Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Kansas City, United States

1. Kansas City BBQ

Slow-smoked meats dripping in savory sauces, a must-try at Arthur Bryant's or Jack Stack Barbecue.

Unique Sauce: Kansas City BBQ sauce is sweeter and tomato-based, unlike other regional styles.
Smoking Technique: Meats are slow-smoked for hours, locking in the flavor.
History: Originates from the 1800s when German and African American immigrants brought their cooking styles together.

A tender cut of beef, cooked to perfection at Lidia's Kansas City.

High-Quality Beef: Known for using premium Midwest beef.
Cooking Method: Grilled to perfection, often paired with a rich red wine sauce.
Local Pride: Symbol of Kansas City's Midwest culinary heritage.

Fluffy and buttery, a delicious breakfast option at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store.

Flaky, buttery French pastry found at Le Fou Frog.

French Pastry Technique: Traditional French pastry technique used for an authentic taste.
Variety of Flavors: Available in a variety of flavors such as almond, raspberry, and lemon.
Artisan Bakery: Artisanal bakery using fresh ingredients for an unforgettable taste.

Tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs cooked over hickory wood at Pappy's Smokehouse.

Hickory Wood: Cooked over hickory wood for a unique smoky flavor.
Sauce Selection: Choose from several signature sauces to complement your ribs.
Local Favorite: Consistently ranked as one of the best BBQ joints in Kansas City.

A mountain of nachos smothered in cheese and toppings at Fritz's Railyard District.

Generous Portions: One of the largest portions of nachos you'll ever see.
Customization: Choose from various toppings and sauces to make your perfect nacho.
Local Brews: Pair with a local craft beer for the ultimate experience.

A delightful grilled cheese sandwich made with fontina cheese and lobster at Jax Fish House.

Lobster Addition: Luxurious addition of succulent lobster meat.
Artisan Cheese: Melted fontina cheese for a rich, creamy flavor.
Fresh Seafood: Enjoyed in a seafood-focused restaurant known for its fresh catches.

A gourmet burger experience at The Rieger Hotel Tavern.

Gourmet Ingredients: Quality ingredients like Wagyu beef, cheddar cheese, and house-made pickles.
Artisanal Bread: Served on a brioche bun from local artisanal bakery, Fervere.
Craft Cocktails: Pair with a creative craft cocktail for the ultimate burger experience.

Taste locally brewed beers at Boulevard Brewing Company.

Local Craft Brewery: Kansas City's oldest and largest craft brewery.
Wide Variety: Offers a diverse range of beers, from pilsners to barrel-aged stouts.
Tours and Tastings: Take a tour or enjoy a tasting to learn about the brewing process.

An impressive seafood display at Bluestem Brasserie.

Seafood Selection: A variety of fresh, local seafood including oysters, shrimp, and crab.
Presentation: Served on an ice sculpture for a truly impressive presentation.
Fine Dining Experience: Enjoyed in a sophisticated, upscale dining environment.

A Southern favorite at Stroud's Restaurant.

Tender Meat: Tender, juicy cube steak coated in a crispy breading.
Homemade Gravy: Served with creamy sausage gravy on the side.
Southern Hospitality: Experience warm, Southern hospitality in a comfortable setting.

Learn to cook Kansas City-style dishes in a hands-on cooking class.

A unique sandwich experience featuring brisket, coleslaw, and BBQ sauce at Joe's Kansas City BBQ.

Brisket Quality: Smoky, tender brisket is the star of this sandwich.
Unique Combo: Coleslaw and BBQ sauce add a refreshing twist to the classic brisket sandwich.
Food Truck and Restaurant: Enjoy this iconic dish at their food truck or sit-down restaurant.

A classic prime rib dinner at Harry & Izzy's.

High-Quality Beef: Tender, juicy prime rib made from premium beef.
Yorkshire Pudding: Served with flavorful Yorkshire pudding and horseradish cream.
Elegant Dining: Enjoyed in a sophisticated, upscale dining environment.

A lavish brunch experience at The Savoy.

Variety of Dishes: A wide selection of dishes, from waffles to seafood.
Champagne Service: Complimentary champagne service adds an extra touch of luxury.
Live Music: Enjoy live music while you dine for a truly memorable experience.