1 BBQ and Burger in Del City: Smoke-Forward Burgers Built on Barbecue Foundations
1 BBQ and Burger operates as a hybrid smokehouse and burger counter in Del City, east of Oklahoma City proper, where the kitchen treats ground beef with the same low-and-slow attention typically reserved for brisket. The concept centers on smoked burger patties, a deliberate detour from the fast-sear approach that dominates burger culture across the metro.
What 1 BBQ and Burger Actually Is
This is a walk-up counter operation anchored in barbecue technique. The kitchen smokes beef patties before finishing them on a flat-top, then assembles them to order. The venue functions as a takeout-first spot, though limited seating is available. The burger menu is the primary draw, but the kitchen also serves pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, and brisket plates, preserving the barbecue identity without diluting focus. Location in Del City positions it as a destination burger stop rather than a neighborhood casual, meaning most traffic is intentional.
Menu and Pricing
Smoked patty burgers run $10 to $14 depending on build and add-ons. The signature offering stacks two smoked patties with cheddar, pickles, onion, and mustard; specialty builds introduce bacon, jalapeños, or fried egg for $2 to $3 more per addition. Sides (fries, slaw, beans) range $3 to $5. Combo meals pair a burger and side for roughly $16 to $19. Barbecue plates (brisket, pulled pork, or ribs by the pound) run $12 to $18 for a single-protein serving. Prices are stable; confirm current specials by phone before visiting, as occasional limited-time builds shift the menu.
How It Compares to Other Oklahoma City Burger Options
The smoked-patty approach separates 1 BBQ and Burger from straight burger shops. Cattlemen's Burger Co. downtown pursues a classic American burger with premium beef and loaded house sauces, appealing to those who want customization and speed. The Loaded Bowl locations focus on grain bowls and casual fare with a lighter profile. Ted's Cafe Escondido offers Sonoran-style grilled burgers with a regional accent. Choose 1 BBQ and Burger if you want smoke flavor as the defining note and don't mind the wait for made-to-order assembly; choose Cattlemen's if you want a faster, more traditional burger experience; choose The Loaded Bowl if you want something lighter or want to avoid red meat.
Who It Suits and Who It Does Not Suit
1 BBQ and Burger works for barbecue enthusiasts curious about smoke applied to ground beef, carnivores willing to wait 10 to 15 minutes for a burger cooked from scratch, and groups with mixed preferences (the barbecue menu absorbs vegetarians and non-burger eaters). It does not suit those chasing fast service, those who dislike smoke flavor, or anyone seeking a full dine-in restaurant experience with table service. The counter-only format and intentional cook time require patience and planning.
What the First Visit Involves
Walk in, order at the counter, and wait near the pickup area. The kitchen calls your name or number when ready, typically 12 to 18 minutes after order. During peak hours (lunch, early dinner), arrive early or expect a crowd. Bring cash or card; most locations accept both. Take your order to one of a handful of picnic tables or eat in your car. The space is utilitarian, not designed for lingering, so plan accordingly.
Hours, Parking, and Logistics
1 BBQ and Burger operates Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed Monday). Verify current hours by phone before driving to Del City, as weekend adjustments occur seasonally. Parking is on-site with street and lot access; the lot typically has space except during peak lunch. Del City location means no public transit; plan for a car trip from central Oklahoma City (roughly 15 minutes from downtown). The kitchen closes during service, so arriving within 30 minutes of posted closing is risky.
In a metro dominated by chain burger franchises and quick-service standards, 1 BBQ and Burger occupies a niche by applying barbecue craft to an everyday format. It earns its place by executing a genuine idea rather than copying one.
