33 Best Kansas City Restaurants in 2025
If you’re searching for a delightful dining experience in the heart of the Midwest, look no further than this list of the best Kansas City restaurants. From cozy cafés to upscale steakhouses, this comprehensive guide explores the city’s diverse culinary landscape, celebrating local flavors and innovative cuisine.
Ready to jump in? Whether you're in the mood for pasta, sushi, steak or a taste of the city's renowned barbecue scene, here are the 33 best restaurants Kansas City has to offer.
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The 33 Best Restaurants in Kansas City, MO
1. Brown & Loe
A friendly neighborhood bistro, Brown & Loe is located in a former 1920s bank and celebrates local American cuisine. This Kansas City restaurant stays committed to local suppliers and farm-fresh ingredients with its varied menu and fusion dishes.
The Vibe
The décor is resplendent with a plate glass facade and verde marble floors. If you are looking for date ideas in Kansas City, Brown & Loe is the ideal place. The pricing is mid-range and the service is swift and friendly.
What to Order
There’s a trend among the newer Kansas City restaurants of using fresh ingredients in new, delicious ways. At Brown & Loe, for example, the cheeseburger is elevated with a fennel pollen aioli. The meatloaf has luxurious extras like goat cheese mashed potatoes, bacon green beans and brandy cream.
Brown & Loe | 429 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106 | $$
2. Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant
Modern dining combines with Napa-style wine-tasting rooms at Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants. Enjoy the dining rooms before or after a wine-tasting session and join the world’s largest wine club at this Kansas City restaurant.
The Vibe
The ambiance may be bustling, bordering on noisy at the winery, but the service in the dining room is impeccable. Reservations are recommended, but the wine tastings are on a walk-in basis only.
What to Order
Every item on the restaurant’s menu is paired with a suggested wine. Popular choices at this Kansas City restaurant include the lobster and devilled egg toast served with mustard seed caviar and togarashi or the prime churrasco steak with Parmesan fries and cilantro-lime aioli.
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant | 4686 Broadway Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64112 | $$
3. Gram & Dun
Serving imaginative American cuisine in a beautiful modern setting, Gram & Dun is a community favorite hangout among the best restaurants in Kansas City. Located in the Country Club Plaza, it offers comfort food and an innovative bar menu.
The Vibe
Known as the “best patio in town,” this Kansas City restaurant is the place to go for people-watching with a side of delicious food. Seating outside is available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Inside, reservations are recommended for the dining room.
What to Order
Favorites include the chicken and waffle served with a hot honey glaze and vanilla butter. There’s also the bolognese sauce, cooked for five hours and served with tagliatelle and pecorino. And don't forget to ask about the hidden dessert menu.
Gram & Dun | 600 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64112 | $$$
4. Stock Hill
Named one of the best steakhouses in America, Stock Hill is an upscale Kansas City restaurant perfect for a hearty meal. Located in the former Kansas City Board of Trade building, the restaurant spreads across 14,000 square feet and contains a two-storey dining room, a large bar area and outdoor terrace seating.
The Vibe
With its cozy corners, low lighting and floor-to-ceiling drapes, Stock Hill is one of the standout Kansas City restaurants that wow you from the moment you enter. Service is always on hand and with a smile and there is valet parking as well.
What to Order
Chef Jacob Hilbert expertly executes a fine-dining menu filled with nostalgic dishes and steakhouse staples. Among Kansas City restaurants, Stock Hill stands out for its prime black Angus filet mignon, perfect if you are a steak lover. For the vegetarians in your group (or as an additional side with your steak) the cheddar mac and cheese is exceptional.
Stock Hill | 4800 Main St., Ste. G 001, Kansas City, MO 64112 | $$$
5. Clay and Fire
Of all the Kansas City restaurants, few can compare to the unique flavors and intimate vibe of Clay and Fire. This women-owned business excels in Near Eastern cuisine with dishes from Turkey, Persia, Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan.
The Vibe
Located in an old house, this Kansas City restaurant has wood beams and mismatched furniture; visit Clay and Fire when you crave authentic Near Eastern food and a well-priced bar menu.
