In the fall of 2012, three local restaurant industry dudes combined forces to create The Mule. Located in the constantly growing and buzzing hub that is the Plaza District, The Mule takes the timeless favorite and contorts it into a whole menu of wild offerings.
Joey Morris, John Harris and Cody Rowan, created The Mule because there was just a lack of options in our great city. “We had put in our time in the business as waiters, busboys, dishwashers, managers, and bartenders, and thought we could give it a shot. We cooked these sandwiches together and with our families and our friends. Our name comes from one of my business partner’s grandpa’s saying, which was ‘Don’t worry about the mule, just load the cart,’ which we say to each other often when needed.”
The goal was and still is to provide cuisine that is both approachable and familiar, but still creative. Though the menu has a classic grilled cheese and tomato soup on it at all times, most guests prefer to try some of the more original sandwiches. The Mule’s best seller is the Macaroni Pony, which is a hunk of jalapeno cornbread split in half and hugging mac and cheese, BBQ pulled pork, and a pickle. It may not be exactly what your mom made for you as a kid, but you’ll feel just as giddy eating one.
On top of the vegan and gluten-free options additionally offered in the sandwich line up, the chefs at The Mule also construct some fantastic soups. “It’s fun for them to play and create something new or spin an old classic,” Morris explains. “Anytime we do our take on a tortilla soup, it always flies out of the kitchen.” Traditionally, they make a tasty black bean soup every Sunday, which draws in regulars who crave it every week.
If you’re more thirsty than hungry, The Mule shakes up a seasonal list of cocktails designed by their bar staff. During the winter months, you can stave off the cold with their versions of hot toddies and buttered rum. For the beer drinkers, they always have a reliable line-up of fresh local brews on draft, as well as a wide selection of cans. Stop in and Enjoy!
The Mule:
1630 N Blackwelder, OKC 73106 ~ 16 South Broadway, Edmond, Oklahoma 73034 www.themuleOKC.com
Photo credit: www.edibleoklahomacity.ediblecommunities.com
deVine Water
Max McDermott used to stop by the “Artesian Well on Highway 11” when he was dating Jane, now his wife, in 1973. He dreamed of bottling it, but it took time. He purchased the land in 2003 and began the process of bottling in 2004 with the help of his children. Max kept the well on Highway 11 open to the public after finding two others on the property.
Over the years, this family business has grown to become a staple in Oklahoma, and it is continuing to expand. They have no desire to slow down; their hard work and determination has improved Oklahoma’s economy and will continue to do so as the company reaches its full potential.
Mountain View Meats
Cliff and Betty Phelps began this family business in the 1970s as a wholesale packing plant. The company found its niche in expanding to sausage products, particularly their signature hot links. The company grew to a full Hot Link, Smoked Meat, and Beef and Pork Distribution Center.
Now run by the second and third generations, including Courtney Phelps-Talbot, the company still provides its popular family recipes. Today, Mountain View Meats is a regional distributor beyond Oklahoma. The financial impact on the state is undeniable. Employees have stayed with the company for decades, and the expanded sales contribute to the state economy.
Miller Pecan Company
Jared Miller remembers picking pecans with his father, Len, when he was 12 years old. He and his brother, Jared, have expanded the family business by adding harvesting facilities and new retail products. As one of the few US producers to manage every step of the process, from planting, harvesting, and cleaning to shelling and marketing, their freshness is unbeatable.
A young company, the Miller family took advantage of working with established businesses in the MIO Coalition and became the 2017 Pecan Grower of the year. As their company expands, so do the jobs they offer, improving the economy and the lives of their employees.
Amelia Creamery
Tony Barros’s love of French yogurt, helped launch a family business, which he named after his granddaughter. The Oklahoma-based company now makes a French-style yogurt with unique flavor profiles by using only the highest-quality ingredients, creating a product unlike any other in the marketplace.
As artisans, the family embraced the mentorship of MIO Coalition members, promoting their brand and build awareness. The company is dedicated to giving back to others and now guides new members towards success.
Ace In The Bowl Salsa
Created by Susan Witt for a family gathering, Ace in the Bowl Salsa has a unique flavor that has delighted people for over 20 years. Susan began selling her products in 2012. With Mild, Medium, and Hot varieties, this all-natural condiment is the perfect choice for anyone who wants a little spice in their life.
Susan appreciates how the MIO Coalition keeps everyone informed about shows and demonstrations. Susan places high value on the relationships and camaraderie that come with an MIO membership. She appreciates how the MIO Coalition encourages folks to buy local and support the state economy for generations to come.
Del Real Foods
Back in 1957, a young entrepreneur named Jesus Cardenas journeyed from his home in Jalisco, Mexico to the farmlands of southern California. With his wife, Luz, their children, and his American dream of starting his own family farm, Jesus traded in his bucket of tools for a pig. And Del Real Foods was born.
Today, Del Real Foods makes tamales, carnitas, salsas, and other recipes inspired by the Cardenas’ native Jalisco—all created by hand with fresh ingredients and nothing artificial. Delicious, slow-cooked meats and homemade sauces that taste like you cooked them yourself are now available at your local grocery store and ready to serve in minutes.
What started as a pie in the sky dream, is now a big business. Oklahoma’s own Field’s Pies celebrates 97 years in business.
From the very beginning, the Ben Jack Larado family has remained focused on producing wholesome products for customers across the country. Today, the Ben Jack Larado product line of pickled goods and custom seasonings can be found in gourmet and specialty shops across the United States.
