The 32 Must-Visit Restaurants in Kansas City

A bit of a drive from downtown, the Italian Sausage Company is a must-visit for anyone who loves spicy sausages or expertly crafted Italian deli sandwiches, whether hot or cold. Try the No. 7 for a decadent assortment of Italian meats and cheeses piled high on a soft, seeded loaf, or the No. 22 with pastrami, salami, burrata, red-wine-soaked olives, and local chile oil from J. Chang Kitchen. An expansion in spring 2024 added more dine-in seating.

Though executive chef Johnny Leach and pastry chef Helen Jo Leach are newcomers to the area, this dynamic husband-and-wife duo has quickly become a staple in the local dining scene. Nestled within the Hotel Kansas City, the Town Company exudes both sophistication and comfort, offering relaxed cocktails and wood-fired dishes that highlight Midwestern ingredients. Even the dinner rolls are crafted from heirloom Kansas wheat, courtesy of Marion Milling. For an unforgettable experience, snag a spot at the chef’s counter to witness the meticulous preparation over a wood-burning hearth. Don’t miss Helen Jo’s inventive and delightful desserts.

The Campground combines moody walls, lush greenery, and a gleaming copper bar to create a rustic yet chic atmosphere, reminiscent of a Hollywood set’s take on summer camp. The outdoor space, complete with ample patio seating and a laid-back bar, extends the camp vibe beyond the dining area. While craft cocktails take center stage, the concise dinner menu often impresses as well. Indulge in the city’s top martini, served with potato chips, and savor the fried catfish and vegetable-focused appetizers.

Embrace Kansas City's cowboy charm at this meticulously restored 1949 steakhouse located in the historic Stockyards District. The Golden Ox proudly claims to have originated the Kansas City strip, but its menu also features other classic midcentury steakhouse fare like oysters Rockefeller, colossal porterhouses, and indulgent cocktails such as the Pink Squirrel. If you prefer to continue your evening, visit the adjacent Stockyards Brewery for a nightcap and a taste of the Western ambiance.

This vibrant shop in Kansas City's historic Latino Westside neighborhood gained fame long before its 2023 James Beard Foundation Outstanding Bakery award for its delicious nixtamalized corn tortillas and tender Sonoran-style flour tortillas. Enjoy a freshly made pork-fat flour tortilla while exploring a selection of fiery chiltepin salsas, refreshing aguas frescas, and freezer-friendly tamales crafted with Yoli’s distinctive masa.

Describing this spot as “eclectic” captures its essence perfectly—a fusion of Istanbul, Kansas City, and Long Island, all nestled within a quirky duplex in Kansas City's historically Latino neighborhood. The menu is a creative partnership between Turkish restaurateur Orcan Yigit and KC pizza maestro Brent Gunnels. Prepare for an array of meze so abundant it will cover the table, basturma pide, and a bubbly, chewy grandma pizza.

Each morning, Mildred’s—a beloved family-run cafe—draws in the urban crowd with its exceptional coffee and the Standard Sandwich: a savory combination of bacon and Swiss cheese with fluffy eggs (steamed in a special espresso machine) and a zesty pepper-dijon mayo. If you miss the breakfast rush, don't worry—you can still enjoy biscuits and gravy or a vegan breakfast hash throughout the day. Though Mildred’s operates at two locations, the Wyandotte Street spot is particularly inviting and conveniently situated near the Crossroads Arts District.

At this sleek Crossroads venue, the modern, minimalist decor sets the stage for vibrant, seasonal dishes that practically dance off the plate. While the sleek, black space may highlight the colorful creations—like summer squash paired with preserved groundcherries and nasturtium—the atmosphere remains relaxed thanks to the live music and a diverse menu. Expect to find unexpected delights such as crispy fried chicken, seaweed donuts, and rich rigatoni Bolognese from the husband-and-wife duo, Michael and Christina Corvino.

