockers are still in place adds to the restaurant’s atmosphere.

The restaurant feels like eateries in New York or Washington, D.C., where the tables are arranged to make the most use of the available space.

The best part? As tables are close together, a celebration on one table tends to carry over to adjacent tables.

The menu is for any palate and offers a unique variety of dishes. The presentation of each meal is beautiful. The desserts are such a delight and freshly made daily.

Legends offer a wide selection of food, including specialized salads, sandwiches, fresh seafood, spaghetti, steaks, poultry, pig, lamb entrees, and vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Similarly, the restaurant has a great homey vibe, somewhere you can be comfortable but still feel like you are getting a special treat.

Satisfy your palette with pasta meals, sandwiches, and dishes created with beef, shellfish, fish, pork, and poultry.

The restaurant is open Sunday from 10 am to 9 pm, Monday through Thursday, 11 am to 10 pm, and Friday and Saturday, 11 am to 11 pm.

Address: 1313 W Lindsey St, Norman, OK 73069, United States

2. Ray’s BBQ

If you want barbecue, Ray’s is one of the best restaurants in Norman to go to.

You can’t go wrong with any of the choices on the menu. Even the smokehouse burger is worth a taste.

How do you measure the quality of a rib? If the rib falls off the bone.

In fact, Ray’s Smokehouse is one of those places that you hear about and sounds too good to be true; then, it becomes a reality.

This restaurant also has extensive parking around the building and ample seating inside.

The concept is simple, line up to place your order and pay, and they will bring your food to the table.

The ribs are cooked to perfection, and the brisket is always juicy.

So, whether you dine in or carry out, you can count on getting great food at a fair price and excellent service.

Address: 1514 W Lindsey St, Norman, OK 73069, United States

3. Hideaway Pizza

Located very close to the University of Oklahoma campus, Hideaway Pizza is one of the best restaurants in Norman to grab a great-tasting pizza.

Richard Dermer and his wife Marti developed the casual dining concept of Hideaway Pizza in 1957 near the Stillwater, Oklahoma, campus of Oklahoma State University.

Today, six Hideaway Pizza locations are part of the company’s footprint in the metro areas of Tulsa and Oklahoma City.

The same excellent reputation it held in Stillwater has carried over into Norman, O.U. ‘s Campus Corner.

On entering, you immediately feel a retro hippie vibe with the tie-dyed shirts and decoupaged picture collages on the walls.

In fact, the pizza menu has everything you could possibly want.

Hideaway serves up pizzas with just the proper thickness crust- not paper thin but not so thick (and chewy) as a hand-tossed pizza.

Plenty of toppings (in approximately any configuration you wish to specify) combine with sauces to make a (temperature-) hot pizza that is a delight to consume.

There’s something for everyone, whether it’s just you or a big group.

They also have lots of other choices in their Sandwiches and Baked Pasta section as well as their Starters and Salads.

Address: 577 Buchanan Ave, Norman, OK 73069, United States

4. Interurban Restaurant

Interurban is a casual and fun restaurant featuring various menu items catering to young high school and college singles, busy business professionals, families, and baby boomers of all ages.

In fact, this is a very comfortable restaurant with full bar service and excellent food. Daily specials include items like hamburgers, enchilada platters, and steaks.

There’s also a patio at the restaurant where you can enjoy the fresh air and nice views of Norman.

You can try the Club Special or Cherry limeade cocktails – the bartender knows how to make this.

Address: 1150 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman, OK 73072, United States

5. Benvenuti’s

Located in downtown Norman, Benvenuti’s is one of the best Italian restaurants in Norman.

Benvenuti’s restaurant serves traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist by Chef Compagni.

Chef Compagni is sure to provide a dining experience that will tease your taste buds and delight your senses, thanks to his more than fifteen years of significant experience in Italian cuisine.

The restaurant is situated in a historic building, and its age ambiance enhances the dining experience.

In fact, it is probably one of the most romantic restaurants in Norman. They don’t put TVs on every wall because most couples that dine here actually carry on conversations with each other.

You will sample some of the best Italian food you have had here. This is not your pizza and spaghetti neighborhood place, not to put those down, but this will be a wonderful dining experience.

