OKC’s Dynamic Dining Scene: New Spots and Farewell Bites

Oklahoma City’s vibrant culinary scene is constantly evolving, with several beloved establishments closing their doors this fall while exciting new concepts and popular chains prepare to launch. Local foodies have much to anticipate and reflect upon as the year draws to a close.

Restaurant Closures: Saying Goodbye to Familiar Flavors

Johnnie’s Kitchen & Bar (I-240 Service Road)

The Johnnie’s Kitchen & Bar location at 421 W I-240 Service Road will serve its last meal on November 16, 2025, after 41 years. Owners David and Rick Haynes are moving to a new chapter, but other Johnnie’s Charcoal Broiler locations in town will remain open.

Novelty by Boomtown

Boomtown Creamery’s sister concept, Novelty, closed its Bungalow 23 location on November 2, 2025. Owner Angela Muir cited insufficient sales, though some of its unique ice cream ideas might return to Boomtown Creamery.

405 Brewing Co. (Norman)

Norman’s first production brewery, 405 Brewing Co., ceased operations in early November 2025 after nearly 11 years. They thanked their community for supporting their “Liquid Art” and the relationships built.

Empire Slice (Nichols Hills Plaza)

After five years, Empire Slice’s Nichols Hills Plaza Slice Shop closed on October 26, 2025. Fans can still find their pizza at other Empire Slice locations across OKC.

Black Walnut (Reopening as Dougla in 2026)

James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Black will close Black Walnut on New Year’s Eve, 2025. The space will undergo renovation to reopen on February 14, 2026, as Dougla, an Indo-Caribbean restaurant honoring Chef Black’s grandmother, Elizabeth.

New Arrivals: Fresh Spots to Explore

Bar None

Recently opened at 801 N. Hudson Ave., Bar None is a new wine bar from the Nonesuch team. It focuses on North American wines, including selections from Mexico and Canada, alongside sustainable bar snacks made with house-milled bread.

Coming Soon: Anticipated Openings

Mountain Mike’s Pizza (Midwest City)

California-based Mountain Mike’s Pizza will open its first Oklahoma location at 5855 SE 15th St. in Midwest City in November 2025. It will feature an all-you-can-eat pizza and salad bar, arcade, and big-screen TVs.

MAHT

Chef Kevin Lee is preparing to open MAHT at 519 NW 23 St, Suite 111. This new venture blends Lee’s Korean heritage with an American steakhouse concept, offering dishes like tuna tataki, sweet shrimp crudo, various beefs, and lamb chops.

Shake Shack at OAK

Shake Shack’s first Oklahoma location is set to open on November 19, 2025, at the upscale OAK development in northwest Oklahoma City. This gourmet burger chain is known for its 100% Angus beef burgers, chicken sandwiches, shakes, and lemonades.

OKC’s Restaurant Updates at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions About OKC’s Dining Scene

• Is the Johnnie’s Charcoal Broiler chain closing?
  No, only the I-240 Service Road Johnnie’s Kitchen & Bar location is closing. Other Johnnie’s Charcoal Broiler restaurants will remain open.
• What is replacing Black Walnut?
  Black Walnut will reopen as “Dougla” on February 14, 2026, featuring Indo-Caribbean cuisine inspired by Chef Andrew Black’s grandmother.
• Where will the first Mountain Mike’s Pizza in Oklahoma be located?
  The first Oklahoma location for Mountain Mike’s Pizza is opening in Midwest City, at 5855 SE 15th St., in November 2025.
• When is Shake Shack opening in Oklahoma City?
  Shake Shack is scheduled to open its first Oklahoma location on November 19, 2025, at the new OAK development.
• What kind of food can I expect at MAHT?
  MAHT will offer a unique blend of Korean heritage and American steakhouse elements, including seafood and various meat dishes by Chef Kevin Lee.

As Oklahoma City’s culinary landscape continues to evolve, stay curious and support our local businesses. Your next unforgettable dining experience is waiting to be discovered!

OKC Food Scene New Places Old Favorites Close