What to Order
When dining at Clay and Fire, don't miss the mezze platter. Choose between saganaki or hummus, then move on to the kebab platters served with house pickles, butter rice and flatbreads. Vegetarian options are also available.
Clay and Fire | 815 W. 17th St., Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$
6. Extra Virgin
If you're exploring Kansas City restaurants in the Crossroads Art District, Extra Virgin is a must-visit for delicious tapas. Owned by Chef Michael Smith and his wife, Nancy Smith, Extra Virgin proudly uses artisanal products and locally sourced ingredients.
The Vibe
Among the restaurants Kansas City has to offer, Extra Virgin is among the most popular, offering a lively indoor dining experience and a relaxing patio area for those looking to unwind. The service is swift and the staff is well-versed in menu options and recommendations.
What to Order
Known for its creative tapas menu, Extra Virgin is a favorite among Kansas City restaurants. It serves popular dishes like fig and goat cheese salad and roasted bone marrow. For the perfect crunchy dessert, order churros with a spicy chocolate sauce.
Extra Virgin | 1900 Main St., Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$
7. Chewology
Named Restaurant of the Year in 2022 by Kansas City Magazine, Chewology stands out among Kansas City restaurants as Chef Katie Liu’s heartfelt tribute to her childhood food memories.
The Vibe
With bright floral tablecloths and fairy lights strung along the ceiling, Chewology breaks the mold of typical gyoza bars, making it a unique addition to Kansas City restaurants. The vibe is casual and abundant seating is available, though reservations are recommended.
What to Order
Online reviews suggest taking advantage of the dressed eggs, which include a ramen egg served with chile mayo, fried shallots and pickled red onions.
Chewology | 900 Westport Road, Kansas City, MO 64111 | $$
8. Carniceria y Tortilleria San Antonio
Everyone has their secret taco spot, and among the top Kansas City restaurants for authentic Mexican fare is Carniceria y Tortilleria San Antonio. This small taqueria serves up some of the best burritos and tacos in the city. There’s also a butcher counter and marketplace to add to the authenticity.
The Vibe
This is a no-frills space with some log seating, a cooler and a pinata for décor. Though simple in appearance, Carniceria y Tortilleria San Antonio stands out among Kansas City restaurants for its bold, flavorful dishes.
What to Order
The barbacoa tacos, a favorite at Kansas City restaurants like Carniceria y Tortilleria San Antonio, are hot favorites, thanks to the extra juicy meat topped with spicy salsa and creamy avocado sauce. The chicken taco is just right if you want a healthier option.
Carniceria y Tortilleria San Antonio | 830 Kansas Ave., Kansas City, KS 66105 | $
9. Lula Southern Cookhouse
Co-owner and Chef Bradley Gilmore named Lula Southern Cookhouse after his grandmother, Lula Mae Bryant. Among Kansas City restaurants, Lula promises to deliver “real Southern food,” offering generous portions and indulgent recipes that reflect true Southern heritage.
The Vibe
Lula Southern Cookhouse combines bustling energy with a calming touch of greenery, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The staff embodies Southern charm and hospitality, making it a standout among restaurants in Kansas City.
What to Order
When you visit Lula Southern Cookhouse, you can’t leave without tasting the chef's legendary Vidalia onion bisque with bourbon cream and crispy shallots. The Southern fried chicken platter with house-made pickles, hot sauce, biscuits and gumbo gravy is sure to hit the spot for those with a hearty appetite.
Lula Southern Cookhouse | 1617 Main St., Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$
10. Corvino
Established in 2017 and still going strong, Corvino is a dual-concept dining space that has earned its place among the best Kansas City restaurants. Owned by Chef Michael Corvino and Christina Corvino, the space offers two different experiences under one roof. There’s the Supper Club, which serves modern American food, and then there’s the cocktail lounge, which has a small plate menu and luxurious interiors.
The Vibe
If you're looking for a sophisticated night, Corvino delivers. It offers a winning combination of Midwestern hospitality and old-school charm, creating an atmosphere that begs for a night out on the town.