For an appetizer, check out the Risotto Arancini or the Shrimp Sriracha. If you like fries, you may select Truffle Fries.

The salads are also good, but small and a little light on the dressing.

The Chicken Piccata, Grilled Mixed vegetable plate, or Spaghetti & Meatballs are great options for an entree. While for dessert, you can get a Brandy Ice; it is perfect.

They also have an appetizer meatball that is a must-try.

Address: 105 W Main St, Norman, OK 73069, United States

6. Redrock Canyon Grill, Norman

This stunning restaurant is close to Legacy Park, just east of I-35, and features a delectable menu, a full bar, inviting patio eating, and affordable prices.

The restaurant is undoubtedly one of Norman’s more upscale eating options.

First, you should know that this place is on the pricey side. However, the food is excellent, and the portions are much larger than normal.

It is part of the Hal Smith group, so there are some similarities to other places. However, the preparation of the steaks is significantly different. They use mesquite wood to flavor the steaks.

You may listen to live music from the covered patio or watch the action from their “display kitchen.”

Your mouth starts to wet in anticipation as you inhale the aroma of their open-fire rotisserie!

Address: 1820 Legacy Park Drive, Norman, OK 73069, United States

7. Charleston’s Restaurant

Charleston’s is a reliable source for great steaks/prime rib and other delectable entrees.

It is located on Ed Noble Parkway, right off Main Street.

When you enter the restaurant, you’ll notice the thick, smoky fragrance, a terrific way to stimulate your salivary glands and get your stomach to grumble.

Once seated, you’ll experience the calming ambiance of the restaurant’s dark wood décor and subdued lighting, which concentrates on the table and the food while providing customers with a feeling of seclusion.

Check out the kale & Quinoa salad. It’s so tasty, and the salad is a joyride of flavors and textures, not overwhelming itself, despite the different ingredients. Desserts are also outstanding.

Address: 300 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman, OK 73072, United States

8. Sam’s Southern Eatery

Sam’s is hands down one of the best quick restaurants in Norman.

The mission of Sam’s Southern Restaurant is to make outstanding Southern food accessible to all.

They debuted the first store in 2008. Around fifty-one locations of the eatery now exist across nine Southern states.

Fried Jumbo Shrimp, Buffalo Wings, Beef/Lamb Gyros, Cheese Burger, Fried Flounder Fish, Shrimp Po’Boy, and Philly cheese Steak are some of the meals you will find on the menu.

Their fried and grilled fish and chicken options are always perfectly grilled/fried and seasoned. Add to that delicious sides, larger portions, and a friendly, clean environment; you have a perfect candidate for your second kitchen.

Always remember to get some of their Cajun seasoning with your food, as it brings it all together.

Address: 408 W Main St, Norman, OK 73071, United States

9. Saltgrass Steak House

Saltgrass Steak House is a comfortable, western-style eating place that feels like home.

It is a chain with multiple locations in the I-35 corridor North of Norman, the greater Moore, and Oklahoma City.

The taste of an open campfire is recreated at Saltgrass Steakhouse.

The atmosphere inside has a western theme with murals painted on the wall and a lovely fireplace at the back – very warm and inviting.

The extensive menu offers plenty of appetizers, soups, salads, burgers, fish, chicken, and steak.

Perfectly chargrilled steaks, chicken, shellfish, freshly prepared soups, bread, and desserts are served daily.

Although a chain restaurant, Saltgrass has consistently delivered high-quality food at a reasonable price and shouldn’t miss here.

Address: 650 N Interstate Dr, Norman, OK 73072, United States

Going towards Oklahoma City? Why not check our list of the best things to do in Oklahoma City?

10. Blu, Norman

In the heart of Norman, Blu debuted in 2007. Downtown was undergoing significant renovations at the time, and Blu’s parent business, The Good Life Hotel Group, saw potential in the neighborhood.

They are still among the top restaurants in Norman after several years.

At Blu, diners have a dizzying assortment of menu options beyond the dishes themselves.

The diverse menu offers superb comfort cuisine and excellent vegetarian options. The green chile and chicken tamales with quinoa and salsa verde taste particularly good.

Blu also has a complete bar with a big selection of specialty drinks.

In fact, blu holds a wine tasting once a month. Every third Sunday of the month, Blu offers a variety of wines and light fare that are suited to taste.

