Restaurant
Tulsa, OK

Lone Wolf

Lone Wolf serves up daring eats in a space that howls with energy.

Market
Restaurant
Type
Interior within Historic Rehabilitation
Services
Interior Design
Design Delivery Phases
Construction Administration
Size
3,300 Sq Ft
Year completed
2018
Client
Lone Wolf
In collaboration with

Where Culinary Vision Meets Architectural Precision

Lone Wolf Banh Mi is celebrated for its adventurous take on Vietnamese street food with a uniquely Tulsa twist. This spirit of fearless creativity guided the design of their flagship location. The historic Archer Building, with its industrial bones and commanding presence, offered an inspiring foundation. The design celebrates the juxtaposition of rough-hewn materials and polished finishes, creating a dynamic dining environment that mirrors Lone Wolf’s boundary-pushing cuisine.

The space’s layout was thoughtfully designed to support Lone Wolf’s fast-paced yet friendly service model. Communal tables, intimate booths, and expansive bar seating create zones of energy and intimacy, adapting to the needs of lunch crowds, evening diners, and weekend gatherings. Guests are welcomed into an environment where every design choice—from the custom mural to the minimalist furniture—enhances the restaurant's character without overshadowing its culinary narrative.

Crafting an Experience Beyond the Plate

The dining room becomes an extension of the Lone Wolf brand, creating a sensory experience that complements its iconic banh mi and bold flavors. Central to the space is a striking ceiling installation, a graphic nod to the restaurant’s name. This playful yet refined element, combined with industrial finishes like black subway tiles and brushed steel counters, balances the restaurant’s edgy personality with architectural clarity.

Large windows flood the space with light, offering glimpses of the Tulsa Arts District's dynamic streetscape. The strategic use of warm woods and soft pendant lighting tempers the industrial aesthetic, fostering a sense of comfort and connection. The interplay between raw and polished materials invites guests to linger, savor, and connect with the energy of the neighborhood.

A Hub for Culture and Community

More than a restaurant, Lone Wolf Banh Mi serves as a gathering place in one of Tulsa’s most vibrant districts. The design prioritizes inclusivity and approachability, ensuring the space reflects not only the artistry of the food but also the collaborative energy of the community it serves. From quick lunchtime bites to evening celebrations, Lone Wolf welcomes locals and visitors to experience the creative pulse of Tulsa.

A Partner in Creativity

As the design partner for Lone Wolf Banh Mi, Lilly Architects brought their expertise in adaptive reuse and functional precision to the table. The firm’s deep understanding of the Archer Building’s historical context allowed them to create a design that feels both rooted and forward-thinking.

With a philosophy centered on enriching lives and landscapes, Lilly Architects transforms spaces into experiences. For Lone Wolf, this meant crafting a restaurant that honors its culinary identity while creating a new architectural landmark in Tulsa’s Arts District. Every detail, from the flow of the space to the integration of brand elements, was designed with intention—proving that great architecture, like great food, leaves a lasting impression.