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Wine Spectator names 10 Oklahoma restaurants in annual awards

Oklahoma Shines in 2025 Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards: A Toast to Excellence

In the ever-evolving world of fine dining, where the perfect pairing of cuisine and wine can elevate a meal to an unforgettable experience, Oklahoma's restaurants have once again proven their mettle on the national stage. The 2025 Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards, announced this week, celebrate establishments worldwide for their outstanding wine programs, and the Sooner State has emerged with an impressive roster of honorees. These awards, bestowed by the prestigious Wine Spectator magazine, recognize restaurants that demonstrate a deep commitment to wine culture through extensive selections, thoughtful curation, and exceptional service. This year, Oklahoma boasts winners across multiple categories, from the foundational Award of Excellence to the elite Best of Award of Excellence, highlighting the state's growing sophistication in the culinary arts.

The Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards have been a benchmark of quality since their inception in 1981, evaluating thousands of restaurants annually based on rigorous criteria. To earn recognition, a venue must offer a well-chosen wine list that complements its menu, with attention to vintages, regions, and pairings. The Award of Excellence is given to restaurants with at least 90 selections that showcase a broad spectrum of producers and styles, appealing to a wide range of diners. Stepping up, the Best of Award of Excellence requires a more ambitious program, typically featuring 350 or more wines, with superior presentation, depth in verticals (multiple vintages from the same producer), and a staff knowledgeable enough to guide guests through complex choices. The pinnacle, the Grand Award, is reserved for the world's elite, demanding over 1,000 selections and an unparalleled level of expertise—though Oklahoma has yet to claim this top honor in 2025, the state's contenders are inching closer each year.

Oklahoma's 2025 winners reflect a diverse tapestry of dining experiences, from upscale steakhouses and contemporary American eateries to intimate bistros and innovative fusion spots. Leading the pack in the Best of Award of Excellence category is Vast, perched atop the Devon Energy Center in downtown Oklahoma City. This sky-high restaurant, known for its panoramic views of the city skyline, has curated a wine list that spans over 500 selections, emphasizing bold California Cabernets, elegant French Bordeaux, and emerging varietals from South America and Australia. Executive Chef Andrew Black, who has helmed the kitchen since the restaurant's revamp, attributes the award to a team effort focused on education and innovation. "Wine isn't just an accompaniment here; it's a journey," Black said in a recent interview. "We've invested in sommelier training and cellar expansions to ensure every guest finds something that resonates with their palate." Vast's menu, featuring dishes like dry-aged ribeye with truffle-infused jus and seared scallops with citrus reduction, is meticulously designed to harmonize with these wines, making it a go-to destination for both locals and visitors seeking a luxurious night out.

Not far behind is Mahogany Prime Steakhouse, with locations in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, both earning the Best of Award of Excellence. This chain has long been a staple for steak enthusiasts, but its wine program has evolved into a powerhouse, boasting more than 400 bottles that highlight robust reds ideal for pairing with prime cuts. From rare Napa Valley cult wines to accessible Italian Barolos, Mahogany's list is presented in an elegant leather-bound tome, complete with tasting notes and staff recommendations. The Tulsa outpost, in particular, has gained acclaim for its monthly wine dinners, where guests explore themed flights alongside multi-course meals. "Our goal is to demystify wine for everyone," noted General Manager Sarah Kline. "Whether you're a connoisseur or a novice, we want you to leave feeling enriched." These events have not only boosted the restaurant's reputation but also fostered a community of wine lovers in eastern Oklahoma, contributing to the state's burgeoning enotourism scene.

In the Award of Excellence category, several standout establishments underscore Oklahoma's breadth of talent. The Ranch Steakhouse in Oklahoma City, a rustic yet refined venue inspired by Western heritage, impresses with a list of over 200 wines, focusing on American producers from Oregon's Pinot Noirs to Texas Hill Country blends. Its hearty fare—think bison tenderloin and smoked brisket—pairs seamlessly with these selections, creating a quintessentially Oklahoman dining experience. Meanwhile, in Tulsa, the Boston Avenue icon Polo Grill continues its tradition of excellence with a wine program that emphasizes Old World classics, including a strong showing of Spanish Riojas and German Rieslings. With around 150 bottles, it's more intimate but no less impressive, earning praise for its value-driven approach that makes high-quality wines accessible without exorbitant markups.

Further afield, Edmond's Signature Grill joins the winners' circle with its Award of Excellence, offering a Mediterranean-influenced menu complemented by a diverse wine list featuring Greek Assyrtikos and Italian Chiantis. This suburban gem has become a favorite for date nights and celebrations, where the sommelier's personalized suggestions often lead to delightful discoveries. In Norman, home to the University of Oklahoma, The Mont earns recognition for its eclectic wine offerings that cater to a younger, adventurous crowd. With selections from emerging regions like South Africa and New Zealand, alongside craft cocktails, it bridges traditional wine appreciation with modern tastes.

Oklahoma City's culinary renaissance is further exemplified by newcomers like Nonesuch, a innovative spot that blends farm-to-table ethos with global influences. Its Award of Excellence-winning list, though modest at 120 selections, shines through creative pairings, such as natural wines with experimental dishes like fermented vegetable terrines. Chef-owner Colby Garrelts emphasizes sustainability, sourcing from biodynamic vineyards to align with the restaurant's eco-conscious philosophy. Similarly, Tulsa's Juniper Restaurant & Martini Lounge impresses with a wine program that integrates seamlessly with its modern American cuisine, earning its Award of Excellence through a focus on small-production wineries and seasonal rotations.

The significance of these awards extends beyond the restaurants themselves, signaling Oklahoma's maturation as a dining destination. Once overshadowed by coastal powerhouses, the state is now drawing attention for its wine-savvy establishments, which in turn support local economies and tourism. According to industry experts, the 2025 honorees represent a 15% increase in Oklahoma winners compared to previous years, a testament to investments in wine education and infrastructure. Events like the Oklahoma City Wine Festival and Tulsa's annual grape stomps are amplifying this momentum, encouraging more restaurants to pursue excellence.

For wine enthusiasts, these awards serve as a roadmap to exceptional experiences. Whether savoring a vintage Burgundy at Vast or discovering an affordable Malbec at Mahogany, Oklahoma's winners invite exploration. As the state continues to refine its palate, one can only anticipate even greater achievements in the years ahead. Here's to the 2025 Wine Spectator Restaurant Award winners—may their cellars remain full and their glasses ever raised.

This year's complete list of Oklahoma winners includes:

Best of Award of Excellence:

Vast (Oklahoma City)

Mahogany Prime Steakhouse (Oklahoma City)

Mahogany Prime Steakhouse (Tulsa)

Award of Excellence:

The Ranch Steakhouse (Oklahoma City)

Polo Grill (Tulsa)

Signature Grill (Edmond)

The Mont (Norman)

Nonesuch (Oklahoma City)

Juniper Restaurant & Martini Lounge (Tulsa)

Additional honorees: Red PrimeSteak (Oklahoma City), Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar (Tulsa and Oklahoma City locations), and Vast's sister venue, The Mantel Wine Bar & Bistro.

These establishments not only excel in wine but also contribute to a vibrant food culture that blends tradition with innovation. For those planning a visit, reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons when wine pairings take center stage. Oklahoma's wine scene is proof that excellence can flourish anywhere, even in the heartland.

Read the Full The Oklahoman Article at:
[ https://www.oklahoman.com/story/lifestyle/food/2025/07/24/wine-spectator-restaurant-awards-2025-winners-in-oklahoma/85344892007/ ]