Paseo Arts District - Dining, Art and Architecture

Along its curved, two-block street the Paseo Arts District houses over 20 galleries and more than 80 artists with working studios. This lively, bohemian area has maintained its Spanish revival architecture, complete with its original stucco buildings and clay roof tiles. All of which helps to make it a distinctive spot to do some shopping, dining or bar hopping, depending on whether you’re visiting during the day or night. Located along Paseo Drive in Oklahoma City, the district extends from North Walker at N.W. 28^th to N.W. 30^th. In 2010 the American Planning Association, an independent, non-profit organization that helps to develop communities, named it one of the country’s 10 Great Neighborhoods. While doing so, the association emphasized Paseo’s architecture, commercial establishments and vibrant character. Surrounded by neighborhoods on all sides, Paseo is home to some of OKC’s favorite local hangouts. At Scratch Kitchen and Cocktails, everything from the syrup and tinctures for its adult beverages, to its baked goods and meals . . . even the ketchup and mayonnaise are all made, as its name implies, from scratch. Picasso Cafe describes itself on its website as a community experience for people who love to eat, drink and laugh. Plus, one of the city’s oldest bars and grills, the Red Rooster Bar and Grill, currently closed for remodeling, will be reopening soon with its pool tables, outdoor seating and juke box. One of the newer additions to the area, Holey Rollers offers hand-crafted, 100 percent dairy free and egg free donuts (some are also gluten free) made from all natural quality ingredients. Located on the southeast corner of Pueblo on Paseo, Paseo's newest development, Buttermilk is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. with a selection that includes biscuit sandwiches, a smoothie bowl and mimosas. Finally, the perennially popular Paseo Grill is known for its casual fine dining featuring American cuisine with an international flair, along with a top-rated selection of wines and an eclectic atmosphere. Paseo Arts District in its entirety is probably best experienced during its First Friday Gallery Walk, held—come rain or shine—the first Friday evening (6:00 – 10:00 p.m.) and Saturday (noon – 6:00 p.m.) of each month. Opening receptions showcase either new work by gallery or studio owners or pieces by guest artists. Many galleries offer light refreshments. A fun street scene, this is one of the oldest art walks in Oklahoma City. Art demonstrations, special themed exhibits, discounts at restaurants and shops, wine tastings, live music and a variety of entertainment opportunities all make this an experience that shouldn’t be missed. Especially since all of the galleries are within easy walking distance of each other. the Paseo Arts Festival is held each year over the Memorial Day weekend. Thousands of people come to enjoy the art and crafts, street food, live music and other performances, as well as the more permanent features and experiences the district offers. This year the 43^rd annual festival will be held May 25 – 27, 2019.