The Top 10 Restaurants In Norman, Oklahoma

This charming B&B is owned by French chefs Chinda and Rany Kchao, so it’s no surprise that the restaurant is at the top of their list of priorities. The menu is continental, from Norwegian salmon to French classics like crab bisque or ragout. The dinner is punctuated with nice touches like the freshly baked bread and the palate-cleansing sorbet served between courses. The dining room is quaint yet decadent, with a chandelier and French flourishes. The B&B is a little way out of town, near Thunderbird Lake, but is definitely worth the drive for an overnight stay, or for dinner and drinks.
Whispering Pines, 7820 E State Highway 9, Norman, OK, United States, +1 405 447 0202

Benvenuti’s Italian inspired, high-end menu uses local ingredients to create innovative meals. Chef Anthony Compagni creates Italian recipes with Oklahoma produce, such as shrimp sriracha, pork cheeks or quail Milanese. The restaurant is housed in an old building down by the train tracks, and has a patio out front so you can eat al fresco if the weather’s good. There’s also great vegetarian options, including the grilled vegetables and polenta platter. The desserts are also worth saving room for. Try the creme brulée with berries, or a chocolate pot with homemade graham crackers.
Benvenuti’s Ristorante, 105 W Main St, Norman, OK, United States, +1 405 310 5271

Husband and wife team chef Juan and Elayne Herrara run this authentic Mexican diner just off Main Street. They serve traditional American breakfast and lunch dishes with a Mexican twist. Hash browns and pancakes come with guacamole, chorizo, chili and pork tamales and for lunch, the quesadillas and toasts are a standout. Juan’s chefs cook with a flourish in the open kitchen so be sure to sit at the counter for the best show. The decor combines eclectic religious ornaments with bright yellow walls, and the dining area is small, so arrive early to avoid disappointment at peak brunch times.
Juan Del Fuego, 223 34th Ave S W, Norman, OK, United States, +1 405 310 2030

This family-owned cafe, a Norman institution, serves Tex-Mex at its best, from delicately cooked ceviche (fresh fish marinated in citrus juices) to chips, salsa and fajitas. Housed in a cheerful maroon building near Frances Cate Park, Tarahumara’s is known as much for its margaritas and bloody marys as its food among locals, and always has a lively, buzzing atmosphere. Dishes are served in large portions with sides of rice and beans, homemade cheese sauce, guacamole and salsa to complement your chosen dish. Favourites are the enchilada plate, the Diablo Shrimp, the chile Colorado and for dessert, traditional Mexican sopapillas.
Tarahumara’s Mexican Cafe, 702 N Porter Ave, Norman, OK, United States, +1 405 360 8070

This downtown burgers and beer joint serves the best burgers in town. There’s a choice between beef, turkey and bison with a wide selection of toppings, and tacos or wings if you don’t fancy a burger. The fries are a meal in themselves, coming with bacon, sour cream, jalapenos or a generous helping of beef chilli. The restaurant itself has a friendly bar atmosphere, with quirky vintage signs on the walls and out front, bar stools around small round tables, and old-school pinball and video game machines. It’s a laid-back place to meet locals or watch some American football.
The Garage, 307 E Main St, Norman, OK, United States, +1 405 701 7035