Every day, it seems, a different news story focuses on the economic fallout and COVID-19-related crises affecting another segment of American society.
Small-business entrepreneur and Cherokee artist Brandi Lee knows the trials and tribulations all too well.
The owner of Agitsi Stained Glass at 3417 S. 113th West Ave. in Sand Springs, Lee signed the lease on her shop in February 2020 and opened soon after — just as the pandemic was reaching a fever pitch in Oklahoma.
A third-generation stained-glass artist, she quickly got creative about how to make enough money to pay the rent at Agitsi, which is pronounced ah-GEE’-chee and means “my mother” in Cherokee.
Our Native American Business Network named Agitsi its 2021 Woman Owned Business of The Year.
Lee sells supplies for making stained glass. She offers adult and youth classes in making stained glass. She does custom stained-glass work as well as repairs. And she has a retail space for her own works of art and those by other Native artisans.
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A hot seller continues to be the “agitsi feather,” a beaded, stained-glass feather that has become her signature item.
Everything in the gift shop, whether made by Lee or by another of the Native artists whose work she sells on consignment, is made by hand and TERO-certified, which means a tribe or tribal entity guarantees the authenticity of the artist and craftsmanship.
“When it’s labeled Native American art (with TERO certification), you can assume you’re buying from a Native artist,” she said.
It might seem like Lee has a lot of irons in the fire, with the classes, the retail side of the operation and the custom orders, but it’s the very diversity of Agitsi Stained Glass that has helped keep the store afloat during tough economic times.

Brandi Lee works on a Tulsa flag stained glass piece at Agitsi.
“I still don’t have a paycheck,” Lee said, adding that “people really aren’t buying a whole lot of art right now.”
“But the studio has carried itself. And when the classes slowed down, (interest in) the supplies increased.”
Lee, however, has never slowed down.
She got active in the Stained Glass Guild of Oklahoma, becoming its president — “We went from about six members to 65 because I’m a good cheerleader” — and she got involved with Our Native American Business Network.
The national organization works with Native American, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian communities to support and empower aspiring entrepreneurs through curriculum and training.
Lee has attended four ONABEN seminars around the country, and ONABEN named her store its 2021 Woman Owned Business of The Year.
It’s her budding business acumen, in fact, that will be leading Lee next year to a new location — the Art Emporium 66 at 2615 W. 40th Place, right off Southwest Boulevard in Tulsa’s Red Fork District.

Everything in Agitsi’s gift shop is TERO-certified, which means a tribe or tribal entity guarantees the authenticity of the artist and craftsmanship.
“I love Sand Springs and really wanted to stay here,” she said, “but (being on) Route 66 will give us the opportunity to be in a tourism area,” especially during the run-up to the 2026 centennial celebration of the Mother Road.
“We’ve outgrown this space, and we really don’t get any foot traffic here,” she said. “But it’s been a great place to grow. Sand Springs is Tulsa’s best-kept secret.”
Lee said the plan is to “finish out here and have a good Christmas sale and then move in January.”
She said she’s also looking forward to a new burst of creativity.
“Stained glass has been used throughout our culture to tell stories,” she said.

Brandi Lee works on a Tulsa Flag stained glass at Agitsi.
Specifically, Lee has in mind works that will feature Selu, the corn goddess, and Uktena, a horned serpent.
“There’s all kinds of Cherokee folklore that I want to tell through my pieces,” she said. “I can’t wait to get started.”
50 things we’re loving about Tulsa in 2022
1. The Canebrake Resort comeback

Photo by Mike Simons, Tulsa World Magazine
33241 E. 732 Road, Wagoner
Six years after closing its doors, the Canebrake is making a comeback.
This unique resort, set on 64 rolling acres of land southeast of Wagoner near Fort Gibson Lake, was a destination for those wanting to rejuvenate with the yoga classes and spa treatments, as well as for foodies who wanted to sample chef and owner Sam Bracken’s four-star cuisine.
The official reopening was Aug. 3, and co-owner Doug Jackson said that, in spite of the property being closed for six years, the facilities are in very good shape, with only minor renovations needed.
The Canebrake includes a luxury spa, 16 rooms for overnight stays, a bar and restaurant, a yoga facility, exercise rooms and a meeting space. The resort’s new executive chef is Bryan Sadler, who will oversee a menu described as “elevated Americana.”
For more, go to canebrake.net
2. Et al.

Photo by Ian Maule, Tulsa World Magazine
One of the most delicious trends to hit Tulsa this year is et al.
Et al. is a chefs collective made up of the most talented group of creatives Oklahoma has seen, serving some of the best food in the state.
Formed in early 2022, the name is derived from the meaning “and others” in Latin. Foolish Things Coffee, 1001 S. Main St., serves as its “home base.” The chefs also offer a dinner series. For more information about upcoming dates and reservations, go to etaltulsa.com.
Here are the different pop-ups that make up et al.:
Taqueria et al. takes place 5-10 p.m. Tuesday night, is led by Marco Herrera and features Tulsa’s only proper nixtamal program. Et al. will cook, soak and grind heirloom field corn sourced from Masienda every week. The masa used to make every tortilla is made fresh daily.
Every Wednesday from 5-10 p.m. is dumpling night, led by Colin Sato. Look for hand-folded dumplings and Japanese fried chicken along with sake and beer. The a la carte service offers five to six types of food and beverages.
Bischix is one Sunday per month from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Bischix is a biscuit sandwich concept led by chef Alex Koch, chef Chloe Butler and chef Julia Johnson.
Butter Bar occurs one weekend night every month. Butter Bar is a dessert pop-up led by Butler that features seasonally inspired sweet treats and savory snacks.
Japanese Breakfast is an elaborated version of a meal from Sato’s childhood. It’s a reservation-only event.
3. Mon Amie Nails and Spa

