DOUGLA KITCHEN
A CHEF ANDREW BLACK CONCEPT
The word “Dougla” is a Caribbean term, most commonly used in Caribbean and Guyana. It refers to a person of mixed Indian (South Asian) Caribbean and African ancestry.
The word comes from Bhojpuri/Hindi, where do means “two” and gala means “neck/throat,” so literally it meant “two-headed” or “mixed.” Over time, it became a cultural identity in Trinidad, and especially in the Caribbean.
Dougla Kitchen brings these cultures together through bold flavors, soulful stories, and heartfelt hospitality.
A NOTE TO ELIZABETH
Chef Andrew Black, the 2023 James Beard Award Winner for Best Chef: Southwest, is celebrated for his visionary approach to storytelling through food. Born and raised in Jamaica, Chef Black is of Indo-African heritage, and his culinary journey has taken him from the Caribbean to Europe and across the United States — all while staying rooted in the flavors, traditions, and memories that shaped his early years. As the owner of Black Walnut, Grey Sweater, and Perle Mesta (located inside the historic Skirvin Hilton Hotel), Chef Black has continually pushed boundaries in hospitality and cuisine.
Yet, for the first time, he now turns inward — honoring his roots and the woman who inspired it all. Dougla Kitchen is a heartfelt tribute to his grandmother, Elizabeth, whose love and influence guided him to pursue his culinary calling.
A New Chapter Begins
Black Walnut → Dougla Kitchen
The evolution of black walnut
For six incredible years, Black Walnut has been a place where guests from Oklahoma City and beyond gathered to celebrate creativity, community, and connection through food. As we close this memorable chapter, Chef Andrew Black, 2023 James Beard Award Winner for Best Chef: Southwest, invites you to join him on the next part of his journey — the launch of Dougla Kitchen.
a new chapter — dougla kitchen
Opening February 14, 2026, Dougla Kitchen is a deeply personal tribute to Chef Black’s Caribbean and Indian heritage and to his grandmother, Elizabeth, whose influence shaped his passion for cooking.
The word “Dougla” represents a blend of cultures — a beautiful mix of African and Indian roots — and the cuisine will celebrate that same spirit through bold flavors, soulful stories, and refined technique.
Join the waitlist now to be among the first to experience this new chapter.
THE FINAL SEASON OF BLACK WALNUT
Until its final day, Black Walnut continues to welcome guests with the warmth and excellence that have defined its legacy since opening on Valentine’s Day, 2019.
Now through December 31, 2025, guests can enjoy refreshed cocktail menu, holiday event bookings, and service as usual.
On New Year’s Eve, join us for a special midnight toast with Chef Andrew Black as we celebrate six years of unforgettable memories and raise a glass to what’s next. Book Your Table