City Lifestyle

Want to start a publication?

Learn More

Featured Article

OKC VIBES

Mel & Lestari's Insider Scoop to the City

Article by Mel Drake and Letari Kusumawardani

Photography by Harlea Robinson

Originally published in OKC City Lifestyle

There’s something magical about a restaurant where the decor is just as unforgettable as the food—and JK by Chef King takes that to a whole new level.

This month, Lestari and I ditched the usual spots for something truly extraordinary. Under the enchanting branches of their famous wisteria tree and surrounded by jewel-toned elegance, we indulged in a night of culinary and artistic bliss.

Bonus? This month we shared the evening dining with the mysterious and oh-so-charming “J” in JK, Josh Balan.

Josh and Chef King Dey are the dream team behind this whimsical wonderland. They first crossed paths in London’s world of fine dining, and their shared passion for creating something unforgettable eventually led them stateside. After years of collaboration, the idea for JK began to blossom—Dallas was an initial contender for this innovative concept, but OKC won their hearts. And wow, are we glad it did!

The restaurant itself is a visual masterpiece. A canopy of wisteria blossoms fills the ceiling, while Norwegian globe lights and plush furniture in vivid hues create an atmosphere that begs to be Instagrammed (you’re welcome, by the way). Even the bathrooms call for photographic attention, with Versace-inspired wallpaper and glamorous design touches. Josh told us that every detail—from the fabrics to the fixtures—was carefully chosen, inspired by his travels and life experiences.

But JK isn’t just about looks—the flavors are every bit as magical as the space. We dove headfirst into the menu, curated by Chef King, savoring every bite as Josh filled us in on the stories behind the food and decor. Here’s what made our tastebuds dance:

Cocktails

Isaiah 3 Pointer–Flaming cocktails served on a pedestal, topped with an edible butterfly. Yes, it’s as exotic as it sounds—and we loved it.

Love Birds–Flirty delight, with a bubble finish

Deluxe Espresso Martini–Smooth vodka mixed with Illy espresso and vanilla syrup. Perfect for coffee lovers

Hibiscus Royal–Lightly floral and totally refreshing

Starters

Canadian Blue Lobster Tempura–This was SO GOOD!!! Crispy tempura with wasabi aioli and truffle ponzu

Double Roasted Pork Belly–Crispy and tender, served with spicy ponzu

Foie Gras Crispy Rice–Decadent foie gras balanced perfectly on crispy rice cakes

Lobster & Shrimp Shumai–Juicy dim sum perfection

Chicken & Truffle Dumplings–Truffle soy makes these dumplings sing.

Mains

10-oz Supreme Rib Eye (Mel’s go-to)–Tender, juicy, and paired with shiso chimichurri

New Zealand Lamb Chops (Lestari’s pick)–Grilled to perfection, served with Korean BBQ and kimchi

JK By Chef King's Signature Burger–Wagyu beef, edible gold gilded, Swiss cheese, and truffle mayo. A showstopper.

Sides

Brussels Sprouts–Fried and tossed in soy chili sauce

Truffle Fries–Crispy goodness coated in parmesan perfection

Sweets

JK Fruit Basket–Exotic fruits, luscious house-made treats, and hibiscus smoke. A theatrical, delicious finale.

Dining with Josh made the night even more memorable. He’s brimming with stories—from scouting locations on a Segway (true story!) to how he and Chef King added personal touches to every single element. By the end of the evening, not only had we tasted some of the best food in the city, but we also left feeling like old friends with Josh.

Until Next Month!

OKC fam, we love celebrating everything that makes this city amazing, and JK by Chef King has us swooning. From the decor to the food to the incredible people behind it, this spot belongs on your bucket list. Grab your friends, treat someone special, or go solo and soak it all in. Tag us when you visit—we can’t wait to see your vibe pics under the wisteria tree!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @ThisIsMelDrake and @le.star for more insider vibes.

Cheers and love always,

Mel & Lestari 💕

JK by Chef King

612 N. Robinson Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73103

JKRestaurants.com