In Dining Out

CenPho has exploded with great eateries over the past few years and one of the shiniest spots is a real gem in the Crown on 7th, Okra Cookhouse & Cocktails.

Chef Cullen Campbell and his culinary team are putting out southern favorites but amplifying the flavor and flare. On a recent visit I sampled some of the latest menu items like the meatloaf, fried chicken and a fun take on fish and chips. Check out my thoughts.

 

This was some of the crispiest fried chicken I have ever had. Wow, what a crunch! And that crisp exterior encased some pretty juicy chicken inside. The batter was expertly seasoned and perfectly cooked. The gravy had a nice peppery kick and complimented the dish perfectly.

 

I’ve never been the biggest fan of meatloaf. Memories of ketchup crusted versions from my childhood keep me from ever ordering it when I see it on the menu. Okra has put an end to my aversion to loafs of meat with their spectacular version. It was the best thing I ate all night and that is saying something because everything I ate that night was incredible. This meatloaf was juicy and flavorful, trussed up with a spicy sauce and crispy onion rings. The mashed potatoes it came atop were creamy and sopped up the sauce and juices. It was a perfect dish and I can’t wait to visit again, just for the meatloaf! Thanks, Okra for showing me meatloaf should be celebrated, not feared!

 

I also fell in love with the Shaved Catfish, a fun and modern take on fish and chips. The thin pieces of fish were moist, flaky with a light, yet crispy coating. The fish came layered on top of perfectly seasoned fries and it was all topped off with a tangy aioli and pickle vinaigrette. The dish somehow seemed lighter than run of the mill fish and chips but with so much more flavor!

 

In addition to great southern fare Okra is also shaking and stirring up some pretty fabulous cocktails. May I recommend the Ango Colada, a jazzed up version of a Pina Colada, brightened up with angostura bitters that cut through the sweetness with a hint of herby spice.

Okra Cookhouse and Cocktails have nailed it with their new menu items. They’ve taken southern classics and amplified the flavors with modern flare while still keeping everything familiar. It’s food made from the heart.

Okra Cookhouse and Cocktails is located at 5813 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85014.

 

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Disclaimer: I was invited to dine at Okra Cookhouse and Cocktails free of charge as part of a media visit. All opinions stated within this post are entirely my own. 

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