Photo by Manuela Soldi, Tulsa World Magazine
1348 E. 11th St.
Mon Amie Nails caters to all of its guests with vegan, hypoallergenic, non-toxic and cruelty-free products.
Owner Hannah Lee offers everything from manicures, pedicures, massages, body wraps and waxing services — all without the chemical smell you often find at other salons.
Recently, the spa opened a cafe adjacent to the spa serving coffee and pastries made in-house. A lemon cookie paired with a latte is the perfect pre- or post-pedicure snack and is best enjoyed next to the spas’ collection of local art.
Although Lee said she invests more in her products, she does it because she cares about her customers’ health and well-being. It’s because she considers each customer a friend, and if you schedule an appointment at Mon Amie, you will be treated as such.
4. Nana Rose’s Italian Bakery cannolis

Photo by Stephen Pingry, Tulsa World Magazine
8929 S. Memorial Drive
If you’ve never had a cannoli, Nana Rose’s Italian Bakery would be a good place to start — and to stop. There’s no need to look further for the quintessential cannoli.
With a list of flavors as long as your arm, everyone is sure to find one they love. Nana Rose’s cannoli pastry is light and flaky. The filling is not too sweet, so those who shy away from frostings and other excessively sweet treats should appreciate them.
Favorite flavors include butter pecan, chocolate chip cookie dough and tiramisu. But don’t forget to try the other authentic pastries as well as the savory foods, such as the fresh-made pasta and sauces and bruscetta.
The bakers work before the sun rises each day, and the warm smell of baking often escapes onto the street before the eatery has opened. Nana Rose would approve.
5. Blue Whale turns 50

Photo by Mike Simons, Tulsa World
2600 U.S. Route 66, Catoosa
People from our part of the country travel hundreds of miles to see the ocean.
People from other parts of the country drive here to see our whale, never mind that we don’t have an ocean.
A small body of water in Catoosa is home to the Blue Whale, a man-made roadside attraction that turned 50 in 2022. The Blue Whale continues to attract Route 66 travelers in its golden anniversary year. At any given moment, cars or motorcycles are in the parking lot because folks want to get up close and personal with the whale.
The Blue Whale, completed by Hugh Davis as a gift to his wife in 1972, will likely benefit from ramped-up interest when Route 66 celebrates a centennial in four years. The gift that keeps on giving?
6. Ruth’s Chicken food truck

Photo by Tom Gilbert, Tulsa World
Ruth’s Chicken food truck is hoping to give back and build community with its gluten-free chicken sliders and tenders.
The business that began in a backyard advertises weekly events across Tulsa, where foodies of all diets can enjoy tender fried chicken without compromising on flavor.
Co-owner Alton Andrews named the truck after his grandmother, who died a few years ago. Her spirit lives on in every sandwich and smile.
And, because Ruth’s doesn’t believe in food waste, all of the leftovers are boxed and given to homeless people in need of a good meal. To find their location, follow Ruth’s on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
7. AleXa

Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP
You knew it when you saw her perform on television: A star is born.
AleXa, a K-pop music artist from Jenks, had a global following before she appeared on NBC’s “American Song Contest,” a reality competition featuring participants from every U.S. state and territory. Her profile in the U.S. got a significant boost when she was voted the champion of the first-year show.
AleXa (Alexaundra Schneiderman) is a 2015 graduate of Jenks High School. She said people from her hometown know her as Alex Christine.
AleXa debuted the song “Wonderland” on the show and won over viewers with sticks-in-your-head lyrics and visually striking performances. Snoop Dogg, who co-hosted the show with Kelly Clarkson, complimented her work.
The victory felt like the launch of a big career. Stay tuned.
8. Rose Rock Microcreamery

Photo by Mike Simons, Tulsa World Magazine
Fifth Street and Boston Avenue (Philtower Building); 115 N. Main St., Broken Arrow
Once, we said in our newspaper, “Rose Rock Microcreamery takes ice cream to another level.”
It sure is nice being right.
Now that Rose Rock Microcreamery has taken its premium ice cream to another street in downtown, we want to make sure everyone can find it.
Last winter, Rose Rock moved from its original location at the The Boxyard to Tulsa’s iconic Philtower Building at Fifth Street and Boston Avenue. Also, a second location opened in the Rose District of Broken Arrow. Hours for both locations are noon to 9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, noon to 10 p.m. Friday-Saturday.
Rose Rock creates small-batch ice cream with familiar and unique flavors; it also offers vegan and gluten-free options.
Among its signature flavors are Lavender Honey and Rose Rock, named for the state’s official stone. Rose Rock is made with other official state ingredients such as strawberries and pecans, with “Magic Shell” chocolate swirled through it to represent the state’s oil industry history.
9. Jane’s Delicatessen

Photo by Ian Maule, Tulsa World
1401 E. 11th St.
Jane’s Delicatessen reopened its doors on July 30 about a mile west from its former location, and it is ready to start a new chapter. Jane’s offers a unique menu in Tulsa, including Jewish-, German- and French-Canadian-inspired dishes prepared in-house.
We recommend the Dick Richardson — a unique take on a burger with pastrami, sauerkraut, cheese curds, house mustard, swiss cheese, Russian dressing and a pickled green tomato.
Customers are welcome to grab a seat at the bar to enjoy a local, regional or national beer, or they can take a seat near the can’t-miss art piece of a bull from the old location.
10. La Michoacana Plus

Photo by Manuela Soldi, Tulsa World Magazine
11360 E. 31st St.
At La Michoacana Plus, the flashy, colorful treats are rivaled only by the restaurant’s whimsical neon decor.
The first Oklahoma location of this chain restaurant, which opened in June, offers Mexican snacks, desserts and drinks.
Ice cream flavors range from tried-and-true chocolate and vanilla to tres leches, Bubulubu (a popular brand of chocolate bars from Mexico with a strawberry and marshmallow filling), mazapan (peanut-flavored) and many more.
If you prefer your frozen dessert on a stick, paletas de agua (ice pops) and paletas de leche (creamy ice pops) are for you. Dozens of mostly fruity flavors are available. Other desserts include the visually striking mangonadas, shakes, michelaguas and more.
Try the Hot Cheetos esquite (Mexican street corn served in a cup) for a spicy snack, or eat elote off the cob. Cheesy nachos are a familiar standby, or you can go “crazy” with Tostilocos, which are loaded with chopped veggies, pickled pork skins, Japanese peanuts, chamoy, hot sauce and lime juice. Wash it all down with an agua fresca, a sweet fruit drink.
11. The Hemingway

