KC Dining Archives - Our Changing Life

Museum of BBQ in Kansas City

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:11:38 +0000

We felt a familiar sense of hometown comfort as we walked into the Museum of BBQ. We were exploring a place that celebrates the flavors and stories we have grown up appreciating right here in Kansas City. The Museum of BBQ set the stage for a journey through American barbecue traditions while still carrying the warm spirit of our own community. It was the kind of visit that reminded us why Kansas City BBQ has always felt like part of our personal story.

Being locals gave the experience a different rhythm. We were not discovering Kansas City through the eyes of travelers this time. Instead, we were peeling back a layer on something that has shaped our neighborhood meals, our conversations, and our weekend wanderings for years. Walking through those doors felt like finding a new chapter in a book we thought we already knew well.

Every display called to mind meals from past travels where smoke curled above pits in Carolina towns, Texas crossroads, and Mississippi Delta neighborhoods. Here in Kansas City, those memories seemed to gather under one roof, inviting us to follow the long path of American barbecue traditions with renewed curiosity.

. We want to thank the Museum of BBQ for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.

Finding Our Way Around This Flavor Filled Museum

The museum rests comfortably inside Crown Center, a place we have wandered through many times during our Kansas City adventures. Its central location makes it easy for travelers and locals to reach, and we felt that familiar sense of welcome as soon as we stepped inside. Regular hours currently run from 10 in the morning to 6 in the evening, though they may shift with the season. Admission is $15 for adults, with reduced pricing for children and seniors. That balance makes it an inviting stop for nearly any itinerary.

We were greeted like old friends and found ourselves drifting into familiar BBQ-based conversation. The museum is self-guided, but we were offered some helpful advice to optimize our visit. After checking out the wide range of sauces for sale (so many were familiar names), we were ready to begin our smoke-filled journey through BBQ history.

Letting the Smoke Tell Its Story

Smoke has always been our quiet guide at barbecue spots across North America, and the museum captured its importance with a clarity that drew us in. We stood before a display that showed how a proper bark begins to form when spice rubs meet low heat and steady smoke. It reminded us of moments when we saw that dark, textured surface on brisket or ribs and knew we were about to taste something shaped by time rather than haste. A strong bark signaled a confident hand behind the pit.

A nearby display introduced different types of smokers, each offering its own personality. We learned how offset smokers work: heat travels from the firebox into the main chamber, giving the cook firm control over airflow. Vertical smokers use rising heat that circulates through stacked racks, while pellet smokers rely on compressed wood for precise temperature control. Seeing them side by side reminded us that every style, from traditional brick pits to modern steel rigs, shapes the final bite in its own quiet way.

Seeing the science presented so plainly made us appreciate how much technique hides behind each plate. Learning how smoke works its slow magic feels familiar now.

Playing Our Way Through Barbecue History

The museum surprised us by going far beyond static displays. It invites visitors to step directly into the story through thoughtful hands-on experiences. We appreciated how these interactive moments added movement and laughter to a subject that is often taught through quiet observation. It created a sense of play that made history feel alive.

The smoke ring toss taunted us as we took turns trying to land a ring on the mounted horns. It carried the same spirit we have found at roadside attractions, where simple games spark shared joy and elicit plenty of laughs.

The butcher shop play area added another layer of immersion. It echoes the early markets where butchers shaped the traditions that would guide American barbecue. I enjoyed donning an apron and serving up Crystal some fresh-cut selections.

The sauce pad station rounded out our playful experiences, as we stepped across soft, squishy pads. Before long, we found ourselves dancing to the vibe of a Saturday barbecue. This exhibit reminded us how creativity and flavor often go hand in hand.

Wandering Through the Woods

A wall lined with smoking woods invited us to imagine how flavor begins long before the meat reaches the pit. Hickory, pecan, oak, and cherry each carried memories from past trips where the wood choice shaped everything about the final bite. We thought back to one of the most unique experiences when we visited a smokehouse in Quebec City. We know that Kansas City BBQ often leans on hickory for its rich and steady burn, while apple or cherry softens the edges of pork with a gentle sweetness.

The museum deepened the experience by highlighting the difference between low-and-slow cooking and the hot-and-fast technique that has become popular in some modern settings. Low and slow relies on controlled heat and patient smoke to break down connective tissue and draw flavor deep into the meat. Hot and fast uses higher temperatures to create tenderness more quickly while still preserving a kiss of smoke. Standing there, we remembered meals shaped by both methods and how each left its own impression.

Looking at the woods again, we felt reminded that flavor begins with the land itself. The trees, the climate, and the way each region learned to use them all play a part in the story. This wall of wood made us appreciate how every pitmaster starts with the same simple choice and ends with a creation that carries the identity of the place it was cooked in.

Walking Into the Heart of Texas Beef Culture

Texas BBQ is filled with the spirit of open skies and long cattle trails. We examined a display that explained how brisket became the centerpiece of Texas identity, shaped by ranching heritage and long days of smoking over steady heat. We felt transported back to our first Texas smokehouse, where the pitmaster sliced brisket onto butcher paper.

The museum highlighted the rich crust and deep flavor that define Texas plates, and we found ourselves nodding as we remembered meals shaped by pepper, patience, and proud tradition.

Exploring Texas Traditions One Region at a Time

Texas carries so many stories within its vast borders. Central Texas celebrates simple seasoning, while East Texas leans toward sweeter sauces. South Texas adds its own influence from border culture, and each region claims a side dish that completes the meal. We recalled evenings when a bowl of pinto beans or a scoop of creamed corn turned a good plate into something unforgettable.

The museum handled these differences with clarity and warmth, helping us appreciate how every town and diner adds its own voice to the larger Texas conversation.

Sinking Into the Soft Joy of the Bean Ball Pit

During our exploration of side dishes, we happened on a giant bean ball pit. The soft spheres were designed to replicate a bowl of baked beans, and we couldn’t wait to dive in. Inside, we felt like kids again, and soon the room filled with our laughter.

The bean pit felt like a gentle reminder that barbecue has always been more than technique. It has been a source of connection and shared delight, and the museum captured that spirit beautifully.

Remembering Memphis One Rib at a Time

After finally escaping the bean pit, we moved further into our study of regional barbecue techniques. The Memphis section brought us back to plates of dry-rub ribs we discovered during a visit to Beale Street. We could almost taste the blend of paprika, pepper, and smoke as we stood before the displays. We remembered reading about pitmasters who believed that ribs should stand tall on their own without hiding behind sauce.

The museum honored this tradition with respect, reminding us that Memphis helped shape the broader landscape of American barbecue. It’s a strong belief that we can sink our teeth into, and have whenever we visit the “Home of the Blues”.

Following the Mustard Trail Through Carolina

Reading about Carolina BBQ felt like entering the cradle of American barbecue, a place where whole hog cooking shaped the earliest traditions that would later spread across the country. The coastal communities and inland farms began developing their own methods long before barbecue became a national passion. We admired how the mustard-based sauce emerged from the influence of German settlers, creating a bright, tangy flavor that has become a signature of the region.

We have never stood beside a Carolina pit as a whole hog was lowered inside, yet we have tasted the remarkable results. The museum helped us understand how long and steady heat transforms the entire hog into tender layers that carry both smoke and subtle sweetness. We remembered meals where the meat seemed to melt beneath the fork and where mustard sauce added a lively note that stayed with us long after the plate was empty. Thinking back on those moments reminded us why Carolina remains such an essential chapter in the story of barbecue and why its influence can still be felt at tables across North America.

Coming Home to Kansas City Variety

The Kansas City BBQ section welcomed us with its wide range of meats and flavors. Burnt ends, ribs, sausage, turkey, and chicken all found a place in the local story, and the museum captured that abundance with pride. We always loved how Kansas City embraced creativity while still honoring the foundations of slow cooking.

As locals and travelers, we felt proud to see our hometown’s style represented with such balance. It reminded us why Kansas City BBQ has become a crossroads of traditions across North America.

Meeting the Legends Who Built Kansas City BBQ

When we reached the section honoring Henry Perry, we stood quietly for a moment, letting his story settle in. Perry arrived in Kansas City in the early twentieth century and began serving smoked meats wrapped in newsprint to workers along the riverfront. His bold seasoning and steady smoke created a style that felt distinct even in its earliest form. The museum explained how his tiny stand grew into a local fixture and how his influence helped shape the expectations of a city that would come to cherish barbecue as part of its identity.

As we moved farther into the gallery, we felt the presence of the Gates family, whose growth from a single restaurant into a celebrated Kansas City institution showed how Perry’s foundation inspired new generations. Their commitment to flavor and community helped define a period when barbecue became a shared experience across neighborhoods. The museum also highlighted Arthur Bryant, whose restaurant became a destination for travelers, writers, and anyone who believed that a plate of ribs could reveal something honest about a place. His approach connected simplicity with character, creating meals that people still remember years after their first visit.

Walking through these stories reminded us how Kansas City BBQ was shaped not by one hand but by a lineage of cooks who understood the power of smoke, seasoning, and generosity. Each figure refined the craft while honoring the roots laid down before them. We left that section feeling grateful to live in a city where the founders of our favorite meals are remembered with such care. Their legacy continues to shape every new bite.

Taking a Tour of Sauces Across the Continent

The museum devoted an inviting section to sauces, and we found ourselves studying the variations as if comparing old friends. Alabama white caught our eye first with its creamy tang born from mayonnaise, vinegar, and pepper. We remembered how this sauce pairs beautifully with smoked chicken and adds a gentle brightness to each bite. North Carolina vinegar represented an older tradition, one shaped by simplicity and a clean finish that cuts through the richness of pork in a way that feels both timeless and refreshing.

Kansas City molasses-based sauce is a familiar neighbor, carrying the deep sweetness and slow-cooked warmth that we have tasted in so many hometown meals. We appreciated how the museum traced its development through local cooking styles that value richness and balance. Kentucky black sauce introduces a very different note with its thin texture and bold, dark flavor built from vinegar and Worcestershire. We thought back to meals where its sharp character added a lively contrast to smoked mutton.

The exhibit also offered a friendly nod to the Carolina mustard traditions we explored earlier, reminding us that the German-influenced blend adds a sunny flavor that stands apart from the sweeter or sharper profiles found elsewhere. Texans are known for placing sauce gently on the side rather than letting it lead the meal. Standing before this wall of flavors, we felt grateful for the variety that stretches across North America and for the stories each bottle carries from pit to plate.

Feeling the Energy of the American Royal

The museum devoted a thoughtful section to the American Royal World Series of Barbecue. This competition has shaped Kansas City’s identity for decades. The American Royal began as a livestock show in the nineteenth century and grew into one of the most respected barbecue gatherings in the world. Over the years, it has drawn pitmasters of every background and tradition. Each brings regional pride and personal history to the smoky fields where they compete for top honors. Learning how the event evolved helped us appreciate the depth of its influence on American barbecue culture.

We felt a personal connection to this part of the exhibit because we have been blessed with the opportunity to wander through the competitor camps during past events. Those visits stay with us even now. We remembered the glow of evening light settling over rows of smokers and the gentle rumble of conversation as cooks tended their fires. Every camp carried its own rhythm, shaped by family teams, seasoned professionals, and newcomers eager to make their mark. Standing in those spaces felt like stepping into a living story where tradition and creativity meet beneath drifting ribbons of smoke.

Celebrating Pork Ribs and the Joy of Sweet Heat

Ribs have always been one of my personal measures of a restaurant’s craft, and the museum gave this beloved dish the attention it deserves. We studied the displays and thought about the different variations that so many Kansas City pitmasters have perfected. Each type carries its own balance of tenderness and flavor. Baby backs offer a slightly leaner bite, while spare ribs deliver more profound richness and a texture that responds beautifully to long hours of smoke. The St. Louis cut sits between the two, trimmed for uniformity and prized for its steady, satisfying chew. The museum also acknowledged the bold presence of beef ribs in Texas, where the sheer size of a rib becomes part of the experience. We remembered trips when a single bone felt like an entire meal, and the slow rendering of fat created a flavor that lingered long after we left the table.

The museum included a tried-and-true recipe for Kansas City-style pork ribs, and we found ourselves smiling as we read through the steps. The method relied on a thoughtful rub that balances sweet and heat in a way that felt familiar to both of us. Reading it reminded us of afternoons spent tasting ribs across the city and noting how each pitmaster found their own expression within the shared tradition. Standing there, we felt grateful for the countless plates that have shaped our understanding of ribs and for the museum offering a recipe that felt both accessible and deeply rooted in Kansas City history.

Museum of BBQ Memories

As we completed our tour of the Museum of BBQ, we felt grateful for the way it blended storytelling, flavor, and fun. The journey through smoke, history, and play reminded us why barbecue continues to connect people across North America.

Now we find ourselves curious about your story. Which regional style calls to you the most? Is it Texas pepper, Carolina tang, Memphis spice, or Kansas City sweet heat? We’d love to hear your rich stories of smoke and flavor. Drop a comment below with the best BBQ you’ve found in North America. We’d love to add it to our long list of favorites.

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Scott’s Kitchen: A Flavorful Stop For Kansas City BBQ

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 10:30:00 +0000

On a recent outing, we found ourselves just minutes from the airport at Scott’s Kitchen, located at 11920 N Ambassador Drive. It’s the kind of place you can visit right after landing or just before heading out of town, and you’ll leave with a full belly and a good story. Scott Umscheid, the man behind the magic, came into the Kansas City BBQ world after years of catering and perfecting recipes for friends, family, and fans. Eventually, he opened Scott’s Kitchen to bring his smoked creations to a broader audience. That leap from backyard pitmaster to restaurant owner gives the place a homegrown charm you can taste in every bite. Walking in, we immediately felt like we were stepping into a kitchen built on hard work, Kansas City pride, and a whole lot of love for slow-smoked meats.

Cozy Comfort Meets Room to Gather

Restaurants often fall into one of two categories: they’re either cozy or spacious. Scott’s Kitchen somehow manages to feel like both. The layout offers plenty of seating, with numerous tables for families and groups, but there’s also an inviting warmth that makes you feel right at home. Natural light filters through the oversized windows, giving the dining room a bright and cheerful atmosphere. We spotted travelers grabbing quick meals, families settling in for hearty meals, and even locals who clearly treat the place as their go-to BBQ stop. The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between casual comfort and clean, modern design. It’s the kind of spot where you don’t feel rushed, yet the staff keeps things moving efficiently. For us, it felt like a welcome pause on the edge of Kansas City. It was a chance to sit, relax, and prepare ourselves for what we hoped would be an unforgettable feast.

A Menu That Travels Far and Wide

As soon as we spotted the menu, we knew Scott’s Kitchen Kansas City BBQ wasn’t your average barbecue joint. Sure, you’ll find the classics — brisket, pulled pork, and ribs — but Scott also has a knack for adding creative flair. The standout option for us was the Round Trip Sampler Platter. This is essentially a passport to taste everything his smokers and kitchens have to offer. It’s the kind of menu item that makes you sigh in relief because you don’t have to choose just one or two dishes. We realized we’d be exploring a journey of flavors. The menu as a whole feels expansive without being overwhelming, offering first-timers and seasoned BBQ fans alike a reason to return again and again.

Meeting the Man Behind the Smoke

There are times when dining out feels purely transactional, and then there are experiences like this one. When our Round Trip Sampler Platter arrived, it wasn’t just delivered by a server — Scott Umscheid himself hand-delivered it. That simple gesture made the meal feel more personal, like we were being welcomed into his kitchen rather than just sitting in his restaurant. Scott took a few moments to walk us through each item on the tray, describing the cuts of meat and pairing the best sauces with each dish. His passion for barbecue was evident, but so was his genuine warmth. He wasn’t rushing through a routine; he was sharing a part of himself. In that moment, we understood that Scott’s Kitchen isn’t simply about serving food — it’s about creating connections around the table.

A Feast of Meats

The sampler platter was truly a carnivore’s dream, and each bite told its own story. The Burnt Ends had that perfect smoke ring and melted in the mouth with a richness that only hours of slow cooking can produce. The pulled pork was tender and juicy, carrying just enough seasoning to stand firm even without extra sauce. The smoked turkey surprised us with its delicate flavor, proving that poultry doesn’t have to take a back seat in barbecue. Ribs came next, smoky and succulent, with a satisfying tug from the bone. Then there was the sausage, a meaty bite with a snap that let you know it was crafted with care. Each meat seemed to compete for attention, but instead of battling, they harmonized — offering a well-rounded showcase of what Scott’s Kitchen does best: honoring tradition while elevating the details.

Sides Worth Savoring

No barbecue experience would be complete without sides, and Scott’s delivered big. Our platter included BBQ Beans, smoky and sweet with just enough bite to remind us they weren’t an afterthought. The Cheesy Potatoes were comfort food perfection — creamy, rich, and indulgent in all the right ways. Then came the Jalapeño Apple Slaw, a refreshing twist that balanced sweetness with a light kick of heat. It acted as the perfect palate cleanser between bites of meat. Rounding it all out was the Egg Potato Salad, a nostalgic dish with a homemade touch that took us straight back to family picnics. Together, the sides didn’t just complement the meal; they elevated it, turning the platter into a well-rounded dining experience. Each bite reinforced the idea that at Scott’s Kitchen, details matter just as much as the main attractions.

The Sausage That Stole the Show

Among all the meats, one truly demanded the spotlight: the Chipotle Ghost Pepper Jack Cheese Sausage. At first glance, I hesitated — ghost pepper is no joke, and we usually shy away from extreme heat. But curiosity got the better of us, and I’m glad it did. The sausage delivered a fiery kick, but it wasn’t overwhelming. Instead, the spice danced on the tongue, quickly mellowed by the richness of the cheese and the smokiness of the meat. I discovered that taking a bite alongside brisket or turkey tempered the heat, creating a combination that was downright addictive. What began as a cautious nibble soon turned into bite after bite. This sausage taught me something about stepping outside my comfort zone: sometimes the boldest flavors become the ones you crave most.

Sample Scott's Kitchen

By the end of our meal, we weren’t just full — we felt connected. Dining at Scott’s Kitchen is about more than food; it’s about joining a community built on good taste, great company, and Kansas City BBQ. Scott himself set the tone by greeting us with hospitality, and every detail of the meal reinforced that sense of belonging. If you’re passing through Kansas City — whether you’ve just landed at the airport or are making a hometown stop, we encourage you to pull up a chair at Scott’s. Try the Round Trip Sampler, savor the sides, test your limits with the ghost pepper sausage, and then tell us: which bite stole the show for you? Because here, the real reward isn’t just the barbecue. It’s being part of the ongoing story Scott’s Kitchen continues to write, one satisfied guest at a time.

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Third Street Social: Two Delicious Visits

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Kansas City’s reputation as a foodie city continues to grow, and places like Third Street Social are part of the reason why. Whether you’re craving an indulgent brunch or just looking for a few savory bites with friends after work, their menu delivers. We recently had the pleasure of visiting not one, but two of their locations—each offering its unique blend of hospitality and menu variety. What made both visits even better was having Amanda along for the ride. With her infectious laugh and quick wit, our meals became memorable moments filled with shared bites and spontaneous stories. This dual visit gave us a fresh perspective on what makes Third Street Social tick: it’s not just the food, but the experience. And trust me, whether it’s morning, noon, or night, there’s a plate (or several) calling your name.

Brunch at Gladstone

Our latest stop was brunch at the newest Third Street Social location, nestled at 5920 N. Oak Trafficway in Gladstone, MO. Walking through the doors, it struck me how far the area had come. This was once the site of Metro North Mall—a teenage stomping ground that’s now been transformed into a polished, lively district. Gone are the video arcades and mall walkers, replaced by weekend brunchers sipping coffee and mimosas under warm lighting. The space has a fresh energy, filled with friendly chatter and clinking silverware. There’s something about brunch that makes everyone a little more relaxed—and a little more likely to order dessert before the first bite of breakfast. From the first whiff of warm butter and spices drifting out of the kitchen, we knew we were in for a treat.

Come and Get It!

We kicked off our brunch with two dishes that made our table fall blissfully silent—at least until we began discussing our dishes like food show hosts. I went for the Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich, which brought the heat in all the right ways. The chicken was crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, with a cayenne kick that played perfectly against the housemade biscuit. Amanda ordered the Chicken Pot Pie, which arrived with a flaky, golden crust that puffed like a fresh-baked cloud. One forkful revealed a creamy medley of chicken, peas, and carrots, seasoned just right and steaming like it had been pulled straight from Grandma’s oven. Between the spice of the hot chicken and the comfort of that pot pie, it was a brunch of bold flavors and satisfying bites. Not a crumb was left behind.

Social Hour

Previously, we found ourselves headed to the Third Street Social at 4800 Main Street in Kansas City, MO, this time for Happy Hour. The South Plaza vibe leans a little more cosmopolitan—slicker finishes, tighter parking, and a bar that hums with conversation. We grabbed an outdoor table and got cozy while scoping out the menu. Naturally, we started with the Pimento Cheese, which arrived creamy, tangy, and ready for spreading. There’s something comforting about snacking and browsing at the same time—especially when my commentary turns Happy Hour into stand-up comedy. This wasn’t just another weekday evening—it was a taste of the city’s character served in small plates and shared laughs.