What to Order
Enjoy live jazz with a meaty burger in hand, or try everyone’s favorite: Seaweed doughnuts with trout roe and cream. Regulars can’t stop talking about this dish, which has an umami taste and unusual ingredients. Various special dietary menus are available at Corvino, too, ensuring everyone has something delicious to enjoy, making it a favorite among Kansas City restaurants.
Corvino | 1830 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$$
11. Voltaire
A bistro-style space serving New American dishes, Voltaire easily makes the list of top Kansas City restaurants. Located in the Stockyard District, it offers an approachable yet eclectic menu with a DJ spinning tunes on the weekends.
The Vibe
Enjoy the sexy vibe at Voltaire with dim lighting and cozy booths. The restaurant is in an old building, and the décor reflects the vintage feel, making it one of the more atmospheric Kansas City restaurants. If you're celebrating a special occasion, like a birthday dinner in Kansas City, the ambiance and menu will elevate the experience.
What to Order
At Kansas City restaurants like Voltaire, you can’t go wrong with the pommes frites served with cheese, aioli and port wine ketchup. Other recommendations include the schezuan steak au poivre and the seared duck breast with the chicory-sumac rub.
Voltaire | 1617 Genessee St., Kansas City, MO 64102 | $$
12. 801 Chophouse
For one of the finest dining experiences among Kansas City restaurants, 801 Chophouse offers prime steaks and the freshest seafood in an upscale setting. Located in the buzzy Power & Light district, it's perfect for a weekday dinner or special Sunday supper menu.
The Vibe
Romance is in the air at 801 Chophouse. From the mood lighting to the signature leather boots, this is a steakhouse unlike any other. The staff provides exceptional service, making each dining experience truly memorable — a hallmark of the best restaurants in Kansas City.
What to Order
The star of the show is the steaks, and they roll up to your table on a trolley. At 801 Chophouse, you can't go wrong with a classic USDA prime cut cooked to perfection. There’s also a daily dessert menu and an award-winning wine list.
801 Chophouse | 71 E. 14th St., Kansas City, MO 64106 | $$$$
13. Waldo Thai
Chef Pam Liberda opened Waldo Thai to introduce people to the cuisine of Northern Thailand. Waldo Thai is a proudly women-owned and led business, sitting at the forefront of Kansas City restaurants for its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The Vibe
Located in a strip mall, the restaurant may be a bit hard to find, but we urge you to persist. This hidden gem adds a unique twist to the vibrant scene of Kansas City restaurants. The lively bar area is perfect for enjoying the new small plates menu and the main dining room for a sit-down meal.
What to Order
With a bi-weekly menu, this restaurant sets itself apart from other Kansas City restaurants with its exclusive vegan options and flavorful Northern Thai specialties. High on the must-try list are the dumplings with the accompanying ginger sauce and the tamarind pork ribs for their moreish smokiness.
Waldo Thai | 8431 Wornall Road, Kansas City, MO 64114 | $$
14. Antler Room
With the ever-changing, seasonal menu at Antler Room, odds are you will rarely eat the same thing twice. Owned by Chef Nick Goellner and his wife, Leslie Newsam Goellner, this Kansas City restaurant offers a small-plate menu packed with intriguing ingredients and international flavors.
The Vibe
Antler Room succeeds in wooing customers with its relaxed and cheerful décor. If you're exploring Kansas City restaurants, this standout spot should definitely be on your list for its convivial atmosphere.
What to Order
For something unique, head to Kansas City restaurants like Antler Room and try dishes such as shrimp mousse shokupan or grilled broccoli with red wine vinaigrette and bonito flakes.
Antler Room | 2506 Holmes St., Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$$
15. Fox and Pearl
An award-winning bistro helmed by Chef Vaughn Good, Fox and Pearl blends the best of traditional French techniques with local produce and American flavors. As one of the top Kansas City restaurants, it boasts a live-fire hearth and a smoker that Chef Good uses to create an array of comfort dishes that embrace his roots.
