Hi there! Today we are going to talk about Kendall’s Restaurant.

 

Wait a minute, isn’t this blog supposed to be geared towards the great outdoors?

 

 

When it comes to comfort food in Oklahoma, a few places always seem to rise above the rest. While this blog typically celebrates the outdoors, every now and then it’s worth shining a light on iconic local eateries. Think Eischen’s in Okarche, or Meers Burgers nestled near the Wichita Mountains. These places offer more than just food—they offer tradition, history, and a sense of place. So today, it’s all about chicken fried steak, and there’s no better spot than Kendall’s in Noble, Oklahoma. If you’re craving hearty portions, warm hospitality, and food that sticks to your soul, Kendall’s is calling your name.

 

 

Without further ado, let’s jump into the article!

 

 

For more information on this iconic eatery, please check out Discover Oklahoma’s take on Kendall’s.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kendall’s Restaurant: A Taste of Tradition

 

 

 

 

Kendall’s isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a legacy. Its roots stretch back to Purcell, Oklahoma, where Brenda Mantooth opened a small café named after her first grandchild. Born the same month the café opened, Kendall quickly became the namesake of something special.

 

 

 

 

Soon after, the restaurant moved to Noble in 1990, under the ownership of Brenda’s daughter Kim and close friend Dee Downer. These two carried forward Brenda’s vision of homemade, heartfelt meals served with a smile. Over the years, the restaurant has grown in both size and reputation. What started as a quaint spot for locals is now a statewide comfort food destination.

 

 

 

 

Chicken Fried Steak That Steals the Show

 

 

Let’s cut to the chase—Kendall’s is famous for its chicken fried steak. Living in Norman for over 25 years, I’ve made countless trips just to indulge in this masterpiece. Hand-breaded to order and fried to golden perfection, the steak is as satisfying as it gets.

 

 

In addition, every meal comes with generous portions of mashed potatoes topped with rich, creamy gravy and a helping of crispy fried okra. And just when you think it can’t get any better, you’re rewarded with a warm, homemade cinnamon roll. It’s a meal that hugs you from the inside out.

 

 

 

 

The Legendary Chicken Fry Challenge

 

For those feeling bold, there’s the infamous Chicken Fry Challenge. Born in 2003 but gaining steam with the rise of food competition shows in the early 2010s, this challenge has become a rite of passage for comfort food warriors.

The challenge includes:

• Three original chicken fried steaks

• Two scoops of mashed potatoes or fries

• A side salad and two servings of green beans

• A biscuit and two cinnamon rolls

 

 

Participants have one hour to finish it all. The current record? An unbelievable 8 minutes and 3 seconds, held by Molly Schuyler and Dan “Killer” Kennedy.

To be clear, I’ve never attempted this—and I never will. A man’s got to know his limits. But following the challenge updates on Kendall’s Facebook page? Now that’s good fun.

More Than a Meal—A Museum of Oklahoma Charm

 

Kendall’s offers more than just food. With walls adorned in Oklahoma memorabilia, it doubles as a time capsule of state pride. Photos, signs, and artifacts give diners a taste of Oklahoma’s past while they enjoy each bite of their meal.

Furthermore, many believe the building is haunted. Ghostly tales of flickering lights, invisible friends, and mysterious figures like “The Dark Lady” add a layer of intrigue. Though I’ve never encountered any supernatural activity, I wouldn’t be surprised if Dee Downer has a story or two to share.

Great Food, Even Greater People

I always enjoy coming in there. Often at times, Dee will stop by the table and we will talk fishing. Even though they are open just a few days a week, they do enough business and allow their employees to have much needed time off. From someone who used to run a restaurant for upwards of 15 years, this is something that I can appreciate!

Food is only part of what makes Kendall’s special. The service is warm, genuine, and always makes you feel at home. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, the staff treats everyone like family.

“You are at our house, and dessert comes with supper.” That’s not just a saying at Kendall’s—it’s a promise they deliver on, every single day.

Thoughts & Takeaways

 

And that will wrap things up for today.

In the end, Kendall’s Restaurant is the kind of place that defines Oklahoma. It represents everything great about small-town dining—generous portions, local charm, rich tradition, and unbeatable flavor.

While this blog may focus more on Oklahoma’s outdoor treasures, highlighting legendary eateries like Kendall’s feels just as essential. After all, it’s places like this that keep the heart of our state beating strong.

So next time you’re near Noble, bring your appetite and your curiosity. You might leave with a full belly, a new ghost story, and a newfound love for comfort food done right.

-CT