STILLWATER OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE / 48
DEVOTED : A little spot with big flavor
A dainty Asian restaurant located in the back room of Stillwater ’ s CM Asian Market , Devoted is a family owned and operated local hole-in-the-wall that many Stillwater residents do not know the potential of .
The Asian Market and Devoted are owned by David and Laurel Shao , and Devoted , specifically , has been in business for around two years . The Shao ’ s have a long history in Stillwater , running the Asian Market and creating homemade food .
At Devoted , the Shao ’ s blend Asian meals of Vietnamese , Japanese , Chinese and other origins , in order to create a unique dining experience filled with authenticity .
Upon entering , Devoted seems small , but the elevated atmosphere with its chic design elements enhances the dining experience . As you walk through the shelves of the Asian Market and reach the back room , you will notice the area consists of one large table for a group , and multiple seating options at the wood bar .
The staff is very welcoming from the moment you walk in , with a hostess ready to seat you before you make it to the opening of the restaurant . The hostess seats guests quickly and asks for drink and appetizer orders immediately .
The staff checks on their customers consistently , ensuring they are satisfied with the meal and making sure their guests ’
needs are met . Each employee communicates well with each other , and since Devoted is a family-owned restaurant , many of them are adapted to working in the same environment .
While waiting for your meal , you can watch the cooks prepare the food in the open kitchen from over the top of the bar . Each meal is served as a sizable portion , with entrees served on large plates and soups served in large bowls .
The Tonkotsu Ramen is a staple at Devoted . The ramen is placed in pork broth with pork slices , a seasoned egg , bean sprouts , menma ( seasoned bamboo shoots ), vegetables , green onions and black garlic oil . The Tonkotsu Ramen is very rich in flavor , and the ingredients absorb the pork broth .
The First Date Chicken Wings are also another flavorful meal at Devoted . The eight chicken wings in the serving are lightly breaded and coated with spicy-sweet garlic , ginger and soy glazed sauce , then tossed with whole dried chili peppers . This sauce allows for the perfect tangy crunch to balance the chicken .
During your Devoted experience , you must get the rose-infused pink lemonade . This lemonade is a sweet , flowery twist to original lemonade . The lemonade comes in a large jar , so it is perfect for sharing .
For anyone looking for a quiet , peaceful and niche dining experience , and for those who crave an authentic and intricate entree , Devoted might
SwOk just be the place you need to visit .
STORY BY : Lauren King Stillwater Oklahoma Magazine
PHOTOS : Lauren King
STILLWATER OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE / 48