Small Plates & Sweet Finish

Happy Hour turned into happy sampling. We ordered a lineup that could have passed for a tapas tasting tour: crispy Brussels sprouts that snapped with every bite, smoky burnt ends so tender they nearly melted on contact, a pair of tacos loaded with seasoned meat and fresh toppings, and finally, the unexpected highlight—oatmeal pies. Think grown-up Little Debbie with a gourmet twist: soft-baked cookies sandwiching a rich, creamy filling that had me guarding the last one like a dragon with treasure. Each dish brought its texture, flavor, and rhythm to the table. One moment you’re crunching into sprouts, the next you’re savoring slow-cooked barbecue with just the right char. It was a meal made for grazing and grinning, where everyone reached across the table and no one dared skip dessert. The only thing missing? A nap.

Two Great Visits

What made both of our visits to Third Street Social special wasn’t just the food—it was how the menu, the setting, and the company all came together. From nostalgic brunches in Gladstone to upbeat evenings in South Plaza, each location served up its slice of Kansas City’s rich dining scene. It’s not just a restaurant—it’s a place to reconnect, to celebrate, or to indulge in the comfort of a well-crafted meal simply. And trust me, when Amanda’s at the table, you’re bound to walk away with a few laughs and probably a story or two. So here’s my suggestion: treat yourself. Try the crispy Brussels, go bold with that Nashville chicken, or dive into a dessert that brings back childhood memories. Third Street Social is the kind of place that welcomes you back before you’ve even left.

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Hank’s Garage And Grill: Burgers, Tots & Tufted Stools

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 27 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Every so often, you stumble on a place that hits just the right note—Hank’s Garage and Grill, at 5801 Nieman Road in Shawnee, Kansas, is one of those spots. We pulled up with hungry bellies and open minds, curious about this new eatery getting buzz from locals who know good grub. Tucked along a strip we frequently pass, Hank’s stands out with its playful name and promises of flavor-packed comfort food. From the minute we walked in, I had a hunch we were in for something special. Any place that marries garage charm with gourmet burgers deserves a second glance—and maybe a second helping. This wasn’t just a dinner stop—it was shaping up to be an experience worth writing home (or a blog post) about.

Retro Vibes with a Twist

When you step inside, it’s clear Hank’s Garage and Grill leans into its theme without falling into kitsch. Tufted leather stools line the bar like they were pulled from a classic diner’s heyday, and the tables have that old-school charm that makes you want to linger over a second round. But the real showstopper? Those garage doors that roll up when the weather’s right, giving everything a breezy, open-air feel. It’s like they took a Midwest mechanic’s dream and blended it with a splash of Route 66 nostalgia. We noted how the details hit that sweet spot between throwback and trendy—think classic muscle car posters on the wall, but no grease underfoot. It felt like a place to bring the whole crew or slip in solo for some well-earned indulgence.

Sips and Scans

While Crystal scoped out the menu, I thought about starting with a refreshing drink. A hard cider sounded just right and didn’t disappoint—crisp, refreshing, with just the right bite. I took a sip, leaned back, and eyed the menu like a treasure map leading straight to flavor town. Hank’s Garage and Grill clearly knows its audience, from juicy burgers and smothered hot dogs to salads and pasta. Crystal was torn between a greens-filled meal and “The El Reno,” which got her attention with its thin onions grilled with the patty. Me? I was already circling my choice like a diner on a Sunday morning. But first, another sip of cider and a moment to savor the soundtrack of laughter, clinking glasses, and bustling servers.

Burgers and Tots, My Way

I landed on the house namesake—the Hank’s Burger—and let me tell you, it didn’t play around. This thing came stacked with a 1/3 lb. of beef, sharp American cheese, house sauce, and a house-made sauce tasty enough to make a food critic blush. On the side, I couldn’t resist the tater tots. Not the frozen kind you toss in your toaster oven—these were golden, crunchy little cylinders of joy that took me straight back to lunch trays and simpler times. I caught Crystal smiling across the table as I gave a satisfied nod after the first bite. There’s just something magical about a well-built burger and tots done right. It felt like Hank’s was rewriting diner fare with a modern touch, without losing the grease-splashed soul of the original.

Crystal’s Choice: The El Reno

Crystal made her pick confidently, and it turned out to be a winner. The El Reno Burger smelled like an Oklahoma summer night—onions grilled straight into the meat, sizzling thin and caramelized to perfection. She said it reminded her of those classic burgers we’ve stumbled upon in our travels—places where the menu is short, the food is hot, and the flavors are bold. Her side of chip-style fries was a pleasant surprise—paper-thin, crispy, and just salty enough to keep you reaching back for more. It only took one bite to elicit a firm nod of approval. As we traded samples back and forth, because that’s just how we roll, it became clear this wasn’t just a trendy joint with good lighting. It was a solid addition to the Shawnee dining scene.

Our Verdict? Go Hungry

By the end of our meal, we were full in the best possible way—the kind that makes you loosen your belt and plot your next visit before the check even hits the table. Hank’s Garage and Grill nails the balance between retro comfort and modern creativity, making it more than just another burger joint. It’s the kind of place where the food tells stories and the atmosphere invites you to stay a while. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is one pit stop that belongs on your radar. If your stomach’s rumbling for something new, Hank’s Garage and Grill is serving up satisfaction with a side of nostalgia. So go hungry, go curious, and don’t skip the tots. We’ll probably be back soon, and we’ll save you a seat.

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Courthouse Exchange: A Taste of Independence Flavor

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 06 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000

On the square at 113 W Lexington Avenue in Independence, Missouri, there’s a narrow set of steps leading down beneath the sidewalk. You might miss them if you’re not looking. But if you follow them down, you’ll find a doorway into another time. That’s where we found the Courthouse Exchange, a tavern that’s been pouring cold beer and flipping burgers for over a hundred years. These walls have heard it all—farm talk, court gossip, election chatter, and laughter from a time before televisions flickered in every room. Some places hang on out of habit. This one has endured out of affection.

Echoes of Old Independence

Independence has always had a little more story to tell than most towns. It was the edge of the frontier once—a place where wagons rolled westward and pioneers stocked up for the long road ahead. The Courthouse Exchange sits in the shadow of the historic Jackson County Courthouse, where Harry Truman once held court before heading to Washington. This eatery and saloon has stood watch through decades of change, serving generations of locals who’ve come in from the cold, the rain, or the courthouse across the street for a plate of comfort and a bit of community.

Down Below, a Cozy Hideaway

After spending the morning tracing wagon ruts and wagon dreams at the nearby National Frontier Trails Museum, we stopped into the Courthouse Exchange for lunch. Something about stepping below street level makes a place feel like a refuge. Inside, stone walls wear their age proudly. Tin ceilings and old photos tell stories without a word. The air is quiet, not from silence but from the hush of people feeling at ease. Locals filled booths and barstools. We settled in, feeling more like neighbors than tourists.

Tasting the Trails

I ordered the 3 Trails Sliders—three miniature burgers named after the trails that carved this country’s path west: the Oregon, the California, and the Santa Fe. Each one told its own story. The Oregon Trail slider came piled with Swiss cheese and mushrooms that clung to the crispy edge of the patty as boldly as the pioneers who faced mountains. The California slider leaned west with its punch of creamy avocado and jack cheese, smooth and fresh. The Santa Fe slider was rounding out the trio, stacked with zesty Pico and pepper jack cheese, a peppery nod to open skies and endless miles. They lined up on a plate like little monuments to the American appetite.

Crystal’s Choice, Sweet and Simple

Crystal, who’s never one to rush a menu, chose the Turkey Bacon Avocado sandwich. It came piled high and pressed just enough to keep its shape. The bacon was crisp, the turkey real, not the processed, and the avocado was the color of fresh spring grass. She added sweet potato fries, which were golden and crisp enough to satisfy that first bite. I noticed she was hesitant to share, and in our travels, that’s a sign of something worth savoring. She gave a smile and a shrug that said it all.

Courthouse Exchange: A Place to Remember

There are restaurants that feed you and restaurants that welcome you. The Courthouse Exchange does both. It’s a place that holds its ground in a world spinning too fast, where a good burger still matters and where memories are made around a table that’s seen more stories than we ever will. Places like this remind me why we travel—not just to see what’s new, but to hold onto what’s worth keeping. If you’ve ever found a historic spot like this in your own travels, let us know. We’re always looking for the next chapter in America’s story.

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Laney’s Get Down – Southern Flavor & Good Times

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 09:30:00 +0000

Kansas City is never short on options for finding great food and a fun atmosphere. Tucked away at 1301 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO, we discovered Laney’s Get Down, a lively eatery serving up bold Southern flavors with a side of entertainment. From the moment we stepped inside, the vibrant energy of the place was contagious. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or looking for a spot to hang out for the evening, Laney’s offers the perfect mix of delicious food and a laid-back vibe. It didn’t take long for us to realize that this wasn’t just a restaurant—it was a whole experience, blending mouthwatering comfort food with a welcoming, social atmosphere.

Fun Vibe

One of the first things that caught our attention at Laney’s Get Down was the sheer amount of fun packed into the space. The restaurant bursts with bright colors, setting a cheerful tone. As I wandered around taking pictures, I spotted other touches of fun. I stopped short of shooting some hoops, but I plan on getting Crystal to join me in the photo booth for silly selfies. Our Happy Hour meal was too early for the live music events, so we’ll have to make a return visit to check it out. We quickly realized that this wasn’t just a place to eat—it was a place to unwind, socialize, and truly “get down” with good food and great company.

Seating Options

While exploring, I noticed a variety of seating options designed to accommodate any gathering. Laney’s Get Down offers a mix of communal tables, bar seating, high-top tables, and cozy booths, making it easy to settle in no matter the size of your party. The open layout gives the place an inviting feel, and for those who love a little fresh air, the outdoor seating area is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal on a nice day. It was still chilly, so we opted for a table indoors. I had scouted out their online menu and knew I had to check out the Pimento Cheese as a starter. It made the perfect noshing plate to tide us over while we reviewed the menu.

Winging It

While we enjoyed the atmosphere at Laney’s Get Down, we came for the southern flavors. I chose the 3 Whole Jumbo Wings and included one with the Hot Nashville spice. The crispy, golden-brown wings were packed with flavor, and the Nashville heat brought plenty of kick. My side choices were ones that I usually order with barbecue. The coleslaw offered a cool, tangy crunch to balance out the heat from the spicy wing. Their mac & cheese was golden and creamy but not as rich as I prefer. The buttermilk biscuit was the unexpected show stealer. Crystal noted that I raved about it multiple times because it was just that good.

Love Me Tender

Crystal went with the 3 Jumbo Tenders and added a Nashville Hot tender to the mix. (It would prove to be too spicy for her liking.) The crispy tenders were served with ranch and Laney’s signature dipping sauce. For her sides, she chose baked beans and crispy cider-glazed Brussels sprouts. The baked beans were slow-cooked and full of smoky, savory goodness. The Brussels sprouts had the perfect crunch with a touch of caramelized flavor. It was clear that Laney’s has a solid grasp on the art of Southern cooking.

Planning our Laney's Get Down Return

As we wrapped up our meal, we took a moment to soak in the lively atmosphere and reflect on the experience. We couldn’t help but start planning our next visit, including some live music. The fun, the flavors, and the welcoming energy of Laney’s Get Down make it an excellent spot for chilling. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite hangout or a visitor searching for a taste of Kansas City’s vibrant food scene, Laney’s delivers on all fronts. With more menu items to explore, we can’t wait to come back and dive into another round of Southern comfort food, fun, and good times.

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Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque: A Kansas City BBQ Legend

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 09:30:26 +0000

Kansas City is a paradise for barbecue lovers, and one of the most iconic establishments is Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque. Located at 1727 Brooklyn Avenue, this legendary eatery has served smoky, slow-cooked meats for decades. The moment we stepped inside, the rich aroma of hickory smoke wrapped around us like an old friend. We planned a mid-afternoon visit after touring the American Jazz Museum on 18th and Vine. It’s not unusual to see Bryant’s filled with locals and tourists eager to experience the famous flavors. The cafeteria-style setup allowed us to watch as the meats were sliced and stacked high. Bryant’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s a living piece of barbecue history. I couldn’t help but recall past visits, each filled with delicious food and fond memories. The anticipation of another satisfying meal had us eagerly eyeing the menu, ready to indulge in a Kansas City classic.

Arthur Bryant's Barbeque History

Arthur Bryant’s is an institution in Kansas City, with a history as rich as its smoky meats. The story begins with Henry Perry, the man widely credited as the father of Kansas City barbecue. He started serving smoked meats in the early 1900s. Arthur Bryant took over in the 1940s, perfecting the signature style that made the restaurant famous. Over the years, Bryant’s has hosted everyone from locals to celebrities and even U.S. presidents. Each one would leave with sticky fingers and a satisfied smile. The no-frills, cafeteria-style setting remains unchanged, a testament to its old-school charm. Bryant’s signature sauce has divided barbecue lovers for years with its tangy and slightly gritty texture. While some swear by it, others prefer a sweeter alternative that Kansas City is known for. Regardless of sauce preference, the meat is smoky, tender, and undeniably Kansas City. It’s a place where tradition meets flavor, keeping Kansas City’s barbecue heritage alive.

Consistency is Key

One of the things we love most about Arthur Bryant’s is its dedication to consistency. The menu has remained the same for decades, focusing on a few dishes that have stood the test of time. Ribs, burnt ends, brisket, and pulled pork headline the offerings, each expertly smoked to perfection. The sides are just as iconic—baked beans, crispy fries, cheesy corn, and coleslaw complement the meats perfectly. Unlike some restaurants that chase trends, Bryant’s stays true to its roots, delivering simple, hearty, and unpretentious barbecue. Something is reassuring about knowing that no matter when you visit, the flavors will be just as you remember them. As we scanned the menu, we felt that familiar excitement, knowing that whatever we chose would be a guaranteed winner. Sometimes, sticking to tradition is what makes a place truly special.

A Tray Filled With Smiles

For our meal, we went all in and ordered a feast fit for barbecue royalty. Our tray was piled with ribs, a mound of crispy fries, a helping of baked beans, a side of cheesy corn, and the pièce de résistance—a beef brisket sandwich. Each item was a testament to the craft of Kansas City barbecue, with smoky flavors and perfectly balanced textures. As we found our seats, I recalled past visits when my excitement got the best of me, and I could hardly wait to dive into my meals. Even with numerous visits under my belt, I still felt the excitement rise as I snapped some photos of our meal. In no time, we dug in, with each bite bringing a wave of nostalgia. It was a reminder of why Arthur Bryant’s remains a Kansas City staple.

My 'Go-To' Sammie

The beef brisket sandwich has been my favorite for years, and this visit only reaffirmed why. The thick slices of brisket, piled high between soft white bread, were a perfect balance of tender meat and smoky richness. With its bold tang and peppery bite, the signature sauce added an extra layer of flavor that soaked into the bread. I remember the first time I had a Bryant’s brisket sandwich years ago, and my brother insisted I try it. That first bite was a revelation; I’ve been hooked ever since. Some people come for the ribs, others for the burnt ends, but it’s always been the brisket sandwich for me. I return to this tried-and-true favorite with most visits, knowing it will consistently deliver the same delicious satisfaction. Some traditions are worth keeping, and this is one of them.

Fill Your Bellies at Arthur Bryant's Barbeque

As we walked out of Arthur Bryant’s with full bellies and contented smiles, we couldn’t help but reflect on what makes this place unique. In a city filled with top-notch barbecue joints, Bryant’s remains a must-visit cornerstone of Kansas City’s barbecue culture. The rich history, unbeatable flavors, and unchanging dedication to quality keep diners returning. It’s become a generational thing. If you find yourself in Kansas City, do yourself a favor and stop by Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime fan, the experience sticks with you like the sauce on your fingers. And trust us, you’ll want plenty of napkins for this one!

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Savoring Fried Chicken Bliss at Go Chicken Go

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 22:02:25 +0000

One of my earliest jobs was as a gas station attendant on 7th Street, near downtown Kansas City, Kansas. Right across the street from the station was a Go Chicken Go restaurant. Mine wasn’t a glamorous job; it was a time when operations moved to pay-before-you-pump. I spent most hours sitting in an enclosed booth, taking money and turning on the pumps. I watched a steady stream of customers file in and out of the restaurant with chicken dinners. It seemed like all of KCK would drop in to get it and go home for a delicious dinner.

Humble Beginnings

In the 1960s, a service station on 7th and Kansas Avenue was named Go Gas. The owners, Bill and Mary Hendrix, felt that serving fried chicken to customers would take off. The chicken business soon eclipsed gas, to their surprise, so they removed the pumps. This allowed them to focus on their new enterprise, which they renamed Go Chicken Go in 1969. In the early 70s, they moved their home base to 59 N. 7th Street. Two other places would be added, but both would eventually close. In 1985, Bill and Mary’s boys would purchase the operations from their parents. The boys have moved the local chicken chain forward by adding four locations around the Kansas City metro.

Familiar Aroma

Stepping inside Go Chicken Go, the familiar scent of crispy fried chicken filled the air, instantly igniting my appetite. The unassuming, no-frills interior perfectly matched the restaurant’s reputation—focused on serving delicious, no-nonsense comfort food. A steady stream of customers flowed in and out, a testament to this local institution’s loyal following over the years. The menu board above the counter offered an array of classic fried chicken options, making it difficult to choose just one meal. However, I already had my order: a Two Piece Snack with an extra wing, accompanied by coleslaw and mac and cheese.

Fond Memories of Go Chicken Go

Once my tray arrived, I couldn’t help but admire the golden-brown perfection of the chicken. The crispy coating promised the ideal crunch, while the aroma of the seasoned batter hinted at the flavorful experience ahead. With the first bite, I was immediately reminded why Go Chicken Go remains a Kansas City favorite. The outer crust had just the right amount of crispiness, giving way to tender, juicy meat. Each piece was fried perfectly, showcasing the balance between texture and taste that only a seasoned establishment can achieve.

Tray Filled With Goodness

The sides were just as satisfying. The coleslaw was creamy and slightly tangy, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fried chicken. It had just the right amount of crunch, ensuring each bite was as enjoyable as the last. Meanwhile, the mac and cheese delivered on comfort, featuring soft pasta enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce. The blend of flavors made it clear that Go Chicken Go knows how to do sides just as well as their signature chicken.

Getting My Go Chicken Go Fix

Times change, as do we. Some things remain that tie us to our younger years. Many fans of the livers or gizzards are raving, but they never worked for me. I have always been happy to leave those for the other customers. These days, there aren’t as many fried chicken places as there were in my youth. Besides GCG, I have found some nice flavors at Gus’s Fried Chicken, but I miss the old KCK haunts like Mrs. Peter’s Chicken. I may even need a road trip to Pittsburg to revisit Chicken Mary’s or Annie’s. They both hold some great memories from the same period as my early days at the gas station. How many of you still enjoy the flavor of Go Chicken Go?

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Italian Delight: A Kansas City Favorite That Stands the Test of Time

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 13:53:41 +0000

There was a time when Indian Springs Mall was the heart of shopping in Kansas City, Kansas. Families strolled the corridors, browsing department stores, and stopping for a bite. Tucked inside the once-bustling mall, Italian Delight served up New York-style pizza slices that became a favorite for locals. I remember grabbing a quick slice or a plate of pasta while taking a break from my job in the mall. The warm, cheesy goodness became a taste of nostalgia. It was a reminder of a place where friends and family gathered. The scent of fresh-baked dough filled the air, drawing in customers looking for a comforting meal. Visiting Italian Delight was a highlight of the shopping trip. A chance to sit, relax, and enjoy a delicious, affordable meal in a familiar setting.

Our Dying Mall

When Indian Springs Mall closed, it left a void in the community. Many longtime businesses shuttered, while others searched for new homes. Italian Delight wasn’t ready to call it quits. They packed up their recipes and moved west, ensuring their devoted customers could still enjoy the same flavors they had grown to love. The transition was not without challenges. Italian Delight’s owners remained dedicated and determined to continue their tradition. They searched for a location that offered the welcoming atmosphere their customers cherished. The move was a bittersweet moment for those who had fond memories of the mall, but their favorite pizza joint survived, carrying on their flavorful tradition.

Go West, Young Man!

Italian Delight has solidified its place as a local favorite. The new location, at 8145 State Avenue, offers a familiar feel. It’s a go-to spot for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a quick bite after a long day. Their longevity speaks to the dedication of the owners and the loyalty of its customers. Many have been coming here for years, introducing new generations to their favorite pizza spot. The restaurant’s consistency and commitment to quality keep customers returning. Whether celebrating a special occasion, catching up with friends, or simply craving a classic slice, Italian Delight provides a familiar and welcoming space. The bond between the restaurant and the community is evident, proving that good food and service stand the test of time.

New Digs

The new location offers a familiar feel. Though the surroundings have changed, the welcoming atmosphere remains the same. Customers still find the friendly faces behind the counter. The space offers plentiful seating, with the smell of fresh pizza filling the air. Booths and tables invite guests to sit and savor their meals. During my lunch, a steady stream of customers filed through the doors. The menu stays true to its roots, ensuring customers can still enjoy their favorite dishes. Even with the shift in location, the spirit of Italian Delight remains unchanged, a comforting reminder of its origins at Indian Springs.

