Meet Chaz “Thunderwof” Stephens
Rapper and comedian, Chaz “Thunderwof” Stephens, comes from a long line of history-making Tulsans. His grandfather was the first black firefighter hired by the City of Tulsa, and his father and uncle made names for themselves as cowboys in the Tulsa and national circuits. Now, Chaz is making an impact on Tulsa’s comedy scene, recently recording the first comedy special at the Riverside Studio in Tulsa’s iconic Spotlight Theatre and bringing attention to the Tulsa arts scene with his podcast miniseries, Missed Connections. Check out his line up for the perfect tour of Tulsa that pays homage to old classics and new perspectives.
Go-To Restaurants
Brookside by Day - A Tulsa staple since 1991, this brunch and lunch spot is located on — you guessed it — Brookside. They’re open for casual dining inside or on the patio, every day, 8am–2pm.
Word of Advice: Get your brunch plans out of the group chat and take them down to BBD.
Dante’s Woodfire - This pizza joint serving hand-mixed, wood-fired dough operates out of a food truck that sets up outside of Heirloom Rustic Ales in the Kendall-Whittier neighborhood. They use quality ingredients in their red and white pies, dreaming up unique but balanced flavor combinations.
Claim to Fame: Chaz calls it, “some of the best pizza in Tulsa.” You heard it here first.
Golden Gate Restaurant - This Chinese restaurant located in Midtown where Harvard meets US64 offers traditional Chinese dishes and an all-you-can-eat special. Friendly service and generous portions come standard with every visit.
Go-To Order: Their sesame beef is chef’s kiss.
Lisu Thai Kitchen - This spot for authentic Thai cuisine is nestled in the shopping center at 31st and Sheridan. They’re open Monday–Saturday, 11am–9pm, for noodles, soup, sushi and more. Dine in or order carry out or delivery.
Go-To Order: The Salmon Curry never disappoints.
El Pollero - AKA Whittier Tacos, this food truck offers authentic Mexican tacos and other staples at Admiral and Lewis in the parking lot behind She Brews. You’ll find covered seating and good company when you stop by for a bite.
Claim to Fame: Chaz named them the best tacos in Tulsa. High praise.
The Freeze - This old school burger joint established in 1975 at 46th and M.L.K. Jr. Blvd., still serves up thin-patty burgers, coneys, shakes, and more. Dine in or drive-thru, Monday–Thursday, 11am–6pm, Friday and Saturday, 11am–8pm, and Sunday, 12–5pm.
Go-to Order: Chaz hails their jumbo cheeseburger as the best burger in Tulsa.
Mother Road Market – This food hall in the Market District at the corner of Route 66 and Lewis blends American fare and global flavors, craft beers and cocktails, and unique retail under one roof. With staple and rotating vendors, find your go-to order or try something new on every visit. Plus, check out their massive covered patio for more ways to dine.
Word of Advice: Try one of Chaz’s favorite lunch spots: Leroux’s, Howdy Burger, or Chicken and the Wolf.
Night Life
Soundpony Lounge - Located in the Tulsa Arts District Downtown near the iconic Cain’s Ballroom, this bar and venue is open every day from 3ish–2am. Catch live musical performances, DJ sets and comedy shows at this rowdy but lovable cycling-themed bar.
Claim to Fame: Chaz-Approved Tulsa Cultural Icon and Best Dive Bar
Retro Grill & Bar - Something’s always going down at this bar and grill north of Downtown at Peoria and Independence. Come in for happy hour on Fridays, 5–7:30pm, join Dallas Cowboys watch parties during Monday Night Football, catch a karaoke night most Tuesdays and on special dates, and visit for open mics on Thursdays.
Word of Advice: People go in on karaoke night. Be ready to match the energy and sing your heart out.
Whittier Bar - This dive bar in Kendall-Whittier neighborhood at the corner of Admiral and Lewis is open everyday 2pm–2am. Catch live rock performances, comedy shows, dance parties, karaoke Mondays and more.
Why It’s Great: Even for Chaz, it eludes description. You’ll just have to experience it for yourself.
Gringo’s Club - This neighborhood bar located in Mall 31 at 31st and Sheridan is open every day, 10am–2am (except Sundays, closed at 12am.) Grab food and drinks and watch a game with the regulars.
Word of Advice: Careful Cardinals fans, it’s a Cubs bar.
Hidden Gems
Dragonslayer Games - This shop located near 41st and I-44 at Highland Plaza Shopping Center sells board games, trading cards, and more. The store also features a gaming lounge for your next D&D campaign.
Why It’s Great: In Chaz’s words, “this one’s for the nerds.”
Caz’s Pub - This hole-in-the-wall smoking bar in the Arts District Downtown is open to all kinds. With over 100 beer varieties and a full bar, you’ll find something tasty to sip on while you catch a game, play pool or meet the patrons.
Why It’s Great: Chaz claims it’s for the $1 jello shots, but we can’t rule out the fact that it’s just one letter away from being named after him.
Communities
Turley - Turley is the small community just north of Tulsa, past 56th street. It’s home to places like O'Brien Park and the Turley Rodeo Arena. It’s also Chaz’s old stomping grounds.
Why It’s Great: Chaz grew up there. Do you need more reasons?
Tulsa’s Comedy Scene - The comedy scene in Tulsa has been steadily growing over the years, attracting national comedians and raising local ones like Chaz. Comedy shows pop up all over town (See Whittier Bar and Soundpony), but you can always catch a show at Tulsa Comedy Club, Tulsa Bricktown Comedy Club and the Looney Bin.
Why It’s Great: Amazing comics are coming up and coming through Tulsa right now. Watch this space.
Coffee Shops
Pony Coffee - This eclectic coffeehouse on Main street Downtown is known for their custom-roasted coffee blends. Grab a latte and a bakery item to-go or stay awhile and enjoy from the porch, patio, or inside the shop. Open 6:30am–5pm, everyday.
Why It’s Great: This shop is like a maze. Wind through narrow rooms and vintage furniture to find the perfect hideout for your coffee break.
Coffee @ Heirloom - This chill spot inside Heirloom Rustic Ales in the Kendall-Whittier neighborhood serves up single origin coffee and world-class matcha alongside baked goods from Country Bird Bakery. Enjoy your selections from their back patio or hang out inside next to big windows and bright plants.
Why It’s Great: You can catch ambient listening sessions from local DJs most mornings.
Chaz’s Tulsa Hot Take
“Hood gas stations have better food. Where else can you get catfish nuggets and wedges and a whole burrito?” You got us there Chaz. We’re changing our lunch plans.
Get to know Chaz’s side of Tulsa. Try one or all of his recommendations around town or catch one of his upcoming comedy shows. Stay tuned for show and music announcements on his socials @apache_thunderwof_18.