The Vibe
In the historic Westside neighborhood, Fox and Pearl stands out among Kansas City restaurants for preserving much of its original building’s grandeur. The dining room, with its bank of storefront windows and mosaic tile floor, is truly elegant. Bookshelves line the walls and a medley of indoor plants adds to the warmth.
What to Order
Apart from mains such as smoked duck breast and grilled Denver steak, which offer the perfect platform for Chef Good’s smoking skills, there are also excellent small plates. If you are looking for a great breakfast in Kansas City, Fox and Pearl has reintroduced its popular brunch with goodies like biscuits and gravy and heirloom grits, to name just a few.
Fox and Pearl | 2143 Summit St., Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$$
16. Housewife
Chef Anna Sorge knew that if she ever opened a brick-and-mortar store, she would call it Housewife as a tongue-in-cheek nod to her lack of culinary training. This mother of four proudly leads this community café, serving some of the best breads, pastries and other dishes on this list of Kansas City restaurants.
The Vibe
Thanks to Housewife, the otherwise quiet neighborhood of Grandview gets a little dose of “L.A. cool.” Among the more relaxed Kansas City restaurants, it stands out for its brightly lit space filled with greenery. The exposed brick and white walls create a warm, inviting atmosphere, enhanced by the cheerful and enthusiastic staff.
What to Order
The menu is small but dazzling, like the best Kansas City restaurants known for their artisanal approach. Rare is the customer who leaves Housewife unhappy. Whether it's the breakfast sandwiches packed with meats and cheese or the nutty, chunky almond croissants, every item is a testament to the kitchen team’s skill.
Housewife | 801 Main St., Ste. 104, Grandview, MO 64030 | $$
17. Mesob
Co-owners Cherven Desauguste and Mehret Tesfamariam bring their unique combination of talent and inspiration to Mesob. The restaurant and rum bar serves Caribbean, Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine. Located in Midtown, this is one Kansas City restaurant you must immediately add to your list.
The Vibe
Despite being located in a strip mall, Mesob's ambiance is warm and inviting. Among Kansas City restaurants, it stands out for its cozy vibe and proximity to a theater, making it the perfect pre- or post-show dinner spot. If it’s your first time, don’t hesitate to ask for help with the menu.
What to Order
The rum bar is matchless in the city, so get a cocktail and settle down for a joyful community hang at Mesob. The perfectly spongy injera and the super flavorful oxtail entrée make this a standout among Kansas City restaurants. There’s also a variety of vegan and vegetarian options if that’s more your style.
Mesob | 3601 Broadway Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64111 | $$
18. Westport Café
Walk into Westport Café and be instantly transported to a Parisian bistro. Offering delicious French-style cuisine and handcrafted cocktails during the week, it’s one of the most charming Kansas City restaurants, especially known for its spectacular Sunday brunch.
The Vibe
Westport Café does French café chic very well, with its velvet drapes, wooden tables and dimly lit interiors. Among Kansas City restaurants, it’s praised not only for its charming décor but also for its impeccable service and welcoming staff.
What to Order
You won’t go wrong with French classics like steak frites served in a bearnaise sauce or seared scallops with black truffle risotto. Like many modern Kansas City restaurants, Westport Café offers gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, nut-free and dairy-free options.
Westport Café | 419 Westport Road, Kansas City, MO 64111 | $$
19. Barbacoa
Barbacoa excels at blending American barbecue techniques with Mexican cuisine. Unlike other sauce-heavy barbecue dishes, the meats at Barbacoa are slow-cooked and smoked, elevating them to fine-dining status and setting this place apart among Kansas City restaurants.
The Vibe
The space may be small, but it’s lively and welcoming. Reservations are not required but be prepared for a wait as tables fill up fast. This is a popular choice among Kansas City restaurants.
What to Order
The best dishes at Barbacoa are, unsurprisingly, the meat-forward ones. Ask for the juicy suadero — chopped brisket served with jalapeños and pickled onions. Alternatively, order the pollo asado, featuring a roasted half-chicken roasted served with escabeche and white barbecue sauce.