Plentiful Eats

The menu offers a variety of Italian comfort foods. Choose from oversized slices of pizza or hearty plates of pasta. Calzones, strombolis, and fresh salads round out the menu, ensuring no one leaves hungry. Everything is made with fresh ingredients, keeping the quality high and the flavors satisfying. The pizzas are hand-tossed, with perfectly crispy crusts and flavorful sauces. Their signature dishes include tasty stromboli, creamy chicken alfredo, and classic meatball subs loaded with savory goodness. Each weekday provides a different lunch special. Whether dining in or taking food to go, Italian Delight continues to serve up the flavors that have made it a cherished dining spot for years.

Solo Stop at Italian Delight

This visit to Italian Delight was a solo outing for me, a chance to revisit an old favorite. As I enjoyed a slice of pizza, memories of past visits came flooding back. It’s comforting to see that some things, like great food and friendly service, never change. Sitting in the familiar space, I watched customers come and go. The restaurant’s atmosphere is as inviting as ever, making it a perfect spot for a laid-back meal. It was a nostalgic trip and a reminder of how food can connect us to our past. Italian Delight has stood the test of time, proving that a good meal, fond memories, and a strong sense of community are a recipe for lasting success.

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New Year’s Eve at The Phoenix: A Jazzed Up Brunch

Jeff & Crystal — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000

As 2024 drew to a close, we decided to start our New Year’s Eve celebrations with a memorable brunch at The Phoenix. This historic jazz club, in Kansas City, has a reputation for good vibes, great food, and live music that feeds the soul. Located at 302 W. 8th Street, this KC eatery resides on the first floor of the historic Phoenix Hotel. With our daughter Amanda joining us, it was a perfect opportunity to soak in the festive spirit and enjoy a relaxing meal.

Joining the Brunch Crowd

Stepping into The Phoenix, we were immediately struck by the lively atmosphere. The hum of conversations blended seamlessly with the smooth sounds of the live jazz trio. The band’s melodies created the perfect backdrop, setting the tone for a laid-back yet celebratory experience. The warm, inviting decor added to the historic charm, making us feel like we’d discovered a cozy hideaway in the heart of the city.

Not so Simple Toast

Our food journey began with my order of French Toast, a simple yet flavorful dish. The batter-dipped slices of bread were perfectly caramelized. A dusting of powdered sugar and the fresh fruit garnish added a touch of elegance. I drizzled them with maple syrup, creating a sweet symphony of flavors. It was indulgent, comforting, and everything I wanted in a brunch treat. Paired with an Irish Coffee, I was in heaven, as the sweet jazz melodies filled my thoughts.

Southern Connections

Crystal and Amanda chose the Chicken & Waffles, a classic done right. The waffle made the perfect bed for the crispy golden fried chicken. A drizzle of maple syrup added a delightful sweetness that tied the dish together beautifully. It was hearty, satisfying, and kept them going back for bite after bite.

The Phoenix Done Right

Sharing this experience with Amanda made the visit even more special. The Phoenix offered us more than just a meal; it gave us a space to welcome the new year together. Between the delicious food, the soothing jazz, and the lively yet relaxed atmosphere, it’s safe to say this was a brunch to remember. If you’re looking for a spot that combines great music and food, The Phoenix is a historic Kansas City gem you don’t want to miss.

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Harvey’s – A Historic Lunch Break

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 04:30:00 +0000

There’s something magical about enjoying a meal at Harvey’s during the Christmas season. This hidden gem sits in plain sight of locals and travelers alike. The setting is Kansas City’s Union Station, adorned with a huge Christmas tree, festive decorations, and twinkling lights. We were eager to dive into a delicious lunch while soaking in the charm of this local dining landmark, all dressed up for the holidays. Between the cozy vibe and the mouthwatering menu, it was the perfect spot to enjoy a historic lunch break.

Seasonal Beauty

The enormous Christmas tree is one of the most breathtaking sights during Christmas at Kansas City’s Union Station. Standing tall in the grand hall, it’s a centerpiece of holiday cheer and a perfect photo backdrop. Festive decorations and garlands surround it, adding to the magical ambiance of the space. We found ourselves captivated by the tree’s grandeur, taking a moment to soak in the beauty and joy it brings to visitors of all ages. It’s a holiday tradition that transforms Union Station into a winter wonderland.

Harvey's Nod to History

Harvey’s carries on a legacy of dining tied to the station’s rich history. The name pays homage to Fred Harvey. In the late 19th century, he revolutionized railroad dining with his renowned Harvey Houses. Union Station once served as a bustling hub for travelers, and Harvey Houses became a trusted stop for high-quality meals. While the original Harvey House is no longer in operation, Harvey’s continues the tradition of serving delicious food in a historic setting. Today, it blends modern cuisine with the timeless charm of Union Station, creating a dining experience that nods to its storied past.

Our Historic Lunch

Mel’s Spinach Salad is a fresh and flavorful delight. This vibrant dish features tender spinach leaves, topped with crispy bacon and tangy feta cheese. Slices of green apple and strawberries add layers of flavor, while the vinaigrette ties everything together. Crystal felt that the combination of textures and tastes made each bite interesting. It’s a good option for those seeking a lighter meal without sacrificing bold taste. She added grilled chicken to make sure her meal provided some solid protein.

Kansas City Flavors

KC barbecue is a temptation for vacationers and locals alike. It seems that I’m often swayed in my meal selection by a BBQ dish. Such was the case at Harvey’s. When I spotted the KC Classic, I felt compelled to test it. This dish is designed to capture the essence of Kansas City’s hearty flavors. The sandwich features sliced burnt ends piled high on toasted jalapeno cornbread. Add in cream cheese, candied jalapeno, and onion straws for some extra zest. Paired with a side of crispy fries, the KC Classic provided plenty of flavor, even though I’m not a fan of Brancato’s sauce.

Visit This Local Dining Hotspot

Our historic lunch break, at Harvey’s in Kansas City’s Union Station, was the perfect blend of food and ambiance. Surrounded by the grandeur of the station, we enjoyed a meal that felt special and steeped in tradition. Whether you’re visiting during the bustling holiday season or any time of year, Harvey’s is an ideal spot to relax and refuel. Open daily from 7 AM to 3 PM, it’s a convenient choice for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. With its unique setting and flavorful menu, Harvey’s offers a dining experience as memorable as the landmark it calls home.

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The Waiting Game At Joe’s KC BBQ

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 04:30:00 +0000

It seems that the whole world has seen or read something about Joe’s KC Bar-B-Que. When we think of KC barbeque restaurants, this is one of the most well-known. The love for Kansas City-style barbecue is strong enough, that on any given day, you can see license plates from across America. A visit to one of Joe’s KC restaurants will usually result in taking a turn at the waiting game. Although the lines may be long, Joe’s staff has refined the ordering process to a fine art. This helps them serve the largest number of customers efficiently.

A Prestigious Past

Even though their delectable dishes are familiar to many, their rise to fame is less well-known. Kansas City is a barbecue town. The smoke of hundreds of grills rises above our sports stadiums on game days. New KC barbeque restaurants appear regularly, with hope of rising to the national acclaim of Joe’s KC. Many rely upon the laurels they receive at barbeque competitions and invitationals to fuel their success. (You can read about another contest-winning BBQ here.) Jeff and Joy Stehney were bitten by the barbeque bug after attending their first competition. Their passion grew to the point that they started their own team, named Slaughterhouse Five. Before long, their collection of awards was piling up.

Playing the Waiting Game

On the BBQ circuit, competitors often become friends. Striking up a relationship with the founder of the Oklahoma Joe’s Smoker Company helped the Stehneys enter the restaurant business. By 1996, their first store opened in Stillwater, Oklahoma. The legend of Oklahoma Joe’s BBQ had begun. They wouldn’t have to play the waiting game before their next break would appear. It was less than a year later, when a space inside a local Kansas City gas station became available. Being close to their home, this was the perfect fit and Oklahoma Joe’s BBQ launched in Kansas City. The business partnership ended when the owner of the smoker company sold his share and moved to Texas.

Spreading the BBQ Love

Today, there are three Joe’s KC Bar-B-Que locations (Their new name). That seems the way the Stehneys want it to stay. To date, we have visited the KCK and Olathe locations. We’ve played the waiting game, joining the hungry crowds yearning for a lunchtime meal. The line moved steadily, and it didn’t take long for us to get our turn at the counter. The time in line allowed us to determine our choices, and soon we were at a table ready to dine. Of course, first, we need to get photos.

Carolina Meets Midwest

I was longing for something besides my usual pork ribs. I spotted the Carolina Pork Sandwich and immediately chose my dinner. It starts with a heaping helping of pulled pork. This is covered with a healthy dose of spicy Cole slaw and “Bubba’s” sauce. Add in a handful of crisp fries and I was ready to dine. The flavor was good but no specific taste stood out from the others. Next time I’ll add an extra shot of BBQ sauce.

What's in a Name?

The Z-Man Sandwich is quite a flavorful treat. To commemorate the creation of this masterpiece, a contest was held to name it. Mike Zarrick, a local sports radio jockey, played up the new sandwich on air. With a growing audience and a cool nickname, the Z-Man feverishly promoted Joe’s and their sandwich. By the end of the contest, the name Z-Man became the way many people would order the sandwich. Crystal’s version was altered to include burnt ends and remove the cheese. It still featured the crispy onion rings and a drizzle of sauce.

The Wait is Over

These days, the Stahneys continue to share their love for barbeque with as many as possible. The magic of the smoke still captures their hearts and is the drive behind their desire to create the best barbeque in the Midwest. With this passion still burning, each day brings them another chance to endear new fans. As with any cuisine, BBQ lovers have their favorites and many hold allegiance to only one or two. We have found a love for all barbeque since each location has its unique flavors. Places like Joe’s KC Bar-B-Que help spread the message of Kansas City barbeque far and wide. In the end, this type of notoriety helps keep the KC BBQ spirit alive and growing. What are some of your favorite Kansas City barbeque joints?

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Tay’s Burger Shack – Grass Fed Goodness

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 05:20:00 +0000

It’s been said that the simple things are quite often the best. Such is the case at Tay’s Burger Shack, located at 1019 Armour Road, in North Kansas City, Missouri. You won’t find page after page of menu items. Here they focus on a few things and they do them right. This hole-in-the-wall eatery has built its reputation on flavor. Their burgers are filled with grass-fed goodness and the hand-cut fries top off a meal. Date Night gave us a reason to head this way and our bellies were anxious for the tastes.

Simple Digs

Cruising along Armour Road, you see a hodge-podge of restaurants, shops, and businesses. Suddenly up ahead, our destination came into view. Pulling up to Tay’s, you won’t find an elaborate dining hall. The main focus at Tay’s Burger Shack is burgers. Outside they have a couple of picnic tables for diners wanting to enjoy the fresh air. We wanted the whole experience, so dining indoors was on our schedule.

The Atmosphere at Tay's Burger Shack

Stepping through the door, you enter a small venue. Seating is limited to about six tables and four booths, enough for roughly 40 people. At times, the non-stop flow of customers challenges this capacity. Those who have eaten here before are willing to overlook this shortcoming. The food makes this little inconvenience a non-issue. Tay’s Burger Shack workers are friendly and often walk through the dining area to ensure customer expectations are being met. How frequently does this happen at the burger joints you frequent? Once your order is placed, you grab your drink and head for your seat. They will bring your meals to you, but until then you have to take in the sounds, sights and smells of others enjoying their food.

What about that Menu?

Customers can choose between single, double, or triple burger. Those wanting even more can go all-in with the “Homerun”, made with four patties. The beef they use is grass-fed, and the patties are about a quarter-pound each, before cooking. The beef is sourced locally, as are many other ingredients. The cooked meat patties are sandwiched inside buns that are baked fresh daily. This commitment to freshness comes through in the flavor of their product. Of course, don’t feel like you are limited to burgers. Tay’s also serves Nathan’s hot dogs, with or without chili. By the way, the chili is made with the same great Missouri-raised beef.

The Food at Tay's Burger Shack

We both chose to experience the double combo meals with fries. These are served with American cheese, pickles, tomato, and lettuce. Our food was delivered, and we prepared for the tasting. You’ll notice the standard condiments are available at each table. What wasn’t normal were the other two squirt bottles, one each of sriracha mayo and sriracha ketchup. Be warned that these pack some heat! The burgers were juicy, without being greasy. This comes from their choice of beef. The patties are cooked to perfection and offer just a little char along the edges, for crispness. The fresh buns complement the crispy toppings, and the blending of flavors makes each bite delicious.

Sharing is Caring

The hand-cut French fries have a nice kick all on their own. We’ve seen other diners dipping their fries in some of the sriracha sauces. For us, they were good just the way they were presented. Thin strips of slightly firm potato quickly become an addictive addition to the burger. Our bill tallied about $35.00, similar to other non-fast-food burger joints. Neither of us could finish our food, and we walked away from Tay’s Burger Shack well-fed and happy. We’ll mark this up as another successful date night adventure.

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GG’s Barbacoa Cafe – Chef Inspired Cuisine

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 17 May 2024 03:45:00 +0000

How many times do we drive past a hole-in-the-wall destination without even noticing? If we are being honest with ourselves, this happens to us more than we like to admit. A prime example is a small restaurant that sits at 1032 Minnesota Ave., in Kansas City, Kansas. Home to GG’s Barbacoa Café, this petite diner hides the amazing dishes that can be found inside. Originally, our friend clued us in on this hidden gem, and we could hardly wait to sample their plates. (Thank you Edgar Galicia for the solid advice!) Now we were back for more and were ready for more chef inspired cuisine.

We want to thank Visit Kansas City, Kansas, and GG’s Barbacoa Café for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

GG’s Barbacoa Pleasing Plates

The menu is comprised of a variety of photos that showcase your choices. It may seem an unusual method, but it does have a nice benefit. For people who like to take photos of their food, (Always!) it helps us see what to expect. Crystal and I decided to divide and conquer a little of the menu. Her choice was the Enchiladas Casserolas. A delightful stack of flavorful chicken is topped with a corn tortilla and fried eggs. This is decorated with salsa and sour cream, with the flair of chef-inspired cuisine. Sides of Spanish rice and refried beans round out this filling meal.

Tacos for Breakfast?

I had a hankering for some tacos and GG’s didn’t let me down. He walked me through my options and we settled on Barbacoa Breakfast Tacos. Doubled-up corn tortillas are the vehicle that gets all of the delicious fillings to your mouth. These included barbacoa beef, fluffy eggs, and creamy shredded cheese. They added some chopped cilantro and onions that could be spread as light or thick as preferred. Each tender bite was a mouthful of morning satisfaction. A heaping helping of Horchata added a sweet edge to my meal.

Chef Inspired Cuisine

By the time we finished our dishes, we found our appetites quenched. To our surprise, the owner Gabriel Gonzalez, brought us a plate of dessert. He wanted to thank us for all of the love we have shown him over the years. The creative design of the plate showed the chef-inspired style that is imparted on many of the dishes. We are always impressed at the artistic design he and his wife put into their work. The flavors and textures came at us in layers, just like a dessert should.

A Hidden Gem

When we mention hidden gems, sometimes they are in plain sight. Too often they blend into the landscape or sit in locations that make it difficult to observe. GG’s Barbacoa Café may be out in the open, but it’s easy to overlook when cruising along this thoroughfare. Although the owner has gone to great lengths to make it more noticeable. This new location puts them near another of our favorite KCK eateries, Tao Tao Chinese Restaurant. Everything about this visit proved to us that GG’s Barbacoa Cafe delivers consistency and flavor. What more could we ask for?

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Chappell’s Restaurant & Sports Museum – Eating Up History

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 04:23:00 +0000

What do you get when you combine delicious food and an astonishing collection of sports memorabilia? Located in North Kansas City, Missouri is Chappell’s Restaurant and Sports Museum. This sports fan Mecca opened in 1986 and has drawn visitors from far and wide. Notoriety has come from many directions, including lots of the top sports news channels. Located at 323 Armour Road, this destination was calling our names.

Heads Up

A visit to Chappell’s Restaurant is like walking through sports history. The interior walls are covered with photos, articles, and framed collectibles. Football helmets and pennants cover the ceilings. Awards of all types are scattered throughout the place. Sports equipment, much of it autographed, hangs and sits in places of honor. No matter how long you look around, it seems like there is always more to see. It is not unusual to see people wandering around the place checking out all of the nooks and crannies.

Local Legends

It wouldn’t be a hometown favorite if it didn’t include plenty of Kansas City memorabilia. Autographed photographs, sports equipment, and uniforms from various Kansas City teams are found here. There are even items from teams before moving to the Kansas City region. Of course, there are plenty of other teams represented. It is estimated that there are over 10,000 pieces in the collection. That’s easy to believe after walking through more than 7000 square feet of space. The only open spots, we noticed, were behind the bar. The bar is home to the 1973 World Series trophy, from the Oakland Athletics.

Lunch At Chappell's Restaurant

Our visit was a perfect opportunity to grab a bite and refresh our memories. The menu at Chappell’s restaurant has dozens of tasty opportunities. A good selection of appetizers and salads can be had, but we were set on some burgers. The restaurant touts its half-pound burgers, which are served with a side dish. I have to admit, it’s hard to concentrate on the menu when there is so much sports eye-candy to scope out.

Piled High

With a menu packed full of tasty dishes, it would have been easy to change our minds. We stayed true to our purpose and each chose a burger. The 323 Burger sounded too good to pass up and we both ended up ordering one. The 1/2 lb. patty was topped with horseradish sauce, arugula, crispy bacon, Blue cheese crumbles, and a slice of Swiss cheese. Crystal selected the Curly Fries, while I substituted Sweet Potato Fries. Our first bites were enough to confirm our choice. The juicy burgers were quickly eliminated, as we continued to scan the walls.

Plan Your Visit To Chappell's Restaurant

A visit to Chappell’s Restaurant means that you get a meal and an attraction, all for one price. At almost any other place you would have to pay an admission to see the quantity and quality of items on display. Here you simply have to show up. This one-of-a-kind restaurant is a jewel in North Kansas City. Be sure to belly up to the bar on your next visit, and check out that World Series trophy. Now if they could just secure the 1985 Royal’s version or maybe a Chief’s Super Bowl trophy.

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12 Kansas City BBQ Joints That We Love

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 04:30:00 +0000

Kansas City BBQ transcends normal cuisine status and is hailed as the standard by which other barbecue is judged. Don’t get us wrong, we have found delectable smoked meats all across North America. Barbecue started in a pit, where meats were cooked over a trench filled with burning embers. These days there are three main ingredients to a successful barbecue; meat, smoke, and sauce. From the more than 100 BBQ restaurants around the Kansas City metro (the most of any U.S. city), we have tried to create a list of a dozen of our favorites. Let’s see how many of them would be on your Top 12.

Rosedale Bar-B-Que

Way back in 1934, on our country’s Independence Day, Rosedale Bar-B-Que sprung to life. In those days it was called “The Bucket Shop”, and specialized in hot dogs and buckets of beer. The owners saw the potential in barbecue and the next year they opened what would become Rosedale’s quintessential smoked meat outlet. While times have changed the look and location, the local loyalty has remained the same. This place has delectable sandwiches and be sure to order some of their crispy fries. Location: 600 Southwest Boulevard, KCK

Danny Edwards Blvd BBQ

If you’ve spent much time in Kansas City, you’ve probably learned that barbecue is often a family tradition. Just down the road from Rosedale’s, you’ll find another Kansas City BBQ institution. Danny Edwards Boulevard BBQ learned a lot about smoked meats from his father, Jake. Big Jake had a shop from 1938 to 1981, which is close to the time that his son, Danny, opened his own BBQ joint. With limited hours, you need to plan well to make it to this place. When we are there, I always enjoy a Combo Plate, which is designed for meat lovers. Location: 2900 Southwest Boulevard, KCMO

Jack Stack Barbecue

If you want to talk about Kansas City BBQ families, the list has to include Jack Stack Barbecue. This family run business broke new ground with their use of hickory wood. These days they are on the fourth generation and still serving up incredible flavor with an air of elegance. They have an impressive menu filled with something for everyone in your party. We love the Roundup, which offers a nice sampling of their menu. Location: 6 locations around the KC Metro

Joe's KC Bar-B-Que

How do we know that Kansas City BBQ is the best in the nation? It seems that every year a new survey is posted and our hometown eateries are usually at the top. One that has gained national acclaim is Joe’s KC Bar-B-Que. The original site is located in a gas station, where it’s not unusual to see a line out the door. We enjoy most everything on their menu, but The Z-Man Sandwich is a classic worth sampling. Location: 3002 W. 47th St., KCK & 11723 Roe Ave., Leawood

Buck Tui BBQ

We wouldn’t want to only list the long-term standards, so let’s talk about some newcomers. One of the things we love most about barbecue is how well it can be incorporated into other cuisines. A shining example is Buck Tui BBQ, which combines smoked meats with Thai classics. This East meets West version of Kansas City BBQ really works for us. While we’ve only begun to explore their menu, we’ve already fallen in love with the Pineapple Rib Fried Rice. Location: 6737 W. 75th Street, Overland Park

F325 BBQ

F325 BBQ is the newest member of the Kansas City BBQ family to make our list. Choosing to open a new restaurant in the COVID era requires a lot of belief in your product. What we’ve discovered is that they were spot on with their assumptions. In just a few short months they have broken through a highly competitive market. This is one of the few places in KC that you’ll find Carolina-style barbecue. Savor the vinegar-based tang, but be sure to save room for their Whiskey Sweet Potato Casserole. Location: 1825 Buchanan Street, North Kansas City

Char Bar

Every once in a while a new joint will pop up and gain almost instant acclaim. Such was the case for Char Bar. When we first heard of this place, the conversations revolved around their beer garden. When we stopped in, we discovered this place was serving up a backyard barbecue vibe. While it seems to spend a lot of energy focusing on its party atmosphere, it’s also a good spot to taste more Carolina-style BBQ. Here’s another spot that we enjoy a sampler platter with their Holy Trinity. Location: 4050 Pennsylvania Ave., KCMO & 15348 Old Town Dr., Parkville

Chef J BBQ

Our history with the West Bottoms is traced back to when the haunted houses moved from City Market in the early 1990s. In those days, that was the only draw to this neighborhood for most Kansas Citians. The addition of vintage shops brought people back to the area. Seeing an area ripe with possibility, Justin Easterwood opened Chef J BBQ. He is a huge fan of southern-style BBQ and it comes through in the flavor of his smoked meats. If you want to enjoy a meat coma, give the BeastMode a shot. Location: 1401 W. 13th St. Suite G, KCMO

Q39

A relative newcomer (opened 2014) to the Kansas City BBQ scene is Q39. This place works hard at bringing an air of elegance to a cuisine that is often designed for the working-class. This has earned them a lot of unfavorable reviews. We find their menu to be filled with tasty delights. In fact, their Smoked Beef Brisket Poutine is worth fighting over. Location: 1000 W. 39th St., KCMO & 11051 Antioch Road, Overland Park

Blind Box BBQ

If you’ve ever visited a BBQ competition, you’ve probably noticed the unique team names. The same can be said for Kansas City BBQ joints. Blind Box BBQ‘s name gives a nod to the competition circuit. A blind box is the Styrofoam container presented to judges, which keeps each team anonymous. This way the food is judged by the contents only. This place is definitely keyed in on presentation. It’s one of the few places we have found a BBQ charcuterie board on a menu. We definitely enjoyed the smoky wine-infused cheese. Location: 13214 W. 62nd Terr., Shawnee & 1601 Village West Pkwy, KCK

S.L.A.P.s BBQ

Some Kansas City BBQ joints can spend decades hidden away in residential neighborhoods. This was not the case for S.L.A.P.’s BBQ (The name means Squeal Like A Pig). After plenty of wins on the BBQ competition trail, the Pearce brothers opened up their restaurant with immediate success. It’s not unusual to find yourself waiting in line to order at this place. We enjoy their Sampler Platter, that comes with four meats and two large sides. Location: 553 Central Ave., KCK

A Little BBQ Joint

We love that no matter where we travel across the KC metro, we can always find some delectable barbecue. During a visit to Independence, we happened upon A Little BBQ Joint. Stepping through the door, we knew immediately that we were in for a thrill ride of flavor. This place focuses on their meats, so don’t expect big flavor from their sides. We were okay with that, since the smoked meats pack plenty of punch for the whole meal. Be sure to sample their sauces, which amp up the flavor. Location: 1101 W. U.S. Hwy 24, Independence

What's Your Favorite Kansas City BBQ?

