All cities have food that defines the culture and atmosphere, and Kansas City food is no exception. Whether you’re searching for a specific type of cuisine or a certain dish like the perfect smoked brisket, Kansas City’s food will easily satisfy your cravings.
So, what food is Kansas City known for? While there are plenty of incredible dining options to choose from, Kansas City is a barbecue destination. Dive into tenderly smoked brisket or ribs, or try the juicy chicken doused in the perfect sauce. Regardless of where you choose to eat, you can’t go wrong with any of the Kansas City food available.
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- Kansas City Cuisine: 13 Best KC Foods
- Get a Taste of Famous Kansas City Foods
Kansas City Cuisine: 13 Best KC Foods
1. Pork Burnt Ends at Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue
When it comes to Kansas City food, barbecue is one of the best-known things to try. However, it can be challenging to choose where to dine when searching for the best BBQ in Kansas City. Still, it’s hard to beat Jack Stack Barbecue with more than 11 different meat selections.
The Vibe
An upscale barbecue joint serving platters of smoked meats and unbeatable comforting sides.
Why It's Good
The tender meat is expertly smoked to perfection, offering a delicious flavor profile enhanced by the iconic KC Original Barbecue Sauce. The option to choose two delightful sides completes the satisfying dining experience.
Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue | Multiple Locations | $$
2. Lanna Platter at Waldo Thai
If you’re interested in trying Thai food in Kansas City, look no further than Waldo Thai. With traditional Thai dishes, plus many vegan options, this local favorite offers authentic Thai Kansas City food.
The Vibe
Earthy and rustic Thai cuisine is served in a modern, trendy environment.
Why It's Good
Chef Pam Liberda is native to northern Thailand and serves the Lanna cuisine she grew up eating. The Lanna Platter showcases unique flavors, ingredients, and cooking methods distinct from central Thai cuisine, emphasizing herbal ingredients and spicy flavors.
Waldo Thai | 8431 Wornall Road, Kansas City, MO 64114 | $$
3. Pan-Fried Chicken at Stroud's Restaurant & Bar
Stroud’s Restaurant & Bar is the perfect place to order comforting American-style food. From their homemade chicken noodle soup to the famous fried chicken, they offer some of the best Kansas City food in the area.
The Vibe
An old farmhouse located north of the Missouri River that serves traditional American fare in a comforting environment.
Why It's Good
The chicken is pan-fried the old-fashioned way, ensuring a rich flavor that's worth the extra time. Enjoy with a choice of dinner salad or homemade chicken noodle soup, green beans, and a selection of potatoes. Complete your meal with a cinnamon roll for a fulfilling dining experience.
Stroud's Restaurant & Bar | 5410 NE Oak Ridge Road, Kansas City, MO 64119 | $$
4. Three Egg Omelette at Niecie's Restaurant
Looking for soul food in Kansas City? Try Niecie’s Restaurant for some Southern comfort during your travels.
The Vibe
Serving Kansas City food for more than 30 years, this casual family restaurant believes in “good food served right.”
Why It's Good
The three-egg omelette with plain cheese is a satisfying breakfast choice. With fluffy eggs and melted cheese paired with potatoes, it's a simple yet delicious meal that provides a hearty start to your day.
Niecie's Restaurant | 6441 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO 64131 | $$
5. Hanger Steak at The Majestic Restaurant
Located in the historic Fitzpatrick Saloon Building, The Majestic Restaurant is a top steakhouse offering some of the best Kansas City food.
The Vibe
An upscale steakhouse serving dry-aged beef, porkchops and seafood and featuring local jazz musicians. Sip your favorite wine and listen to some of the city’s best musicians in the lower-level jazz club. If you're looking for date ideas in Kansas City, heading to The Majestic Restaurant is sure to impress.
Why It's Good
The hanger steak is superbly sourced from USDA Choice and Prime Natural Beef, complemented by a vibrant chimichurri sauce infused with pink peppercorns. Dry-aged to perfection, it boasts unmatched flavor and tenderness.
The Majestic Restaurant | 931 Broadway Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64105 | $$$
6. Ribs at Danny Edward's Boulevard BBQ
Interested in trying a casual barbecue restaurant for the best Kansas City food? Visit Danny Edward’s Boulevard BBQ for a taste of old-school Kansas City barbecue. While they’ve famously served food in the heart of Kansas City for over 30 years, this restaurant often flies under the radar since it is only open for lunch.
The Vibe
A fast-casual barbecue restaurant that is “never trendy, just tasty.”
Why It's Good
The pork spare ribs offer tender, meaty cuts for the ultimate rib experience. Choose from options like a rib sandwich or a full slab of ribs served with a side of your choice, bread and a pickle.