Barbacoa | 5500 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO 64110 | $$
20. The Town Company
Located in The Hotel Kansas City, The Town Company is led by Executive Chef Johnny Leach and Executive Pastry Chef Jo Leach. This standout among Kansas City restaurants excels in traditional American dishes with a modern spin.
The Vibe
This chic restaurant's focus is the white oak hearth. If you’re lucky, you can nab a seat at the Chef’s Table for the best views as you watch the meals being prepared.
What to Order
The Town Company's menu changes regularly, ensuring its place on the must-visit list of Kansas City restaurants. The restaurant recommends checking the menu page online before your reservation to ensure you don’t miss out on the latest seasonal delights.
The Town Company | ​​1228 Baltimore Ave., Kansas City, MO 64105 | $$$$
21. Pizza Tascio
The Lombardino brothers have created a community favorite with Pizza Tascio. This family-owned establishment brings a taste of New York to Kansas City with its signature wide slices with thin crusts and loaded toppings, making it a standout among Kansas City restaurants.
The Vibe
There’s not much space to sit and eat at Pizza Tascio, so plan to eat in your car or have a takeaway. All locations offer delivery, ensuring you are never too far away from great pizza — a must-try in a long line of favorite Kansas City restaurant meals.
What to Order
The menu at Pizza Tascio was developed only after scouring the market for the best ingredients, setting it apart among Kansas City restaurants. There are weekly specials on the menu, but for all the pizza purists, don’t miss out on the classic Margherita or spicy pepperoni.
Pizza Tascio | Multiple locations | $
22. Pierpont’s
Union Station is probably one of the most stunning train stations in America, and Pierpont’s location there makes it one of Kansas City’s best architecturally designed restaurants. It’s also known for its unrivaled catering services, intimate private dining rooms and five-star service.
The Vibe
Most of the restaurant space still retains its original historic structure with 95-foot high ceilings and an art deco dining room. The focal point, however, is the 20-foot bar, complete with a library ladder, making it a unique and eye-catching setting among Kansas City restaurants.
What to Order
Happy Hour at Pierpont’s is unlike that of any other Kansas City restaurant. The prices are far from budget, so it's the perfect spot for a celebration or romantic night. Choose from the best prime cuts, the freshest seafood and award-winning wines to woo your date.
Pierpont’s | 30 W. Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$$
23. Q39
The battle for the best barbecue among Kansas City restaurants rages on, and everybody has their own take on who does it better. Q39 is one of the top contenders for the title with its innovative menus rooted in traditional culinary training and competition-level barbecue.
The Vibe
The décor at Q39 is all concrete and wood, but the scratch kitchen and wood-fired grills are the real draw. The service is prompt and friendly for a dining room as busy as this. You may have to wait for a table, but never for too long, making it a popular choice among Kansas City restaurants.
What to Order
According to reviews, “no one should miss the spectacular burnt ends,” a highlight among the many offerings at this Kansas City restaurant. Other recommendations include the meaty baked beans, the fall-off-the-bone ribs and the spicy, crunchy onion straws.
Q39 | 1000 W. 39th St., Kansas City, MO 64111
24. Mildred’s
A family-owned neighborhood café, Mildred’s has grown from its humble beginnings to a multiple-location favorite among restaurants in Kansas City. Serving from-scratch baked goods, specialty coffee, delicious sandwiches and salads, the crowds flock to Mildred’s for their fix of comfort food.
The Vibe
The ambiance is more functional than fancy than others on the list of best Kansas City restaurants, but the fresh, fabulous food makes up for it. Mildred’s does not accept reservations, so be prepared to wait, especially on the weekends.
What to Order
Customers rate Mildred’s breakfast sandwich as the best among Kansas City restaurants. With steamed eggs, Dijon mustard, American Swiss cheese and bacon served on your choice of bread, it's a great way to start your day.
Mildred’s | Multiple locations | $$
25. Hummus and Pita
Go to Overland Park for the best hummus (and falafel, kebabs and pita) in town. Hummus and Pita excels in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes, earning its place among the top Kansas City restaurants. There’s always a steady stream of customers and orders; once you try the food, you will understand why.
