EATERY AND COCKTAIL OFFICE AT THE UNION...LONG NAME, SERIOUS FOOD by James Frazier

Eatery and Cocktail Office at the Union LONG NAME, SERIOUS FOOD

by James Frazier

A few years ago someone had the idea of taking an old office building just outside of downtown OKC and turning it into a unique restaurant and bar concept, complete with a cool patio. It has taken a little bit, but the building has finally come into its own. Under new ownership and with amazing talent, I believe that Eatery and Cocktail Office at the Union has the ability to live up to its potential. To say that I am excited about the recent changes is an understatement. The team that has consistently delivered excellence from Cafe 7 for years and the unique style and quality of The Hamilton have rolled up their sleeves and taken on a new challenge.

The location of the Union building was begging for a foodforward restaurant and bar with a focus on creating amazing food and high-quality cocktails. In sampling the menu, I can thoroughly say that they nailed it. Under the leadership of Kari Garrett, a rising star in the OKC food scene, Eatery and Cocktail office at the Union has built a concise but perfectly executed menu that is packed with flavor and love. Speaking of love, you can’t talk about the Cafe 7 without recognizing the love that Jay Mays and Chris Kana put into their employees. They expect greatness and give more than they expect. As a growing restaurant group, you couldn’t have a better team leading the way.

Now, how about that food? It’s not a big menu, and it shouldn’t be. There is something special about a restaurant that chooses quality over quantity. It is very clear that each dish was carefully crafted to create a range of options while being able to perfect each dish. It’s inspiring for foodies and approachable for those less food-focused. I am struggling at where to start, so I guess we can talk about a Vegan dish that I would order any day of the week. The Bahn-Meatballs are one of the most surprising things on the menu as you would never guess that they were Vegan. The impossible meat with hot chile mayo, pickled veg, cilantro, and jalapeño create an amazing flavor that is tasty enough for meat-eaters, and yet designed for our Vegetarian and Vegan friends. Eatery and Cocktail office at the Union is very conscious of the dietary restrictions and choices, including some excellent salad options.

I’m a meat-eater through and through and Eatery delivers with some amazing options. The Queso Burger with avocado-poblano drizzle, pico, red chile sauce, crispy onion on an insanely good bun was a revelation. Yes, the burger and the toppings were delicious, but the star of the show is the bun. That is not something I am willing to admit often. The bun is incredibly light and airy with a soft exterior that holds together like it was a much heavier bun. The Chile Crisp Sando is one of the best chicken sandwiches in town with crispy chicken, hot chile mayo, pickles, slaw, and chile crisps. You also have the option of Fries, small house salad, or Tots. Choose the Tots! These perfectly cooked crunchy bites of love are the most amazing compliment to their sandwiches.

If you are looking for something a little different, I recommend the Buffalo Chicken Mac with crispy Chicken, buffalo sauce, and white cheddar queso mac. It’s what Mac and Cheese should be when it grows up. The star of the show however is the Fish& Grits made with blackened redfish, tomatoes, scallions charred lemon, and house vin

over perfectly cooked creamy grits. I am a huge fan of Shrimp & Grits and this variation is an amazing treat. There is a lack of good Redfish dishes around OKC and this thing makes up for it. It’s a beautiful presentation, but instead of just making it look pretty, the garnishes really do complete the dish.

Eatery and Cocktail office at the Union would not be complete without some amazing cocktails. The cocktail list is crafted to perfection, with something for everyone without overwhelming you with a five-page diatribe of cocktail options. It’s also important to note that the same quality over quantity concept is conveyed in their cocktail list. I am an old-fashioned fanatic and they do it right with an Elijah Craig Old fashioned that tastes amazing. The Dark and Stormy is deep and rich with Hamilton ‘86’ Rum with Ginger Beer and Lime. If you prefer something a little brighter, It’s a Purple Negroni is a light yet flavorful explosion in your mouth with its purple Empress Gin, Salers Apertivo, and Dolin Blanc.

The food and drinks of the Union are expertly complimented with amazing staff and a great space. The main dining area and bar give you a fresh feel with its greenery and art. The Patio is fresh and fun with all the old charms of the original restaurant and as they go, it will all be getting better along the way. Not to mention the former Speakeasy that will be coming later this year, taking it back to its namesake. The Cafe 7 group has a pretty good idea of how to properly do a Speakeasy and I am excited to see their ideas come to life.

www.theunionokc.com 616 NW 5th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73102