Create a delightful multi-course meal with small plates that highlight local ingredients at this chic Mytoury in the eastern Crossroads Arts District. The seasonal menu features house-made pastas, including a must-try ramen, and sophisticated desserts. Although the menu evolves with the seasons, the duck agnolotti remains a beloved staple for a reason.

A top choice for a quintessential KC experience is wrapping up a bar crawl at Town Topic with their signature lacy-edged smashburger and crispy Tots. This legendary American diner has been catering to the city’s night owls for 75 years, offering round-the-clock diner breakfasts, chili dogs, and rich chocolate malts. Cure a hangover with a Haystack: a classic bacon-and-egg sandwich topped with cheesy hashbrowns.

No visit to the Kansas City, Kansas Taco Trail is complete without a stop at Carniceria y Tortilleria San Antonio, a lively neighborhood market renowned for its top-notch lunch counter. Order tacos al pastor by the pair and customize them to your liking at the vibrant salsa bar.

While the colossal Buffalo wings are the star attraction at this historic bar and grill, Kansas City’s oldest continuously operating establishment also offers affordable beer, a quintessential dive bar vibe, and a satisfying cheddar BLT.

This bright, modern Mytoury exudes an “upscale yet playful” atmosphere, boasting quirky decor and a diverse menu. Chef Linda Duerr, hailing from New England, excels at cold-water lobster rolls, but don’t miss her fresh pastas featuring seasonal produce and foraged herbs. The lively cocktails and vibrant desserts add to the fun, unpretentious vibe.

Enjoy a whimsical ube daiquiri or indulge in airy “street corn kakigori” at this lively bar featuring caramel-colored booths, vibrant floral decor, and abundant natural light. The cocktails here are the most inventive in town, complete with playful glassware and extravagant garnishes. Wild Child also offers an impressive selection of wines by the glass and non-alcoholic options (the no-ABV Negroni is particularly impressive). Note that Wild Child operates without a back bar, so selections are limited to the menu. For more choices, check out Drastic Measures next door, which was a James Beard Foundation Outstanding Bar nominee in 2023.

Since its debut in 2022, Earl’s has swiftly become a beloved spot in East Brookside. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and eclectic decor, a blend of Maine oyster bar and Revolutionary War relics, contribute to its charm. Enjoy a colossal shrimp cocktail at the cozy zinc bar, sip on a frozen gin and tonic, and engage with the shuckers as they serve up the freshest oysters in town.

Sisters India Pernell and Arvelisha Woods have been enticing Kansas City meat-lovers to explore their vegan comfort food since launching their first food truck in 2019. Now at their permanent spot in Brookside, both new and seasoned vegans can indulge in seitan-loaded nachos and a sliced tofu ‘brisket sandwich’ within a bright, yellow dining area adorned with floral touches and abundant natural light. Don’t miss their Sunday brunch for dishes like the smothered burrito or biscuits and gravy.

Despite being a recent addition to the barbecue scene, Harp Barbecue has quickly gained acclaim. Founder Tyler Harp has earned accolades for his rich, thick-sliced brisket and inventive homemade sausages. After years of operating as a pop-up, Harp secured a permanent spot at the end of 2022. The unassuming red-and-white sign reading simply “barbecue” belies the high quality of the city’s top smoked meats.

In Overland Park, Buck Tui BBQ combines Kansas City barbecue with Thai culinary traditions. Pitmaster Teddy Liberda, whose background includes working in his family's Thai restaurants and who is married to Waldo Thai’s chef Pam Liberda, brings a unique fusion to the table. The butterscotch wings with fish sauce are a local favorite, but don’t miss the burnt ends smothered in a luscious red curry or the fragrant Isaan Thai sausage with lemongrass and makrut lime.

Waldo Thai stands out in the metro for its Northern Thai or Lanna cuisine and its romantic dining environment. The menu, featuring a rotation of small plates every two weeks, offers a wonderful opportunity to explore chef Pam Liberda’s creations. For a taste of the regular menu, begin with the nam prik ong, a spiced chile dip paired with crispy pork rinds, or the gaeng hung lei, a rich braised pork belly curry with ginger and tamarind.