Barons on 1st is more than just a restaurant—it’s a tribute to Tulsa’s rich and rugged past, inspired by the legendary Phillips brothers, Waite and Frank. From Waite’s iconic Art Deco influence on downtown to Frank’s untamed Woolaroc ranch, Barons brings both elegance and grit to the table in perfect harmony.
The concept was born from a striking black-and-white photo of the brothers at Woolaroc—wearing cowboy hats and business suits with effortless charm. That image became the soul of Barons: refined yet grounded. Inside, you’ll find shimmering Art Deco finishes alongside warm Western elements. A mounted buffalo head echoes the one that once presided over Waite’s office, while nods to Frank’s favorite horse, Babe, are thoughtfully woven throughout the space.
During renovations, a slice of history revealed itself. Behind a brick wall, old horseshoes and corncob pipes were uncovered. Curious, Barons reached out to the Tulsa Historical Society and learned the building had quite a past: originally a laundromat called “The Right Way” in 1906, later a farrier’s shop, then a feed store. As a tribute, the bar was designed to curve like a horseshoe—connecting the two dining rooms where the brick wall once stood.
Executive Chef Justin Donaldson has been with Barons since the beginning. Years before the restaurant opened, he was offered a position at the world-renowned French Laundry. Though he declined, fate brought him to helm the kitchen of a French-inspired restaurant—ironically, in a former laundry. His influence runs deep, shaping both the menu and the heart of Barons. From house-made pastas to perfectly seared steaks, every dish is prepared with intention, care, and a creative nod to the past.
The design was brought to life by Danielle Palm and Roxanne Chandler of ROSEROCK918, who translated the vision into a stunning, cohesive space. Every corner reflects intention—from a hand-painted mural inspired by the European architecture of Philbrook, to the playful neon signs and cheeky monkey wallpaper in the women’s room. The men’s room carries its own charm, with vintage ranch-style touches that echo Frank’s frontier spirit.
And of course, there's the antler chandelier—a whimsical nod to Frank’s wry humor after losing his investment in the Waldorf Astoria. “All I got to keep were those chandeliers,” he once quipped, “the most expensive in the world.”
Barons on 1st isn’t just a place to dine—it’s a journey through Tulsa’s story, told through inspired flavors, timeless design, and the vision of those who continue to shape its legacy.
The concept was born from a striking photo of the Phillips brothers at Woolaroc—cowboy hats, business suits, and effortless charm. That image set the tone for Barons: a space that’s refined yet grounded, where Tulsa’s elegance meets its rugged roots.