Emma Elle’s Italian Kitchen 

Just a quick drive on the Kilpatrick Turnpike from Edmond to the west side of OKC, a delicious taste of Italy awaits. Anchoring the corner of a modern shopping development, Emma Elle’s Italian Kitchen towers with floor-to-ceiling glass and sleek lines. Welcoming guests with its smart, yet cozy feel, the restaurant’s easy demeanor makes the spectacular food that much more enjoyable. Superbly crafted pastas, sauces, pizzas, breads, and balsamics create a dining memory that will keep you returning for seconds. But don’t get hooked on one dish too long–this menu is brimming with must-tries!

The Man, the Mission, the Magic

Though Cameron Wilson didn’t know his banking and construction backgrounds would ever find him contemplating how to make the most remarkable fried risotto cheese ball, by 2021, he was ready for a new venture. An avid entrepreneur and food lover, he knew the restaurant path made sense. “I’m into local restaurants, local designers, and I’m a big fan of Italian food.” Cameron had watched the development grow at the intersection of the Kilpatrick Turnpike and Route 66, noting the success Summer Moon Coffee had already enjoyed there, so it was an easy “yes” for the restaurateur-to-be. Now celebrating its third year, Emma Elle’s bustles with delighted diners who can’t get enough of the flawlessly planned and plated dishes.

Feast Your Eyes

A highlight at Emma Elle’s is the pizza oven made in Italy. Not only does it amp up the ambiance, but at a top temperature of 900 degrees, it cooks pizza in 90 seconds, delivering a perfectly charred and chewy crust. With a dough recipe from an Italian-born friend whom Cameron met during his time in Los Angeles, the Neopolitan-inspired pizzas are always a crowd-pleaser. “Because the pizza is light, yet flavorful, you can eat a lot and not need a nap afterward,” Cameron laughs. A favorite is the artisan pepperoni with serrano-infused honey.

The house-made bread, complimentary with each meal, is served with a 10-year-aged balsamic that will forever spoil you. “It’s the balsamic for those who think they hate balsamic,” Cameron chuckles. Another appetizer, the Arancini, is a satisfying comfort bite with creamy risotto and fresh mozzarella, hand-battered and fried, served with garlic aioli. Fantastic!

For pasta lovers, the spaghetti tossed in homemade Bolognese sauce made with pork and imported spices is a top choice. If you’re in the mood for fettuccine with one of the best Alfredo sauces ever, be sure to get the fried chicken topper. Battered just before frying, it is out-of-this-world delicious. The house-made Nichiyobi-Wagyu meatballs are also a menu fave. Decadent desserts are the perfect finish, including unique treats like the luscious lemon bar and oatmeal cream pie. Ask about the off-menu cannolis, too!

Picked to Please

Emma Elle’s prides itself on a tasty array of gluten-friendly, vegetarian, and vegan options. Optional gluten-free pasta, pizza, table bread, and desserts give the whole family delicious choices. Quality runs deep throughout the menu, and many ingredients are locally sourced, like the beef from Arcadia. That enduring sense of community and partnership with local brands is a driving force for Emma Elle’s, in and out of the kitchen. “Many of our staff grew up here and have roots in our community. From the high school student getting their first job, to the seasoned staff, they’ve all helped pull off the vision for the restaurant,” Cameron says.

Dine at 4401 Grant Blvd., Yukon, or visit emmaelles.com for hours and great weekly specials!