Like a Local: Where to eat and drink in Kansas City

Kae Lani Palmisano
Judy Revenaugh

There’s more to Kansas City’s food scene than just barbecue and these reader recommendations prove it!

This summer, we asked readers of The Kansas City Star “what would be the one thing you’d recommend to someone who is new to Kansas City?” We got around 100 really thoughtful responses, some of which shared insider tips on where to eat and drink. Here are some dining tips from readers that will give you a peek into neighborhood favorites that only locals know about.

  • “La Bodega (Southwest Boulevard). Ridiculously good eats that really showcases what a secret gem KC is for experiential dining options. It’s also in a great location, very close to some of KC’s best bars, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. It’s hard to go to La Bodega without having a meal that lives in your heart for months afterwards., and it’s also hard to go to La Bodega without seeing three or more other places you want to try. La Bodega has a large menu with lots of options for meat eaters and vegetarians alike. Every dish I’ve ever had here has been a slam dunk. Their sangria is also to die for!!” - Nicole, resident for 24 years

  • “Chicken N Pickle! Fun for ALL ages. Great food. Fun game yard. Memorable experiences!!” - Carrie, resident for 22 years

  • “Go to Monarch Coffee’s top floor for the view.” - @pyeradi on Instagram

  • “Grabbing ice cream at Betty Rae’s [ice cream] on Delaware then walking the bridge and the riverfront.” - @imthemanguy on Instagram

  • “A tour and cocktail at Tom’s Town Distillery. The drinks are world class and the history is fascinating. Nothing like it in America.” - Bob Behner, resident for 50 years

  • “Andre’s for wonderful Swiss cuisine and bakery!” - Patricia Eccles, resident for 36 years

  • “P.S. Speakeasy. Hidden gem, the hotel is cool to see too, cool drinking experience” - Sydney Harris, resident for 3 years

  • “Messenger Coffee. It’s in a walkable area of the city. [Go for the] interior design and the coffee.” - Kaylee, resident for 24 years

  • “Go to Banksia. It has the best breakfast and lunch in Kansas City and was started by an Australian family who missed the diverse cuisine of Australia.” - Robert Joseph, resident for 10 years

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