Unearth The Voyage
Craving a classic diner fix that actually lives up to the hype? Dilly Diner in downtown Tulsa serves up hearty breakfasts, legit burgers, and baked goods that turn a quick stop into a full-on detour.
With a lively vibe, strong coffee, and cocktails that surprise, it is the kind of place you remember by dish and by name. Stick around and I will show you what to order, when to go, and how to make the most of your visit.
Signature Chicken and Waffles
When you want sweet meets savory in a serious way, Dilly Diner’s chicken and waffles delivers. The waffle arrives golden and gently crisp, ready for hot honey and butter that melt into every pocket.
The chicken is seasoned well, fried to a shattering crunch, and hearty enough to count as a full meal.
Ask for the potatoes crispy if you want an extra indulgence on the side. If spice is your thing, the hot sauce syrup brings the heat without steamrolling the sweetness.
You can swap proteins or sides to suit preferences, and the kitchen usually nails the cook on the chicken.
Pro tip: hit this dish on weekends when the energy is high and the coffee is flowing. If you are sharing, pair it with a cinnamon roll for a sweet opener.
It is comfort food done right, and it sets the tone for the rest of the menu.
House Cinnamon Roll
You will spot the cinnamon rolls before you even order, because they are gigantic and glazed to perfection. The swirl is tender, the center is gooey, and the icing leans sweet without becoming sticky overload.
If you like a warm roll, ask your server to heat it slightly so the frosting softens into the spiral.
Pair it with a dark roast coffee or an Irish coffee if you are feeling festive. This is a shareable pastry, but I would not judge you for keeping it all to yourself.
It is a perfect appetizer while you wait on savory plates like huevos rancheros or a burger.
Morning lines can form on weekends, so snag one for the table as soon as you sit down. If you are in a rush, grab a pastry to go and promise yourself a full breakfast next time.
This roll is a Tulsa breakfast legend for a reason.
Breakfast Tacos with Crispy Potatoes
If breakfast tacos are your go-to, Dilly Diner does them with satisfying heft. Choose your protein and add salsa for brightness, then ask for the potatoes crispy to get those golden edges.
The tortillas hold up well, and each bite hits salty, spicy, and hearty notes.
I love these on a weekday morning when service is quick and you can sip a fresh orange juice. The orange has a twang, the apple juice is strong, and both pair nicely with the tacos.
If you need a lighter option, sub in egg whites or go veggie.
These tacos make an easy introduction to the menu for first-timers. They are simple, consistent, and friendly to different diets.
Add coffee, linger a bit, and you will see why locals keep returning for this dependable breakfast staple.
Brioche French Toast
Brioche French toast here leans custardy inside with a gently crisp exterior. The slices are thick, absorbing syrup without turning soggy, and powdered sugar makes it feel classic.
Add sausage on the side or go with fresh fruit if you want balance.
On a lazy Sunday, I like pairing this with an espresso martini or Irish coffee. It is indulgent, but the portion lets you share or split with something savory.
If you avoid pork, swap for chicken sausage or veggie options without missing the moment.
This dish is a crowd pleaser, especially for families or brunch groups. The dining room can feel tight, but service stays friendly and the vibe remains upbeat.
Order early if you want it hot off the griddle and perfect for photos.
Hearty Breakfast Burrito
The breakfast burrito wraps eggs, potatoes, and your choice of meat into a handheld feast. It is generous, easy to customize, and especially good with extra salsa.
If you are hungry after a downtown walk, this thing fuels the rest of your day.
You can request egg whites, grilled chicken, or veggie sausage to tweak the profile. The potatoes vary from soft to crispy, so speak up if you want crunch.
Pair with strong coffee and you are set until late afternoon.
This is an excellent to-go order when parking is tight. It travels well, keeps heat, and still tastes satisfying after a short drive.
Order one for yourself and one to split so you can sample pancakes or a cinnamon roll too.
The Dilly Burger Double
When the burger mood strikes, the Dilly Burger double satisfies that craving. Two patties, melted cheese, shaved red onions, and pickles build a straightforward stack.
It is not fussy, just juicy and well seasoned with a soft bun that holds.
Add blue cheese dip with chips on the side for a surprising, mild pairing. If you want extra char, mention it to your server and they will aim for your preferred cook.
Swap fries for a salad if you are pacing for dessert.
This burger shines at lunch or early dinner before the weekend rush. It is the kind of thing that disappears quickly, so snap your photo fast.
If you are new to Dilly, start here and understand why regulars keep this in rotation.
Chicken and Waffles Hot Honey Version
If you loved the standard chicken and waffles, the hot honey version is worth a rerun. The drizzle adds a lingering kick that keeps each bite lively.
Paired with butter that melts instantly, it rides the line between sweet and spicy beautifully.
Order a side of bacon or veggie sausage if you want to mix textures. The waffle remains fluffy inside, crisp outside, and soaks the honey like a sponge.
Ask for an extra napkin or two because it gets delightfully messy.
Best enjoyed when you have time to linger, this plate thrives with conversation and coffee refills. If brunch crowds stress you, go midweek morning for a calmer experience.