Address: 201 S Crawford Ave, Norman, OK 73069, United States

11. Tarahumara’s Mexican Cafe

Tarahumara’s is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Norman.

It’s worth going to this restaurant if you like Mexican food. Enjoy the flawlessly cooked chicken fajitas, beef tacos, salsa, and chips.

Since 2001, Tarahumara’s Mexican Café & Cantina in Norman has been run by a family.

Fresh meals and traditional Mexican recipes from the Mexican state of Chihuahua are served there.

There are also TVs around, so you can see into the kitchen as they are all cooking.

The food arrives sizzling-hot and is served by considerate, friendly staff.

Expect generous portions and always arrive on an empty stomach (or be prepared to split your meal with a friend!).

Honestly, the hardest part about eating here is it’s so easy to fill up on the salsa, chips, and burrito shells before the meal arrives!

Don’t go without trying some delicious chocolate flans.

Address: 702 N Porter Ave, Norman, OK 73071, United States

12. Chips ‘N Ales

Chips ‘N Ales, located within the Riverwind Casino in Norman, serves hand-battered fish and chips.

Finding this restaurant level in a casino outside of Vegas is surprising. From the decor to the service to the food, it is excellent.

Chips ‘N Ales has a British ambiance and a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful wood textures and stained glass.

The restaurant features dart boards, live music on Friday and Saturday nights, Irish folk music and local cover bands, and an exceptional assortment of beer mixes.

With a small number of American fan favorites, this cozy pub serves classic British and Irish fare. Chips ‘N Ales offers hand-cut fries, hand-breaded seafood, chicken pot pie, fish sandwiches, and delicious bread pudding for dessert.

Similarly, thanks to the establishment’s twelve taps and twelve bottles, you can choose from a wide range of quality beers, including Guinness, Smithwick’s, Harp, and Spaten Optimator.

The restaurant’s famous Irish Nachos, topped with gouda and cheddar cheese, banger sausage crumbles, bacon, and chives, are the ideal way to enjoy the hand-cut chips.

Chips ‘N Ales is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 to 11 and Friday and Saturday from 11 to 1:30 am.

Address: 1544 OK-9, Norman, OK 73072, United States

13. Smitty’s Garage Burgers & Beer

If you have ever been Leary of getting a dry burger, don’t worry, as Smitty’s is one of the top burger spots in Norman.

The Downtown Norman establishment, Smitty’s Garage Burgers & Beer, offers a range of burgers in addition to tacos, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers such as chips and queso and Thunder Fries.

Many different beers, wines, and cocktails are available at the bar.

Their burgers are super flavorful and juicy. The queso fries are also tasty. If you like spicy, this is an absolute must with your meal.

You walk in, and it looks like a bar, but you can order food in the back. They give you a number and bring your food out to you.

They also have regular skin potatoes as well as sweet potato fries.

There is limited seating during peak times, so you must order first and then get a table.

They also have some games in the back to kill time. Not many but 3-4, so good for the kiddos. One of the best burgers in town.

Ask for the gluten-free menu to check out your options if you have an allergy.

Address: 307 E Main St, Norman, OK 73069, United States

14. The Moon Sushi & Asian Bistro

Every sushi restaurant has practically the same sushi layout on its menu; however, Moon Sushi is a bit different, as they have rolls, unlike any other sushi restaurant.

The Moon Sushi & Asian Bistro is absolutely the best place for a sushi and Asian dining experience, especially if your main interest is in stylish rolls with a good but laid-back feel.

Moon sushi is a Norman classic. Not only is the food delicious, with a wide range of raw and cooked sushi/homemade desserts/rice bowls/etc., but they also have wonderful customer service.

Full Moon Sushi’s atmosphere has that hole-in-the-wall college town feel.

It might get pricey sometimes, especially if you like to get multiple rolls, but the quality of the ingredients shines through.

The fish is always fresh and vibrant, the rolled sushi always stays together and never falls apart, and the menu is affordable.

The staff are also helpful and interact with you like genuine people without a fake server vibe, and they always have amazing and creative specials.

Address: 326 E Main St, Norman, OK 73069, United States

15. Juan Del Fuego

If you are looking for some of the best restaurants in Norman for breakfast, then Juan Del Fuego is a nice option.