Here’s the point that we wrap up our list and prepare ourselves for a bombardment of places we overlooked or omitted. Rest assured that after more than 50 years of eating Kansas City BBQ, we are willing to admit that this list is far from adequate. Our goal was to get you thinking about some of your favorites, as well as pointing out the wide range of flavors that this cuisine brings to the table. We’d love to hear some of your favorites, so drop us a list in the Comments Section below. Perhaps our next Kansas City BBQ roundup will include some of them. Until then, pass me the sauce!

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Delivering Crunch – Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 09:34:01 +0000

Growing up in the Midwest, we discovered the depth of flavors that can be found in this region’s dishes. I remember waiting impatiently as my grandmother fried up chicken for Saturday night dinner. The smell was intoxicating and I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into the crispy coating. Fast forward a few decades and I’m still a huge fan of crispy chicken. These days we’ve found a place that’s delivering crunch with a little extra kick. A visit to Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken is an opportunity to relive those early days of family dinners but with a little more heat.

Yellow is the Color of Flavor

Gus’s Fried Chicken is located at 2816 W. 47th Street, in Kansas City, Kansas. A few years back, this area was fading, but a recent resurgence has brought life back to the neighborhood. These days you’ll find a handful of tasty dining options. Across the parking lot is 1889 Pizza Napoletana, which has plenty of interesting pies. Beyond that is Joe’s KC BBQ that has earned a national reputation for delivering Kansas City barbecue flavor. It’s hard to imagine another area this packed with unique tastes.

Feeling Homey

We’ve always been fans of consistency and Gus’s has found a way to incorporate that into their service. It’s easy for us to remember when they are open, as it is from 11:00 to 9:00 every day. This makes it easy for us to pop in for lunch, dinner, or to grab a snack to go. The eclectic seating arrangements makes it feel like dinner on Saturday at grandma’s. Unmatched chairs and checkerboard tablecloths bring that southern comfort into play. With plenty of room to spread out, we were ready to dig into some delicious fried chicken.

Heaping Helpings

The menu at Gus’s is simple and direct. Most of it focuses on their world famous chicken, but they also have fried catfish at times. We seem to gravitate to the same meals on each visit. Crystal is all about the Four Tender Meal. She’ll vary her choice of sides between beans and fries, but always gets the Cole slaw. I still remember her first taste and the realization that they season with southern spices. I could see that she liked the extra kick that came with each crunchy bite.

Delivering Crunch

Being raised on fried chicken, I prefer mine to still be on the bone. For this meal, I stuck with the Two Piece Dark Meat Dinner. It also includes two sides and in true Saturday evening fashion, I got the beans and slaw. While this seems like a smaller serving than Crystal’s, I also ordered three wings to go. The true test of fried chicken is how it tastes cold and Gus’s has met that standard on every visit. Each spicy bite reminded me of those long-ago family dinners.

Satisfied Customers

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken has risen to the top of our chicken choices for dining out. We’ve found them to be consistent and thorough with each visit. Each bite is flavor-packed and the two of us can always find something we enjoy. After all, isn’t that what dining out is supposed to be about? While we skipped dessert on this visit, it is not unusual for us to grab a slice of their Pecan Pie and Coconut Pie. Even these are delivering crunch, while keeping it sweet. If you see us eating chicken, we’re probably at Gus’s.

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Rosedale Bar-B-Que – Twist On Tradition

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 03:30:00 +0000

Barbeque is almost a religion in Kansas City. Everyone has an opinion and a foundation from which they formed it. Rosedale Bar-B-Que started life on July 4, 1934. Originally known as The Bucket Shop, this was the spot for hot dogs and beer. What started as a way to survive the Depression, soon became a successful venture. The owners soon realized that smoked meats were a much better accompaniment, and started a small shop just about 100 feet from their hot dog stand. This was the start of their permanent home at 600 Southwest Boulevard, in Kansas City, Kansas. It had been a minute since our last visit, so we were excited to see it again.

Familiar Territory

We like to imagine what life was like back there in the early days. Prohibition had ended and the flow of beer was returning (not that it really stopped). To get their barbecue project started, they roughed in a small 12 x 16-foot space. The tin walls were fine for summer. When winter rolled around, they had to add some plywood to the interior walls to keep customers warm. Without refrigeration, the beer wouldn’t be cold. To solve that, they brought 300 lb. ice blocks in from a local ice house. After some cold suds, many of the patrons would get a hankering for some barbecue.

Counter Bound

The site has seen a lot of changes but some things still remain the same. Customers order their choices at the counter, wait for their food, and then find a table. You have the option to purchase individual meals or even meats by the pound. This is old school barbecue, the way it was meant to be. You’ll need plenty of napkins to battle the sauce. Your neighbors at the next table could be businessmen meeting to discuss new ventures or blue-collar workers refueling after a long day. At Rosedale Bar-B-Que you’ll find that they focus on the food and that’s what you should want a barbecue place to do.

That's Kansas City BBQ

In Kansas City, barbecue is about tradition. Sure we have tons of new places starting up each year, but it takes time to see if they can maintain their consistency. Too many start off great but fail to make it through the growing phase of the business. Being able to produce large volumes of smoked meats isn’t hard. Doing it consistently, day after day, now that’s a feat. Rosedale Bar-B-Que is the oldest barbecue joint in KC, which has been continuously run by the same family. That’s what Kansas City tradition is all about.

Twist on Tradition

Now that we’ve hyped tradition, let’s step a little bit to the side. These days there is a push for innovation. It comes in every direction, so we weren’t surprised to find it at Rosedale Bar-B-Que. While they still have all the classics (We’ll get there in a minute), they added a little feature we hadn’t tried. The Pig Pen is a handheld that puts a twist on tradition. It starts with a heaping pile of pulled pork (or beef if you prefer) and gets topped with fajita peppers and pepperjack cheese. Toss in some onion straws and fried jalapeno bottlecaps for good measure and you’ve got yourself a winner. We’ll admit that this thing is hard to hold, so we dove in with forks.

Back to the Basics

We wanted to make sure we didn’t ignore the dishes that made Rosedale Bar-B-Que famous. With so many good options, we decided to toss in a Belly Buster Dinner. With three meat choices and three sides, it alone was plenty for the two of us. It was hard to whittle it down, but we ended up choosing sausage, turkey, and beef. That combination gave us a broad sampling of Rosedale’s menu. Our sides had to stay true to barbecue tradition, so we chose fries, Cole slaw, and beans. If you are wondering whether we finished all of this feast, we did not.

Old School Satisfied

As we sat back and wondered about our eating habits, the barbecue sauce coursed through our veins. This is what Kansas City barbecue was meant to be. Full and happy are common occurrences that happen when you partake in our city’s premier cuisine. Rosedale Bar-B-Que is one of the mainstays of this tradition and deserves the accolades it has received. It’s not fancy, it’s just good. When guests come to visit, from out of town, this is one of the places you take them to showcase the real barbecue life in our city. Now excuse us as we waddle to our car.

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East Meets West – Buck Tui BBQ

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 10:25:00 +0000

Judging barbecue restaurants has always been subjective. We’ve approached our visits with an open mind. This has allowed us to find something we enjoy at each stop. A relative newcomer, to the Kansas City BBQ scene, is Buck Tui BBQ at 6737 W. 75th Street, in Overland Park. Their menu is a mix of East meets West, as they combine Thai and barbecue with visual splendor. For our inaugural visit, we decided to try a few different dishes, so that we could get a good variety of their flavors.

East meets West

From the moment we stepped through the door, we knew this was not going to be like our regular barbecue stops. A large mural occupied one wall of the restaurant. It served as a reminder that the flavor combinations were going to be unique.

Clean Lines and Spaces

The interior was comfortable and spacious. Our dinner visits, when blogging, usually occur during the earlier hours. This allows us to avoid the crowds and minimizes the stress on staff. Even with our early arrival, there were already a few people enjoying the food. Our server asked if it was our first visit, and was more than willing to walk us through the menu. Pit master Ted Liberda has concocted a nice array of dishes that showcases the best of both cuisines.

Simple Beginnings

We started with an appetizer, knowing that we would be taking leftovers home by the end of our meal. Being in our hometown makes this feat easier. The Brisket Rangoons have a familiar appearance, but hold a surprise inside. The filling is a mixture of barbecue brisket and marinated cream cheese. The flavor combination teased our taste buds with the flavors to come. These six pieces of delight would not make into the to-go containers.

East Meets West

With large portions being dished out, we would usually split an entrée. Tonight we decided to kick it up a notch and go all out. Crystal had read the description of the Pineapple Rib Fried Rice and couldn’t wait to sample it. That left me free t choose one of the BBQ plates. When our server delivered this rice dish to our table, I couldn’t wait to take photos. Usually I’m eager to capture the images for all of you. This night it was because I couldn’t wait to dive into the meal. The ribs were tender without the meat being too loose. Just the way I like them. It was the rice that stole the show. Adding pineapple to the mixture brought a slight sweet aftertaste to the dish.

Discovering a New Favorite

My choice was a Two-Meat Plate that included brisket and pulled pork. Served over a bed of jasmine rice, they both brought a smoky goodness to the palate. This entrée comes with the choice of one side, which for us was the Mac & Cheese. In no time we found ourselves elbow deep into our meals. While we gave it a good effort, we were unable to polish off both of the plates. I secretly celebrated the leftover lunches I would be enjoying that week. Now that we know Buck Tui BBQ exists, it will be on our barbecue radar every time we head toward Overland Park. Have you sampled their combination of East meets West?

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F325 BBQ Brings Their “A” Game

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 24 May 2023 11:30:48 +0000

Opening a new barbecue in Kansas City is always risky business. With over 100 competitors already churning away, you’ll find yourself in an uphill battle. It’s like competing in the American Royal BBQ Contest every day. When a friend clued us in on a newcomer in North Kansas City, we just had to test it out. F325 BBQ sits just off Burlington & Armour at 1825 Buchanan St. Our first visit was a trial run and the results demanded an immediate return. With our appetites in full bloom, we descended on this new hot spot to check out their “A” game.

New Player in Town

This new player is tucked away off the main drag but it hasn’t prevented people from finding them. Like they say, “Good news travels fast.” Our day had already been filled with repeat performances. Checking out the revamped Truman Library had filled our morning. Feeling lucky, we pushed it and also made a return to the National WWI Museum. Now we were starving and ready to chow down on some smoky goodness. We had chatted with owner James Huey on our first visit and could feel his passion for bringing his BBQ pit to life.

The Secrets Out!

On any given day, diners can sample BBQ from a multitude of Kansas City restaurants. The majority carry on the KC tradition of low and slow cooking. The dry rubs work their magic, as smoky dry heat fills the pit. There are twists and turns introduced by each in one way or another. F325 BBQ brings theirs through a Carolina-style sauce served up with some delectable meaty choices. A variety of tasty sides lets the owners showcase their creativity. A packed house proves that in just six months the news about their delicacies has spread.

Balanced Plates

The menu at F325 BBQ is extensive but our test run had already helped us with our decision. Ordering a two-meat and a three-meat plate meant that we could sample five of their options, as well as adding four sides. They also toss in a mini-cornbread muffin on each plate. Crystal’s 2-meat pulled in brisket and pulled pork into our dinner equation. Here was a good chance to sample the sauces. The standard sauce has the vinegar-based tang found in North Carolina barbecue.

Meaty Goodness

My 3-meat was filled with ribs, burnt ends, and turkey. All brought a rich smoky flavor but I surprisingly found the turkey to be my favorite. It was so juicy that I just couldn’t stop nibbling. I’m sure I probably ate more than my half. Our server asked if we’d like to tempt the spicy version and we did so with reservation. Neither of us are huge fans of heat and this thick pasty concoction had plenty to offer. Before long, we’d both found our favorites and settled in for the long haul.

To keep from getting the “meat shakes”, we dove into the amazing side dishes. F325 BBQ has found a way to add a twist to each. From their sweet and smoky Baked Beans to the tangy spinach-artichoke sauce on the Mac & Cheese. Their Coleslaw has the added bite of Granny Smith apples that helps create a sweet and sour rollercoaster of flavors. There was one side dish that seemed more fitting for a dessert menu. The Whiskey Sweet Potato Casserole brings layers of taste and texture in each mouthful. Looks like we wouldn’t need an ice cream run after this visit.

F325 BBQ Brings Their “A” Game

The true test of any barbecue joint requires time. The bane of many pitmasters has been consistency. Our visits to F325 BBQ took place about a week apart but the flavor was just as good both times. It looks like James is on his way to great success as a Kansas City restauranteur. Time will be the real judge but we will certainly be dropping in at times to see how things advance. We’re pretty sure that he’s got the right attitude and heart to become another Kansas City legend. It’s great living in a city that inspires such devotion in each new generation.

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Jack Stack Barbecue – A Family Tradition

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 03:30:17 +0000

Let’s time-travel back to 1957. The world was cast into the “Space Race” with the launch of Sputnik 1, the first artificial satellite. In America, Jailhouse Rock was climbing the charts, while Elvis purchased Graceland. Frisbees first hit the market and The Music Man opened on Broadway. (You can read our article about the composer here.) While all of these events were taking place, here in Kansas City we were seeing the start of what would become a family tradition. Russ Fiorella launched his barbecue eatery with a modest menu of a few meat options. from this humble beginning, the Jack Stack Barbecue dynasty would grow.

Gourmet BBQ

By the mid-1970s, the barbecue scene in Kansas City had become highly competitive. Jack and his wife, Delores, expanded his menu to include steaks, seafood, and his signature sides to stand out. He switched to Hickory wood for his smoke, which gave his meats their characteristic flavor. fast forward to today, and Jack Stack has become a local chain with six locations. The menu has also expanded and teams with appetizers, sandwiches, full plates, and family-sized platters.

A Family Tradition

For this article, we made a visit to Lee’s Summit location. Even during a mid-afternoon stop, we found the place to be busy. The crowd was filled with families, business gatherings, and couples out for a bite. We fell into the third category but it was obvious that this place draws all ages of diners. The upscale, relaxed vibe makes it easy to slow down and savor the experience. After exploring the menu, we decided that one of the family platters would offer the broadest sampling. With this in mind, we ordered the Roundup.

Meaty Goodness

While we waited for the goods things that were to come, our discussion turned to the volume of food that was soon to descend upon our table. We knew that the possibility of devouring the entire meal was a pipe dream, so we decided just to eat until we were stuffed. When our server delivered the goods, we could hardly wait to dive in. Of course, pictures first, then pleasure. The platter is filled with all types of yummy eats but it’s the meats that we wanted to sample first. The turkey was moist and tender, just like the brisket. The pulled pork flavor popped with the addition of some of their spicy sauce. In between ravenous bites, we tossed in spoonfuls of their creamy Cole Slaw.

Toss in Some Sides

The hits didn’t stop on that end of the platter. Moving along we came to the tender pork ribs. This is the dish I usually fall back on when comparing barbecue joints. Jack Stack Barbecue certainly has theirs down to an art. To balance the weight of all of these meats, they toss in a couple of pots to boot. The baked beans are sweet and rich, which had us coming back for seconds and thirds. Cheesy corn is another fantastic addition and theirs has a nice base without overpowering the corn.

Jack Stack Barbecue

Our visit to Jack Stack Barbecue tested the limits of our stomachs. While we weren’t able to polish off all of the food, we left a significant dent. Towards the end, we found ourselves picking at the scraps, hesitant to leave any of the smoky goodness behind. Finally, the decision was made to waddle away from the table, knowing we had given it a valiant effort. Our experience reminded us of the many unique barbecue flavors scattered around the Kansas City metro. While we have enjoyed some fantastic dishes all around North America, it’s here that our hearts come for barbecue family tradition.

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Parlor KC – A Grownup Food Hall

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 09:30:01 +0000

How many times have you faced the seemingly unsurmountable task of choosing what to have for dinner? It would be nice if they put a variety of cuisines in one space, so you could pick and choose your favorite dishes. Well someone was listening to our suggestions and created Parlor KC. This glorified grownup food hall sits in the heart of the Kansas City Crossroads District, at 1707 Locust St. We’ve long considered KC the “melting pot of the Midwest”, so a chef-inspired collaboration of this magnitude seems perfect for our city.

Fun Vibe

Stepping through the front entrance, diners are greeted with a funky, fun vibe. One of the two bars greeted us on this hot summer day. Our visit took place on a Saturday at lunchtime and the place was already hopping. The décor is a mixture of contemporary art with pops of color splashed around the spaces. Groups had congregated for various purposes and the noise level was a little high. This just added to the adrenaline level of the place. We decided to get our bearings and check out all of the spaces, before deciding on our meals.

In or Out

Parlor KC has three levels to explore. The lowest level serves as a mix of den and library. During our visit, it was being used for a demonstration, so we stuck to the other two floors. Seating options are broad and include an outdoor shaded patio. With the KC summer heat level rising, we opted to remain indoors for this visit. We could see this outdoor space being a great spot to enjoy a Happy Hour when this heat wave breaks. It would also serve as a good people-watching spot during First Friday Art Walks.

Decisions?!!!

There are two floors of food options inside Parlor KC. Unless our eyes deceived us, we counted seven cuisine choices. Knowing that we would only be able to pick a couple for this visit, we took our time exploring the various menus. On the first floor, we spotted Ting’s, which serves up Filipino dishes inspired by the chef’s parents. Next door is KC Mac N’ Co where you will find a broad range of creamy, cheesy dishes. Khalia’s Pizzeria owner, Theresa Spencer, has a fondness for Italian Gardens and wanted to bring their cheesy goodness to life in a new setting.

Sliding in Style

None of the first-floor options were sparking our appetites, so we moved up to the second floor. Here we found tacos from Taco Tank, as well as Korean comfort food from Sura Eats. After checking out all of the food options, we decided to pick dishes from two of the vendors. Being from the Midwest, we couldn’t pass up some juicy smashed beef sliders, and the menu board at Slideshow touted some interesting options. We decided to each pick one that struck our fancy. The Steakhouse Slider is topped with arugula, smoked Gouda, A-1 mayo, and fried onions. It was just what a homemade burger should taste like. The Fig & Goat Cheese Slider added some sweet tang to our lunch. It’s topped with fig & onion jam, arugula, truffle mayo, and goat cheese.

Getting Our Cluck On

Our other food hall option was Mother Clucker! I have to admit that the brightly colored signage captured our attention. The backstory on this space is all about Nashville Hot Chicken. Anytime we see a chance to sample some southern comfort food, we are down with it. The chef couple who designed this restaurant saw an overlooked food option in Kansas City and set about rectifying the situation. The chicken comes in a sliding scale of heat, so choose wisely. We grabbed a two-tender combo, which comes with a side (Crinkle Fries for the win!), pickles, and your choice of dipping sauce. With everything assembled, it was time to get down to business.

