For more than 20 years, Ranch Steakhouse near Lake Hefner in Oklahoma City has been one of the most celebrated fine dining destinations in the Midwest. For diners who enjoy an unforgettable meal matched with extraordinary service, this award-winning steakhouse offers 100% USDA Certified Prime tenderloins, strips and rib-eyes cut by hand for each guest, as well as top-notch seafood selections, chicken, salads and pasta.
In April, a second location opened in Norman, bringing a new take on the Ranch’s popular dining flair to Cleveland County.
“We are always challenging ourselves to exceed expectations,” says David Souza, the general manager of Ranch Steakhouse in Norman. “Our guests come here not only for the great food, but for the whole experience of dining with us.”
Walking into the Ranch in Norman, the modern decor creates a welcoming ambiance. On the walls, the original artwork of cowboy artist and photographer Peter Robbins helps connect the new location to the storied history of the original location.
“Our new location is designed to capitalize on what the Ranch already is known for, but with a slightly different aesthetic,” Souza explains. “We are building on that continuity and consistency, but with a constant eye on how we can continue to improve and provide everything our guests expect.”
A spacious bar area frames a breathtaking floor-to-ceiling glass wine room, featuring more than 500 different wines. For those seeking social interaction, ample table and booth seating allows guests to eat and mingle in the main dining area. Spacious private tables allow diners to enjoy a quiet meal, while larger private rooms allow for special celebrations, company parties and more. Diners can also enjoy eating al fresco on a luxurious patio, featuring a 96” television and ample seating.
“We like to approach every guest to see what we can do to create a memory for them,” Souza continues. “We are always looking for ways to think outside the box.”
David Lamb, the Ranch’s head of food and beverage, says that their well-trained and experienced staff is key to the overall experience.
“One thing I hear from our guests is that our staff can always anticipate and accommodate their needs,” Lamb reflects. “We invest in our people, which is why our service includes such attention to detail and we can give such great hospitality. Our servers form relationships with our guests and we give our chefs the creative liberty for their passion for good food to really shine through.”
For diners familiar with the Ranch’s award-winning menu and diverse wine offerings in Oklahoma City, they will find many of their favorites also offered in Norman. The Ranch is proud to serve imported Wagyu beef from Japan, which Souza says is the highest grade on the market right now and describes as “truly unforgettable.”
Head chef Conner Nottingham brings the Ranch’s signature dishes to Norman, as well as special weekly features and a soup of the day.
“Everything is made from scratch in-house, and is completely customizable to taste,” Conner explains. “We cook in small batches, using only the freshest ingredients.”
“We have a team of passionate cooks and chefs that want to deliver a meal that you would expect to eat in a major city,” Conner continues. “Here, you will find a steak dinner that will rival any meal anywhere.”
Chef Conner names the bone-in ribeye and the blue cheese and bacon Brussels sprouts as some of his favorite dishes. For those who like to explore beyond steak, Conner also recommends any of the Ranch’s seafood options, including Lobster Campanelle and Pan Seared Scottish Salmon, served with charred heirloom tomato vinaigrette.
“Our seafood goes from the ocean to our kitchen in less than 48 hours, so it is fresh and delicious.”
While the menu at the Ranch is only one page in length, Chef Conner says that it offers limitless combinations and customizations.
“Our menu is designed to be à la carte, so we can prepare your meal in any combination you like,” he explains. “We enjoy customizing and giving people exactly what they want.”
The Ranch also features wines to match any taste, as well as an extensive scotch and bourbon list.
The fine dining establishment offers a wide array of delectable desserts to complete the dining experience, including weekly specials created by their in-house pastry chef. Menu standouts include the restaurant’s signature dulce de leche ice cream cake, which is layered with caramel ice cream and chocolate ganache, then topped with toasted marshmallows. Souza notes another guest favorite is the Carnegie Deli cheesecake, served with fresh lemon curd and blueberry sauce.
Guests also can enjoy a wide selection of rich ports and dessert wines, as well as espressos, cappuccinos, lattes and tableside pour overs of locally roasted coffee served with fresh-baked biscotti.
Lamb says that the dining experience at the Ranch is designed to be relaxing and enjoyable.
“This is the perfect place to escape from the stresses of the day,” he says. “Come in and let us take care of you.”
Chef Conner echoes this same sentiment, promising a meal that diners won’t soon forget.
“I look forward to giving our diners the opportunity to truly have the best meal of their life.”
Ranch Steakhouse is located at 2120 24th Ave. NW in Norman. Hours are 5-9 p.m. on Sunday and Monday, and 5-10 p.m. on Tuesday through Saturday. Reservations are recommended.
For more information, call 857.2899, visit RanchSteakhouse.com, facebook.com/RanchSteakhouseOKC or follow @ranchsteakhouse on Twitter.
