The first thing owner Sharon Hurst insists is that Crossing Second is not a restaurant, it is so much more. She describes it as a “downtown nexus,” or connection between two or more things, where everyone in the community can gather and feel safe. 

At the entrance, guests are greeted by a stack of board games, part of Hurst’s commitment to encouraging guests to come and stay awhile. The first room contains a mix of traditional tables, a bar and cozy seating such as couches and stuffed chairs. Guests can get a drink and wander into the back room, which contains a pool table and ping-pong tables. On nice days, the dog-friendly patio invites guests to linger with a view of other downtown businesses and restaurants. 

Crossing Second brings an international flair to Oklahoma. Hurst took inspiration from her years spent abroad when crafting the menu. During her military service, she lived in Crete, Greece and Germany, then joined the rapid deployment force, where she experienced countries across the globe. After the air force, she became a petroleum engineer for ConocoPhillips and lived in China for four years. She’s also spent time in Norway and Thailand, among other countries. 

“What I did is I took a recipe or two from all the places that meant the most to me, and then researched it until it tasted exactly like I remember from my time living there,” Hurst said. “I wanted it to be authentic. I didn’t want to try to Americanize the recipes.”

During the day, Crossing 2nd serves as a deli, using recipes from a beloved former Bartlesville restaurant, The Rolling Pin. But even their lunch menu has a nod to international flavors. Hurst worked with the local Indian community to create an authentic curry recipe that is served on Wednesdays. 

In the evening, Crossing Second embraces the tapas – or small plates – concept that’s common in European cities. Instead of picking one entree, customers can choose several small plates, which provides freedom to experiment by ordering dishes they aren’t familiar with. 

Everything is made from scratch, including dipping sauces, which elevates the menu. Hurst is particularly proud of the peanut sauce for the chicken satay. Each dish pays tribute to the culture it comes from. Food has the power to invoke memories, such as how the flavor of the souvlaki – her version uses marinated pork – with tzatziki and pita takes Hurst back to walking the streets of Greek villages.

Crossing Second also has a full bar, with craft cocktails, wine and beer. The Not Your Mama’s Milkshakes, each one containing an alcoholic twist, are some of their most popular items. A particular favorite is the Bananas Foster, made with bananas, caramel, cinnamon and spiced rum. Hurst is working with a sommelier to craft a wine menu that is sophisticated, subtle and complex. She favors wines that are unique and interesting, from small family-owned farms. 

Unlike many other bars, the Crossing Second bartenders make the mixers used in their drinks themselves. Their bartender crafted their pina colada recipe from scratch. 

“The first time I tasted it, I said, ‘Oh my god, this is what a pina colada is supposed to taste like!’” Hurst said. 

Crossing 2nd is also a proud host of local events, from karaoke to DJ’s to live music. Hurst curates a list that moves beyond classic rock and country. A current favorite is DJ Ant Lion, who plays primarily mushroom jazz. Crossing 2nd has also hosted events ranging from a Goth Night to film showings by the Bartlesville Film Society. Find the schedule of upcoming events on their Facebook page.