Photo by Ian Maule, Tulsa World
1515 E. 15th St.
The newest concept from chef Trevor Tack is designed to bring a sense of “rebellious elegance” to the traditions of a fine steakhouse.
“It’s a modern, chef-driven version of the American steakhouse,” Tack said. “We’re in a smaller, more intimate space, where everything is very detail-oriented and as locally sourced as possible. The atmosphere we want to create is one of everyday luxury.”
That includes the menu, which will feature steaks that have been dry-aged for maximum flavor, seafood and pasta dishes.
“Steakhouses are usually places you go to only for special occasions,” Tack said. “That’s why we’re wanting to offer a variety of dishes, things that people will want to eat on a regular basis. The way I see it, we’ve just come out from under a plague, and it’s time to get out and celebrate life.”
For more, go to thehemingwaytulsa1515.com
12. McNellie’s new restaurants

Tom Gilbert, Tulsa World Magazine
Mr. Kim’s, 119 S. Detroit Ave.
Red Light Chicken, 332 E. First St.
McNellie’s Group opened two new concepts this year worth celebrating.
Ben Alexander, the head of culinary operations at the McNellie’s Group, is well-known for putting personal twists into the menus he creates. But Mr. Kim’s, the Asian-fusion steakhouse, is by far the most personal restaurant he has overseen, as the food draws from Alexander’s own Korean heritage.
The restaurant centers on Korean barbecue, with its grilled meats and its array of banshan, or side dishes. One can choose to enjoy the Omakase, or tasting menu, that has a curated selection of meats and vegetables, including Wagyu beef; or order a la carte.
For many Okies, those dishes would fall in the unfamiliar category.
Enter Red Light Chicken for a taste of the familiar.
The newest concept from the McNellie’s Group used to be home to the company’s original El Guapo Mexican restaurant. It specializes in chicken dredged in seasoned flour and fried. It can’t get more universal than that. And it’s delicious.
Although its name refers to the somewhat sordid history of the neighborhood it calls home, Red Light Chicken is actually quite the family-friendly establishment.
Pictured above: Scallops, steak and pork on the tabletop grill at Mr. Kim’s.
13. Country Bird Bakery

Photo by Nicole Marshall Middleton, Tulsa World Magazine
1644 E. Third St.
The Country Bird Bakery is a dream realized for baker Cat Cox. Cox is known for creating loaves of bread so glorious, they once warranted a separated course on the tasting menu at both FarmBar and Living Kitchen where she worked, and most recently the loaves have been picked up from her home porch in a weekly bread club. In her new retail bakery, Cox offers her much-loved artisanal, naturally leavened sourdough breads, as well as other baked goods.
The sourdough bread loaves that Cox creates are works of art, each milled from grains she purchases directly from farmers and blends with herbs, cooked grains, and unlikely ingredients such as sweet potato, eggplant or even rose petals. In addition, the bakery features sweet baked goods such as cookies, brownies, scones, and coffee cake. “I love fun takes on focaccia with fruit”, Cox said. “It rides the line between sweet and savory.”
Country Bird Bakery is open only on Saturdays for now, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and customers are urged to pre-order those labor-intensive loaves she offered in her bread club. Drip and cold brew coffee is available, as well with espresso drinks to come down the line. Baking classes will also be offered, so check the bakery’s social media for information.
For more, go to countrybirdbakery.com, Instagram (@countrybirdbakery) or her Facebook page.
14. Wildflower Market

Photo courtesy of Erin Danyelle
3314 S. Peoria Ave.
Opened in January, Wildflower Market is a female- and family-owned business on Brookside specializing in all things plants.
The lush green store is filled with virtually any houseplant you can dream of — peace lilies, philodendrons, pothos — sourced from local wholesalers and the personal greenhouses of owner Erin Danyelle and her mother, Dani Thayer.
What sets Wildflower Market apart, however, is the fact that it offers much more than plants. The store is filled with art, jewelry and other goods crafted by local artisans, and each month, a variety of workshops are offered. They range from macrame classes and potting workshops to yoga and tai chi sessions.
Most popular are the Full Moon Fever workshops, where attendees can practice meditation, manifestation and sound healing and have their tarot cards read while enjoying snacks and cocktails.
Follow Wildflower Market on Instagram @wildflowermarkettul.
15. Madre’s happy hour

Photo by Tom Gilbert, Tulsa World Magazine
6823 S. Yale Ave.
There’s one way to turn happy hour into a very happy hour — go to Madre’s.
The cocktail selection is plentiful and unique. We happen to be partial to the Pepino, which includes Casa Noble Crystal tequila, fresh squeezed lime and diced cucumber, agave nectar, and Cointreau with a Tajin and chamoy rim.
For snacks with your drinks, we recommend the guacamole, queso and Pork Belly Chicharrones.
Be prepared to share the large serving of fresh guacamole because one person can’t eat it alone, and be prepared to become addicted to the Chicharrones. And the white queso has just the right amount of heat!
16. Okie Spice tailgating

Photo by Stephen Pingry, Tulsa World
103 N. Main St., Sand Springs
It’s football season. This is Oklahoma.
Need we say more?
There’s going to be some tailgating. And even if you don’t leave your living room, it’s a sure bet there will be football and there will be food.
Okie Spice and Trade Co. is one of our favorite headquarters to find all the football feast supplies. Kim Zieg, the owner of OkieSpice and Trade Co., said the shop is stocked with everything from dip and drink mixes to chili supplies and the perfect OU and OSU serving dishes.
Go team!
17. New barbecue spots

