Unearth The Voyage
Discover the hidden gem of Vinita, Oklahoma, where Clanton’s Café serves up the state’s most famous chicken-fried steak. With a legacy spanning over 80 years, this café is a must-stop for both history buffs and food lovers traveling Route 66. Featuring authentic recipes, national TV fame, and legendary side dishes, Clanton’s Café promises an unforgettable dining experience.
1. A recipe with serious mileage
With roots tracing back over 80 years, Clanton’s Café’s chicken-fried steak recipe has stood the test of time. This dish has been perfected through generations, attracting both locals and travelers from afar. The secret? A blend of tradition and flavor that keeps patrons returning.
Passed down through family, the recipe is a cherished legacy. Each bite offers a taste of Oklahoma’s rich culinary history. The steak, tender and flavorful, is a nostalgic reminder of bygone eras, making it a culinary pilgrimage for anyone journeying along Route 66.
2. A bona fide Route 66 original
Clanton’s Café, established in 1927, is a staple on Oklahoma’s stretch of Route 66. As the oldest continually family-owned restaurant in the area, it offers more than just food—it offers history. The café’s doors have welcomed countless travelers seeking comfort and a sense of Americana.
Every visit is a step back in time, where the spirit of the Mother Road lives on. The café’s authenticity is cemented by stories of generations who have dined there. It’s more than a meal; it’s an experience etched in Route 66 lore.
3. National TV cred (and Guy Fieri couldn’t leave without it)
Clanton’s Café gained national recognition when it was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Guy Fieri couldn’t resist highlighting their chicken-fried steak, validating its legendary status. The café’s feature on this popular show catapulted it into the national spotlight.
Viewers got a taste of what makes Clanton’s a must-visit, sparking curiosity and appetites nationwide. The endorsement from such a notable food personality underscores the café’s unique appeal, attracting food enthusiasts eager to sample a dish that’s become a Route 66 icon.
4. Technique that nails “crispy outside, tender inside.”
Clanton’s Café’s chicken-fried steak is celebrated for its impeccable texture—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside. This culinary feat is achieved through meticulous preparation, where tenderized beef meets expertly seasoned breading.
The cooking technique ensures each steak is a masterpiece, smothered in a classic cream gravy that elevates the dining experience. It’s a testament to the café’s commitment to quality and tradition, offering diners a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable. Patrons leave with their cravings fulfilled and their expectations exceeded.
5. A place where the walls tell the story
Walking into Clanton’s Café is like stepping into a living museum. The walls are a canvas of history, adorned with photographs, press clippings, and awards that tell the story of a café beloved by many.
Each piece on the wall reflects a milestone in the café’s journey, from its humble beginnings to its celebrated status. The décor offers diners a glimpse into the past, enhancing the experience with a sense of nostalgia. It’s a visual journey that complements the culinary one, making each visit unique and memorable.
6. Legendary sidekicks: calf fries & pie
Clanton’s Café is not just famous for its chicken-fried steak; its side dishes have earned their own accolades. Calf fries, a delicacy on Route 66, are a rite of passage for adventurous eaters. Paired with a slice of their homemade pie, it’s a meal that promises satisfaction.
These legendary sidekicks echo the café’s dedication to quality and tradition. Each bite of pie is a sweet finish to a hearty meal, and those who venture to try the calf fries often find themselves pleasantly surprised. Together, they complete the Clanton’s experience.
7. Easy to find, easy to love
Finding Clanton’s Café is simple: head to 319 E. Illinois Ave., Vinita, OK. The iconic neon EAT sign serves as both a beacon and a promise of the comfort food within. While hours may vary, the café’s presence on Route 66 remains constant.
Its accessible location makes it a favorite stop for road-trippers and locals alike. The café’s charm and consistent quality have earned it a loyal following. It’s a place where the past and present coexist, offering a welcoming atmosphere and a taste of tradition.
8. A recipe with serious mileage
With roots tracing back over 80 years, Clanton’s Café’s chicken-fried steak recipe has stood the test of time. This dish has been perfected through generations, attracting both locals and travelers from afar. The secret? A blend of tradition and flavor that keeps patrons returning.
Passed down through family, the recipe is a cherished legacy. Each bite offers a taste of Oklahoma’s rich culinary history. The steak, tender and flavorful, is a nostalgic reminder of bygone eras, making it a culinary pilgrimage for anyone journeying along Route 66.
9. Legendary sidekicks: calf fries & pie
Clanton’s Café is not just famous for its chicken-fried steak; its side dishes have earned their own accolades. Calf fries, a delicacy on Route 66, are a rite of passage for adventurous eaters. Paired with a slice of their homemade pie, it’s a meal that promises satisfaction.
These legendary sidekicks echo the café’s dedication to quality and tradition. Each bite of pie is a sweet finish to a hearty meal, and those who venture to try the calf fries often find themselves pleasantly surprised. Together, they complete the Clanton’s experience.
