Lunch with the Press: Del Rancho

By JOSH NEWTON

TAHLEQUAH DAILY PRESS March 20, 2008 10:44 am

— Sometimes, a house salad just isn’t enough to get you through your afternoon. If you’re looking for a fill-’er-up lunch, Del Rancho, 4800 S. Muskogee Ave., will hit the spot.
Pull up to their drive-through window, take a seat on a bar stool at the walk-up window inside, or enjoy lively conversation at one of many tables inside. However you order, you’re going to get fresh food in minutes, even at noon rush.
Now many people visit Del Rancho for its famous chicken fried steak. A sandwich, layered with a huge steak, mayo, lettuce and tomato, will cost you a little more than $4, and it’s money well-spent. Throw in a side of onion rings and iced tea, and you’re sure to have your hunger quenched. The top steer beef dredged in supreme breading, served in dinner format with gravy, your choice of mashed or baked potatoes or French fries, salad and Texas toast, comes for an easy $6.85.
Knowing how good the steak is, I opted to try the chicken fried chicken sandwich. The deep-fried chicken was way too big for the sesame seed bun, and was topped with lettuce, tomato and mayo. I also ordered a side of cheese fries, followed up with a cup of ice-cold Pepsi. My ticket came out at $9.59. The only problem: No allotted nap time at the Press in the afternoon.
Del Rancho is also famous for its Tahlequah Taco: Indian fry bread smothered in homemade chili and beans, topped with cheddar cheese, onions, lettuce and tomato. That, which is enough for two, will cost $5.75 before tax.
There’s also a big variety of burgers, Nathan’s frankfurters, and home-made items like club sandwich, fish sandwich, barbecue sandwich, grilled cheese, beans ‘n’ fry bread, catfish baskets, fresh salads and dinners.
This time around – well, after such a big meal – there was no room for dessert. But, from past experience, I know they have great choices when you can squeeze in a bit of sweetness, from pies, turnovers, sundaes, and old-fashion, hand-dipped shakes and malts.
To call ahead, phone (918) 456-0757. But, as I learned during my recent trip, a meal ordered at right up noon was in my hands in about seven minutes. With the fun atmosphere inside, you’ll find no reason to rush around.