Photo by Stephen Pingry, Tulsa World Magazine
The Tulsa barbecue scene has grown to feature cooks who take the tradition of smoking meats seriously but also are willing to explore and invent. We love our classics, but we want to give these new spots some love, too.
1907 Barbecue
1124 S. Lewis Ave.
1907 Barbecue got its start in 2013, and after several mobile years as a food truck, the owners moved to the Cabin Boys Brewery parking lot. It has recently relocated to Mother Road Market to bring barbecue back to Route 66.
Killer Wail Barbecue
2112 E. Admiral Blvd.
One local favorite among barbecue fans can be found in the parking lot of Heirloom Rustic Ales. Chef and owner Oliver Larrabee runs this operation that has been cooking up Central Texas-style barbecue. Killer Wail is open only on Saturdays and routinely sells out by early afternoon.
Mac’s BBQ at Cain’s Ballroom
423 N. Main St.
The menu features items familiar to fans of Mac’s Barbecue in Skiatook, which is a good thing because Mac’s has many fans. The restaurant is usually only open when the venue is hosting a concert, but it also offers Sunday brunches with music, too called Brunch with Bob. See the menu at facebook.com/cainskitchentulsa.
Oakhart Barbecue
1644 E. Third St.
Oakhart Barbecue uses post oak wood and only salt and pepper as seasoning — along with an artisan’s touch at coaxing culinary magic from these simple elements — to create mouth-watering barbecue.
Leon’s Smoke Shack
601 S. Sheridan Road; 1529 E. Third St.
Leon’s has been in operation since 2014 and opened a second location this year in what used to be the Swamp House. We suggest Leon’s ribs, beans and the signature Slap Potato, topped with a choice of meat.
Alpha Grill
5970 E. 31st St.; 6670 S. Lewis Ave.
Chef and owner Frank Willis calls it “barbecue with a twist.” He opened a second location this year in south Tulsa. Alpha Grill began as a food truck, and in 2020, the business moved into Mall 31, where the Willis family continues to blend Mexican, Cajun and Caribbean foods and flavors with traditional Oklahoma barbecue.
Pictured above: Smoked meats from 1907 Barbecue.
18. Jenkins & Co.

Photo by Stephen Pingry, Tulsa World Magazine
1335 E. 11th St., Suite E
Jenkins & Co. specializes in artisan-made home goods, jewelry and apothecary products. Whether you’re looking to outfit your space with new bohemian décor or purchase a gift for a loved one, Jenkins & Co. has something for everyone.
“I love things that have history and a story, so I try to curate a collection that is meaningful, useful and beautiful — everyday things with purpose that bring joy every time you use them,” said owner Lisa Wakefield, who opened the store in 2015.
The store is located on 11th Street next to Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios on 66. Follow Jenkins & Co. on Instagram @jenkinsandcotulsa or visit jenkinsandcotulsa.com for more information.
19. Pickleball

Tulsa World Magazine file photo
Here’s a deal — or dill — for you: Jump on the pickleball bandwagon.
What’s pickleball? It’s a surging-in-popularity, indoor/outdoor sport that has roots in tennis, badminton and table tennis. It is played with a paddle and a plastic ball speckled with holes.
The Greater Tulsa Pickleball Club was created in 2019 and now has more than 140 dues-paying members, according to tulsapickleball.org. The site contains a list of places to play and upcoming events as well as information for beginners.
Sweet? Or kosher. You decide.
20. Milo’s Tea

Tulsa World file photo
Milo’s Tea Co. has quenched our thirst for economic expansion in the Tulsa area.
The Alabama-based producer of the all-natural, fresh-brewed teas and lemonade opened a $60 million production and distribution facility in the Cherokee Extension Industrial Park, north of Tulsa and west of Owasso, in 2020 after spending three years researching sites.
This year, the company announced an expansion to the facility that will triple its gallon-making capacity. It added 50 new jobs to its workforce of at least 110 workers.
Milo’s tea and lemonade has been growing in popularity, with good cause. And Tulsa’s quality water helps make it even better.
We’ll drink to that this year.
21. Frankoma Pottery comes back

Photo by Mike Simons, Tulsa World Magazine
One of the most iconic Oklahoma brands, Frankoma Pottery, is opening a new manufacturing facility and storefront this year.
And we join the fans who are glad it is coming back.
Frankoma Pottery has been around since 1933, creating sculptures, figurines and dinnerware of earthy colors like Prairie Green and Desert Gold for customers all over the world.
After the company’s founder, John Frank, died in 1973, Frankoma Pottery fell on hard times, eventually closing in 2010. Twelve years later, new owner Dennis Glascock is working to revitalize the Frankoma Pottery brand by opening a new facility in Glenpool.
Visitors will be able to purchase pottery at the storefront and watch from a viewing window as pottery is created by Frankoma craftsmen before their eyes. Glascock said he expects the facility to be open later this year.
For more information, visit frankomapottery.com.
22. Greaser Hideout

Photo by Stephen Pingry, Tulsa World Magazine
Who knew that being on the alleged wrong side of the tracks could be so much fun?
The “greasers” were from the proverbial wrong side of the tracks in “The Outsiders.”
Danny O’Connor of the music group House of Pain rescued the Outsiders House (a filming location from the book-turned-movie) from destruction and transformed the house into a museum dedicated to “The Outsiders” and the works of author S.E. Hinton.
The appeal of “The Outsiders” is such that the museum continues to draw fans and celebrity visitors (Leonardo DiCaprio stopped by in 2021). You can’t stay in the house overnight — but you can stay across the street.
A home facing the museum became an Outsiders-themed Airbnb. The “greaser hideout” opened in early 2022 and is mostly booked, according to O’Connor.
Stay? Stay Gold.
23. Black Moth

