Tucked in Oklahoma City's vibrant & trendy Paseo Arts District ➜, FRIDA Southwest stands as one of OKC's unique offerings for culinary artistry & innovation. Named in homage to the iconic, Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, this restaurant perfectly marries the rich flavors of Oklahoma, Santa Fe, and northern Mexico. With its bright, open, and modern atmosphere, large windows, and inviting outdoor seating, FRIDA offers an ambiance that is both casual and chic. If you're planning a visit during the bustling weekend, arriving early to secure good parking and making reservations is highly recommended.

Appetizer Delight

We with the Burrata appetizer. This sweet & savory blend of ancho truffle honey, chili oil, chimichurri, prosciutto, and fresh burrata mozzarella cheese, served alongside wood-grilled sourdough. The sourdough itself was a highlight, its smoky char enhancing the creamy burrata and the savory accompaniments. It set the stage for the meal with a promise of more exceptional flavors to come.

Cocktails with a Musical Twist

The cocktail menu at FRIDA is as inventive as its cuisine, with music-themed names adding a playful touch. We sampled the Smash Mouth, a complex mix of Redwood Empire Emerald Giant rye whiskey, Cockburn Tawny Eyes port, Grand Marnier, mint syrup, lemon juice, and bitters. We also tried a classic margarita on the rocks, a Moscow Mule, and the standout favorite, the Rum DMC. The Rum DMC, made with Paranubes rum, La Gritona tequila, Smith & Cross rum, plantain orgeat, lime juice, and bitters, impressed with its intriguing, undefinable flavor that resembled pink grapefruit but with an original twist. Each drink was passed our test for quality—not being overly sweet with layers of complex flavors.

Main Courses: A Feast for the Senses

For the main course, we opted to try a variety of dishes, including an appetizer as a meal: the Seafood Tamale. A delightful choice featuring a house-made green chile tamale packed with shrimp, lobster, crab all enveloped in a luscious sherry cream, and a grilled scallop on the side—a unique take on the classic tamale. The Chilean Seabass, served with truffle corn and parmesan risotto, lobster beurre blanc, sautéed baby spinach, and smoked tomatoes, was cooked to perfection. The Stacked Enchiladas, with pulled chicken, four cheeses, crema, cotija, avocado salsa, crispy tortilla strips, and a chipotle black bean purée, offered a rich and satisfying flavor profile.

Sides: Sharing is Caring

The sides at FRIDA are generously portioned, making them perfect for sharing. We indulged in the Lobster Mac & Cheese and Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Ancho Glaze. Both sides were delightful, though the Lobster Mac & Cheese stood out so much that we happily took leftovers home for another meal.

Sweet Finale: Cheesecake Extravaganza

No meal is complete without dessert, and FRIDA's cheesecake offerings did not disappoint. We tried both the Mexican Hot Chocolate Cheesecake and the Dark Chocolate Pistachio Cheesecake. The Mexican Hot Chocolate Cheesecake, with its hazelnut cinnamon brittle, chocolate dulce, and spiced cinnamon ancho crust, was a spicy-sweet marvel. The Dark Chocolate Pistachio Cheesecake, featuring a vanilla bean base, sweet pistachio crust, dark chocolate ganache, pistachio praline, raspberry compote, and crushed raspberries, was equally indulgent and unique. At $15 per slice, these cheesecakes are a splurge, but their richness and unique flavors make them worth every penny. Each slice is substantial enough to satisfy two to three people!

Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit Destination

FRIDA Southwest is a gem among Oklahoma City's dining scene. Its unique fusion of regional flavors, inventive cocktails, and inviting atmosphere make it a top recommendation for anyone looking to experience the best of OKC's culinary offerings. Whether you're a local or a visitor, FRIDA is a must-visit destination that promises an unforgettable dining experience. We eagerly look forward to our next visit to explore more of their exceptional menu.

Find out more about FRIDA Southwest here...
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