Tucked away in a small strip center in West Norman, you will find the restaurant a fun place to have breakfast.

Juan’s offers daily specials, and the menu will likely provide an option you like.

In fact, the enormous quantities at Juan del Fuego and the abundance of sides, fillings, and sauces will keep you returning to try new combinations.

The Mexican breakfast is outstanding, but they also have some traditional breakfast items that are just as good. The coffee is also terrific.

It’s a small place, so you could encounter a brief wait, but tables generally turn over quickly because the food comes out fast.

This diner is operated by the legendary cook Juan who formerly rocked The Diner.

Juan Del Fuego offers amazing breakfasts each day until 2 pm.

Address: 223 34th Ave S W, Norman, OK 73072, United States

16. The Winston, Norman

Eating at The Winston is an experience from beginning to end.

There are many different sitting options, a homey, warm interior, and an interesting collection of artifacts honoring the restaurant’s namesake.

The Winston debuted in April 2018 and is situated in Downtown Norman close to the railroad tracks.

The restaurant boasts a sizable outside terrace with a fire pit, serving upscale pub fare and a varied beer selection.

Furthermore, the restaurant offers traditional dishes with a contemporary twist and has the largest whiskey selection in the metro area.

Draft beer, many of which are local beers, and craft cocktails are also available.

The menu has lunch, dinner, and late-night eating options, ranging from soups and salads to steak and seafood meals.

The large patio can be closed in during the winter for warmth.

Address: 106 W Main St, Norman, OK 73069, United States

17. The Meating Place, Norman

The Meeting House is Norman’s only barbecue restaurant with a full bar and provides traditional barbecue fare.

The idea and the restaurant all started with a used truck and the desire to provide delicious food, particularly barbecue.

Neighbors and brothers-in-law PJ Taylor and Brad Nixon opened The Meating Place in 2016 with their wives Amy and Erin, who are sisters.

They began with the intention of becoming a permanent establishment.

The Meating Place soon replaced McNellie’s on Main Street, which was a sad loss, but I couldn’t be happier with the place that filled its shoes.

According to its name, the restaurant offers various barbecue dishes.

You can select from dishes including ribs, pulled pork, brisket, smoked turkey, and smoked fried chicken, which are available both on their own and as tacos, quesadillas, and other dishes.

Also, there are weekly specials at The Meating Place.

Wednesday after 5 pm is rib night with $10 half racks and $18 whole racks for dine-in customers.

Tuesday has an all-day happy hour. On Thursdays, the restaurant hosts a trivia night at 7:30 pm while happy hour is offered from 9 pm to closing.

Address: 121 E Main St, Norman, OK 73069, United States

18. Midway Deli

If you want a unique dining experience and true hometown goodness, especially with many locals, you should check out Midway Deli.

Midway Deli is tucked away between Downtown Norman and Campus Corner in a historic area.

In 1926, Midway Deli opened as a grocery business. It served as a “middle ground” between Norman’s downtown business district and the affluent Faculty Heights neighborhood when it first opened.

Bob Thompson, the current owner, acquired the deli in 1985.

He turned the grocer into the well-known restaurant we know today. In fact, Norman’s history is all over the place; you can even autograph the wall yourself if you wish

Furthermore, the sandwiches on the Midway Deli menu are named after customers who invented them, such as The Arnie and The Michael, and they highlight the restaurant’s history.

This place is in a residential neighborhood, so you have to know where it is and want to go there- you’re unlikely to just pass by as you’re riding around.

Go around lunchtime, and you’ll know you are getting close because there are cars parked up and down the street, and that’s because this place serves excellent deli food.

Every day at 9 am, the deli opens and sells muffins, croissants, and cinnamon rolls.

Several delicious soup recipes and their large menu of deli sandwich offerings are offered daily.

Various sandwiches are also available -the Vulcan is among the most popular.

Address: 601 W Eufaula St, Norman, OK 73069, United States

19. Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen is a great place to relax and enjoy Norman’s atmosphere.

The menu for Cheddar’s is pretty diverse. Although it is a chain establishment, the portions are significantly larger.

Cheddars in Norman is all around amazing. The environment is clean, fun, and casual, perfect for family, couples, or work-related functions.