Photo by Manuela Soldi, Tulsa World Magazine
1142 S. Harvard Ave.
Preservation runs in the family at Black Moth.
Maris Blanchard, the owner of the natural history store, followed in the footsteps of her great-grandmother, who passed on her love for preserving turtle shells and salting skins.
The taxidermy deer heads and birds you might find perched on the walls of your grandparents’ house are all for sale and ethically sourced so the nature Blanchard is passionate about doesn’t go to waste.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a serious collector or just browsing. The shop offers puzzles, stationery and stickers for those who aren’t ready to build a collection and taxidermy classes for those interested in learning more.
It’s a wild experience you won’t want to miss.
24. Sidecar Barley & Wine Bar

Photo by Stephen Pingry, Tulsa World
1515 E. 15th St.; 161 S. Riverfront Drive, Jenks
Think of Sidecar Barley & Wine Bar as a “vroom with a view.” These newly opened watering holes are notable as much for the views they offer as they are for their craft cocktails and their extensive selection of spirits, wines and beers.
Each location incorporates garage-style doors that allow access to rooftop patios that let one take in the downtown Tulsa skyline or a swath of the Arkansas River, depending on your location. Fire pits help take the chill off on autumn nights.
Some of Sidecar’s most popular drink options include the GTO Margarita, which combines a jalapeño-infused vodka and house-made sweet and sour mix; the Old “Smokey” Fashion, served in a smoke-infused glass; and the Cherry Street Sidecar, a mix of cognac, Cointreau and sweet and sour. Those seeking some non-liquid nourishment can choose from a menu of appetizers, flatbread pizzas and panini-style sandwiches. For more, go to sdcrbar.com
25. Discovery Lab

Photo by Mike Simons, Tulsa World Magazine
3123 Riverside Drive
Earlier this year, Discovery Lab opened the doors to its new 57,000-square-foot facility at the Gathering Place.
The children’s museum, which spent nearly a decade at Owen Park, presents educational opportunities in a fun, hands-on way.
Discovery Lab’s exhibits encourage the development of critical thinking, problem solving, creativity and more. Exhibits based on the areas of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, the arts and math) rotate periodically, and fans of the “tape tunnels” in the former building will be eager to explore the new area.
Pictured above: Kerr Elementary School third-grader Joseph Lopez slides through a tunnel as Tulsa Public Schools students take a field trip to the Discovery Lab at the Gathering Place.
26. John Swab films

Tulsa World file photo
This applies to Tulsa’s John Swab: He’s one of those filmmakers who, once you see one of his films, it may motivate you to find and watch everything he has ever done.
It was announced in January that Paramount Pictures acquired worldwide distribution rights for his film “Little Dixie,” an action thriller starring frequent collaborator Frank Grillo.
In June, Scott Caan was in Tulsa and talked about teaming up with Swab for “One Day as a Lion,” a film he wrote that was being directed by Swab.
“I think he’s one of the best young directors making movies right now,” Caan said.
Swab’s filmography includes “Let Me Make You a Martyr” (2016), “Run With the Hunted” (2019), “Body Brokers” (2021) and “Ida Red,” which was filmed (and set) in Tulsa.
27. Zach Bryan albums

Photo by Mike Simons, Tulsa World
We are having a hard time keeping up with rising Oklahoma country music star Zach Bryan.
But he has certainly earned his spot in the Tulsa World Magazine 50 for all of his hard work.
In July, the Oologah native released “Summertime Blues,” a nine-track album.
If you’re keeping track, that’s just a few months after he released his record-breaking critically acclaimed Warner Records debut, “American Heartbreak.”
“American Heartbreak” was an instant hit, breaking the record for single-album streams in a 24-hour period and pushing Bryan past 1 billion streams globally.
“Something in the Orange” topped out at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot Country charts and was the No. 18 global streaming track overall. “From Austin” was a No. 1 Country Song on Apple Music and debuted at No. 4 on Spotify’s Global Country chart.
28. Diamond Cellar stacks

Photo courtesy of Diamond Cellar
Stacks on stacks on stacks — that’s the trend we are loving at Diamond Cellar, formerly Bruce G. Weber.
Whether it’s bracelets, rings, necklaces or fun ear cuffs and earrings, there are many choices for jewelry to stack at Diamond Cellar.
The pieces are interchangeable, so you can change the look. If you are buying a gift for a friend who is building a stack, it makes gift-buying even easier.
We are mad about stacks!
29. Tulsa Symphony goes to the movies

Photo by Tom Gilbert, Tulsa World Magazine
Dec. 2, 2022, and April 15, 2023 at the Tulsa PAC
Music has been an important element of movies from the very beginning, when silent films were accompanied by an organist or piano player, who would highlight the emotions of a given scene with romantic melodies or agitated riffs.
The Tulsa Symphony has continued that tradition since it was founded, offering special concerts each season in which the full orchestra performs the score of a popular movie.
This season, these events include the modern holiday classic “Elf,” starring Will Ferrell, Bob Newhart and the late James Caan, in the story of Buddy, who sets out from Santa’s workshop at the North Pole to discover his true father. The Tulsa Symphony will perform John Debney’s score when the film is shown Dec. 2 at the Tulsa PAC.
Another modern classic, “The Princess Bride,” will be presented April 15 at the Tulsa PAC, with the Tulsa Symphony performing the score composed by Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits fame. For more, go to tulsasymphony.org.
30. Il Seme

