Now that the rain — aka the torrential, fun-ruining barrage of awfulness — has left the building, it’s finally perfect drinks-on-the-patio weather. And, of course, there’s no better excuse to kick back than surviving the daily grind.
There are a few qualities that are absolutely necessary in a great after-work hangout: strong drinks, easygoing vibes and proximity to post-booze food (we’re all thinking it, so hush). Here are the five OKC spots that best meet the criteria.
51st Street Speakeasy
Since Speakeasy is approximately half a mile from my office, this place has been a favorite for ages. A killer patio and balcony, reasonably priced drinks and constant rotation of live, local bands make this 51st Street hangout a perfect spot to throw back a few colds ones. It may have been an actual house in a long-ago lifetime, but it’s now a haven for those more interested in libations than domestic decorations. Though they do serve food, I suggest heading right next door to The Drunken Fry for some world-class French fries with a side of buttermilk parmesan ranch.
Oklahoma City Museum of Art
On Thursdays after five, the OKCMOA rooftop opens up to anyone and everyone for drinks, appetizers, live music and an impressive 360-degree downtown view. It’s free for members and $5 to get in otherwise — yeah, cover charges suck, but at least this one goes toward supporting the arts rather than into the pocket of some greasy club rat. Are there fancier craft cocktails elsewhere? Sure. But if you want to feel classy with a cold one on the roof of a museum in the heart of the city, then … yeah. This is the spot.
Fassler Hall
Picture a sea of indoor picnic tables, pretty people and Pilsners, and you have Fassler Hall. The counterpart to the original location in Tulsa, OKC’s Fassler Hall is similarly situated above the mock-vintage Dust Bowl Lanes and Lounge to serve up kickass beer and brats for the masses. Chill with your food and drinks indoors, or wander out to the rooftop beer garden for expansive views of the city’s skyline. Either way, plan to get lost in the shuffle of the crowd and possibly make a new friend or four.
The Other Room
If I were to throw a rock into a crowd, I would likely hit a handful of people who had seen Nick Collison at The Other Room. But placing all Thunder players aside (don’t let it get around that I said that), this sibling of Picasso Café has the chops to hold its own. Dark and smoke-filled, it never fails to offer good music, good drinks and good times. Head through the tunnel of light at the back of the joint, and you’ll emerge onto the patio where there’s sure to be a crazy game of Jenga and a friendly pup or two. Plus, you can order off the Picasso Café menu and they’ll send your grub right over. Pretty hard to beat.
R&J Lounge and Supper Club
R&J is one of my favorites no matter the time of day, but it’s especially great for getting rid of those office vibes. It’s a portal into a land of peaceful, easy-going feelings, a place where you can enjoy a fruity tiki drink or a crisp glass of champagne on tap and literally feel your worries evaporate with the bubbles in your beverage. Get lost in the crimson hues at the ’60s-style bar, or sink your feet into the AstroTurf at a patio table outside. Either way, get yourself a plate of cheesy crab toast and call it a day.
Honorable Mention: Grandad’s (R.I.P.)
We may never see Grandad’s in its former incarnation, but here’s hoping it’s just as special when it reopens. I’ve been told that they would have hung a picture of your grandfather on the wall if you brought it in a frame … I’m still trying to work out how much I trust my affable yet prank-obsessed coworkers, so I never did give that a go. Regardless, this place straight-up seemed like it was owned and operated by somebody’s grandfather. The chairs, cups and tables were all mismatched, and the drinks were mixed like the bartender got caught in a convo with a chatty family member and forgot how much booze he’d poured. Plus, its proximity to favorites like Big Truck Tacos and Pizza 23 guaranteed awesomeness. We’ll miss you, Grandad’s.