The Vibe
This is a small space that’s functional, clean and comfortable. There are only around 10 tables inside, plus outdoor seating and an open kitchen. The well-organized menu has several options and combinations, including vegetarian ones, further enhancing its appeal.
What to Order
According to reviews, the falafel at this Kansas City restaurant is well-seasoned and moist. The chicken shawarma comes with a side of addictive garlic sauce that should not be missed.
Hummus and Pita | 8039 Santa Fe Drive, Overland Park, Kansas City, MO 66204 | $$
26. Town Topic
Established in 1937, Town Topic started as a little diner Downtown. Today, it continues to rule the roost as one of the most iconic Kansas City restaurants, selling burgers by the bagful daily.
The Vibe
The website states that Town Topic is open 24/7. This means the kitchen and walk-up order window is open around the clock. Dine-in shuts down by 8 p.m. If you don’t want to wait, the best time to visit is at midday during the week.
What to Order
The burgers at Town Topic continue to woo customers from near and far. As one of the iconic Kansas City restaurants, Town Topic also offers fabulous pies, homemade chili and even biscuits and gravy.
Town Topic | Multiple locations | $$
27. Sayachi
If you’re looking for a good ramen spot among the list of Kansas City restaurants, Sayachi can’t be beaten. Owner Carlos Falcon has fashioned the restaurant as a casual dining room where friends can meet over drinks and sushi.
The Vibe
Pretty murals of cherry blossom trees adorn the walls and a robot buzzes around the restaurant, serving meals. Sayachi is a casual neighborhood spot with knowledgeable staff and well-priced meals.
What to Order
Among the sushi choices, try the Kansas City roll with smoked salmon, cream cheese and spicy mayo. Bento boxes are also available, where you can mix and match your sushi options with sides such as edamame, tempura, rice and miso soup.
Sayachi | 6322 Brookside Plaza, Kansas City, MO 64113 | $$$
28. Wah Gwan
Wah Gwan is Jamaican patois for “what’s up?” At Wah Gwan, the restaurant, there’s always something exciting cooking. As one of the more vibrant Kansas City restaurants, Chef Tanyech Yarborough honors her Jamaican heritage and her partner’s Nigerian roots, bringing a unique blend of cooking techniques, flavors and spices to the city.
The Vibe
Wah Gwan’s doors are open to everyone, irrespective of race, gender or status. This welcoming atmosphere is reflected in the colorful and eclectic décor. Communal dishes and a harmonious setting encourage diners to mingle and chat, helping to achieve this Kansas City restaurant’s goal of education and empowerment.
What to Order
The beef suya meal served with rice and peas or jollof deserves a special mention for its authenticity and flavors. Customers also keep returning for the spicy jerk chicken and the generously sized meat or veggie patties.
Wah Gwan | 6228 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO 64110 | $
29. Buck Tui BBQ
Blending common elements of tradition and community, Buck Tui BBQ offers a delicious new experience to the Kansas City restaurant scene. Enjoy the freshest locally sourced ingredients transformed into exciting barbecue dishes using Thai techniques and age-old recipes.
The Vibe
Loads of seating options and ample free parking make Buck Tui an excellent choice for a group meal among the top Kansas City restaurants. The Happy Hour specials are also worth the trip.
What to Order
Chef Liberda’s expert seasoning and smoking methods elevate barbecue staples such as ribs in a tangy cherry glaze or wings in delicious Tiger Cry sauce. For the best bbq in Kansas City, pair your meats with a refreshing papaya salad and jasmine rice and enjoy the perfect blend of spicy, sweet and smokey.
Buck Tui BBQ | 6737 W. 75th St., Overland Park, Kansas City, MO 66204 | $$
30. Grünauer
Established in 2010, Grünauer brings the cuisine of Austria and Central Europe to Kansas City. As one of the highly regarded Kansas City restaurants, Bavarian-born Executive Chef Matthias Seyfrid draws on his years of classical training to craft the restaurant’s seasonal menu. Expect traditional comfort food such as schnitzel, goulash, fine German beers and European wines.
