Empire Slice House in Oklahoma City is not your typical pizza joint. With its bold personality, New York-style slices, and creative flavor combinations, it has become a local favorite for anyone craving something beyond the ordinary. From the second you walk through the doors, you’re greeted by the buzz of conversation, the scent of freshly baked dough, and a punk rock vibe that immediately sets it apart. Located in the vibrant Plaza District, this pizza spot blends street-style charm with high-quality food, offering a memorable experience for pizza lovers, foodies, and casual diners alike.
Location and Atmosphere
Empire Slice House OKC is strategically located in one of the city’s most energetic neighborhoods. The Plaza District is known for its artsy, laid-back culture, and Empire fits right in with its graffiti-decorated walls, neon signage, and punk-inspired design. Whether you’re coming for a laid-back lunch, a late-night slice, or a group dinner, the space invites you to kick back and enjoy some seriously good pizza in a setting that’s full of personality.
Vibe and Service
The service at Empire Slice House is casual but friendly. The staff is known for being approachable, quick with recommendations, and genuinely excited about the food they serve. The music playlist is energetic, often featuring rock, indie, and alternative tracks that match the eclectic décor and urban edge. It’s a place where first-timers feel like regulars, and regulars feel like family.
Empire Slice House Menu Highlights
The menu at Empire Slice House OKC is both classic and inventive. At its core, it offers hand-tossed, New York-style pizza with a crispy-yet-chewy crust and a rich red sauce that forms the base for a variety of toppings. Whether you order by the slice or grab a full 20-inch pie, there are options to satisfy all tastes from meat-heavy choices to vegetarian and even vegan-friendly options.
Signature Pizzas
- Foghorn Leghorn: A spicy combo of chicken, bacon, jalapeños, and sriracha drizzle for those who like it hot.
- Fat Tony: A nod to the classic meat lovers pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and Canadian bacon with red sauce and mozzarella.
- Notorious P.I.G.: A pork lover’s dream with sausage, pepperoni, Canadian bacon, and even pancetta, finished with a balsamic glaze.
- Joezilla: Features roasted chicken, caramelized onions, sweet pineapple, and jalapeños for a sweet and spicy balance.
- Ghostface Killah: This white pizza includes ghost pepper cheese, pepperoni, and a drizzle of hot honey spicy, cheesy, and unforgettable.
Each pie is loaded with toppings and flavor, making it easy to see why Empire’s reputation has grown throughout Oklahoma City and beyond. The names are quirky, but the flavor combinations are well thought out and consistently delicious.
By-the-Slice Options
One of the standout features of Empire Slice House is the ability to order by the slice. Perfect for lunch breaks or late-night cravings, the slices are huge and can be customized with a variety of toppings. The rotating daily specials also keep things interesting no two visits are ever quite the same.
Appetizers and Sides
While pizza is the main event, Empire also offers a solid lineup of appetizers and sides. These dishes are great for sharing or building your meal around something a little different.
- Garlic Knots: Fresh dough baked into soft bites, brushed with garlic butter, and served with marinara sauce.
- Empire Salads: A fresh counterbalance to the rich pizza options, with mixed greens, roasted veggies, and house-made dressings.
- Meatballs: Baked with mozzarella and marinara, a hearty and flavorful side for meat lovers.
- Loaded Fries: Seasoned fries topped with cheese, bacon, jalapeños, and sauces more of a meal than a side.
Drinks and Desserts
Empire Slice House also offers a full bar with a curated selection of local beers, craft cocktails, and house specials. From IPA lovers to wine drinkers, there’s something to complement any meal. The cocktails are as creative as the pizzas, with names and ingredients that fit the restaurant’s playful style.
Desserts aren’t an afterthought either. The Pie of the Day is often a standout a sweet counterpoint to the savory pizza experience. Whether it’s cheesecake, brownies, or a rotating dessert special, it’s worth saving room.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Empire Slice House OKC understands the importance of catering to all diets. They offer several vegetarian options that go beyond basic cheese pizza. Vegan cheese is available, and many toppings can be swapped out to make a fully plant-based pizza without compromising on flavor.
- Veggie Supreme: Loaded with mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, olives, and tomatoes.
- Vegan Joe: A meatless twist with vegan mozzarella, plant-based pepperoni, and roasted garlic sauce.
- Build Your Own: Choose your crust, sauce, and toppings to customize your perfect vegan or vegetarian pie.
Why Empire Slice House Stands Out
In a city full of pizza options, Empire Slice House OKC continues to draw crowds thanks to its commitment to quality and its fun, unpretentious atmosphere. The restaurant isn’t trying to mimic others it’s confidently doing its own thing. From the irreverent menu names to the edgy decor and carefully sourced ingredients, everything about the experience feels curated yet casual.
Local Love and Community Presence
Empire is also known for its involvement in the local community. Whether sponsoring local events or participating in charity fundraisers, the brand has roots in Oklahoma City culture. Their success has even led to expansion into other locations, but the original OKC spot still holds a special place for many longtime fans.
Best Time to Visit
The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, with late-night hours on weekends that make it a favorite stop after concerts, bar hopping, or downtown events. Weeknights are great for a quieter experience, while weekends are livelier and often feature a wait but one that’s worth it.
Takeout and Delivery
For those who want the Empire experience at home, takeout and delivery are also available. The quality holds up well, with thoughtful packaging that keeps slices hot and intact. Whether you’re dining in or ordering out, the flavor and vibe stay consistent.
Empire Slice House OKC has managed to carve out a unique identity in the crowded world of pizza. With its creative menu, energetic setting, and community-centered approach, it’s more than just a place to eat it’s an experience. Whether you’re a local or just passing through Oklahoma City, a visit to Empire Slice House promises bold flavors, big portions, and a slice of the city’s personality on every plate.