Cheddar’s has a large bar area that makes some great drinks, including some of their house specialties, “The Painkiller” & “Texas Tea.”

Great lunch specials and filling entrees are just a few options at Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen.

They have an expansive menu that covers everything from salads & Shepard’s Pie to Mango Salsa Tilapia and bacon burgers.

Sandwiches, salads, soups, steak, chicken, and other dishes are also available.

If there is a wait and you have a time crunch, bypass the greeter, enter the bar, and be seated.

Address: 1300 24th Ave NW, Norman, OK 73069, United States

20. The Mont, Norman

Originally called the Montgomery and opened in the 1930s, Mont is one of the oldest restaurants in Norman.

The Mont is a Community hangout in Norman, popular with OU students and townsfolk.

It offers traditional American fare like loaded cheese fries, onion rings, and mozzarella sticks alongside Tex-Mex favorites like nachos and enchiladas.

Mont’s expansive terrace is great for gathering with friends and family.

In fact, the patio of The Mont Restaurant in Norman might be its biggest draw.

Although a lot of lush foliage offers a beautiful view, it’s also a great area to enjoy the nice weather while having a meal and a drink.

The main dining area, as are the booths, is casual but a bit tight on space.

Plenty of TVs surround the room and the bar, making it an ideal “Watch Party” location.

Furthermore, on non-rainy days, the tables outside all have umbrellas and ample shade.

A complete bar and a selection of blended cocktails are available at Mont.

The frosted drink, the swirl, is a must. It is a blend of frozen margarita and frozen sangria. In short, it’s not summer until you’ve had your first swirl.

The Mont also has an excellent selection of beers, and the glasses can be customized.

Address: 1300 Classen Blvd, Norman, OK 73071, United States

21. Ranch Steakhouse

Ranch is one of the best steakhouses in Oklahoma and, of course, one of the best restaurants in Norman.

The steaks are delicious, and the sides are too. It’s expensive but expected for a high-quality steak house.

The restaurant is a good place for a nice dinner and good company for a date or friends! The bananas foster are also a favorite for sure.

Unlike some steakhouses at OKC, this one has much more room.

The restaurant also boasts a fabulous atmosphere outside on the covered patio. They have plenty of heaters outside, so don’t hesitate to take an outdoor table!

Address: 2120 24th Ave NW, Norman, OK 73069, United States

22. Sweet Basil Thai Cuisine

This family-owned and operated restaurant serves one of the best Thai cuisines in the OKC metro.

The decor is very nice, and there are comfortable (but stylish) booths and a large and enchanting fish tank.

Sweet Basil is wonderful from the moment you enter the restaurant until you leave! Especially if you are sitting by the huge aquarium.

The cooks and management try to keep the menu simple. So, you can just expect traditional Thai concepts with simple, authentic Thai flavors.

They’re usually busier during the lunch service, but this shouldn’t stop you from going.

Try good shrimp pad thai, spring rolls, and prawns; hence one of the reasons why it’s making it to one of the best restaurants in Norman.

Address: 211 W Main St, Norman, OK 73069, United States

23. Gaberino’s Homestyle Italian

There are several little pasta spots in Norman, OK, and all of them are good, but Gaberino’s is hands down one of the best restaurants in Norman.

The restaurant is tucked in a small shopping center.

Gaberino’s Homestyle Italian Restaurant in Norman is open for lunch and supper seven days a week. It serves a range of delectable Italian food options, including appetizers, pasta, pizzas, and more.

They also feature a full-service bar with a range of fun Italian beverages and liqueurs.

Good appetizers here include Stuffed Mushrooms, Spinach-Artichoke Dip, and Bruschetta.

You can customize your own pasta meal at Gaberino’s. Choose a pasta dish like spaghetti, linguine, whole wheat linguine, rigatoni, or fettuccine as the base, and then a sauce like marinara, alfredo, pesto, and pesto cream.

Try a meatball or Italian sub, or choose a roasted vegetable sandwich if you’re in the mood for a sandwich.

Address: 400 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman, OK 73072, United States

Final Remarks

Restaurants in Norman are some of the best in Oklahoma, and if you are exploring the food scene in the city, these are the top restaurants you shouldn’t miss.

Bon Appetite!