Parlor KC

It didn’t take long for us to decide that Parlor KC deserves more exploring. With only two of the seven cuisines under our belt, there is still a lot of taste-testing to be done. We like that Kansas City has embraced the food hall idea and expect to see more of this type of establishment. With Strang Hall already bringing in consistent crowds at their Overland Park location, Parlor KC gives us a downtown KCMO option to boot. We have always felt that Kansas City is a leader in dining destinations and now we have one more good option to choose from. Have you ever visited a grownup food hall?

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Backyard Barbecue Vibe – Char Bar

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 13 May 2022 09:15:36 +0000

It feels a little repetitive to mention that we live in a city filled with amazing barbecue restaurants. While we may not have sandy beaches or snow-capped mountains, any given day can bring the smell of grilling meats wafting across the landscape. When we are looking for southern BBQ in Kansas City, we have a few nice options. One that has gained quite the reputation for food and fun is Char Bar, located at 4050 Pennsylvania in Westport. Sporting a retro feel, this “meat-ateria” has found a way to give off a major backyard barbecue vibe.

A Flurry of Activity

Dropping by on a rainy Saturday left us filling only half fulfilled. While the southern eats are always front and center, there is more than dining to be found at Char Bar. In fact, on a warm spring day, it wouldn’t be unusual to see quite a crowd gathered at their urban playground. Laying out along the front side of the restaurant is a huge beer garden that includes picnic tables, firepits, and games. Whether you are in the mood to challenge a friend to a round of bocce ball, cornhole, or ping-pong, you can find it all here. We are more of the “take it all in” crowd, so we just enjoy the sport of people watching.

Toss in a Handful of Retro

While rain may have excluded our outdoor activities, it wasn’t about to dampen our dining experience. This southern-inspired smokehouse has got quite the laundry list of dishes to choose from. While not quite the chef-inspired plates we found in a Quebec City smokehouse, there are some plates that go beyond what we normally find in a KC barbecue joint. We tried to not let them distract us, as our mission on this day was to sample a nice variety of meaty options. Looking around at the retro décor, we started to piece together the finer details. Metal lunch trays reminded us of our school days in the cafeteria. This place was slowly transporting us back in time with its backyard barbecue vibe.

Bring on the ‘Cue

All of this time travel had worked up our appetites, so it was time to get down to business. We decide that the best way to make the most of our visit was to divide and conquer. While there is an assortment of interesting options, I was here for the Smoked Meat. Skipping over all of the other sections of the menu, I landed on the Signature Trays portion. Now I just needed to determine which cuts I wanted to explore. In the end, it was The Holy Trinity that grabbed my attention. With three ribs, some burnt ends, and slices of black Angus brisket, I was in for some delectable dining. The addition of a bowl of Coleslaw, a slice of toast, and some pickles helped add a little extra flavor variety. As soon as they set the tray down, I knew that we were in for some smoky goodness.

Backyard Barbecue Vibe

Crystal chose a plate from the Smokehouse Sandwiches portion of the menu. While she teetered between a couple of choices, she ultimately landed on the Pickled Pig. She’s been on a pulled pork craze, of late, so this came as no surprise to me. Char Bar serves this sammie up with some North Carolina flair by piling a nice serving of creamy slaw right on top of the meat. For a little twist, they use pork butt, instead of shoulder, which some feel brings more meaty flavor to the plate. She added in a helping of their Sweet Potato Fries, which I had to get a picture of quickly before they began disappearing. With the backyard barbecue vibe in high gear, we devoured the dishes laid out before us. Too soon, we found ourselves staring at the emptiness left behind and looking forward to our next visit to Char Bar.

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HomeGrown Kansas City – Local Love

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 09:30:06 +0000

As I sit writing this article, my mind is wandering back to our table at HomeGrown Kansas City, located at 338 W. 63rd St. in KCMO. This Wichita-based restaurant broke ground in our hometown and has seen amazing success. It may just be their delectable pop tartlets, which are great paired with a cup of coffee. I like to believe it has to do more with their appreciation of local flavors, which they incorporate into their menu. Sure, other restaurants source locally, but this place has made it part of their mantra.

Cultivate Kindness

When we stepped through the door of this Brookside eatery, the sign “Cultivate Kindness” was the first image to greet us. The idea that a local eatery would embrace this simple philosophy is encouraging. The question is whether the employees have accepted it, as well. From our first interactions with the hostess we felt welcomed. The dining spaces are relaxed and contemporary. The décor is simple, yet all suggests a feeling of warmth. Even the patrons looked to be enjoying the casual atmosphere.

Local Love

Once we were seated, we began the fun of exploring the menu. As we perused it, many familiar names ran before our eyes. Meats from Scavuzzo’s brought a feeling of pride to our KCK hearts. There were also references to Messenger Coffee, Shatto Milk, Liberty Fruit, and a dozen other Kansas City suppliers. Even the tables were branded as “Handmade in KC”. The owners of HomeGrown Kansas City definitely know the importance of developing local love.

Make Them Red Velvet

While we munched on our Nutella Pop Tart, our discussion fell to picking our main courses. Crystal has a thing for trying unique pancake offerings. The Red Velvet Pancakes were right up her alley. What was delivered to her was a trio of fluffy flavorful cakes covered with powdered sugar and a cream cheese drizzle. I snuck a bite and it reminded me of the delicious treat that we often expect to be served as dessert. It may not be the lowest calorie way to start the day, but it certainly is an enticing version.

Egg-cellent Start

Our daughter will frequently join us for Sunday brunch, as she did on this day. This gives us a third meal to feature, and also taste. Amanda’s choice was the Turkey & Avocado Benedict. When I was reviewing my photos, I noticed that the design of this dish belies the flavors hidden below. The fresh Hollandaise sauce was picture-perfect, but underneath we discovered layers of tastes. The English muffin base is stacked with roasted turkey breast, poached eggs, and sliced avocado. The side of Rosemary Potatoes added another aroma wafting from her plate.

HomeGrown Kansas City

I chose the simple route and ordered the Croissant French Toast. To be honest, this was a suggestion from the hostess and she didn’t mislead. Served with sliced strawberries and warm maple syrup, this sweet dish really hit the spot. I had our server toss in a side of Scavuzzo’s Thick Cut Bacon to provide some protein to tide me over until later. With our forks flying into action, the three of us munched and chatted. The casual vibe of HomeGrown Kansas City soaked in and we lingered over another cup of Messenger Coffee. We were definitely enjoying all of the local love.

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Tasty Thai – Naree Kitchen

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 10:00:47 +0000

When people mention dining in Kansas City, many will think of barbecue. While it is certainly a popular subject in our hometown, it is far from the only cuisine to be found here. In fact, there are tons of great eats to be found tucked away all over town. Kansas City, Kansas is our neck of the woods and it is filled with a broad spectrum of ethnic cuisine options. We like to think of our city as the “melting pot of the Midwest”. A trip along State Avenue landed us at Naree Kitchen Thai & Sushi where we always find tasty Thai meals.

Local Eats

Naree Kitchen is one of the spots that is hiding in plain sight. Located in a strip mall, it is easy to overlook this stop. That would be a huge mistake since we have found their dishes to be consistently good. For the past year, we have had to resign ourselves with carryout, due to Covid restrictions. Some of this may also have been related to the limited amount of workers. Fortunately, they have reopened their inside dining room. While we still frequented during the restrictions, it is dine-in that we like the most. There is just something special about enjoying the atmosphere of a place.

Let’s Get Started

One of the reasons we like this place so much is its broad range of menu choices. This allows us to enjoy a tapas-style meal where we combine a grouping of small dishes. There are certain tastes that we always fall back on and these help us judge the quality of a restaurant. It’s a must to start with some Crab Rangoon and we have sampled this dish in so many places. Naree Kitchen does a great job with theirs and it makes a nice accompaniment for some sushi. On this visit, we chose the Spicy Shrimp Tempura Roll, which is about as fishy as we ever order. This was a good start to our meal.

Peanuty Protein

Another good appetizer dish is their Chicken Satay. The pounded chicken strips are grilled to perfection and served with a tempting peanut sauce. If we have any issues with this dish, it would be that there just isn’t as much as we would want to eat. Fortunately, there are other dishes to help buffer our disappointment when the chicken is all gone. On this visit, we didn’t order it, but the Calamari is another bite-size option we enjoy. It is served with a sweet and spicy Thai chili sauce that has us coming back for more.

Fried Rice Galore

Crystal and I have become experts at piecing together a meal using a variety of small dishes. Our go-to main course is almost always Chicken Fried Rice. This protein-rich meal provides the filling touch to hold us over until the next mealtime. Naree Kitchen does this dish very well and abundantly. The huge pile of rice was more than we could finish. We like that they have been consistent with the delivery of this item, as too often it can be extremely oily at other restaurants. They also have a good grasp of the proportions of each of the ingredients to make this dish scrumptious.

Tasty Thai

Being empty-nesters means that we find ourselves dining out frequently. It’s nice knowing that we live in a city filled with plenty of options. Naree Kitchen is our KCK stop for sushi and fried rice, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other good options around town. That’s one of the reasons we love living in Kansas City. With so many great dining choices, we know that we can always find a good meal without traveling too far. What are some of your favorite choices for tasty Thai cuisine?

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Chef J BBQ – New Kid In Town

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 14 May 2021 09:00:35 +0000

On any given day you are likely to smell the aroma of barbecue in Kansas City. The very fabric of the community is saturated with the intoxicating scent. Breaking the barrier to become a successful BBQ restaurant in this town is no easy feat. Chef J has learned this lesson as the new kid in town. Working out of one of the historic warehouses in the West Bottoms, his days are spent tending a smoker. Moving beyond the traditional First Friday weekend, you will find him serving up delectable dishes every weekend. Chef J BBQ, at 1401 W. 13th Street, is carving out his own stake of ground in the Barbecue Capital of America.

Front and Center

On any given day you can expect to find a line for Chef J BBQ. Word of mouth has spread like wildfire and this new kid in town is facing roaring success. That is an impressive feat in a city known for its barbecue. As we waited our turn, we scoped out the menu. It’s a fairly straightforward approach that has an assortment of tempting sandwich options. Since it was just the two of us, we decided to pass on the large sampler platters. These would certainly be a good choice for gatherings or small crowds. Chef J himself was right up front helping prepare the plates for hungry diners.

Aged to Perfection

The current pandemic seating has the tables spaced out, but we can see the seating availability will increase with time. The decades-old interiors of these West Bottoms warehouses are such a fun setting for businesses. We enjoy the creakiness of the old wooden floors and the industrial vibe found in these spaces. They have made a few necessary improvements to make this place welcoming, but have retained most of the natural appeal of the original condition. Seating is an eclectic mix of tables and chairs, with a few booths to boot.

Scrumptious Sides

For us, it’s hard to think about side dishes, when you are smelling the intoxicating aroma of smoked meats. Chef J dishes up about a half-dozen choices, but we have only sampled about half of them. We went with the Bacon & Blue Potato Salad, which features the slight tang of the underlying blue cheese flavor. Using skin-on new potatoes adds some extra texture to the dish. Our other choice was the Smoked Elotes, which is a cross between cheesy corn and Mexican street corn. It has a pleasing flavor that adds some variety to an otherwise standard side.

A Different Grilled Cheese

There doesn’t seem to be much left to the imagination, with a name like Brisket Grilled Cheese. That’s where we were wrong. Using some of his smoky, tender briskets, Chef J has created a new classic. This panini-style sammie has the makings of a new classic. The meaty addition to a time-tested sandwich kicks this up to adults-version finger food. With plenty of gooey cheese to bind the meat to the bread, we didn’t struggle with pieces trying to escape. Let’s just say that we have sampled some tasty grilled cheese sammies, (Like this one at Summit Grill) but this one really brings a ton of flavor.

Going Beast Mode

We are always looking for some version of a sampler platter when dining at a new restaurant. These offer us a better chance to test the spectrum of flavors that can be found on the menu. While Chef J BBQ serves up some sampler options, they seem to be designed for larger gatherings. What we did discover was the Beast Mode. This sandwich on steroids brings it all to the plate. We are still wondering how they crammed pulled pork, chopped brisket, sliced turkey, and Jalapeno Cheddar sausage into this bun. I suppose the pair of ribs is designed to keep the lid from blowing off. Since we were sharing this monstrosity, we decided to disassemble it and dine directly on the meats. Each one has its own distinct smoky goodness to deliver.

Sweet Treats

By the end of our protein-packed lunch, we found ourselves with a lack of hunger. Fortunately, we had predicted this and decided to forego picking up a dessert when we ordered. It’s good to know that on a less meaty day we could split a slice of pie. I mean, who doesn’t find a slice of peanut butter and chocolate pie to be utterly tempting?

New Kid in Town

You may be able to tell by our photo that we are in a protein-induced food coma. The meaty goodness being served up at Chef J BBQ shows that this new kid in town is making a mark for himself. It is also apparent in the lines of customers who sometimes stretch around the building. The hours at Chef J can vary since they will often sell out and be forced to close up for the day. Do yourself a favor and visit early, so you don’t miss out on any of their delectable options. We are betting that once you try it you too will become a fan.

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Pops Of Color – Tavern In The Village

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 09:00:20 +0000

The end of a workweek is certainly a reason for a celebration. This particular week had been rather brutal, so it was an easy decision to add a Happy Hour event to our Friday evening excursion. We wanted something fresh and new, so plans were set for a visit to Tavern in the Village. Located at 3901 Prairie Lane, it can be found just north of 75th and Mission Road. We had only visited once prior and had been very impressed with their Happy Hour offerings. The food and drink had been tasty and we knew that a follow-up visit would add pops of color that should help kick off the weekend.

Casual Vibe

From the moment we walked in the door, we could feel the casual vibe. The open lounge area is bathed in natural light. Happy Hour participants lingered over drinks and bites as they reveled at the end of another work week. The hostess led us to our table in the main dining section, which is just removed from the bar. Here we found a more intimate atmosphere but we could still pick up the energy from the others around the corner. The strategic placement of artwork adds pops of color to the muted design of this space.

Pops of Color

The overall vibe of the space helped us wind down from the long week. The cooler tones of the restaurant did their job of lowering my blood pressure. This is the type of place that begs you to linger and enjoy a time-out from daily life. When we arrived, we were two of the first ones seated in this section of the restaurant. This allowed me to get some interior photos before they filled up. Before long, more and more would arrive. It was nice having our server to ourselves, even if it was only for a few minutes.

Fast Starters

We barely needed to scan the menu to determine our meal dishes, but it took a moment longer to pick a cocktail. We wanted something that would compliment our food and has pops of color to boot. The Blueberry Cilantro Margarita seemed a good choice to fit the bill. One sip said that we made the right choice. The accent flavors were timid and refused to overpower the main margarita taste, yet they came forward after each sip. To kick off our munch-fest, we chose the Calamari. Not everyone is a fan of this squid-based dish, but it happens to be one of my favorite appetizers. Only recently has Crystal taken a liking to it and that required the addition of a tasty dipping sauce.

A New Nacho

Preplanning our meal makes ordering a lot easier. This is made more convenient when a restaurant posts all of its menus online, which is what we found when visiting the Tavern’s portal. After our server had delivered our cocktail, we actually ordered all of our dishes at once. It definitely makes photos easier and leaves us with a table full of tasty options to devour. The description of the Tavern Chicken Nachos lists the main ingredients but had left out their delivery style. We were expecting a pile of spicy chicken, black beans, and pico de gallo to come smothered in pepper jack cheese sauce. It was a pleasant surprise when they arrived in street taco style. This certainly makes them easy to eat.

Round Two

With the nachos looking like tacos, we were now wondering what disguise the Pulled Pork Tacos would be using. Okay, they looked like tacos, so all was back to normal. Where the chicken nachos had brought a zesty kick of spice to our tastebuds, these tacos were all about the rich tones of the meat. Ample amounts of pulled pork are accompanied by crispy fried onions. A hint of salsa verde and cilantro add accents to this protein-rich dish. Everything was tasting so good that we even devoured the salads that served as garnish.

Highly Successful Outing

We chatted about our weekend plans as we made our way through the meal. We have found a passion for creating a tapas-style meal by combining a variety of appetizers. This is an especially effective approach during Happy Hour visits. It allows us to sample a wider range of the flavors that a restaurant has to offer. Once again, it had proven a successful approach at dinner, as we both felt our hunger subside. The combination of a smooth cocktail, delectable dishes, and a chill vibe had turned this wreck of a week into a winner.

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Fan Favorites – Sushi Karma

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 09:00:31 +0000

It’s hard to remember how many times we have been floored at the idea of businesses launching at the height of the pandemic. We understand that once a ball gets rolling, you just have to see it through. Still, the idea of beginning during such an unstable market has to be frightening. When we spotted activity at an old haunt, we were anxious to see what would transpire. Low and behold, the old Chinese buffet was replaced with a shiny new eatery that is serving up some fan favorites. We were anxious to sample the menu at Sushi Karma.

Clean Lines

The new digs at 5820 Johnson Drive are a great fit for Sushi Karma. We could still picture the previous condition that had befallen the past tenant. You can imagine our surprise to find a shiny new interior filled with clean lines and modern styling. In the upper dining room, a long sushi bar dominated the view. Good lighting and an inviting atmosphere welcomed us in. The hostess escorted us to a booth in the lower dining room where we found a few other diners.

Happy Hour

Since our recent trend has been focused on Happy Hour visits, we saw no reason to break from it on this stop. During our research, we found that Sushi Karma has a robust happy hour menu. We easily found a handful of dishes that would make a perfect tapas-style meal. If you’ve read any of our Asian cuisine articles, then you know we aren’t true sushi connoisseurs. Fortunately, there were plenty of options that fit our style.

Fan Favorites

We chose three of the sushi rolls, which each come with eight pieces. These included; California Roll, Avocado Roll, and a Crunchy Karma Roll.This provided a nice variety of flavors. Crystal spotted the Pork Dumplings, which are a fan favorite of hers. You can order them steamed or fried at Sushi Karma. We also included an order of Crab Rangoon and a bottle of Hot Sake. With a table full of finger foods, we dug into our happy hour meal.

Finger Food

Since Crystal had ordered her dumplings, I decided to select one of my favorites, as well. The Crispy Chicken Wings are served with a delightful sweet & sour sauce. When they labeled them as crispy, they weren’t kidding. These had a perfect texture to the skin and hot, steamy meat on the inside. By the time we wrapped up all of these dishes, we were feeling pretty satisfied.

Sweet Ending

Just to make sure we didn’t leave any room in our bellies, a serving of Mango Sticky Rice was tossed in at the end. This sweet treat has a texture that was reminiscent of a well-made tapioca, but just a bit firmer. The fresh mango slices complemented the dish which seemed to feature coconut flavor. Quite an intriguing, and addictive taste. Each bite brought us closer to determining the exact flavors, at least until the dish was empty.

New Mission Destination

We are always looking to identify favorites in each sector of the metro. Locating Sushi Karma helped us nail down another great Asian cuisine option in an area we frequent. While this visit focused on their Happy Hour menu, we still took a look at their other offerings. We spotted over a dozen traditional Laotian meals and a nice variety of other Asian-style dishes. Our future is sure to contain a sampling of their curry or pho. With a wide range on their menu, we will have to make lots of visits to really explore their flavors. Oh well, it’s a sacrifice we are more than happy to make.

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All Is Right – Va Bene Italian Eatery

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 10:00:42 +0000

It saddens us when we hear about a local business having to shutter its doors. Unfortunately, this was an all too common occurrence in 2020. On a positive note, there were many new enterprises willing to take a risk during those uncertain times. One that evidently felt it best to let 2020 pass by is Va Bene Italian Eatery, at 8232 Mission Road. Their solution was to launch their business on New Year’s Day of 2021. With a renewed hope for brighter days, it is fitting that their name loosely translates to “All Is Right”. We love their positivity and are hoping they are on to something.

Positive People

Our decision to visit Va Bene was as close to spur of the moment as we get. With the week burning by quickly, I was looking forward to our Friday date night. My days had been starting early in the office, so it was perfect for a Happy Hour celebration. Doing a scan of social media, I spotted a new restaurant that was getting a lot of buzz. That’s just what the doctor ordered, so I verified with Crystal and we had our date set. The space was familiar to us from past visits to the previous restaurant. It didn’t take long for us to meet new acquaintances at a nearby table. Like us, they were loving the vibe of this new Italian eatery and feeling that all is right, at least for this evening.

Happy Hour Sips

Since it was Happy Hour, it seemed fitting to sample one of the cocktails. Our server was kind enough to point out one that I knew we would like. The Tito Lito is a delicious combination of Tito’s Vodka that has been infused with house-made Limoncello and fresh lemons. A sugar-coated rim adds a touch of sweetness to this distinctly tart drink.

St. Louis memories

When we do a Happy Hour, it usually ends up being a fusion between their special menu and the regular meal options. There was one dish that we spotted on the Happy Hour that we had to sample. The Toasted Ravioli made us think back to our time in St. Louis. After all, toasted ravioli was invented in that Midwestern city and has since become embedded in their various cuisines. While we have tasted a barbecue-infused version, the traditional style at Va Bene was very tasty.

