PENNINGTON’S PIE: Ike’s Chili brings back iconic Tulsa treat
Jan 16, 2025
Opening in 1951, Penningtons Drive-In was the place to be. It was known for high traffic, fried shrimp and the famous black bottom pie. Rhys Martin, historian and author of Lost Restaurants of Tulsa, says it didnt survive the oil bust and closed in 1987.A lot of people still have these positive memories, said Martin. Many of them say oh, boy, I sure wish I could have a piece of black bottom pie today.Now, the chocolate pie with signature red food coloring is not just a memory. It is being served up at Ikes Chili.Len Wade, owner, thought it would be fun to recreate a recipe he found for Penningtons pie. He thought he would sell a few slices for $5 a piece.He only has a part-time baker and his one oven can only fit one crust. But after making and selling the pies for only two weeks, word got out through social media.Now its like, the phone is ringing, we have people wanting entire pies, he said. As fast as we make them, theyre already gone.On Wednesday, the two pies they made sold out in 15 minutes.While 2 News was there, one table came in and ordered a whole pie.Its a good problem to have, as they say, said Martin.Wade says they may have to buy another oven. In the meantime, the pies will only be available Tuesday through Thursdayand on Friday, maybe.Martin says Ikes Chili, the oldest known restaurant in Oklahoma, is the perfect place to devour some Tulsa nostalgia. And black bottom line: get there early.Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere -- Download our free app for Apple, Android and Kindle devices. Sign up for daily newsletters emailed to you Like us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram SUBSCRIBE on YouTube