Keeping It Local: OKC's Automobile Alley District

The Automobile Alley district is located just north of Bricktown, along Broadway Avenue. Originally home to OKC's car dealerships, the neon signs hang from its original buildings as a reminder of the past. Can I just say, this district is one of my favorites, it is cool and fun and there is always something going on here.

Eating

This district is effortlessly cool, and I love the fact that you can get cupcakes and delicious heathy options within walking distance of each other.

Semi-Formal Dining If you're like me steak is not your favorite food, but Red Prime Steak is an amazing restaurant that totally has me thinking differently about it. This ultra modern steak house is located in the beautifully restore Buick building and the design is just fantastic. Oh and they have something called 40 day dry aged steak. It is superb and the spice rubs, crackling crusts and sauces sparked with chiles and other vibrant flavors create something altogether new and delicious. You need to go make a reservation now, don't worry... I'll wait. Packards is a great place to get your American favorites, with some flare. Located in the 1920’s Packard Automobile showroom, this restaurant is not to be missed. I love ordering a bunch of small plates for the table and then just enjoying them as a group. But, if I am being honest, I could probably eat that huge cheese plate by myself #CheeseAddict! Anyways, you should also try the Crab Beignets and Black Bean Dip. YUM! Oh and sit on the rooftop if the weather permits.

Casual Dining

While the original Hideaway Pizza is in Stillwater, this high quality restaurant style pizza has some creative combinations and a very fun atmosphere. You definitely need to start with an order of Mozzarella Sticks and for pizza, I suggest ordering the Little Kahuna, the Capone, or the spicy Tulsa Hurricane. If you are health conscience, The Fit Pig is the place for you in this district. This new food concept combines OKC's culinary talent with high quality ingredients. I love their rotating seasonal menu and their shop has a lot to offer including gluten free, paleo and vegetarian selections. If you need a burger fix, S&B Burger Joint is you place. With great combinations and blast from the past music, this place is always a local hangout. Hillbilly's is also a top fave of mine if your looking for a taste of the bayou or want to try a moonshine cocktail. Their cajun and creole style dishes are so good it will take you a while to chose, which is fine because they have local bands play on the weekends. If you are in the mood for Mexican food, may I suggest Iguana Mexican Grill. Their salsa is killer and you have to get a blood orange margarita. If you are like me, queso is life and they have a lot of good options, but for your first time, make sure to order Queso Fundido. I promise, you will thank me.

Sweet Treats

With two locations, Sara Sara Cupcakes is one of my favorite places to quince my sweet tooth. (The Edmond one is close to home). Personally I love The Destin and Peach Cobbler, but with their selection, you are bound to find something you love. In the same white house that bakes the delicious Sara Sara Cupcakes in Automobile Alley, savory and sweet crepes are served up for lunch. Build your own, or choose one of our many options, you won't be disappointed. Pierre Pierre Crepes offers delicious homemade savory and sweet crepes, daily soups and salads in OKC. Personally I love all the sweet ones! Ordering the Violet (blueberry and cream cheese) and Augustus Gloop (strawberry and nutella), both are delish and you will love your sweet treat.

Drinking

Add a sophisticated twist to your night out on the town by grabbing a drink at any of these awesome watering holes.

Wine Bars

There are three wine bars in this district that locals flock too. My favorite is Peloton Cafe, which has about 30 seats. The music is always low, making is a perfect place to chat. Featuring an eclectic selection of over 25 beers and a wine menu to match there is truly something for everyone. You have to get the hummus, believe me, you won't be disappointed. 1The Sidecar Barley Wine Bar is a vintage hot spot with outdoor seating serving scotch, wine & beer, plus a small menu of bar bites. I suggest going with a small group and sitting outside. If you are looking for the perfect cocktail, I suggest either the Toasted Marshmallow or the Sidecar. Oh and if you're hungry, order the butchers board and pulled port sliders. Waters Edge Winery is an OKC family owned winery offering handcrafted wines from grapes gathered from around the world. This place is so cool. Here you can create your own private vintage of wine, where you bottle, cork and even label it. If that is too much for you, just come grab a glass of wine with some friends and enjoy a good night out.

Shopping

There are plenty of cool shops in the area.

I like Bow & Arrow Boutique, Oklahoma Shirt Co., Perch'd (for modern accessories), and Sara Kate Studios. My two favorite places are Shop Good and Plenty Mercantile. Shop Good offers clothing and gifts with quality and story for those with more thoughtful style. No matter what you buy at Shop Good, a portion of your sale supports a deserving effort to do good in the OKC community and around the world. Plenty Mercantile sells life and style products that convey a strong sense of origin, process, and authenticity. I love that they curate the whole store with local, small batch products. This is definitely a must shop!