The 19 Best Restaurants in Oklahoma City | Eater

"In 2021, chef Jeff Chanchaleune acquired a space in the Plaza District to install this homage to the cuisine of Laos, which he grew up eating at home. Ma Der, which means “come through” in Laotian, is a fitting sentiment for the welcoming passion project, which landed the restaurant on national lists and made Chanchaleune a finalist for the Best Chef: Southwest award from the James Beard Foundation two years in a row. The menu is ideal for communal dining, but can also sing for singletons who belly up to the bar. Nam khao, papaya salad, and sticky rice anchor options that also include daily soups like pulled duck in jasmine rice porridge or khao soi with spicy minced pork. Chanchaleune’s sister Jeslyn oversees cocktails designed to pair with distinctive Southeast Asian flavors." - Dave Cathey