Our Kind of Pie

With our appetites whetted, we knew that we needed something more substantial for our next course. With a menu filled with plates of pasta, sandwiches, and grilled entrees we chose one of our favorite Italian dishes, pizza. Oh, this was no ordinary pizza, this was a Fig & Prosciutto Pie. A savory base of pancetta cream, the roasted figs, and prosciutto all blend to add their own distinct flavors. The spicy kick of arugula pairs with the sweetness of the balsamic glaze to notch up the uniqueness of this dish. I wasn’t sure about the flavor combination at first but became a true believer after a couple of bites.

All Is Right

Our inaugural visit to Va Bene Italian Eatery was a glowing success. The interesting flavors were the kind that reminds us why we love exploring. Kansas City is filled with so many great pizza joints, but it’s nice to find one that has plenty of other choices. The idea that a start-up would choose to launch in the heart of a pandemic shows the drive of the human spirit. They certainly chose the right name, because we are positive that all is right at Va Bene. We can picture many more Happy Hour visits in our future.

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Breaking The BBQ Barrier – Q39 BBQ

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 10:00:31 +0000

Breaking the BBQ barrier in Kansas City isn’t easy. On any given day, the smoky aroma of barbecue permeates the very fabric of the city. It isn’t reserved just for game days or the Fourth of July. Barbecue is the lifeblood of the city. The idea of launching a new restaurant in this atmosphere can be more than unnerving. So many have come and gone, while there are the standards that have stood the test of time. Every once in a while, new blood will rise up and challenge the hierarchy for a chance to join this elusive club. We traveled to Midtown to check out Q39, which has made quite a splash on the BBQ scene since they first opened in 2014.

Old-school Feel

Visiting q39 during the pandemic is a little different. Our last stop had been in the period where everything was restricted to carryout. While it offered us a taste of their menu, it left us desiring a peek inside. When the time was right to return to indoor seating, we were more than ready. The continued restrictions mean that they can serve fewer dine-in patrons, so we made sure to reserve a seat well in advance. The interior has that old-school feel like the place had been here for decades. We liked the mix of tables, booths, and high-tops, which allowed each group a choice of comfort level. They even have some outdoor patio seating available during seasonable weather.

Bringing the Handhelds

Since our last tasting, we had been awaiting this opportunity. With no time to waste, we dove headfirst into the menu by ordering up a bowl of Smoked Beef Brisket Poutine. (pictured at the top of the article) Ever since our visit to Quebec City, we have fallen in love with this comfort food. This hearty dish of fries, cheese curds, and gravy is kicked to another notch with the addition of chopped brisket chunks and BBQ sauce. Yeah, we already knew we would be waddling out of this joint. What goes well with this type of finger food, why a sandwich of course.

When I mentioned our upcoming visit to coworkers, one told me a story about his favorite handheld. The Mr. Burns is a stacked missile of flavor aimed right at your taste buds. The combination of burnt ends chunks, pepper jack cheese, onion straws, and chipotle bbq sauce are barely contained in the toasted bun. Let me tell you that this creation makes sharing difficult. With the height restrictions of our mouths well below the altitude of this sammie, we had quite a time attempting to shove it down our gullets. In the end, we definitely found ourselves licking our fingers in blissful satisfaction.

Tempting Sides

There are a few ways of breaking the bbq barrier. The obvious has to do with the main courses, but attention to delivering special side dishes goes a long way in helping. Barbecue has a long history of being accompanied by certain sides. The idea of visiting a barbecue restaurant and not finding baked beans or potato salad is nearly unimaginable. Coleslaw is another staple, but like the first two, they leave plenty of room for variations. Q39 chooses to deliver up an Apple Slaw that brings a distinct sweetness to the palate. We thought that the Orzo Pasta Salad was another nice twist. A nice texture was accentuated by the addition of oven-roasted tomatoes, spinach, and peppers, as well as a delicate basil vinaigrette.

Major Meatiness

One of our favorite things to find on a menu is some type of sampler plate. We discovered a meaty feast during a visit to a BBQ joint in Lee’s Summit, and since then have been on the lookout for others. Q39 offers a couple of options with a Combo Plate (2 types of meat) or our choice of the Judge’s Plate. There are five meat choices and our picks were the Chipotle Sausage, Pulled Pork, and Q Pork Spare Ribs. For those with a meatier appetite, you can bump it up with an extra rib, or some pork belly. Since we were already skirting with a food coma, we left it be with the standard serving. The smoky goodness of their meats shows that their recipes are tried and tested on the bbq circuit. Every scrumptious bite was a melody to our taste buds.

Sweet Endings

Now you can imagine just how full we were by the end of our meal. When our server asked about dessert, we can only imagine the look of sheer desperation in our eyes. We knew that it would be hard to say we had really explored the menu at Q39 without sampling their sweet offerings. A couple that jumped out at us was the Carrot Cake (my personal favorite) and the Turtle Cheesecake. The first was a delightfully moist cake topped with a creamy frosting. The pecan pieces added a nice crunch. Our second selection was a flavor-packed treat with a chocolate crumb crust and blended drizzle of caramel and milk chocolate. Yeah, we were definitely stuffed to the gills.

Breaking the BBQ Barrier

Like so many of the successful newer barbecue joints, Q39 is driven by the force of a leader tested on the barbecue circuit. Owner Rob Magee followed this same path, assembling a crack team named Munchin’ Hogs. Putting his culinary trained background to work, his team would climb the circuit and amass many victories over the next ten years. Transferring the lessons learned during competition can be just as challenging as satisfying picky judges. From the rave reviews we have seen, as well as our personal experience, we believe that it has been a huge success. Breaking the BBQ barrier may be difficult, but Q39 is proving that it isn’t impossible.

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Flavorsome Finger Foods – McClain’s Market

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 10:00:36 +0000

For decades, the McLain family served the locals in and around the Waldo area. Three generations of the family-operated this local bakery, delivering pastries, bread, and cakes to eager customers. There would often be long lines waiting for their chance to snatch up some of the goodies. When the McLain family sold the business in 2001, they made sure it remained in the hands of a Kansas City family. 13 years later the bakery would change hands again and is now in the loving care of the Hirlemans. After gaining the trust and respect of customers, they have been able to expand their operations to more locations. We dropped by the McLain’s Market in Shawnee to sample some of their flavorsome finger foods.

Eye Candy

The newest addition to the McLain’s family is their Shawnee location at 5833 Nieman Road. For years we would pass the OK Garage, which previously occupied the building. When the new bakery opened in the summer of 2020, we knew it was just a matter of time before we visited. Photos from our friends on Instagram made everything look so enticing. We made our visit on a cool winter day, just before Christmas. The warm interior space was a welcome change from the cold winds outside. Our first stop was to order our lunch from the counter near the front door.

Simple Spaces

Once that was accomplished, one of the staff members helped us find a seat. It is likely that seating will be less structured after the pandemic, but for now, they are insuring correct social distancing. Our seating gave us a window view of the outside and afforded us plenty of light on a cloudy day. On our way in the door, we made note of the oversized covered patio that includes some games. This will make a perfect getaway on warmer days. They also have a drive-thru, which we are sure to utilize in the future. The menu includes some flavorful finger foods that would work well for our breakfasts on the go. This is something we are always scoping out, so we are prepared when the travel season arrives.

CCS (Chicken Salad Sammie)

In short order, our meals were delivered to our table. The plans for the day were to have a light lunch, before heading out for some Christmas shopping. Crystal chose their Chicken Salad Sandwich, which is made with roasted chicken, cranberries, almonds, cream cheese, and Monterrey Jack. The addition of spring mix, tomatoes, and carrots add some crunch inside the slices of multigrain bread. The addition of chips on the side rounded out her lunch.

Grilled Cheese & Friends

With a slight chill still in my bones, I decided that some soup may work wonders. The menu called out a Grilled Cheese that looked quite appealing. The McClain’s twist on this flavorful finger food is to include tomato and arugula with the Havarti cheese. They serve it up on toasted sourdough and include a tangy Tomato Bisque for dipping. This combination really hit the spot and chased away what little chill was left.

Sweet Samples

During our visit to the counter, we made note of the case filled with sweet treats. In the name of research, we will often sacrifice our waistlines, so that we can sample the available desserts. They have small bites made with cheesecake, flourless cake, and brownies. With so many choices, we finally just pointed and wished for the best. Each one was so delectable, and being so small we figured they shouldn’t have too many calories. After all, we have never shied away from calorie-filled treats.

Flavorsome Finger Foods

Adding a new coffee shop and lunch destination to our city’s inventory always thrills us. If you have followed along for any length of time, you know we love our morning cups of joe. McClain’s market serves up Sway Coffee, which was founded by the same people who own the restaurant. We like that they keep it local, as this helps bring a little more pride in ownership. While some may only think of Kansas City as a past home of Folger’s Coffee, we know that there are some other fantastic roasters hidden around our town. Be sure to check out more Kansas City restaurants that we have featured. Who knows what treasures you will discover.

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Folded Biscuit Bliss – Denver Biscuit Co.

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 10:00:36 +0000

When we heard that Denver Biscuit Company was coming to KC, images of fluffy mounds, covered in gravy, filled our thoughts. Little did we know, the reality would be fat stacks of folded biscuit bliss that would challenge our appetites. Our affinity for southern-style foods means that we love folded biscuits, although we never turn away the offer of drop biscuits either. Knowing that the company has its origins in Colorado, we were puzzled on how it decided to intertwine this southern classic into its menu. This would require a visit to their new site at 4144 Pennsylvania Avenue to solve the mystery.

Welcome to KC

Westport is the perfect backdrop for opening new restaurants. With a steady stream of customers and lower rents than the Plaza, you only need to concern yourself with delivering consistently good dishes. It seems like some have learned this, as seen by the recent addition of Snooze A.M. Eatery, another Colorado-based business. The owner of Denver Biscuit, Drew Shader, is originally from Florida, so we now understand why his restaurant features folded biscuit bliss. His drive to deliver unbelievable eats has motivated him to create his “pièce-de-résistance”, the Atomic Cowboy.

Hip Hangout

Atomic Cowboy is actually one of four stops that now call the Old City Ice House building home. Recently, we have seen the rise in “food halls”, where a variety of mini-restaurants cohabitate a space. This newest version brings together Fat Sully’s (pizza), Frozen Gold (ice cream), and Denver Biscuit (sandwiches) all under the Atomic Cowboy (cocktails) umbrella. It’s kind of a one-stop-shop for groups since everyone can pick their favorites.

Sugary Fat Stacks

Our visit was timed out as a late brunch, which allowed us to feel okay sampling breakfast and lunch style dishes. Shannon, our server, was quick to get us on track with some coffee. Since we were newbies at this place, we let her walk us through the menu. Denver Biscuit has plenty of breakfast sammies but also includes some unique twists with their biscuits. When we asked our server what the most popular menu item was, she didn’t hesitate to answer. The Giant Biscuit Cinnamon Rolls are truly a sight to behold. We ordered it at the same time as the rest of our meals, so you can imagine our surprise when this sugary fat stack was delivered to our table.

The Lola

Speaking of sweet surprises, Crystal had chosen to sample The Lola. This tempting creation is made with buttermilk fried chicken, bacon, and housemade honey butter. But wait, they don’t stop there. To kick it up another notch, the whole thing is drenched in maple syrup. Each bite was a combination of sweet and savory flavors. While the cinnamon roll was larger than life, this sammie was peaking even higher. The first thing that came to mind was “How do you eat something like this?” Have no fear, we developed a successful plan of attack and soon it was just a memory.

The Schooner

Now how can you top a sammie as huge as Crystal’s? Well for me, I merely had to order The Schooner. This towering creation shines a light on the savory side of the menu at Denver Biscuit. To create it, they begin with the folded biscuit bliss that had us falling in love with the taste and texture. In between the top and bottom of the biscuit, they install a fat stack of flavors. Cornmeal and PBR Beer battered catfish filets provide a punch of taste that was a first for me. Of course, you have to accent it, so they included tartar sauce, Coleslaw, and tomato for zest. I would have never thought that they could build a fish sammie so tall.

Fat Stacks of Flavor

The unbelievable scale of our dishes had us remembering the oversized burgers we had in Springfield, Missouri. We would hazard to say that these folded biscuit treats were even taller than the burgers. While our meal was certainly filled with unusual folded biscuit based dishes, there were others on the menu that we need to test out. After all, we had to pass up their version of Strawberry Shortcake and Biscuit French Toast. There is even a Biscuit Pot Pie on the menu that sounded absolutely amazing. Looks like we will have to keep Denver Biscuit Co. on our radar for future dining opportunities. Do you think you could handle these towering treats?

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Brown & Loe – A Happy Hour Story

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 09 Oct 2020 09:00:38 +0000

Like many of you, we enjoy a visit to our local city market. In fact, the historic City Market in Kansas City has been a staple of the downtown since 1857. The vibrant neighborhood that surrounds the market is filled with unique shops and restaurants. Going in search of a fun evening out, we planned ourselves a Happy Hour story that included a stop at Brown & Loe. This upscale eatery, located at 429 Walnut, looked like the perfect site to eat, drink, and escape from the madness of the work week.

Soaking in the Sunshine

We have spent many weekend mornings perusing the City Market in search of treasures. Even during the pandemic, we have found that the farmer’s market is still a great place to find flowers and fresh fruit. It is less frequent that we visit the area on a Friday evening. Of course, we have traveled down to the area along the streetcar during one of the city’s First Friday Artwalks. On this particular sunny evening, the temperatures were hovering in the upper 90s. While the patio sounded inviting, we found that all of the shady spots were taken.

Brown & Loe Historic Digs

With the option of melting in the sun not sounding appealing, we decided to enjoy the air-conditioning inside. At first, we had the place nearly to ourselves, but in a while other couples began arriving. Brown & Loe is located inside of the Merchant’s Bank building on the corner of 5th and Walnut. This historic two-story structure, built in the 1920s, was also occupied by a produce dealer during the 1940s. Fortunately, when the new design was being planned for the restaurant, they kept many of the original details. The marble floors and beautiful moldings make great eye candy.

Sultry Sips

Our Happy Hour story needed to take place between 3:00 and 6:00 on a Monday through Friday. Those are the times that Brown & Loe run their specialty menu. We decided to order up a couple of sultry sips, while we scanned the menu for some tasty bites. After consulting with our server, we decided that one of our drinks should be the Purple Mist. This colorful cocktail consists of vodka, lavender. ginger, and lime. It tasted just as sophisticated as it looked. Our second choice was the Pisco Sour, which contains Pisco, lime, lemon, and egg white. Although we shared the drinks, it didn’t take long for us each to pick a favorite.

Something Different

Something on the menu that caught our attention was their Queso Dip. Now we love trying the variety of options at various restaurants, because there are so many ways to fix it. Brown & Loe adds fun twists on the dish by tossing in candied jalapeno slices to add some more kick. What really got us going was the substitution of crunchy chicharrons for the usual tortilla chips. These airy puffed pieces added a touch of fun and flavor to the appetizer. This may have just become our “new” favorite Queso stop.

Join the Club

After nibbling on our appetizer (actually we devoured it), it was time to turn our attention to more substantial dishes. Our Happy Hour story was quickly phasing into dinner and a couple of handhelds seemed to be the perfect fit. Crystal had spotted a specific sandwich on the menu and even I knew she couldn’t pass it up. The Turkey Club, at Brown & Loe, is made with a heaping helping of roasted turkey. This gets joined by smashed avocado, pepper bacon, tomato, and a smear of chipotle aioli. Sandwich it all between slices of toasted sourdough bread for a delectable dish. Their house-made Buttermilk Chips made a good compliment to this healthy meal.

Hearty Helping

I will freely admit to being more of a beef fan. While Crystal was enjoying her fowl dish, I was not about to pass on the Steak Sandwich, which is no run of the mill dish. They start with Aleppo pepper rubbed skirt steak that has been cooked to juicy perfection. Accompany this with caramelized onions, horseradish, cheddar cheese, truffle oil, house steak sauce, and garlic aioli for an extra kick of flavors. Toss in some fresh arugula for color and squeeze it all inside of a toasted French roll. The addition of crispy French Fries made this meal hearty enough for most any appetite.

Brown & Loe Brings It Home

By the time we finished our visit at Brown & Loe, Happy Hour had expired. Stepping back out into the scorching August sunlight was a bit of a shock. We decided to forego a stroll around City Market and instead headed back to the climate-controlled environment of our car. As we made our way through the market neighborhood, we spotted one of our favorite ice cream shops, Betty Rae’s. After doing a gut-check, we decided that there was just no room left for a creamy treat. I guess we will have to wait until our next City Market visit.

Share with a Happy Hour Buddy!

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Cupini’s – Friends, Family, and Food

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 28 Aug 2020 09:00:26 +0000

To be successful in the restaurant business requires a high level of commitment. It helps when you have your priorities clearly determined. Franco Cupini is a man who is dedicated to friends, family, and food. His love for the restaurant business shines through when you see him working at his Westport eatery, Cupini’s. Franco was born in Rome, Italy where he developed his love for marinara sauce. After a successful career working for the president of Italy, he migrated to the United States. That move would eventually lead him to Kansas City and allow him to share his passion with all of us.

We want to thank Franco Cupini for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Cupini’s Counter

Franco, and his son Eddie, opened Cupini’s at 1809 Westport Road, in 2003. Their business model was basic, which makes it easy to repeat day after day. To them, Italian cuisine is all about freshness. To accomplish this, they make all of their pasta in-house daily. When a customer comes in to dine, it is these fresh ingredients that make each dish amazing. Their pasta has become so popular that they even sell it by the pound for customers to use at home. Cupini’s runs efficiently by having customers place their order at the counter, before finding a seat in the dining areas. By waving the standard table service routine, they are able to get started on dishes quicker and diners don’t have a long wait for their meals.

A Familiar Face

As we waited our turn to order, we looked around at the decor. Franco has assembled quite a collection of photos that show how important friends and family are to this business. We noticed the familiar face of Guy Fieri in a few of the photos. We have visited quite a few restaurants that have been featured by this Food Network star. In fact, we have even been bumped, if only temporarily, by Guy. This occurred during a visit to The Root Cafe in Little Rock, Arkansas. We did not look at this as being slighted, but more as we had made an excellent choice in dining destinations.

Simply Satisfying

While preparing to order, we realized that Cupini’s has a bounty of Italian cuisine choices. Matthew, who was leading the staff when we arrived, came out to offer some assistance. We discussed the variety of options and decided to sample from a few categories. Most of the main meals are served with side salads, so that covered our appetizer. We had seen photos of Cupini’s pizzas on social media, so we had to add a small one to our order. This was a wise choice and we both savored the delicious crust and rich toppings of our Margherita Pizza.

Variety is the Spice of Life

After placing our order, we found a table near the front windows. This allowed a view of traffic along Westport Road. With the tables being spaced for appropriate social distancing, the dining area felt spacious. In a flash our dishes began arriving. As they were piled on the table we began wondering what we were thinking. Matthew reassured us that they had plenty of to-go- boxes available. Now we sat there facing not only the pizza and salads but two pasta dishes.

Plenty of Pasta at Cupini’s

Crystal and I are fortunate to share a sense of adventure, although mine is a little more robust. When it comes to dining, we enjoy sharing our experiences and discussing the merits of each dish. Franco had dropped by our table to see how we were doing but quickly excused himself so that we could focus on our meals. To get a better feel for the menu at Cupini’s, we had added a plate of Chicken & Prosciutto Tortellini. The flavor was amazing and the freshness was quite apparent. We also included an order of Chicken Spiedini, which blends the flavors of chicken, ham, tomato, onion, and Mozzarella cheese. After taking plenty of photos of our tablescape, it was time to dig into our mountain of food.

Quality Control

Once our dinner had been consumed, or at least all that we could finish. It was time for me to meet up with Franco Cupini. He led me through the restaurant space to a banquet-style hall that was housed in an adjacent building. We sat for a few minutes and discussed his business philosophy. As he told me his story, the passion he has for this business became apparent. All of the moves he has made throughout his life have led him on a path to this moment. With the continued success of the restaurant, he sees that it is opening new opportunities for the future. Many of these will be offshoot enterprises that will complement the core restaurant business. It is nice to know that there are business people who are still bullish about the future.

Sweets Galore

As we were wrapping up, Franco wanted to show me how they prepare their picturesque desserts. I watched with wonder as one of the staff topped cake after cake. Clearly he had this down to an art. Now it was time for Crystal and me to sample some of the artwork. Franco led me to the front counter and walked through the large variety of sweet desserts, which they offer up daily. The choices were overwhelming, so he eventually asked Matthew to assemble a selection for us to sample. The next thing we knew, our table was decorated with four slices of artistically designed desserts. With flavors like Passion Fruit Mousse, Zuccotto, Tiramisu, and Chocolate Mousse, it was difficult to select our favorite.

Cupini’s Couple

This is one of those visits that we were glad we took a selfie, before eating. I’m sure there was probably a little marinara sauce and maybe a smear of chocolate on my chin. We were completely impressed with the freshness of the dishes at Cupini’s. When you add on the quick turn time to get orders out to customers, it makes for a complete win-win. While Italian cuisine is not one we eat on a regular basis, this may change now that we found a restaurant that is filled with friends, family, and fantastic food. Have you ever sampled the fresh pasta at Cupini’s? We’d love to hear your experiences, so drop us a note in the comments section below. Ciao!

