Meet the Chef: Othello’s in Norman, Oklahoma

We sat down with Executive Chef Tammy Weiss of Othello’s Italian Restaurant in Norman, Oklahoma. Othello’s has stood on Campus Corner since 1977, when Pasqual Benso opened the cozy Italian spot that became a Norman institution. Celebrated for authentic family recipes, wallet-friendly prices, and the storied “Table of Truth” popularized by OU coach Barry Switzer, it’s a local favorite. In 2000 Othello’s expanded to Downtown Edmond, bringing those original recipes to a historic building that once housed the town’s first hospital and a movie theater—an apt setting for the restaurant’s second home.

Othello’s in Norman, Oklahoma: Meet the Chef

Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?

My mornings start early with a check-in at our breakfast restaurant, making sure everything is running smoothly and the team is set up for success. From there, I head to the bakery, where I make fresh cinnamon rolls and a variety of breads for the day—there’s nothing better than the smell of bread baking in the morning. After that, I spend time in the office working on the books and sourcing ingredients for our daily specials. I try to fit in a workout before heading back to the restaurant for dinner service.

Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?

While I don’t have any formal culinary awards to my name, I consider longevity in this industry an achievement in itself. Being in the restaurant business for more than 25 years takes passion, resilience, and a deep love for hospitality—and I’m proud of that journey.

Fun fact: back in my teen years, I was runner-up for Miss Oklahoma City. It’s a very different stage than the kitchen, but both experiences taught me confidence and composure under pressure.

Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?

I’ve always enjoyed following the journeys of chefs like Rachael Ray and Gordon Ramsay. Watching how they built their brands and evolved over time has been inspiring. I even had the opportunity to sit next to Gordon Ramsay at an event in Las Vegas, which was definitely a memorable moment for me.

For aspiring chefs, my advice is simple: keep your ears open and learn from everyone and every opportunity. You’d be surprised how many tips and techniques you absorb just by paying attention. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way—whether it’s traveling abroad or working in a small kitchen somewhere unexpected. Those experiences shape you more than you realize and often define the direction of your future.

What do you typically cook at home?

Owning and operating three restaurants doesn’t leave me with much time to cook at home, but when I do, it’s usually for something truly special. I love hosting my children and our five grandchildren—including one very fun set of triplets—especially during the Jewish holidays. Those gatherings give me the chance to cook the family recipes my mother made for me growing up: chicken noodle soup, brisket, tzimmes, and other traditional Jewish dishes that carry so many memories. In the summer, it’s much simpler—and just as meaningful. There’s nothing better than grilling with my husband while the kids splash in the pool. Those are the moments that remind me why food is so important. It brings everyone together.

What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?

On my most recent trip to Italy, I was inspired by the number of true farm-to-table restaurants we experienced. There’s something incredibly special about menus built around what’s fresh, local, and in season. That approach has motivated us to continue creating healthier, more intentional options while focusing on giving our guests a meaningful dining experience.

I’m also loving the growth of elevated nonalcoholic beverages. More of our patrons are looking for fun, thoughtfully crafted drinks that add to the experience without including alcohol. It’s been exciting to explore creative options that feel just as special and celebratory.

What’s the strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? And, did you like it?

I’m more of a classic meat-and-potatoes person, so I don’t venture into too many unusual food combinations. That said, I’ve really enjoyed exploring fresh pastas and discovering the different flavor profiles you can bring together in unexpected ways. Lately, I’ve also been working a lot with fresh pistachios—incorporating them into cakes, crème brûlée, cinnamon rolls, and other sweet treats for our guests. It may not be the strangest combination out there, but finding creative ways to elevate familiar flavors has been both fun and delicious.

What drink do you enjoy most?

Nothing is better than sharing a good bottle of red wine with my husband. I usually let him take the lead when it comes to ordering, and I’m never disappointed. Over the years, we’ve had wonderful opportunities to visit wineries both in the U.S. and internationally. Some of our favorites stateside include Caymus Vineyards and Opus One. In Italy, we’ve loved visiting Banfi, Cà dei Frati, and Cesari—and altogether, we’ve toured more than 20 wineries throughout the country. From time to time, I also enjoy a sweet cocktail—especially when I’m in Las Vegas with my sister. One of my favorites is the Prima Donna martini at Luchini’s inside the MGM. It’s a refreshing blend of strawberry, lemon, and fresh basil—the perfect balance of sweet and bright.

Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?

My husband and I previously owned and operated a catering company that handled backstage hospitality for artists performing in Oklahoma City. Over the years, we had the opportunity to cook for an incredible range of celebrities—from Whitney Houston to George Strait and Garth Brooks. It was always exciting to be part of those moments behind the scenes.

We’ve also been fortunate to have some well-known faces become regulars at Othello’s. Toby Keith and his wife were frequent guests at our Norman location, often sitting at the bar several nights a week. Yankees great Bobby Murcer was a regular at our Edmond restaurant. I’ll never forget the first time I met Bobby — he walked straight into the kitchen, looked at me across the line, and asked what he should order for dinner. From that moment on, a lifelong friendship was formed.

One of the most meaningful moments of my career came in 1995, after the Oklahoma City bombing. As the city was healing from the tragedy of April 19th, President Bill Clinton visited Oklahoma City, and my husband and I were asked to provide meals during his time in town. I remember receiving a call from a White House representative asking if we could pick up white roses for the President to lay at the foot of the Survivor Tree. It was a humbling experience to serve during such a pivotal moment in our city’s history.

What’s your Instagram so readers can follow you?

I don’t have a personal Instagram account, but we share updates, specials, and behind-the-scenes moments on our restaurant’s page, @othellositalianrestaurant. We’re also very active onn Facebook, where guests can stay connected and see what we’re creating each day.

Why should readers visit Othello’s in Norman, Oklahoma?

There are so many reasons to visit Othello’s, but the first is simple: when you support us, you’re supporting local — and in turn, helping us support our community. Last year alone, we provided 350 hot meals to families in need and sponsored a toy drive for a local charity that collected more than $2,500 worth of toys, necessities, and gift cards. Giving back has always been part of who we are.

When you walk into Othello’s, you’re not just a customer — you’re part of our family. It’s not uncommon to be greeted by one of our own, and there’s rarely a time when a family member isn’t present in the restaurant. We take great pride in both our service and the quality of what we serve. There are many choices when dining out, and we’re truly grateful for every opportunity to be part of your celebrations, traditions, and family memories.

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