Photo by Tom Gilbert, Tulsa World
15 W. Fifth St.
James Beard Award-nominated chef Lisa Becklund has become nationally known for the farm-to-table dinners she creates at Living Kitchen Farm & Dairy in Depew, and at Tulsa’s FarmBar, focusing almost exclusively on ingredients from Oklahoma producers.
The newest restaurant she and partner Linda Ford have opened, Il Seme, puts that same philosophy to use in an Italian context. And the few essentials that can’t be locally sourced are imported directly from Italy.
“Here we are following the rules of Italian cooking, some which go back centuries, but we are also adapting them to reflect this region of Oklahoma, just as Italian food reflects the regions where it is prepared,” Becklund said.
The menu changes regularly, depending on what is seasonal, but some dishes that are staples include the arancini (rice balls stuffed with cheese or lamb, deep fried and served with a rich marinara sauce); linguine vongole (pasta with clams in a light lemony sauce); house-made focaccia; and a rose panna cotta for dessert. For more, go to ilsemetulsa.com.
Pictured above: Locally sourced produce, such as cauliflower, gets an Italian makeover at Il Seme.
31. Tulsa distilleries

Photo by Tom Gilbert, Tulsa World Magazine
Tulsa is now home to two distilleries: OK Distilling Co. and Red Fork Distillery.
Red Fork Distillery is located at 3310 Southwest Blvd., on Route 66, just a few miles from downtown Tulsa.
OK Distilling Co., 1724 E. Seventh St., is next to three of Tulsa’s breweries.
Hunter Stone Gambill owns OK Distilling Co. and plans to open a tasting room on Cherry Street next spring. He came out with Indian Grass vodka in December 2017.
Both distilleries’ products are available in liquor stores and bars throughout Tulsa. They also host private parties in their taprooms.
Red Fork Distillery is owned by Michael and Dana Hoey. After years of figuring out the challenges of doing this in Oklahoma, they opened in 2015.
“We are Tulsa’s first legal distillery since Prohibition,” Michael Hoey said. “We have a full line of spirits, including seven different spirits, but some of our newest products are our Caribe rum, which is our Oklahoma rum that is barrel aged. We have our Apple Pie whiskey, which uses our Heist whiskey blended with natural juices and cinnamon. Then we have our Kivalo, which is our whiskey cream.”
Red Fork also provides the official vodka of the Tulsa Drillers. So anytime you’re at ONEOK field, you’ll find Red Fork Distillery vodka.
Pictured above: A chocolate martini can be made with Red Fork Distillery’s Kivalo whiskey cream and Southern Journey vodka.
32. Frozen

Photo courtesy of Deen van Meer
Oct. 20-29, Tulsa PAC, 101 E. Third St.
Tulsa audiences have been waiting more than two years for the touring production of Disney’s “Frozen” to come to town.
The stage version of “Frozen” is one of the most acclaimed productions Disney has created, earning praise for the new songs created by the original writers, Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez, the dazzling spectacle of its sets, which evoke the wintry setting of much of the plot, and its story of two sisters who must discover how to use their magical powers for good.
Celebrity Attractions will close out its 2021-22 season with an extended run of this family musical. For more, go to tulsapac.com.
33. Steak Stuffers USA fills authentic Philly cheesesteak cravings

Photo by Stephen Pingry, Tulsa World Magazine
7846 E. 51st St.
Travelers who have eaten the most famous food Philadelphia is known for know the farther west you travel, the harder it is to get an authentic cheesesteak. Sure, you can find a tasty and similar sandwich at lots of restaurants, but it ain’t a Philly cheesesteak.
Tulsans don’t know how lucky they are to have Steak Stuffers USA on 51st Street just west of Memorial. It opened in 1988 and survived two location changes as Tulsa grew, along with the family of its owner, Philadelphia native George Van Wyck. Its new owners are a family of German heritage, but they haven’t changed the original cheesesteak recipe.
My mother, a born-and-bred Philly woman, doesn’t come to Tulsa without begging for a stop at Steak Stuffers. She can’t find a proper cheesesteak in Missouri.
34. Bead Merchant

Photo by Stephen Pingry, Tulsa World Magazine
1547 S. Harvard Ave.
The Bead Merchant has been a Tulsa staple since 1990. The store offers beads of all shapes, colors and sizes, finished jewelry works, crystals, stones and charms, and any supplies might you need to create jewelry. Owner Susanne Barnard sources her merchandise from all over the world, gathering goods everywhere from Tibet to the Czech Republic.
Whether you’re a newcomer to jewelry-making or a pro looking to master an advanced technique, The Bead Merchant offers a host of classes and workshops. This fall, Barnard will open a new studio connected to The Bead Merchant for silversmithing classes as well.
“The Bead Merchant is a great place for people to come other than home or work and do something they’re passionate about,” Barnard said. “It’s a really great creative outlet for so many different kinds of people.”
For more information, visit beadmerchanttulsa.com.
35. Yoga

Photo courtesy of High on a Hill Dairy Farm
Various locations
Tulsans love yoga. Here are a few fun options we found that you might want to try out.
Goat yoga
15362 S. 217th West Ave., Kellyville
For a stretch and a smile, check out High On A Hill Dairy Farm in Kellyville, where you can take a yoga class alongside adorable goats. The class is 75 minutes long, with 45 minutes of yoga and the rest spent interacting with the goats.
Free class
400 Civic Center
Find a free yoga class on Tuesday nights at Central Library. Mats, blocks and straps are provided at this beginner-friendly yoga class.
Beer yoga
Cabin Boys Brewery, 1717 E. Seventh St.; Marshall Brewing Co., 618 S. Wheeling Ave.
Want a beer with your workout? Be Love Yoga Studio has partnered with Cabin Boys Brewery for a beer yoga class, as have High Vibrations Coaching and Marshall Brewing Co. Both studios teach a monthly class at the partnering brewery that includes one hour of yoga and one free beer.
36. Bar Serra