Either way, it earns its spot among Tulsa brunch favorites.
Breakfast Potatoes Extra Crispy
There is a reason people call out the crispy potatoes in reviews. When you ask for extra crispy, they arrive with beautiful browned edges and a soft center.
They are salty, snackable, and terrific with ketchup or a dash of hot sauce.
These make a great sidekick to tacos, burritos, or eggs any style. They also help anchor a lighter breakfast like egg whites and fruit.
If you want them less dry, ask for a side of salsa or gravy to add moisture.
Simple, yes, but absolutely essential if you want that classic diner feel. I recommend ordering them once, then deciding whether you want double next time.
They disappear quickly, so be ready to share or guard your plate.
BLTA Sandwich Standout
The BLTA at Dilly Diner punches above its weight with crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado stacked high. The bread holds crisp without scraping the roof of your mouth, and the layers stay balanced.
It is a fresh, satisfying option when you want something lighter than a burger.
You can add a cup of tomato bisque, though it is more comforting than exceptional. Chips with blue cheese dip offer a better contrast if you want a more memorable side.
The sandwich travels well for a picnic at nearby parks or murals.
Ask your server about bread options if you prefer wheat over white. The kitchen is flexible, and substitutions are common.
This is a reliable lunch choice when you want quality ingredients assembled cleanly and confidently.
Turkey Club Tower
The turkey club here is stacked generously with fresh turkey, crisp bacon, lettuce, and tomato. Add mayo and you have that classic diner bite that feels familiar in the best way.
It is tall, photogenic, and surprisingly easy to eat without falling apart.
Pair it with a Caesar salad loaded with shaved parmesan and crunchy croutons. That combo balances richness and freshness nicely, especially at lunchtime.
If you are splitting plates, add fries or breakfast potatoes for extra heft.
Service stays upbeat even during busy brunches, and the club comes out reliably fast. This is a smart order if you are in a group and need something everyone will like.
It is proof that simple ingredients, handled well, can still wow.
Chicken and Waffles Butterfly Cut Note
Occasionally, the kitchen sends a butterfly cut chicken breast on the waffle instead of tenders. When done right, it is juicy and substantial, with a beautiful crust.
If you prefer tenders or a specific cut, just ask when ordering and they will aim to accommodate.
Oil temperature matters for color, so speak up if you want lighter fry. Pair with maple syrup plus hot sauce for a balanced kick.
The waffle stays consistent, which anchors the plate even when tweaks happen.
I appreciate that staff usually check on satisfaction quickly during busy hours. If something is off, they hustle to fix it.
That responsiveness keeps this favorite in rotation, even for picky chicken and waffle fans.
Mimosas and Bloody Marys
If brunch is not brunch without bubbles, Dilly’s mimosas do the trick. They lean bright and refreshing, especially alongside cinnamon rolls or French toast.
If you want savory, the bloody mary comes balanced and not overly spicy.
There is also an Irish coffee and occasional breakfast shots that regulars whisper about. The small bar keeps the vibe social without going loud.
Ask your server for recommendations that match your plate, sweet or savory.
Drink responsibly, of course, and hydrate with their famously cold water. If you are visiting with family, mocktails and juices are available too.
This is a place where brunch feels celebratory without losing the casual diner spirit.
Baked Goods To Go
Dilly Diner bakes pastries that tempt you on the way out. From cinnamon rolls to seasonal treats, there is always something worth bagging for later.
If you are heading back to the office or hotel, this is your sweet insurance policy.
Ask what is fresh out of the oven and consider a box for sharing. The counter team handles to-go orders quickly, even during rushes.
You will thank yourself when the afternoon slump hits and you remember your stash.
Pair a pastry with strong coffee to go if you are strolling downtown. Parking can be tight, so walking over and grabbing a bag is smart.
It is a small luxury that stretches the Dilly experience into the rest of your day.
Pro Tips: Hours, Parking, Seating
Dilly Diner runs early hours most days, with extended evenings on Friday and Saturday. Expect waits during peak brunch times, but turnover is steady.
Seating can feel close, with downstairs buzz and extra spots upstairs.
Parking in downtown Tulsa is limited, so plan for street parking or a short walk. If you are in a hurry, go weekday mornings for faster service.
The staff is helpful with substitutions, including veggie sausage, grilled chicken, and egg whites.
Call ahead for large groups, especially if you are rolling deep with kids or strollers. Keep an eye on closing times since weekdays wrap at 2 PM.
With a little planning, you will slide right into a smooth, satisfying meal.
Why It Is Worth the Detour
Dilly Diner nails the balance of comfort classics and Tulsa character. The menu hits hard with breakfast favorites, dependable burgers, and a pastry case that wins the day.
Service stays friendly, and the room hums without feeling chaotic.
Yes, prices reflect fresh ingredients, and parking takes a little patience. But the return is big flavors, strong coffee, and brunch cocktails that feel celebratory.
Whether you are downtown for errands or visiting from out of town, it fits the plan.
If you crave a meal that feels like a hug, this is it. Bring friends, order a spread, and pass plates until everyone smiles.
That is the Dilly way, and it is absolutely worth the detour.