Danny Edward's Boulevard BBQ | 2900 SW Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$
7. Coffee at Blip Roasters
Blip Roasters is the perfect spot to grab a cup of house-roasted coffee and a sweet treat. Interestingly, the owners' love of motorcycles is displayed throughout the building along with merchandise to browse while picking up quick Kansas City food.
The Vibe
A modern and spacious café that showcases its love for motorcycles and coffee.
Why It's Good
The coffee at Blip Roasters isn't just about flavor; it's a testament to their dedication to the craft. Each cup represents a moment to pause and savor amidst life's hustle, providing a rich and satisfying experience.
Blip Roasters | 1301 Woodswether Road, Kansas City, MO 64105 | $$
8. Duck Confit at The Antler Room
The Antler Room offers patrons upscale Kansas City food with Mediterranean and Asian influences. Owners Leslie and Nick Goellner showcase their global talents and experience in every dish.
The Vibe
An upscale, elegant dining experience with a rotating, seasonal menu.
Why It's Good
The duck confit is a delight, featuring tender meat paired with braised greens, glazed turnips, candied peanuts and a spice crunch for a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
The Antler Room | 2506 Holmes St., Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$$
9. Double Cheese Burger at Cosmo Burger
Sometimes, the only food that hits the spot is a juicy burger. Cosmo Burger is a favorite among locals and travelers for the perfect smash burger and a side of fries.
The Vibe
The laid-back atmosphere makes customers feel comfortable with casual, comforting food and a friendly bar.
Why It's Good
Their mission is simple: serve delicious and juicy burgers. That’s why diners line up for the iconic double smash burger with cheese served on a potato bun. Many people enjoy this Kansas City food because it is high-quality yet inexpensive.
Cosmo Burger | 7438 Wornall Road, Kansas City, MO 64114 | $
10. Chicken Tikka Masala at Shagan's Chicken & Paranthas
Shagan's Chicken & Paranthas offers some of the best Kansas City food with a small menu that focuses on northern Indian cuisine. From soft bread to classic curries, it’s hard not to find a perfect bite of food.
The Vibe
A bright, casual restaurant where customers order at the counter for dine-in or take-out Indian food in Kansas City.
Why It's Good
The chicken tikka masala offers a flavorful and aromatic experience, combining tender chicken in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce with traditional Indian spices. Served alongside basmati rice, it's a comforting dish that transports your taste buds to the streets of India.
Shagan's Chicken & Paranthas | 8436 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64114 | $$
11. Burnt End Burger at Q39
At Q39, they offer traditional Kansas City barbecue with a twist. Their pitmasters are classically trained and highly experienced at cooking for large crowds and professional judges.
The Vibe
A modern, stylish feel with the heart of a traditional Kansas City barbecue restaurant.
Why It's Good
The Burnt End Burger is the perfect choice for barbecue cravings, with sliced burnt ends, spicy pickle slaw and classic barbecue sauce.
Q39 | 1000 W. 39th St., Kansas City, MO 64111| $$
12. Corned Beef Hash at The Farmhouse
Located in River Market, The Farmhouse is famously known for serving organic, made-from-scratch Kansas City food for brunch.
The Vibe
A modern, rustic environment with a seasonal, farm-to-table menu.
Why It's Good
The corned beef hash, features a medley of peppers, onions, squash, and potatoes, topped with two eggs, melted cheddar cheese and a drizzle of black pepper cream sauce. It's a flavorful weekend brunch option that's sure to kickstart your day.
The Farmhouse | 300 Delaware St., Kansas City, MO 64105 | $$
13. Chicken Carbonara at Garozzo's Ristorante
From their delightful happy hour to their traditional Italian cuisine, Garozzo's Ristorante offers some of the best Italian food in Kansas City.
The Vibe
A moody, cozy Italian restaurant that serves authentic Italian dishes.
Why It's Good
The chicken carbonara combines juicy grilled chicken with creamy carbonara sauce, artichoke hearts, sautéed prosciutto and spinach over fettuccini. It's a flavor-packed dish that satisfies every craving with its rich and savory goodness.
Garozzo's Ristorante | 526 Harrison St., Kansas City, MO 64106 | $$
Get a Taste of Famous Kansas City Foods
Why not explore the art of recreating Kansas City food at home instead of always dining out? Master the recipes and flavors of the city by learning to cook its renowned dishes as one of many cooking classes in Kansas City. Learn from local talented chefs as they guide you through the cooking process and teach you tips and tricks to recreate the best Kansas City food.
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Whether you are a Missouri native or just traveling through town, you'll be able to appreciate the delicious and unique Kansas City cuisine. Regardless of where you decide to eat, Kansas City food is worth the stop.
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