Photo by Mike Simons, Tulsa World Magazine
1876 Utica Square
Bar Serra, a new concept by the McNellie’s Group, is the newest addition to Tulsa’s venerable Utica Square. It is described as a “neighborhood bar and restaurant, serving elevated bar food, classic cocktails, interesting wines and craft beers.”
It is easy to find — just look for the greenhouse-like construction in Utica Square’s new “art alley,” between Muse and Banana Republic. It is set to open in late fall and might not be open by the time of publication. We predict it will be buzzworthy nonetheless.
Bar Serra is the second McNellie’s Group establishment in Utica Square; in 2020, the company took over ownership of the Wild Fork Restaurant. And given the success of such recently opened concepts as Howdy Burger, Dracula Sandwich, Mr. Kim’s and Red Light Chicken, Bar Serra should quickly become a popular watering hole for the midtown crowd.
38. Bob Dylan Center

Photo by Stephen Pingry, Tulsa World Magazine
116 E. Reconciliation Way
The music world’s attention was focused on Tulsa in May, when the Bob Dylan Center officially opened to the public. Home to a treasure trove of more than 100,000 items ranging from pocket notebooks filled with scribbled lyrics to towering metal sculptures made by Dylan himself, the center is an immersive, multi-media experience designed to give visitors the chance to explore aspects of Dylan’s life, career and influences in as much detail as they wish.
The facility’s cutting-edge design, created by renowned architectural and exhibit design firm Olson Kundig, exploits audio and visual elements as well as static displays. The greater purpose of the Bob Dylan Center is not simply to impress, but to inspire.
Visitors are greeted by a wall emblazoned with a quote from Dylan: “Life isn’t about finding yourself or finding anything. It’s about creating yourself and creating things.” And that, according to Steve Jenkins, the center’s executive director, is the whole point.
“The focus of the Bob Dylan Center is restless creativity and the role that creativity plays in our lives,” Jenkins said. “The whole idea is that this is a place where the visitor can participate,” Jenkins said. “We didn’t want this to be a place where you passively look at objects and move on.”
39. Drunken Chipmunk at Coffee House on Cherry Street

Photo by Stephen Pingry, Tulsa World
1502 E. 15th St.
At Coffee House on Cherry Street, you don’t have to go to the zoo to see grizzly bears, honey badgers and monkeys. They put them in your cup.
Since 2006, the coffeehouse and bakery have been serving up unique and locally roasted coffee with decadent pastries. The establishment complements its culinary experience with warm lighting and periodic live music.
We recommend you try a slice of vegan chocolate cake topped with a chocolate rose.
And, if you want to wash down something sweet with something even sweeter, try the Drunken Chipmunk. The specialty drink combines Irish cream, vanilla and hazelnut with espresso and steamed milk.
40. Taqueria Azteca taco platter

Photo by Tom Gilbert, Tulsa World Magazine
4050 S. Sheridan Road; 61st Street and Mingo Road; or 12570 E. 21st St.
A pizza box full of tacos may seem overwhelming, but with the tasty carne asada at the Taqueria Azteca taco trucks, you won’t be able to stop eating.
The 24-count taco platter comes with all the colorful toppings you can think of, creating a visually appealing and hunger-satisfying dinner.
It might be tempting to eat all 24 tacos by yourself, so bring a friend and chow down. If you’re anything like us, challenge them to see who can eat the most in one sitting.
41. ‘1921’ album

Photo by Ian Maule, Tulsa World
Songs from current music artists and a posthumous contribution from music artist and former NBA player Wayman Tisdale are part of “1921,” a collaborative album from the Black Wall Street Music Project released in May on digital platforms.
The project brought together artists of varying styles, including Omaley B (pictured above), Taylor Hanson of the Tulsa pop-rock trio Hanson, Majeste Pearson, Dangerous Rob, Playya 1000 and others to reflect on the deep musical heritage of Tulsa.
The album title refers to the year of the Tulsa Race Massacre, which destroyed Black Wall Street.
Executive producer and One Tulsa founder Fred Jones had a passion to assemble an album that could bring attention to challenging topics while seeking to spark a more hopeful future for the Greenwood District.
To find out more about the Black Wall Street Music Project, go to blackwallstreetmusic.com.
42. Tulsa Ballet’s ‘Carmen’

Photo courtesy of Jeremy Charles
Nov. 7-9, Tulsa PAC, 101 E. Third St.
The fiery temptress Carmen has been the ultimate “femme fatale” from the moment she first appeared in the pages of Prosper Mérimée’s novella.
Tulsa Ballet will present the world premiere of the newest retelling of this tragic tale of lust and liberty, betrayal and murder when it presents “Carmen,” choreographed by Kenneth Tindall, resident choreographer of England’s Northern Ballet.
The ballet uses music from Bizet’s famed opera based on the story, as well as music by Rodion Shchedrin and Alexandra Harwood, to tell the story of Carmen, who entrances the soldier Don Jose to the point that he is willing to abandon his life to pursue her. But Carmen has no desire to confine her life to one person, and her affair with the matador Escamillo leads to tragedy. See more at tulsaballet.org.
43. Mother Road Market to-go and Bodhi’s Bowls

Photo by Stephen Pingry, Tulsa World
1124 S. Lewis Ave
We love Mother Road Market and its ever-expanding options for delicious food and shops. And we are especially loving its to-go options.
Pro tips:
You can skip the line and order from your phone.You can order from multiple places on the same ticket.
We’re pretty sure we just blew your mind. Order from motherroadmarket.menu and receive a text when your food is ready.
Bonus pro tip: Try Bodhi’s Bowl, which serves rice bowls inspired by countries from all over the world, and even gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. We suggest the vegan and gluten-free bowl, the Chakra Chana (pictured above). The dish is a chickpea curry made with Bodhi’s Bowl’s masala blend served on a bed of coconut rice with ginger spinach salad, vegetable sambar, pineapple salsa and cilantro. Request a piece of naan — you won’t regret it.
44. Anthousai Florals

