Food and Drink

Tiphani Anderson started out by baking cakes for her son’s birthday, but her hobby escalated quickly. Soon, her novelty cakes were winning awards and she earned a spot on the Food Network’s “Cupcake Championship.”

In Anderson’s episode, the bakers are judged on their intricate cupcake-based pet designs. Three bakers advance to the final round, where they again use cupcakes to create imposter food items that give judges the illusion they are biting into savory entrees instead of sweet desserts.

Anderson took home the $10,000 top prize, and she hopes to use her winnings to open her own bakery.

– Andrew Aston, Jones PR

Is there anything better than a tasty snack in the middle of a hot summer day? As the hottest season of the year quickly approaches, here are three refreshing snack ideas to help keep you cool:

1. Frozen grapes – It doesn’t get easier than this. Just throw your fruit in the freezer, and get ready to enjoy your new favorite cold treat.

2. Mini cucumber sandwiches – Ditch the bread, and enjoy some crisp cucumber slices with your favorite deli meat.

Peanut butter and banana bites – This classic combo is taken to the next level when it is dipped in chocolate.

– Meaghan Hatch, Jones PR

Here in Oklahoma, BBQ is a food group, and around these parts, it doesn’t simply mean throwing down some hot dogs and burgers.

Looking for the best finger-licking, need-multiple-napkins BBQ? We have a list for your next road trip:

1. OKC: Leo’s Barbecue (featured on Food Network)
2. Davis: Smokin’ Joes Rib Ranch
3. Tulsa: Burn Co Barbeque
4. Ponca City: Danny’s BBQ Head Quarters
5. Lawton: John & Cook’s Real Pit Bar-B-Que
6. Pryor: JL’s Bar-B-Q
7. Sallisaw: Wild Horse Mountain BBQ
8. Broken Arrow: Smokies Hickory House
9. Ardmore: Caddo Street BBQ

– Taylor Ketchum, Jones PR

The new Oklahoma City Streetcar goes through Bricktown, Automobile Alley, Midtown, Deep Deuce, City Center and Downtown. There are plenty of restaurants and things to do, no matter what district you stop in.

It also happens to go by a number of breweries, presenting the perfect opportunity to grab some friends and go on a brewery crawl.

Start in Midtown at the new Elk Valley Brewing, then head to Twisted Spike Brewing Company and Prairie Artisan Ales in Automobile Alley.

If you’re up for another beer, head to Angry Scotsman, then return to Vanessa House Beer Co. in Midtown. Cheers.

– Nicona Lane, Jones PR

The cold weather in Oklahoma calls for cozy blankets, warm hot chocolate and delicious slow-cooked meals. I am an avid slow-cooker throughout most of the year, especially during the cooler fall and winter seasons. There is just something great about coming home, after being out in the cold, to a warm meal that’s been slow-cooking all day.

To keep you warm this season, I’ve included a few of my favorite slow-cooked recipes below. Be sure to give them a try:

Slow Cooker Taco Chicken Bowls

Classic Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta

– Ashley Ross, Jones PR

Hopdoddy Burger Bar is now open in Chisholm Creek, and The Oklahoma 100 staff had to check it out. Here are a few of the items we recommend for your visit:

• Ahi tuna burger: This burger has a fun Asian twist with sushi-grade tuna, sunflower sprouts, nori chips, teriyaki, honey wasabi, mayo, pickled ginger, lettuce, tomato and onion.

• Hot honey and sage fries: This shareable bowl of sweet potato fries has a delicious kick.

• Handmade shakes: These are a must-try. The best part? You can add a shot of your favorite liquor to kick it up a notch.

– Ashley Ross, Jones PR

Tired of the gas station or corporate coffee? Tulsa has many options available to broaden your coffee experience. From Foolish Things Coffee Company and Chimera on Main Street, to Nordaggios Coffee in south Tulsa, there’s a locally owned place for everyone.

If you’re seeking a unique spot with rare flavor profiles, mellow brews and atmosphere, look no further than Cirque Coffee on East 6th Street. Want to visit the first local roaster? Try Topeca Coffee Roasters on South Boston Ave. and East 2nd St. For more recommendations and an extensive list of Tulsa hot spots, check out Root Tulsa’s guide.

– Dustin Mascorro, Jones PR

Someone who loved chicken once said, “The best kind of road trip is a Chicken Fried Road Trip.”

Whether that’s true or not, Cotton Patch Café sure believes it. At this Ardmore restaurant, every day consists of a new “stop” where they feature a special food item on the menu. Specials change daily and can include tenders, chicken-fried steak, catfish and more.

Start your engine and head over to Cotton Patch Café quickly. This road trip only lasts until Oct. 26. You won’t want to miss out on these hand-breaded, deep-fried country classics and new Southern delights.

– Carolyn Taylor, Jones PR

No matter how packed your daily schedule may be, you deserve a home-cooked meal. Here are a few quick recipes that are easy to make and even easier to grab on the go.

• No-cook overnight oatmeal – Preparation is key. Make this recipe before bed, and have breakfast already made when you wake up.

• Super simple salmon – This salmon will leave your mouth wanting more. A quick dish, it can be ready in just 15 minutes.

• Microwave chocolate mug cake – Don’t forget about that sweet tooth of yours. This cake will be ready to devour in under 10 minutes.

– Carolyn Taylor, Jones PR