Chef Andrew Black unveils a new jewel in Oklahoma City's culinary crown

Chef Andrew Black is coming home. After opening three successful restaurants and winning the prestigious James Beard award, Black is returning to the Skirvin Hotel that launched his Oklahoma City career 16 years ago. His new concept, Perle Mesta, is scheduled to open next spring. 

A remarkable journey to OKC 

Black's journey to becoming an esteemed chef has been nothing short of extraordinary. It began in his home country of Jamaica where, as a child, Black built clay ovens for his grandmother to cook over an open fire. Later, he worked in resort kitchens and staged in fine dining restaurants across Europe.  

Black's path eventually led him to Oklahoma City for the grand reopening of the Skirvin Hotel in 2007. He has since opened several dining concepts in Oklahoma City including Grey Sweater, Black Walnut and Gilded Acorn. 

Elevated experience  

Black says Perle Mesta is more than just a restaurant; it's an unforgettable experience. Think high tea, magnificent brunches and European-style dining that transports you to a time when great cities were defined by gatherings with incredible food. Imagine the ambiance of chatter and laughter, the clinking of glasses and the soft sounds of plates in an iconic private dining room that doesn't feel locked away. 

Carefully curated cuisine  

Perle Mesta will feature an a la carte menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner, unlike the tasting menus at Black’s other restaurants. It’s a new concept offering cuisine that’s familiar, but luxurious. Chef Black describes it as the “pearl of the pearls.” 

James Beard award-winning chef 

In June, Black won the coveted James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Southwest. Black told Velocity that the award hasn’t changed him, but it has opened the door to more opportunity. 

“We work harder and are more giving than before. We are more humble. We are enjoying the pace and the mixture of work and life balance,” said Black. 

An elegant journey awaits 

Perle Mesta is an invitation to savor the rich flavors of the past while celebrating the bright future of Oklahoma City's culinary scene. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey that will transport you to a time of high luxury, meaningful conversations and unforgettable moments, all within the iconic Skirvin Hilton Hotel. Chef Black's dream is about to come true, and we can't wait to taste the magic he'll be serving up at Perle Mesta.