Photo by Manuela Soldi, Tulsa World Magazine
2411 E. Admiral Blvd., Suite A
When Jenny Rausch and Katie Allen opened Anthousai Florals in 2015, they focused mostly on creating unique floral arrangements for weddings and events. In May 2021, the pair and their team of florists opened a retail shop in the Kendall Whittier district, where they sell individual arrangements, indoor plants and gifts, and host workshops.
Anthousai Florals focuses on creating one-of-a-kind floral arrangements using flowers sourced from local vendors.
“We are so passionate about connecting with our clients and customers. … We believe this is the best way to create florals that are truly meaningful to each couple,” Rausch said. “We also work really hard to source unique varieties of flowers as well, and each arrangement and event we create is different than the last!”
Follow Anthousai Florals on Instagram @anthousai or visit anthousaiflorals.com for more information.
45. ‘Reservation Dogs’ season two

Photo courtesy of Shane Brown, FX
In 1961, Stan Lee and Jack Kirby created what eventually became the Marvel Universe with the debut of the Fantastic Four.
Fifty years later, Tulsa filmmaker Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi unleashed the Rez Dogs four.
The four — Bear, Elora Danan, Cheese and Willie Jack — are Indigenous youths who want to escape the modern-day reservation and head to California.
And so began “Reservation Dogs,” a groundbreaking and critically acclaimed series co-created by Harjo and Waititi.
The series, a mix of comedy and drama, has been praised for its depiction of Indigenous life in rural Oklahoma. Filmed primarily in Okmulgee, “Reservation Dogs” began a second season in August with a red carpet premiere at River Spirit Casino.
The characters in “Reservation Dogs” ring familiar to some Oklahomans in an “I grew up with these kids” sort of way. The series reminds us where we have been and makes us curious about where the characters are going next.
Pictured above: Academy Award-winning Oklahoma actor Wes Studi (left) is shown with “Reservation Dogs” cast members Gary Farmer and Paulina Alexis in a season two episode.
46. Tulsa King

Photo by Mike Simons, Tulsa World
Sylvester Stallone visited the Center of the Universe, a quirky downtown Tulsa attraction, while in town to film a scene for the Paramount+ series “Tulsa King.”
Oklahoma isn’t the center of the filmmaking universe, but “Tulsa King” and other shot-in-Oklahoma projects (among them: “Reservation Dogs” and Martin Scorsese’s upcoming “Killers of the Flower Moon”) confirm Oklahoma has a footprint in that universe.
“Tulsa King” is being shot in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. It is scheduled to debut Nov. 13 exclusively on Paramount+.
Stallone is starring in a TV series for the first time. “Tulsa King” stars the Academy Award-nominee as 75-year-old mobster Dwight “The General” Manfredi, who, after release from a 25-year prison term, is sent by the son of his former boss to set up shop in (guess where?) Tulsa.
47. Inheritance Juicery

Photo by Stephen Pingry, Tulsa World
108 S. Detroit Ave.; 6333 E. 120th Court
This locally owned business, with locations in downtown and south Tulsa, specializes in libations and comestibles made with organically grown vegetables and fruits, from breakfast burritos to all sorts of smoothies, from vegan nachos to craft cocktails.
The downtown location offers a more extensive menu, with breakfast, lunch and dinner options.
Signature smoothies include the Okie Dokie, made with coconut milk, juiced orange, banana, coconut cream, mango and pineapple; the Thunder Up, with apple, orange, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, spinach, raw sprouted almond butter and blue spirulina; and the Clean Green, made with avocado, spinach, zucchini, green detox juice, coconut water, ginger, lime and dates.
For more, go to inheritancejuicery.com.
48. Turnpike Troubadours

Photo by Ian Maule, Tulsa World
The Turnpike Troubadours made their return to touring with epic back-to-back concerts in April at Cain’s Ballroom.
If you got to go, you were one of the lucky ones.
Tickets vanished in an unprecedented amount of time. Asked if the shows sold out immediately, Chad Rodgers of Cain’s Ballroom responded with “Quicker than immediately.” Cain’s had more than 70,000 users log in to pursue Turnpike Troubadours tickets. And this is not a Cain’s-only phenomenon.
“The announcement of Turnpike Troubadours performances have now crashed at least five separate venue/festival/ticketing servers, often provisioned to handle spikes during announcements and sales,” Kyle Coroneos posted Jan. 26 on the Saving Country Music Twitter account. “I’m not sure any of us really grasp at this point how big they’ve become post-hiatus.”
The band is made up of R.C. Edwards, Evan Felker, Kyle Nix, Ryan Engleman, Gabe Pearson and Hank Early. We join the fans that are happy to have them back.
49. Dillon Rose Fine Jewelry

Tulsa World Magazine file photo
1229 Charles Page Blvd.
Rachel Rose Dazey (above) began making jewelry out of necessity — she was living in Mexico at the time, where “bartering was how a lot of things were done,” she said. “So I started trading jewelry for things I needed.”
That sparked a love of the process of working with precious stones and metals, and led he to the create of Dillon Rose Fine Jewelry.
Dillon Rose Jewelry creations are handmade, one-of-a-kind pieces that often draw inspiration from nature, and that range from bolo ties to bridal sets, earrings to cufflinks.
Dazey is known as much for her community spirit as her jewelry-making artistry. In 2019, she became the first Tulsa artist to earn Best in Show in Mayfest’s Juried Art Competition and donated proceeds from her sales to the Take Control Initiative, a local nonprofit that offers women access to birth control products. When the COVID-19 pandemic was at its height, she created and sold a line of copper bracelets, donating money from those sales to help support her fellow artists.
50. Common Tart

Photo by Stephen Pingry, Tulsa World Magazine
1717 E. 17th St.
Some days, there’s pie.
And those days are Wednesday through Saturday, when Common Tart is open and serving up slices of such creations as key lime (above), apple crumble, pear almond, peanut butter mousse and banana Nutella pies.
The mother-daughter team of Sherrie and Alexandra Coppinger also have daily specials that usually include something sweet, such as blueberry cobbler, or savory — a quiche or a chicken pot pie, for example.
Whole pies are also available for purchase, although it’s always best to reserve these in advance. For more, go to facebook.com/commontart.
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