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Funny Names And Flavorful Food – The Shack

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 21 Aug 2020 09:00:28 +0000

What draws you to a new restaurant? Over the past three years we have written articles for around 50 restaurants in the Kansas City metro. When you add in all of the other cities that number jumps to nearly 200 articles. Prior to starting this website, I hosted a restaurant blog that featured many more. I guess the point I’m trying to make is that we have dined at a lot of restaurants. These days many of the places we showcase are recommended by our readers. Periodically, I will happen upon a place that has a ton of intrigue and we just have to make a visit. That is exactly what happened with The Shack, at 7218 College Boulevard. Their menu touts funny names and flavorful food items that we just had to check out for ourselves.

Fun Vibe

With a mantra of ” We Put the GOOD in Good Morning”, we had elevated expectations for The Shack. The addition of “social distancing” has limited the number of customers allowed in the restaurant at one time. This caused a bit of a lag, but we were happy to enjoy a little relaxed time before breakfast. While we waited a surprise greeted us in the form of one of our Instagram connections. It’s still amazing when people recognize us from our photos on social media. It also reminds us that we are never the first to try a new place, and many of you have laid the groundwork that allows us to have fantastic visits.

Hopping Hangout

Once our turn arrived, we were seated in the dining room. The Shack also offers patio seating, but we wanted to experience the full vibe of the place. Colorful signage is complimented with interesting decor pieces. The walls are almost entirely covered in handwritten signatures and memos left by previous customers. This is something we would add our logo to prior to our departure. Looking around the restaurant, it became apparent that this place attracts an energized crowd. This was a positive sign that the funny names and fantastic food was more than just a promise. With some piping hot coffee to sip on, we began our headfirst dive into the menu.

Funny Names and Flavorful Food

The Shack has a video on their website that gives a peek into how they name their dishes. It’s not scientific in the least, and is more a random experiment. This had led to a menu filled with funny names that guests have to figure out. Fortunately, many are obvious nods to cultural sayings, while others leave you scratching your head. My choice was labeled Why the French Hate Us, which was fairly easy to discern. It begins with a toasted croissant that is split open. They stuff it with two hefty sausage links and scrambled eggs. To make sure it goes down easy, they coat it with a helping of Shack sausage gravy and top this with cheddar cheese. In case you are still hungry, a serving of crispy hash browns also adorns the plate.

Prison Food?

On a bed of hash browns, they slap down a split biscuit that is topped with a fried chicken breast. Smother this grouping with some of their house-made gravy. Sprinkle it with cheddar cheese, before layering on a pair of eggs. What’s missing? Let’s garnish it with some chopped green onions for that POP of color. When they place it on the table, you are staring down a serving of If Tim & Biebs Went To Prison. This was Crystal’s choice and I can tell you it was delightful. This savory compilation of breakfast items work perfectly together and deliver another serving of funny names and flavorful food.

Taking It to The Shack

Our visit to The Shack had cemented our newfound love for funny named dishes. The owners have hit this one out of the park and their growing success proves it. Starting in the St. Louis region, they had a lot of dining options to contend with for name recognition. Their format worked, as they now have five restaurants in Missouri and are working on opening their third here in Kansas City. We can almost guarantee that if they keep serving their flavorful food, the line will snake its way out the door. Isn’t it time you checked out their funny names and flavorful food for yourself?

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Iron District – Taking It Outside

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 09:00:38 +0000

It seems that people are coming up with new ways to re-purpose familiar items all of the time. Finding alternative uses for shipping containers seemed to be a logical next step. A visit to North Kansas City, Missouri showed us how one group of ingenious people had built a space that combines function and frugality into one. The Iron District is a destination space comprised of locally-owned eateries, boutique shops, and entertainment options. All of this is wrapped up into shiny metal boxes.

Incubating New Businesses

The idea of creating a business park with shipping containers isn’t new to us. We first saw the business model at the Boxyard in Tulsa, Oklahoma. By arranging the various shops around a casual courtyard, you offer small businesses a way to be seen. This form of a business incubator is a transition platform to move to brick and mortar buildings. Food truck owners can gain a static site from which to offer their food. Boutique shops are able to go from online sales to a semi-permanent status. As each business matures, it will move along and open space for the next new company.

Heating Up the Iron District

On the day that we visited the Iron District, Kansas City was in the middle of a hot spell. Those of you in the middle of the country can understand how the heat and humidity can combine in an unfriendly fashion. The idea of dining outdoors was less than optimal, but we found that there is a lot of shade to be found. Of course, when you combine the heat, humidity, and pandemic together, it certainly cuts back on the crowds. Maybe that is why people were foregoing the entertainment activities provided by the businesses. No matter, we were determined to have an enjoyable lunch with our daughter, Amanda.

AvoBite

Since our main purpose was lunch, we decided that we wouldn’t let a little heat interfere. Our first activity was to check out all of the dining options available in the Iron District. After scouting them all out, the hard decision of picking one was next up. Crystal had spotted a dish at AvoBite that looked quite promising. The name hints at the idea this food container serves up plenty of avocado-based dishes. As she scanned the menu billboard, her tastes had settled on the El Mexicano. This mixed-up bowl of flavors starts with a base of cilantro lime rice. Toss in fajita-style chicken, Mexican street corn, a whole avocado, and feta cheese for a wild punch of flavors. The whole bowl is drizzled with a house-made Salsa Verde for an additional kick.

Plantain District

Amanda and I ended up having similar tastes, so we both chose dishes from Plantain District. You know that I can’t pass up an opportunity to sample a new Cuban Sandwich. The one at this container kitchen has some good flavor and plenty of protein. The sammie is well pressed and packed with all of the flavors one expects from an authentic version of the Latin delicacy. Toss in some plantain chips and fresh fruit for a complete flavor package.

Amanda got close to my order but veered off at the last second. Her selection of Mojo Cuban Chicken Nachos brought a big variety of flavors to the table. Starting with a base of plantain chips, they pile on marinated chicken, black beans, pickled red onion, Cotija cheese, green onions, cilantro, and even some jalapeno slices for added heat. This start-up has certainly developed some intriguing dishes that bring a ton of flavor.

Boxy Boutiques

The Iron District has plenty of delectable dishes to draw customers in, but that’s not all they offer. Scattered around the container businesses are some boxy boutiques. These offer a diversion from the food and games found around the courtyard. Most are focused on pleasing the female visitors to the Iron District. That will certainly ebb and flow as start-ups move in and out in the coming years. One of the first we spotted was 3&Me Boutique, which we recognize from their previous life on West 39th Street. They have been joined by Bombshell Boutique and Bohéme. All of these shops serve up unique pieces sure to satisfy that special someone.

A Sweet Surprise from Sno Buh

You know if they have ice cream around, we are sure to find out. Sure enough, Sno Buh is serving up some picture-perfect options. During our visit, they had two flavors of soft-serve running. Each could be dispensed in a cup or cone. With four cone flavors to choose from, who would want to stick to a plain old cup. The fun doesn’t stop at the cone, they also have a plethora of topping to make your treat one of a kind. Crystal certainly showed us up when she had them construct her a Key Lime Pie in a cone. I think the idea of sampling more options is enough to draw us back here time after time.

Taking It Outside

The Iron District certainly delivers on the idea of a new dining and shopping venture in Kansas City. It’s almost a given that others will see the success of this type of business model and want to replicate it in other regions of the metro. Finding alternative uses for everyday objects is truly a noble idea and adds a nice bit of novelty to this destination. Being a business incubator means that over time we will discover new start-ups moving in so that the landscape is ever-changing. This makes for a win-win for businesses and customers alike. Have you ever visited the Iron District?

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German Smorgasbord At Affäre

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 09:00:17 +0000

Kansas City can be described in many ways, but we like to think of it as the “Melting Pot of the Midwest”. Within the boundaries of the metro, you can find nearly every ethnicity. This provides an amazing array of cultures, and they each bring their unique cuisine to the table. Diners can choose from a Thai banquet to a German smorgasbord. We have tried to delve deep into this mix, but in reality, we have only scratched the surface. In just the main five-county portion of the city, it is estimated that there are over 3200 eateries. That’s a lot of spots to try to visit.

Pre-Social Distancing

One of the cuisines that we had not featured is a German Smorgasbord. In Kansas City, there are a handful of options, but one of the premier stops is Affäre. They tout themselves as a seasonal dining experience with a German twist. Located at 1911 Main Street, in the Crossroads District, it is a popular destination for upscale dining. We knew that visiting on a First Friday would be crazy busy, so we chose a quieter Sunday evening. Stepping through the door, we were greeted with a dim interior, which sets a sultry tone for an evening meal. The seating arrangement is well spaced, and this was even before the necessity of “social distancing”.

Family Dinner

On this outing, we were joined by our daughter, Amanda. All of us were eager to sample the variety that can be found at a German smorgasbord. Fortunately, we were in luck, as Affäre was offering a Sunday Night Family Dinner. This Prix-fixe meal was comprised of a starter, followed by an ample amount of protein choices. The sheer volume of food would challenge even the biggest appetites, but we knew that we could always take home leftovers.

Let’s Get Started

One of the nice things about a German smorgasbord is that you only have to make a few selections. Once your order is in, you sit back and wait for the plates to begin arriving. It didn’t take long before we were staring at a huge Salat Teller (Salad Platter). The mixture of greens was accompanied by an assortment of diced vegetables. Two dressing choices were included, as well. This was a nice palate-cleansing start to our meal.

German Smorgasbord Staples

We were still enjoying our appetizer when the first main dishes began arriving. A platter full of Weinerschnitzel was accompanied by a side of Spinach & Blue Cheese Gaspaetzle. The schnitzel was served with a spicy mustard sauce that enhanced the flavor of the breaded pork cutlet. The flavor of the meat was quite different from the chicken schnitzel we had sampled in Amana, Iowa. None of us were familiar with the spaetzle, which is a German form of egg noodles. The creamy sauce had a hint of sharpness that came from the cheese. It was the perfect side for our meaty meal.

Protein-Packed Dinner

With the schnitzel as a warm-up, we were ready for the next round of protein. Without having a full background of German cuisine, it appears it was developed for robust hunger. One can only assume that the meals revolved around heavy loads of protein designed to fuel the working class. Our server arrived with a platter that contained a pair of meaty treats. A Wagyu Beef Loin was cooked to tender perfection and accompanied by two varieties of German Brats. At Affäre, the artisan brats are made in-house using local meats and traditional recipes. These were deliciously flavorful.

As we continued to pick away at our robust main courses, we realized that we needed to save room for dessert. While these were not included in Sunday Family Dinner, there was no way that we would overlook this important portion of any German smorgasbord.

A Sweet Ending

They had a few options to choose from, so we decided to pick our two favorites. Our first choice was a Pear Tart with Almond Paste. The thin layers of sliced pear was a nice choice to pair with the creamy and sweet almond paste. Crystal wanted to make sure we sampled the Apple Strudel, and we all loved the moist layers that we found in each bite. While we savored our delightful desserts, our server packed up our leftovers for the ride home. After thanking the staff for such a wonderful experience, we made our way back into the night. All the way home we discussed the idea of finding other Kansas City German smorgasbord destinations for future excursions. Have you discovered any that you would like to share?

Share with a German Food Lover!

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Tastes Of New Orleans – KC Daiquiri Shop

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 19 Jun 2020 09:00:11 +0000

Living in the landlocked Midwest has its pros and cons. While one of the biggest pluses is the amazing people in every city and town, there are things we miss at times. Traveling around North America has allowed us to sample a variety of cuisines and flavors from all corners of the continent. The tastes of New Orleans have become some of our favorites, but one that is rare in our neck of the woods. When a friend clued us in on a new restaurant in downtown KCMO we just had to try it out. KC Daiquiri Shop is located at 1116 Grand Blvd and is bringing the true tastes of New Orleans to our hometown.

We want to thank KC Daiquiri Shop for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Playing by the Rules

Even though we are still going through the phases of lockdown, we just had to try this spot out. When we arrived, on a Friday evening, we found that others had already come up with the same idea. The KC Daiquiri Shop is a spin-off from the original startup in Dallas, Texas. Their business model is fairly simple and straight-forward. Serve up authentic Cajun/Creole dishes, toss in a few special features, and dole out amazing daiquiris. As we waited, the appropriate social distance in line, we scanned the menu to see what delightful delicacies we would choose.

Mixing It Up

When our turn arrived, we were giddy with anticipation. The entire menu is filled with entries we have chosen time and again during our visits to New Orleans. Should we have a Po’Boy Sandwich or maybe try one of their custom wraps? I know, let’s get a drink while we decide. Just like in the French Quarter, we found a spot featuring a wall lined with colorful concoctions waiting to be dispensed. Everything from sweet to fruity to strong was awaiting our taste buds. When they told us they have some unique mixes, we decided to sample the Willy Wonka. This baby had plenty of flavors, and a kick that matched.

Tastes of New Orleans

With so many tastes of New Orleans to sample, we couldn’t choose just one. Fortunately, they offer some baskets that gave us an opportunity to sample a variety of their dishes. Even though we were not allowed to dine-in, we still found a table to stage our dishes for some photos. This certainly was a nice change from doing all of the food shots on our dining room table. Once we completed our photoshoot, the staff quickly boxed it all up for our journey home.

Cajun Classics

During my younger days, I spent my summers at my grandparent’s farm in Southeast Kansas. My grandma was well known for her delicious fried foods, which often included fish filets. She liked to add plenty of kick to her crusts since it helped bring depth to the flavors of a dish. As I took a bite of the crunchy filet in my Crispy Cajun Basket, I was drawn back to those days. The addition of popcorn shrimp brought more pleasure to my taste buds, but it was the crispy wings that sealed the deal. These bad boys are amazing and I couldn’t get enough. I believe I have just found my new all-time favorite wing stop.

Bringing the Heat

Crystal has long favored Blackened Chicken for her NOLA-style entree. This is the dish she orders every time we visit Jazz. When she saw it on the menu at KC Daiquiri Shop her choice was a done deal. The basket she chose also included some Blackened Shrimp, which had a real Louisiana bite. Oh yeah, that’s why we got the daiquiri! This combo brought tons of flavor to the table and didn’t last long.

Savory Sides

You can’t have all of those main dishes without adding a couple of sides. Our choices were Red Beans & Rice (on left) and Gumbo. Let’s talk about red beans & rice. We have tried a plethora of variations on this dish, with a wide range of success. The version at KC Daiquiri Shop is as close to perfect as we have ever sampled. The true tastes of New Orleans come through in every bite. It made us wonder if we would end up being let down by the gumbo. No worries there, either. This hearty dish is a well-balanced mix of meat and veggies with the perfect amount of peppers.

Bringing NOLA to KC

Now we know the photo above is from NOLA, but this is how we felt after dining on the dishes from KC Daiquiri Shop. It is rare to find a place that can take regional flavors and transport them hundreds of miles away. This place has certainly done a bang-up job of bringing the tastes of New Orleans to Kansas City. You can be certain that this will become a regular stop for us when we are craving the spicy kick of some Cajun classics. Besides, a colorful daiquiri really hits the spot on a hot day.

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Creative Cantonese – ABC Cafe

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 05 Jun 2020 09:00:34 +0000

With the Stay at Home orders in place, you may have noticed an increased number of Asian restaurants in our blog lately. This has happened for two main reasons. First, we have recently discovered this amazing cuisine, so we are catching up on all of the great options around our hometown. The second reason is that these types of dishes travel well, which is important when you are on a carryout only basis. During a weekly visit from our daughter, we ventured a little farther from home to grab dinner at ABC Cafe, located at 10001 W. 87th Street. Their diverse menu allowed us to assemble a creative Cantonese dinner.

Make It To-Go

We sure are missing getting to have the complete experience at new venues. Part of our visits was to show what the interior looks like and give a feel for the atmosphere. So many of the restaurants are only doing curbside service, so it was nice to have an opportunity to step inside. At least now we know what it will be like when we get a chance to actually dine-in at ABC Cafe.

Starting with the Basics

Since there were three in our party, we figured we would go big and then go home. Having a couple of base dishes to tie our plates together was important for us. Besides, it means there is a better chance I will get leftovers. Our two choices wound up being Shrimp Sauteed with Rice Noodles and Chicken Fried Rice. Both dishes were light and did not present overpowering flavors. These made a good base to cleanse our taste buds between bites of the creative Cantonese dishes that accompanied the meal.

Exploring Dim Sum

As we unboxed our meal, we loved discovering each of the attractive packages of goodies. The translucent wrappers on the Steamed Shrimp Dumplings looked so delicate. Inside was a delicious mixture of shrimp and vegetables. It had such a light taste and pleasing texture. There are a variety of fillings available, so we also selected a serving of Pan-Fried Chicken Dumplings. It was interesting to note the difference in taste and texture that the two cooking styles impart on the dish. In hindsight, I realize I never got a closeup shot of our Siu Mai. These delicate steamed pork dumplings are accented by diced ginger and water chestnuts.

Creative Cantonese Cuisine

You can bet that if I am involved in the meal, there is sure to be at least one hearty meat dish. Seeing the BBQ Pork Roast on the menu sealed the deal for me. This dish takes a while to prepare, and many find it too much work to include on the menu. It begins with marinating the meat in a sweet BBQ sauce. After being roasted, many restaurants will also add a short step of “fork roasting”. This requires the meat to be roasted over a small pot of charcoal to achieve the crispy caramelized edges.

Our serving of Saut Ching Kang Choy added a punch of green to our meal. This dish brings the flavor of cabbage with the appearance of Swiss chard. Some people confuse this with Napa cabbage, but Bok Choy will usually have a stronger flavor.

An Old Favorite

It would be unlikely that we would pass up an order of Crab Rangoon when dining on Asian cuisine. This puffy treat has its roots with American Chinese culture. The origin of this crispy pastry can be traced back to the original Trader Vic’s in San Francisco. Since those days, it has morphed into an iconic appetizer that is synonymous with Chinese take-out. We have tried a vast variety of fillings, including some dessert Rangoon at a local KCK Chinese restaurant. While many of the ones we have sampled end up on the sweet side, the ones at ABC Cafe were impressively savory.

On the Sweet Side

Since we were going all out on our order, we just had to include a couple of sweet treats. The Coconut Rolls are a traditional roll found at most Asian bakeries. These are not overly sweet and include the taste of coconut. A good transition from the savory dinner dishes. We also ordered a serving of Red Bean Buns, which was a first for us. Our daughter has enjoyed these creative Cantonese delicacies and wanted us to sample them. The pillow-soft shell had a texture reminiscent of marshmallow, without the sweetness. Don’t be fooled, because buried inside is the sweet red bean paste from which the name derives. The filling has a distinct earthy taste that reminded me of sweet potato. Definitely a dish to be tried again.

Creative Cantonese Carryout

You would think that all of that food would have overwhelmed the three of us. Not quite. While we had some noodles and fried rice for lunches, the vast majority disappeared in the initial sitting. I imagine part of this is due to the unique flavor combinations we were experiencing from our creative Cantonese carryout. Now that we have learned that each Asian culture brings a variation to their dishes, we are eager to sample even more. Keep your eyes peeled for more interesting options as we explore the restaurants in and around our hometown.

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Thai Inspired Dishes – Lulu’s Noodles

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 08 May 2020 09:00:10 +0000

Have you ever made an assumption about a business based on partial information? This has actually happened to us a few times. It often occurs because we have failed to thoroughly research. Let’s look at an example of such an oversight. We first noticed Lulu’s Noodles during our day trips to downtown Lawrence, Kansas. During this period, we made an assumption that all they served were various flavors of noodle bowls. Unfortunately, that particular location has since closed, but it meant that it moved closer to us. Years would pass, before we discovered they offer up delicious Thai inspired dishes. It was quite apparent that they love doing what they do.

Happy Hour Hangout

We arrived at Lulu’s Noodles Crossroads location at the tail end of Happy Hour. Being located at 2030 Central Avenue puts them in the heart of a busy business district. First Friday Artwalks add another boost to their monthly business. We are sure that their Thai inspired dishes are what draw most of the customers. As we waited for our server to seat us, we noticed that the place was teeming with couples and groups enjoying some leisure time. Being early in the year, the colder weather was holding down the number of people attending this particular First Friday. Even with the cold, Lulu’s was still humming.

Savory Sampler

After being seated, we opened the menu to find quite a surprise. Sure, they had some noodle dishes, but much of the menu is filled with Thai inspired dishes. Knowing that the two of us will only eat so much, we always look for some sort of sampler. Right at the top of the menu, we discovered Lulu’s Sampler platter. Here we could test four different bites, which are common dishes in Asian cuisine.

The Sampler consists of a pair of Vietnamese Spring Rolls filled with vegetables and delightful rice vermicelli noodles. Crispy Crab Rangoon offers a nice tangy bite, and pair well with the Veggie Dumplings. The platter is rounded out with some Pork Dumplings that come fried or steamed. Their trio of dipping sauces gave us an additional way to add more flavor to our shareable bites. How many of you like to savor a sampler platter when visiting a new restaurant?

Thai Cashew Chicken

The first taste of Lulu’s menu had really hit the spot, but we still had some room to fill. We decided to split an entree dish to finish off our culinary visit. Thai Cashew Chicken seemed like a good fit for both of us since we have had a similar dish at other spots. This would give us a chance to compare theirs to a dish we had in an Overland Park eatery. When our plate arrived, the aroma was intoxicating. The dish consists of chicken, green beans, onions, and scallions all stir-fried in a delightful sauce. A heaping mound of jasmine rice makes a great base for mixing with the meal. You can imagine that we enjoyed every bite of this dish.

