Okmulgee Nov 1 2024: Nestled in the heart of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, Coleman’s Burgers & Bakery stands as a landmark of tradition, flavor, and family warmth. With a history spanning nearly a century, Coleman’s has woven itself into the fabric of the local community, creating not just meals, but memories, for generations. Its story is as rich as its menu, rooted in the values of quality and dedication, and today, it continues to draw in locals and travelers alike who come for its renowned burgers, legendary bakery goods, and a truly welcoming atmosphere.

A Storied Beginning
The journey of Coleman’s began in the late 1920s when founder Jack Coleman opened a small bakery called The People’s Bakery. True to its name, this bakery was for the people, serving as a community hub in the days before convenience stores were common. It quickly became a staple in Okmulgee, with fresh bread and treats that delighted the town. But as the economic challenges of the Great Depression took hold in the early 1930s, Jack was forced to sell the bakery.

However, Jack’s vision for a place where people could gather, eat, and share stories never faded. In 1955, he reestablished his culinary dream under the name Coleman’s Burgers & Bakery. Beginning humbly with five bar stools and five booths, this modest diner became the foundation of what would become an institution. And every February, Jack would close up shop to take “the boys” on a fishing trip to Mexico, a tradition that added a new dish to the menu—fresh fish caught during their trip, served until they ran out.

Coleman’s Today: A Family Affair
Today, Coleman’s Burgers & Bakery is led by the dedicated team of Randy and Alice Holleman, who have carried forward Jack’s legacy of good food and community spirit. Located at 118 N Seminole Avenue in Okmulgee, the business remains a family-run establishment, with leadership support from Ben Holleman, Kathy Banning, and River Banning, representing three generations of family involvement.

Known far and wide, Coleman’s customer base has expanded beyond Okmulgee, drawing patrons from across the state and beyond. Locals love it for its comforting food and close-knit atmosphere, while visitors often make it a stop on their travels. Some customers, even as far away as Texas, reach out to order treats like cookies, eager to bring a taste of Coleman’s home.

A Menu with Heart and History
While Coleman’s serves a variety of down-home, hearty meals, it is their all-beef burgers that have gained statewide recognition, voted as some of the best in Oklahoma. Their burgers are a nostalgic yet ever-popular staple, reflecting decades of perfecting the craft. The onion rings are equally legendary, beloved by regulars for their unbeatable flavor.

The bakery side of the business is also a source of pride. Alice Holleman’s apple pie, in particular, has reached near-mythical status, winning praise from patrons and even a memorable endorsement from Pake McEntire, Reba McEntire’s brother, who declared Alice’s pie to be “better than Grandma’s.” From pies to cookies and cakes, Coleman’s bakes up a range of sweets that have become cherished additions at local gatherings and events.

A Commitment to Community
Throughout its long history, Coleman’s has remained deeply committed to the community. The restaurant donates pies, baked goods, and other treats to local churches and schools, supporting fundraisers and events that enrich Okmulgee. For Coleman’s, giving back to the community isn’t a corporate gesture; it’s a part of their DNA, born out of Jack’s original vision of creating a place for the people.

Family Atmosphere and Customer Connections
One reason Coleman’s has stood the test of time is its strong emphasis on customer relationships. Customers aren’t just patrons; they’re part of an extended family. Regulars come in not just for food but for the warmth and familiarity that Coleman’s offers. Many have stories and fond memories that stretch back decades, and sharing these stories with the staff and other customers has become part of the experience. This connection to the customer base is central to Coleman’s success, creating a welcoming environment where people feel at home.

Looking to the Future
As Coleman’s Burgers & Bakery looks toward the future, the goal is simple: to continue serving the best food and baked goods possible, all while maintaining the warm, family-like atmosphere that has defined them for decades. They aim to stay true to their roots and maintain their connection with customers—both old and new. With a well-established reputation and a team committed to excellence, Coleman’s is sure to remain a beloved institution in Okmulgee and a destination for those seeking a genuine, down-home meal.

A Taste Worth Remembering
Coleman’s Burgers & Bakery is not just a place to eat; it’s a slice of Okmulgee’s history and a reminder of the power of family, community, and great food. From its famous burgers and fresh bakery items to the stories shared across the counter, Coleman’s continues to be a beacon of tradition and taste, a place where people come together, share meals, and leave with memories.