The Vibe
There’s an authentic biergarten outside where you can enjoy your drinks, while the inner dining room is traditionally furnished with wood, exposed brick and leather seating.
What to Order
If you expect stodgy, heavy German and Viennese fare, think again. Grünauer, one of the more unique Kansas City restaurants, emphasizes light soups, fresh fish and classic European cured meats. The gluten-free menu is extensive; vegetarians can even have a Lion’s Mane mushroom schnitzel.
Grünauer | 101 W. 22nd St., Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$
31. Garozzo’s
Walking into Garozzo’s is like walking into a friend’s home. You are welcomed with open arms and the table is laden with delicious food. Rated by Zagat as one of the top Italian restaurants in Kansas City, a meal at Garozzo’s is a must.
The Vibe
This is an old-school Italian restaurant in every way. The servers are formally dressed, the room is dimly lit, classic tunes play and the tables are crammed close together. But it all works together to create a charming space that keeps drawing you back, making Garozzo’s a favorite among Kansas City restaurants.
What to Order
Garozzo’s is known for several dishes, but the signature chicken spiedini is now a Kansas City staple. Marinated chicken rolled in Italian breadcrumbs and then skewered and grilled — it's a great big Italian hug on a plate.
Garozzo’s | Multiple locations | $$
32. The Restaurant at 1900
Among Kansas City Restaurants, The Restaurant at 1900 is a superstar. Executive Chef Linda Duerr handles the seasonal menu with expertise and offers creative lunch and dinner options inspired by Italian and French cuisines. Award-winning sommelier, Doug Frost designs the beverage menu and incorporates wines worldwide.
The Vibe
Set in the iconic 1900 building, The Restaurant at 1900 draws inspiration from its modernist design. The décor mirrors distinctive architectural elements, while the fabrics nod to the Lee Jeans office initially situated in the building.
What to Order
Choosing might be a problem. The seared ahi tuna served with a couscous tabouleh and preserved lemon aioli is a show stopper, but then so is the wild boar chop with a black walnut and Parmesan crust. Dishes like these demonstrate why The Restaurant at 1900 stands out among Kansas City restaurants, with its inspired and respectful handling of ingredients.
The Restaurant at 1900 | 1900 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Mission Woods, Kansas City, KS 66205 | $$$$
33. Café des Amis
One of the most romantic Kansas City restaurants, Café des Amis is known for classic French food and warm hospitality. Husband-and-wife team Ingrid and Guillaume Hanriot combine forces to create an upscale, authentic bistro perfect for a special celebration.
The Vibe
Located in historic downtown Parkville, Café des Amis oozes French chic. As one of the prominent Kansas City restaurants, it boasts a tree-lined wooden deck that surrounds the restaurant and doubles as outdoor seating. As the old street lights come on, the romance factor doubles instantly.
What to Order
Menu highlights include the chef-made pâté with black truffles infused with brandy and the overnight slow-cooked duck confit served with a port wine reduction.
There’s also a comprehensive French wine list to complement your meal, making Café des Amis a prize among Kansas City restaurants.
Café des Amis | 112 Main St., Floor 2, Parkville, MO 64152 | $$
Try Cooking Kansas City Foods
If you are looking for a hands-on opportunity to learn how to prepare your favorite Kansas City food under the guidance of expert chefs? Whether you want to perfect your barbecue skills or explore a new cuisine (sushi rolling, anyone?), your best bet is to check out cooking classes in Kansas City.
These classes provide a fun, interactive way to gain new skills in the kitchen. Guided by a professional, you'll be wowing your friends and family in no time with your new-found culinary skills and delectable new recipes in no time!
Kansas City’s energetic culinary scene offers a wide array of dining experiences. From iconic barbecue joints to German biergartens, there’s something for everyone, so what are you waiting for? Whether you're a local or just passing through, these 33 best Kansas City restaurants are sure to leave an enduring impression.
For even more ways to explore Kansas City and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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