Meet Taylor Hanson
While 90s kids might know him from the hit band Hanson, Taylor Hanson has spent the last twelve years building his nonprofit, Food on the Move, in Tulsa. The world famous recording artist now dedicates much of his time to the fight against food insecurity in our community, raising critical funds, distributing quality food to the areas that need it most, and even teaching people how to grow food of their own. In his Best of Tulsa, Tulsa-native Taylor shouts out some of the iconic places that have stood the test of time.
Go-To Restaurants
The Tavern - This upscale neighborhood pub from McNellie’s Group serves up classy comfort-food-inspired meals in the heart of the Tulsa Arts District. Under the direction of Executive Chef Austin Plumlee, guests can enjoy creative seasonal menus and fine libations.
Go-To Order: You can’t go wrong with a plate of BBQ carrots to start and some fish and chips for your main course.
El Rio Verde - This cozy spot a short distance from the Kendall Whittier District and Studio Row is a must for new Tulsans (or longtime residents who haven’t yet been.) Choose from their famous wet burrito or a variety of delicious options on their extensive menu of Mexican fare.
Go-To Order: If you want to experience El Rio Verde Taylor’s way, pair their veggie burrito with a Mexican Coke.
Best Bars and Venues
Caz’s Pub - This long-time favorite spot in the Tulsa Arts District has everything you could want in a dive bar: tons of beer on tap, cheap shots, pool tables, a fog of cigarette smoke and good company.
Fair Warning: You will smell like cigarettes when you leave, but Taylor assures us that’s part of the charm.
Cain’s Ballroom - The iconic music venue of Tulsa, Cain’s is nestled in the corner of the Tulsa Arts District, attracting artists from around the world. Picture listening to Willie Nelson while packed shoulder-to-shoulder with the rhythmic stomping of feet on the wooden ballroom floor. Or, realizing the up-and-coming artist you’re hearing for the first time is destined for major stardom. You’ll go for the artist and remember the atmosphere.
Pro Tip: For every big name you see at Cain’s, snag tickets to a smaller show here. Both experiences are unforgettable.
Hidden Gems
Route 66 - This Tulsa gem is hiding in plain sight. You might think you know what the Mother Road is about: Americana, neon signs, diner food. But these days, you’ll find so much more. New vendors are making their home on America’s Highway, bringing the quirkiness and retro flair you’d expect, but curated for a modern audience. Where else can you experience a vegan spa day or upscale vintage shopping spree and still eat a “three way” at Tulsa’s oldest restaurant?
Go-To Stop: You haven't really experienced the capital of Route 66 until you’ve stopped at Buck Atoms. It's the perfect place to pick up a distinctly Tulsan souvenir, even if you're just visiting from across town.
Best Neighborhood
The Heights - This affordable neighborhood in the historic Heights district has blossomed into a tight knit community, dotted with shops for residents and visitors to gather, like Prism Cafe and Origin Coffee. The area is conveniently within walking distance of Downtown Tulsa and Cain’s Ballroom. When you don’t feel like walking to your next adventure, you can sit back and enjoy scenic views of the Tulsa skyline and Oklahoma sunsets.
Coffee Shop
DoubleShot Coffee Co. - At the edges of Downtown and the SoBo district, DoubleShot serves coffee the purist way, along with addicting bakery items made fresh daily. Inside the gorgeous cafe and roastery, you’ll find wood accents drenched in natural light and a bustling crowd of remote workers, creatives and old friends getting their daily dose.
Why It’s Great: Tulsa’s coffee scene has exploded over the past few years, but according to Taylor, DoubleShot still serves “the best espresso in town.”
Taylor’s Hot Take
Taylor says, “come build it in Tulsa.” Whatever your dream, Tulsans rally around people with an entrepreneurial spirit and the grit to bring their vision to life. Builders find eager audiences here, with startup communities, programs and resources to back you up. As the local nonprofit leader describes it, “it’s soil that is ready.” So come plant roots here. All the better if you’re growing something Tulsa has never seen before.
