For a restaurant that recently underwent a major makeover on national television, Urban Roots is feeling comfortable with its new atmosphere. Owner and Chef Chaya Fletcher opened Urban Roots to Food Network’s series Restaurant Impossible earlier this year to reboot the business she and her husband, Michael, started in 2010. After four years, the restaurant and homage to Oklahoma City’s Deep Deuce heritage had become better known for its outstanding live entertainment than for its kitchen creations, which some said fell short of the meticulously prepared, haute comfort food the chef had dreamed of creating.
After the episode aired in April, the world got to see the new Urban Roots and a fresh new attitude. When you walk in these days, the color and sophisticated touches continue to hint at the flavor and appeal of catfish and grits, Cajun-seared tilapia, juicy pork chops and gumbo ya ya. Favorites like chopped brisket sandwiches (braised with red wine and served with garlic slaw), buttermilk chicken and waffles and baby back ribs (covered in mango-chipotle barbecue sauce) are better, too. Entertainment is still part of the reason crowds pack Urban Roots on weekend nights, but it’s no longer the only reason. 322 N.E. Second St., Suite A, Oklahoma City. www.urbanrootsokc.com
