Monday, April 7, 2025

Behind the Grill The History of Cattlemens

When you walk into Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, you’re steppin’ into a piece of Oklahoma history. This place has been servin’ up steaks since 1910 — right in the heart of the Stockyards, where real cowboys came to do business, grab a meal, and share stories over strong coffee and sizzling beef.

Over the years, Cattlemen’s has become more than just a place to eat. It’s a spot where families gather, deals are made, and visitors from all over the world come to get a true taste of the Wild West. Presidents, movie stars, and rodeo champs have all pulled up a chair here — and when you take your first bite, you’ll know why.

Where the Steaks Come From – And Why They Taste So Darn Good

The secret behind every great steak at Cattlemen’s starts long before it hits the grill. They work with trusted beef suppliers right here in the U.S., makin’ sure every cut is high-quality and handled with care. These are the same folks who know cattle the way a cowboy knows his horse — inside and out.

Once the steaks arrive, they go through a slow-aging process. That means they’re stored in just the right temperature and left to rest for a while so the flavors get richer and the meat gets more tender. Some folks call it dry aging — we just call it makin’ it better with time. It’s kinda like good boots or a cast iron skillet — the longer you’ve got it, the better it gets.

Then the magic happens on the grill, where butchers and cooks who’ve been with Cattlemen’s for decades take over. These folks don’t just know meat — they respect it. And that’s why every bite’s got that bold, beefy flavor folks can’t stop talkin’ about.

News 9 Oklahoma Flavor Of Oklahoma: The 114-Year Legacy Of Cattleman's Steakhouse

Cattlemen’s Steakhouse: Hall of Fame Worthy

Cattlemen’s ain’t just any ol’ steakhouse — it’s the only steakhouse in Oklahoma to be awarded a spot in the Steakhouse Hall of Fame. That means when you dine here, you’re tastin’ a legend. Folks have been makin’ the trip to the Stockyards just to eat here for over 100 years — and one bite will tell you why.

Cattlemens Steakhouse Awards and Wall of Fame

Cattlemen's Steakhouse isn't just renowned for its perfectly aged steaks; it's also a historic landmark that has attracted a host of notable figures over the years. The restaurant's Wall of Fame showcases an impressive lineup of celebrities and dignitaries who have dined within its storied walls.

Presidential Visits

Among the distinguished guests are U.S. Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush. President Reagan, who served from 1981 to 1989, was known for his fondness for Western culture, making Cattlemen's a fitting dining choice during his visits to Oklahoma City. President George H. W. Bush, who led the nation from 1989 to 1993, also enjoyed the hearty fare that has made Cattlemen's a staple in the region. Cattlemen's Restaurant

Country Music Legends

The steakhouse has also been a favorite among country music stars. Icons like Toby Keith, Garth Brooks, Faith Hill, and Reba McEntire have all savored meals here, adding to the establishment's rich tapestry of patrons. Their visits underscore the restaurant's deep roots in American culture and its appeal to those who appreciate authentic Western hospitality. Cattlemen's RestaurantCattlemen's Restaurant+2Cattlemen's Restaurant+2Cattlemen's Restaurant+2

Hollywood Icons

Hollywood has left its mark on Cattlemen's as well. The legendary John Wayne, known for his quintessential cowboy roles, and Wilford Brimley, recognized for his performances in films like "Cocoon" and "The Natural," have both dined at the steakhouse. More recently, actors Matt Damon and Casey Affleck have experienced the restaurant's renowned cuisine. Cattlemen's Restaurant

Sports Figures and Other Notables

The Wall of Fame also features sports personalities such as NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley and rodeo champion Ty Murray. Their patronage highlights the broad appeal of Cattlemen's, drawing individuals from various walks of life who share a common appreciation for quality steaks and a welcoming atmosphere.

Sylvester Stallone's Visit During 'Tulsa King' Filming

In 2022, Sylvester Stallone, famed for his roles in "Rocky" and "Rambo," visited Cattlemen's Steakhouse while in Oklahoma filming the Paramount+ series "Tulsa King." Stallone's presence added a contemporary chapter to the restaurant's history of hosting illustrious guests.

Cattlemen's Steakhouse continues to be a beacon for those seeking not only exceptional steaks but also a dining experience steeped in history and frequented by some of the most notable figures across various industries.

See more about the Stalone family visit to Cattlemens along with a funny video clip of them trying Cattlemens famous Lamb Fries together for the first time by clicking here: Sylvester Stallone & The Stallone Family

Cookin’ Cattlemens Steaks Just Right – From Rare to Well Done

Now that you picked your cut, it’s time to talk cookin’. A good steak ain’t just about the meat — it’s about how it’s cooked. And at Cattlemen’s, you’ve got not just chefs but butchers and grill masters who’ve been perfectin’ their craft for decades — some of ’em for over 20 years. That’s a whole lotta steaks under their belt!

Every steak here is slow-aged, which means it gets more tender and flavorful over time. It’s kind of like how your granddad’s boots fit better the older they get. Aging brings out the best in the beef, but cookin’ it just right? That’s the magic.

Here’s how to order yours, cowboy-style:

• Rare – Cool and red in the middle. For the brave hearts who like it moo-in’ just a little.
• Medium Rare – Warm and red center. Juicy, tender, and a favorite for steak lovers who want flavor and feel.
• Medium – Warm pink center. Still juicy, but with a little more cooking on it. A classic pick.
• Medium Well – Just a hint of pink left. A firmer bite with less juice.
• Well-Done – Cooked all the way through. No pink, no fuss. Just meat done your way.

No matter how you like it, the crew at Cattlemen’s knows exactly how to hit the sweet spot — every single time. That’s the kind of care you only get from folks who’ve been grillin’ steaks longer than most folks have been drivin’.

Come Grab Some Grub!

From juicy steak and eggs to homemade biscuits and gravy, to our mouth-watering steaks and must-try lamb fries you won’t leave hungry—that’s a promise.

Cattlemen’s has been an Oklahoma City staple for over a century, and folks can’t stop raving about it. With 4.6 stars on Google from over 10,000 reviews, it’s clear that people love the food, the service, and the down-home atmosphere. So why not see what all the fuss is about?

We recommend calling to save a seat so you can skip the long lines (there is a good reason we have so many raving reviews). 

Location: 1309 S Agnew Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73108
Call us at: (405) 236-0416
Breakfast Hours: Monday–Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:30 AM, Saturday & Sunday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rated 4.6 stars on Google – Over a century of great food and great service!

So what are you waiting for? Swing by Cattlemen’s for breakfast and taste a true Oklahoma tradition!

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