Hi there! Today we are going to hit up an Oklahoma Iconic Eatery, Eskimo Joe’s.

Nestled in the charming town of Stillwater, Oklahoma, Eskimo Joe’s has been a beloved fixture since its humble beginnings in 1975.

As far as famous eateries in Oklahoma, Joe’s has been the place for delicious food and great drinks as far as I can remember.

 

 

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

 

 

 

For more information on Joe’s, please check out their website for apparel and their online menu. You can find them right here.

 

 

 

 

Eskimo Joe’s: Stillwater’s Jumping Little Juke Joint

 

 

 

Inception and Innovation

 

Eskimo Joe’s story begins with two Oklahoma State University graduates, Steve File and Stan Clark, who shared a vision of creating a gathering place where good friends could enjoy great food and even better company.

 

With little more than a dream and a modest budget, they transformed a small campus bar into the iconic institution that stands today.

 

Both Steve and Stan set themselves a goal, they bought around 75 t-shirts and were under the assumption that it would take a year for them to sell. They overestimated their ability to sell. The shirts sold out less than a week! These shirts would come when a beer was purchased. Even today, you can order a burger off the menu, and you get a cool tie-die shirt with the purchase.

 

 

From Humble Beginnings to Iconic Status

What started as a modest watering hole quickly blossomed into a beloved fixture of Stillwater’s social scene. As word spread of its laid-back atmosphere and mouthwatering fare, Eskimo Joe’s became a magnet for students, locals, and visitors alike.

 

Stillwater, home of the Oklahoma State Cowboys, this was the place before and after a sporting event. Coming up here for bedlam football games, or a Kansas basketball game in the winter, Joe’s has always been a place of interest.

 

Its enduring popularity is a testament to the founders’ commitment to quality and community.

 

A Legacy of Flavor and Fun

Eskimo Joe’s isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a cultural landmark that captures the essence of Stillwater’s vibrant spirit. From its lively live music nights to its walls adorned with decades of memorabilia, every corner of Eskimo Joe’s tells a story. It’s a place where memories are made, friendships are forged, and laughter fills the air.

 

 

The Rise of the Apparel Empire

 

 

 

One of Eskimo Joe’s most enduring legacies is its iconic apparel line. What began as a simple t-shirt featuring the grinning face of its namesake character has grown into a thriving merchandise empire.

 

I myself, am an Oklahoma Sooner Fan, but I have been a fan of Eskimo sweatshirts since I could walk. Growing up in Newcastle, which is an FFA town, many of the students would rock the shirts. To be honest, you couldn’t go anywhere in the state and not spot at least one person at the store or the mall with one of these shirts.

 

The Legend of the Cheese Fries

 

 

Okay, let’s talk about the cheese fries for a minute.

 

No discussion of Eskimo Joe’s would be complete without mentioning its legendary cheese fries. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and smothered in a generous blanket of melted cheese, these fries are a true culinary masterpiece.

 

Paired with a side of tangy salsa, they’re a flavor explosion that keeps customers coming back for more.

 

My mantra has always been, it’s always a great day for some cheese fries!

 

 

Shakes Worth Savoring

 

 

In addition to their famous fries, Eskimo Joe’s also offers a mouthwatering selection of shakes. From classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla to inventive creations like peanut butter banana, there’s something for every craving. Sipping on a thick, creamy shake is the perfect way to top off a meal at this iconic eatery.

 

 

 

First-Time Indulgence with Loved Ones

Taking my wife Dawna, my daughter Maddy, and niece Ellie to Eskimo Joe’s for the first time was a moment of pure joy. As we savored our first bite of those famous cheese fries and washed them down with thick, creamy shakes, I couldn’t help but smile. It was a reminder of why Eskimo Joe’s holds such a special place in the hearts of so many.

 

 

 

Thoughts & Takeaways

Eskimo Joe’s isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a cultural institution that has woven itself into the fabric of Stillwater’s identity. From its humble beginnings to its status as a beloved landmark, every aspect of Eskimo Joe’s tells a story of passion, innovation, and community. So next time you find yourself in Stillwater, be sure to pay a visit to this iconic eatery. You’ll be glad you did.

 

 

 

 

-CT