The Yardbird at 1896

We like to try non-chain restaurants when we travel, which can be scary...ya just never know! So on a recent trip home we drove through McAlester, OK and I found this spot while searching. The Yardbird lived up to all of the great reviews, the less than great ones are fairly old, so I didn't pay much attention to those. We were not disappointed at all! The food was on point, tasty and they don't hold back on the portions. Jess has a personality bigger than the builder and is just cool. :) Joe is super nice, friendly and very attentive. Enjoyed talking to both of them. My husband got the Dirty Bird and onion rings. I had the Chicken Salad sandwich and potato salad. Both meals were really good, but that potato salad OMG! That was so good and I am a potato salad snob. The atmosphere was nice, I guess it's a historical place so they probably have restrictions. Anyway, next time you're passing through McAlester and want some good food, pop off the highway and go here.

LOVE absolutely everything about this restaurant! The food is amazing, the staff is just delightful, and the history of the place is apparent everywhere. It is held together with original hardware from 1896, and when you walk in, you're able to leave your troubles outside the door and sink into whatever Joe has spinning on the record player and relax in the soft lighting. Don't miss the burgers, seriously, DON'T. The southwestern eggroll is this delicious, crispy, delivery from heaven that makes you understand they were actually wrong about the chimichanga. Eggroll wrap FTW! Also, it's a big enough app to be a meal. Say yes to the fries. They're as fun to look at as they are delicious. My husband had the wings and I know he loves me but I MIGHT have gotten my hand slapped if I'd tried to steal one. Even the salads make you feel like maybe they were touched by Jesus. Stop in for a weekday lunch break or dinner with a group of friends, but for us, it's a favorite date night spot.

Food, service, and atmosphere are all 6/5 stars. Jess and her brother (presumably the owners?) were taking care of tables. It was me, a local business apparently doing a Halloween lunch in full costume, and a few other locals who all seemed to love the place. Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong kept the vibes easy going and the food was absolutely fire. I had the Colonel Mustard with sidewinder fries and I can't recommend it enough. The homemade honey mustard should be served by the pint. All around win and worth getting off the highway for.

Five Stars -- A McAlester Standout The Yard Bird absolutely delivers on every level. The atmosphere is something special--an inspired blend of late-1800s character with a modern flip that feels authentic, warm, and thoughtfully done. Inside or out, the space invites you to slow down and enjoy the moment, and the outdoor seating is a huge bonus. The food is outstanding. It's clear the chef takes pride in every plate--bold flavors, quality ingredients, and dishes that feel crafted, not rushed. And the service? Excellent. Attentive, friendly, and genuinely welcoming without ever feeling forced. That kind of service elevates the entire experience and makes you want to come back. We will not only be back--this place is officially becoming a regular stop for us. The only "problem" is that it should be open more... especially after hours! McAlester could absolutely use more of this. Highly recommended.

GET IN MY BELLY!! We made a stop in McAllister on our drive to Arkansas and wanted real food. Enter Yelp peeps who led me here. We had the grilled chicken, southwest egg rolls, and a Cobb salad. the grilled chicken was the best I've had anywhere in a very long time. Service was outstanding and the vibe is amazing. You can tell it's a favorite with the locals! Thanks for a delicious pit stop!

Update Nov. 2023: Still as awesome as ever! Had live music tonight, really enjoyed it and the "yardsticks" dessert (like funnel cake) was amazing. This is an awesome place to hang out at night, so glad they have evening hours now. Not many places in town with good atmosphere, really nice. Original Review: I love going here! The staff is incredibly friendly and the food is amazing. Try the biscuit sliders first, the BBQ Ranch is my favorite with a perfect blend of salty sweet tang. The Dirty Bird is more sweet. The salads are always very fresh, crispy, and generous. They put a lot of thought into their menu. One of my favorite lunch spots.