Thai Inspired Dishes

While our visit to Lulu’s Noodles occurred before the pandemic struck, we imagine that having their dishes to go would be just as flavorful. We have sampled some Thai inspired dishes from other places, on a carryout basis, and they travel well. As our country begins the cautious project of opening back up for business, we know that many of you will remain guarded about dining out. We are confident that the concerns of public safety will be addressed, as we learn more about how to safeguard ourselves. In the meantime, join us in supporting our local businesses by grabbing a meal to go and celebrating life. Now which of those appetizers looked most appealing to you?

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Bringing The Sea to KC – Jarocho Authentic Mexican Seafood

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 01 May 2020 09:00:37 +0000

Living in the landlocked Midwest can limit our access to fresh seafood. Few places have the dedication to do the legwork required to keep this type of pipeline running. Fortunately, we have a delectable option right in our hometown. Jarocho Authentic Mexican Seafood is bringing the sea to KC. We have been advised of the merits of this KCK restaurant for years but had overlooked trying it out. Since we find ourselves taking a look at places closer to home, this one popped up on our radar. Getting the first impression of a new eatery from their takeout really puts them to the test. Let’s see how they did.

Why Here?

When we first heard that a Mexican seafood restaurant had opened nearby, we wondered why here? Doing a little research, I found out that owner Carlos Falcon noticed the lack of good seafood options when he and his wife moved to Kansas City some twenty years ago. Being raised in Veracruz, Mexico, he had grown up with the ocean literally steps from his home. Combining his classic French training and love for Mexican seafood dishes has allowed Carlos to brighten the restaurant scene in Armourdale. Yes, this delightful dining experience is located deep in the heart of an industrial sector of the city, at 719 Kansas Avenue. We are finding that there’s an assortment of chefs serving up amazing dishes all over KCK, just like this one we found near downtown.

Well Packed

Our order was called in and they asked us to allow about 15 minutes for them, to prepare it. That worked out as just about the amount of time it takes to get there from our home. We arrived at Jarocho, on a Friday evening, for our to-go “date night”. After a few selfies outside of the restaurant, we headed in to pick up our meal. With all of the businesses shuttered temporarily, it makes getting around fairly easy. Inside, we found that our meal was just being packed up, so we paid and headed home. This environment has certainly diminished the presentation portion of our dining experience, so the flavor is more important than ever.

Going Family Pack

The online menu at Jarocho has an astonishing amount of variety. Besides bringing the sea to KC, it also includes many standard Mexican cuisine dishes. Looking over the options, we noticed that they offer a Family Pack that comes with two entrees and a grouping of side dishes. This sounded like plenty for the two of us and would supply me with leftovers for lunch. The deal comes with some of their fresh Guacamole & Chips, which was a creamy delight. The smooth flavor of the avocado offered a pleasant alternate from their vinegar-based Mexican Slaw. For those of you used to a sweeter Coleslaw, this is a refreshing change of pace.

Creamy Chipotle Jumbo Shrimp

Since the Family Pack allows the choice of two entrees, we each decided to pick one that sounded intriguing. Crystal gravitated to the Creamy Chipotle Jumbo Shrimp. They didn’t exaggerate when they called them jumbo. This delicate dish is created with a creamy sauce that brings a punch of flavor. The mixture of jalapeno, cilantro, garlic, and onions blended so well with the cream to add a decadent taste. Paired with their Yellow Rice, it was a complete hit with Crystal. In fact, her words were “This is so freaking good!” That is the first time I have heard that phrase come out of her lips. High praise from a person who shies away from seafood, and it shows that Jarocho is definitely bringing the sea to KC.

Steak & Shrimp

Knowing what Crystal had chosen, I decided to see how well they do with beef. The Sirloin & Shrimp entree looked like a good opportunity. This dish features an 8 ounce Top Sirloin that is cooked to order. Alongside this, they included some grilled shrimp in a chipotle sauce. Like Crystal’s dish, the sauce was an amazing blend of flavors that accentuate not drown out the main course. With the addition of the sides, this was enough for me to have plenty to take for lunch. By the way, it was just as delicious reheated the following day.

Bringing the Sea to KC

Even though this was our first foray into the menu at Jarocho, we immediately realized it would not be our last. Who knew that Mexican seafood cuisine is filled with such complex flavors? Now that we have broken the seal, we will certainly have to expand on our selections. While seafood is not our regular cuisine choice, the Family Pack will certainly give us a way to sample other menu choices. Knowing that we can pick one tried and true classic will make experimenting less risky. Who knows, our next meal at Jarocho may include Grilled Spanish Octopus or the Veracruz Fish Filet. Which of those would you be willing to sample?

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Hole In The Wall Dining – Grandstand Burgers

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 09:00:09 +0000

We all have our home town favorites that seem to draw us back over and over. For some, it may be the atmosphere or the feeling of nostalgia. One thing that is usually required is the ability to deliver a consistent meal that we can count on time after time. Living in a larger metropolitan area means there are a few of these types of places to choose from. One that we find ourselves near frequently is Grandstand Burgers, at 4942 Merriam Drive. Sitting on a busy corner, this diminutive eatery has been serving up Hole in the Wall Dining for nearly twenty years.

Close Quarters

Grandstand Burgers is the type of place that is designed for carryout service. When this social distancing order went into effect, it was easy for a place this small to adapt. Oh, there have been a few changes, but their day-to-day routine fits well with the new requirements. In the past, we would find ourselves squeezing into the shack-sized space to place our order. These days, patrons wait their turn outside and only enter one-by-one. Once you’ve placed your order, you head back outside to wait for your finished products to be brought out by staff. It is all quite efficient.

Kelly All the Way

Of course, efficiency is only one way to measure the success of a hole in the wall dining establishment. What’s important is the taste of the finished product. It needs to be consistently delicious and satisfying. Grandstand Burgers hits it out of the park in this category. Their menu is as simple as their motto. Makeup in taste what you lack in flash. Designed around their juicy burgers, they have included a few other standard fare handhelds to satisfy the masses. I’m sure someday we will sample one of those other options, but it seems that every visit has found us gravitating to their burgers.

On this particular day, I found myself ordering a Kelly Burger. This interesting combination of meaty flavors is their most popular offering. I’m not sure who came up with the idea of tossing a slice of ham on a bacon cheeseburger, but it was genius. Throw in some tater tots and onion rings and you have a full meal. We may not be talking about healthy food, but we love our weekend splurge.

All-American Burger

Crystal was in the mood for something a little less meaty, so she ordered their standard Cheeseburger. Just because it was lacking the bacon and ham, it didn’t diminish the quality of the burger. That is one of the things we like about Grandstand Burgers. We also admire a place that serves up meat patties as large as the bun. None of that “Where’s the Beef?” here. We have a list of our favorite burger joints and this is one of the criteria we use to pick them. Christy’s Tasty Queen is another hole in the wall dining choice, in this category.

When she selected her sides, onion rings were also in her top picks. The ones at Grandstand Burgers are nice and crispy. She added some of their crinkly French fries to the mix, as well. Since we were selecting combination meals, they both came with drinks. While we will usually fall back on water for our beverage, this evening we selected Big Red for a little bonus treat. In the end, we both wound up stuffed.

Hole In The Wall Dining

While the carry-out only order is in effect, we are having to work a little harder to find suitable dining options. Hole in the wall dining locations is geared toward delivering “grab it and go” style meals. We hope to find a broader selection of restaurants to feature so that we all can see plenty of options. If there are places we are missing please drop us a note in the comments section below. We would love to showcase some more of our local small businesses who are working to make our lives a little bit better. Thanks!

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Creative Carryout At Woodyard Bar-B-Que

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 17 Apr 2020 09:00:47 +0000

As we approach the one month mark, since our hometown implemented the “Stay At Home” rule, we find ourselves adapting to this new reality. While we all hope it is temporary, we know that there is the possibility that it will remain around, in some form, for many months. In the meantime, we are working at finding ways to incorporate our local small businesses into everyday life. Shopping is pretty much out the window unless you need groceries, toiletries or lumber. There is still the opportunity to eat dinner prepared outside of our kitchen, but it requires being willing to pursue creative carryout options. Since I am always in the mood for barbecue, it was just a matter of time before we ventured out to Woodyard Bar-B-Que for some dinner.

Empty Places

We called to make sure they were open, which is a wise thing to do these days. Once we confirmed, we were on our way. Make note that our visit occurred on a late Saturday afternoon and we were the only car in the parking lot. While we are concerned about the well being of our local small businesses, we also love that these days we have little to no wait. Popping inside, we found the now common plexiglass shield hanging between us and the staff. This is no concern to us as we want everyone to be cautious. We felt like it was a good time to get a larger than average order, which would provide leftovers for a couple of lunches.

…and Empty Spaces

After ringing us up, we made our way out to the patio area to wait for our food. This gave us a chance to spritz on some hand sanitizer, which is part of the new regiment that us earthlings have had to adopt. It is still a little unnerving to us to see places devoid of activity. Even a short run to a store feels unusual when we see less than a quarter of the vehicles we would normally experience. While standing in the shade we could count the cars that passed on one hand. In hardly any time our order was ready and we made our way back to our home shelter.

Getting Home with the Goods

As we piloted our way back home, we did notice that more people seem to be getting out into their yards these days. Perhaps it is the return of springlike weather or just a need to break free from the bonds of enclosure even if only for a bit. Whatever the reason it was nice to see other humans. Once we made it home, it was time for the big unveiling of dinner. In the past, you would have seen us showcase the plated presentations in the restaurant’s dining area. (Like we did at this KC burger joint.) These days we are relinquished to dinner at home. We did discuss the approach we would use for our articles at this time and decided to show you just how they came packed from Woodyard Bar-B-Que.

Sliding into the Sides

When we eat BBQ, a good selection of side dishes is a must. We found our creative carryout was well packed with each dish protected from spillage. That was good news for us since we would have hated to see anything bad happen to our crunchy Onion Rings. Even just getting a small order gave us a good taste. The small order of Cheesy Corn was another hit with the two of us. This is a side we had not sampled at Woodyard, but we are glad we added it to our order.

Trying Their Eastern Eats

Woodyard Bar-B-Que is a bit of an anomaly for us. It sits close to our home, yet we have only dined here once before this visit. I guess there are just so many other places that have occupied our attention. Well, now we can say we have rectified this oversight and included an article to boot. While we didn’t have a chance to discuss the restaurant’s basic principles with anyone, the menu lends itself to be showcasing a variety of barbecue styles found across the United States.

One that jumped out at us was the Carolina sandwich. The combination of pulled pork and creamy Cole slaw tastes as though it came right out of the Appalachian Mountains. We will warn you that this sammie suffers a little when presented as creative carryout since the slaw tends to weep during the ride home. Maybe we will ask for an extra piece of bread next time to place under the bun. Of course, Crystal solved it by eating this dish with a fork, which allowed her to enjoy this tasty dish without the mess.

Perhaps a Little Texas Dry Rub

While Crystal dined on that Eastern delicacy, I was heading down south for a little Texas dry rub. The Spare Ribs, at Woodyard Bar-B-Que, are not what you expect of most KC barbecue joints. Using this time-tested method of cooking takes a tremendous amount of skill. If you don’t pay close attention to the weather the result can leave a slightly tougher bite. While the slab I ordered was just below perfect in the tenderness category, it rocked out for flavor. It wasn’t until I took some for leftovers that I even tested out their sauce, which added another layer of flavor to the dish.

I noticed that they even sell some Jumbo-Size Hot Wings, so I decided to toss one on for good measure. It’s hard to tell by the photo, but these are not the standard size chicken wing. I would say they fall somewhere between that and a turkey wing size. The flavor of it was spot-on delicious and I decided on our next visit to pick up a half-dozen more.

Enjoying Creative Carryout

As you can see, Woodyard Bar-B-Que is doing creative carryout right. The food was well packaged for travel and the flavors all stayed to themselves. We may be missing out on the normal interactions that we are used to when blogging, but those days will return. In the meantime, we will continue to do what we can to support our local small businesses. Hopefully, some of the ones we highlight will spark an interest in you to do a little creative carryout of your own. Stay safe and we will see you on the other side.

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Green Room Burgers & Beers – The Sun Will Shine Again

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 09:00:33 +0000

There is a lot of uncertainty floating around Kansas City right now. We find ourselves in the middle of the Covid-19 shutdown. Businesses are learning how to adapt to this new paradigm. While many have reduced hours and even scaled back their menus, others have temporarily closed. That is the case for Green Room Burgers & Beers in Westport. The future may bring uncertainty for some retailers, but we know that the sun will shine again in America. Our country has faced difficult times before, and we have always risen to the occasion.

Local Life Affected

There are hundreds of stories behind the scenes of local Kansas City businesses. Green Room Burgers & Beers has ties that take it back to World War II. That is where the story of Papa Louie Ptacek begins its journey to 4010 Pennsylvania Avenue, in Westport, Missouri. By showing his children the rewards of hard work, he set an example that would be followed by his son, Tom. Papa Louie’s youngest son would get bit by the entrepreneur bug. In 1981, he purchased the property and started the Westport Coffeehouse. This space had served multiple purposes, beginning with being the home of Westport’s first mayor.

Fast forward three decades, and you would find Tom’s son following in his father’s footsteps. (Obviously a family trait.) Michael Ptacek, along with his wife Cindy, sliced off a piece of the property to create a craft beer brewery. This was no easy feat, as obstacles arose from many directions. On February 3rd, 2012, Green Room Burgers & Beers opened with no staff, and more surprisingly, no beer. Instead, they were serving up cask ale, which would slowly gain a following from a hesitant public. These days they still produce the cask ale but have added drafts, IPAs, and barrel-aged beers to their menu.

Social Distancing Changes

Space in Green Room Burgers is a premium, which fails to allow for true “social distancing”. The place was never designed for that principle. It’s a local hangout where people gather to socialize. This new, and hopefully temporary, reality forced Green Room to shutter its doors. They have maintained an online presence where they sell gift certificates and merchandise to weather this storm. We look forward to returning to this local haunt to enjoy some of their tasty menu items, as we know the sun will shine again on Kansas City.

Forty Ten Will Do

In the meantime, let’s check out what we enjoyed during our last visit. To put it in perspective, the Kansas City Chiefs had just won the Super Bowl. Giddy with joy, we set out on a multiple-day celebration tour. This was a time to join in the local love, as our entire city was overcome with relief, after a hard-fought victory by our boys in red. Green Room Burgers & Beers made a great spot for winding down after a day of revelry. Crystal had brunt off an amazing number of calories, so she was determined to tackle the Forty Ten. When they rested the plate in front of her, her eyes showed the same look of disbelief as the Forty-Niners defense did in the 4th Quarter.

Two fresh ground quarter-pound patties make a formidable opponent for any appetite. Let’s not stop there. Toss on some bacon, cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, avocado slices, and even grilled jalapenos for some extra heft. Of course, as I suspected, Crystal skipped the jalapenos. Still, she did well trying to accomplish this insurmountable task. While she didn’t match up to the Chief’s come from behind victory, she did give it a noble effort.

Trip to Saturn

I decided to slow my roll and stick with a Greem Room Burgers classic. The Saturn is a realistic size sandwich, but one that still brings some fun to the table. The “smashed” quarter-pound cheeseburger is nestled on a bed of ranch dressing and pickle slices. Once situated, the task of piling on begins. Unlike in football, there is no penalty for this type of action. Let’s begin with some grilled mushrooms and onions, but wait there is more. How about a nice crunchy onion ring for some extra zest? It all looks so good, but when the top bun is removed we find an added secret. In the middle, they have stuffed batter-fried cheese curds. What yummy madness have they created? Only the best kind that I can imagine. This burger pairs well with one of their craft creations, as well.

The Sun Will Shine Again

Just revisiting these memories has stirred a yearning for some of the delectable dishes we have found at Green Room Burgers. While we know that the sun will shine again on this Kansas City spot, we can’t help but wonder how many other places will fail to recover from this catastrophic event. It will take all of us working together to help our favorite small businesses weather this unexpected set of circumstances. We implore you to do whatever you can to help them survive. If they offer carryout, order a meal or maybe some gift certificates for a future visit. You can also make their presence known to all of your family and friends by doing shoutouts on your social media channels. We know that this situation is difficult for everyone, but if we stick together we will overcome it. Stay safe, Kansas City!

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Dressing Up Brunch – Summit Grill

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 03 Apr 2020 09:00:35 +0000

How many of you are ready to get back to some sort of normal life? Crystal and I love to visit new restaurant destinations, but this “curbside only” situation is putting a damper on our exploration. Fortunately, we have a good backlog of places we had already visited, so we can keep supplying some new ideas for you to sample after we get out of lock-down. Our daughter lives in the Northland, which has allowed us a new frontier to explore. On a recent visit, we discovered the newest location of Summit Grill had been opened at 501 NE 70th Street. Visiting at midday on the weekend allowed us to see how they are dressing up brunch for the locals in Gladstone.

Upscale Casual Atmosphere

This newest addition to the Summit Grill family offers a couple of seating areas. Ours ended up being in the large open area that includes the bar. We noticed that the menu mentions a daily Happy Hour, which we will certainly plan to enjoy in the future. Heavy wood tables and chairs blend with the leather booth backs to add to the upscale vibe. The open floor plan and bright space is inviting and we found ourselves enjoying a casual conversation. The designers did a good job of making the space comfortable.

Buttermilk Biscuits & Gravy

Our visit was timed for close to opening, so we were a little surprised to see so many people already inside. The hostess seated us in the main dining area, which was not as busy. Being close to midday, we were all eager to see how they are dressing up brunch with some interesting dishes. Our daughter was joining us for this excursion. She has had more dining experience at Summit Grill, so she was able to make some recommendations.

Her choice was to stay toward the breakfast side of brunch. The Buttermilk Biscuits and Gravy looked to be a fantastic choice and comes with the additional protein of two eggs. Summit’s Fresh baked biscuits pair well with the creamy sausage gravy. I know this because I stole a bite of it to see for myself.

Cheesy Quiche

Crystal’s choice was to follow suit and order toward the breakfast side. I say this knowing that she would order quiche any time of day if the mood strikes her. In fact, I can think back to a lunch where she ordered up this dish at a French restaurant in Parkville. The Ham & Spinach Quiche at Summit Grill is filled with flavor, which is enveloped in a light pastry shell. A drizzle of cheese sauce adds a touch of tang to the taste. Since this dish has plenty in the way of protein, her side was a small salad. She appeared to be quite pleased with her selection, so I skipped tasting it.

“Ultimate” Grilled Cheese

With all of these breakfast style dishes floating around the table, I felt a need to bring something in a different vein. If you are going to be dressing up brunch, it should include something from the savory and hearty side of the menu. Growing up, one of my all-time favorite sandwiches had always been grilled cheese. It is hard to top the taste and texture of this gooey handheld. As adults, we have learned to put our own spin on this childhood classic. With so many different cheeses and types of bread available, it’s easy to add your own flair.

Summit Grill has done just that, and I am in love with it. “The Ultimate” Grilled Cheese is a hearty combination of braised beef and five kinds of cheese that blend marvelously. The addition of their tangy horseradish cream provides a little kick to the dish. This was my second time ordering this meal and I have been thoroughly impressed both times. It even serves up well as warmed-up leftovers the next day. A heaping helping of their thin-cut fries makes a good side.

Dressing Up Brunch

With Summit Grill so close to our daughter’s residence, it has become a go-to stop for us. Whether enjoying an easy dinner, hearty Happy Hour, or a casual snack, we have found them to offer consistent quality. This visit introduced us to the way they are dressing up brunch and we liked the extended menu options. With the combination of delicious dishes and pleasant service, we are sure they will thrive in their new home up north. We are looking forward to exploring more of their menu items over the coming months and hope that you have an opportunity to do so, as well. If you are already a Summit Grill fan, tell us about your favorite dishes in the comment section below. We’d love to hear some great pointers. Thanks!

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Taste The Colors Of Mexico – El Toro Loco

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 09:00:48 +0000

Living in Kansas City, Kansas means that we are blessed to have the best Mexican cuisine options in the Midwest. Our hometown is known far and wide for being the home to numerous taquerias (taco stores), carnicerias (meat stores), and cantinas (bar & grills). When you add in the panaderias (bakeries), you expand the list even farther. In and out of each localized neighborhood we have found favorites. That doesn’t mean that we don’t enjoy trying our hand at new opportunities. A visit to El Toro Loco offered a chance to sample some tastes at the western end of our city. We weren’t sure what to expect at a place called The Crazy Bull. It ended up being a chance to taste the colors of Mexico at a fresh venue.

Variety is Alive in KCK

The spectrum of Mexican cuisine in KCK runs from cheap eats to fine dining. While we have sampled a nice variety of places, it seems like new ones pop up quicker than we can explore. On previous excursions, we have dined in spots that offer incredible flavors. A visit to Tacos El Tio had us eating off of disposable plates, but the food was unbelievable. At GG’s Barbacoa Cafe, we discovered chef-inspired dishes served up in close quarters. Even specialty eateries, like El Pollo Rey, become local hot spots because of the consistent quality. These three examples each bring a different style of dining into play, but every one of them serves up an opportunity to taste the colors of Mexico.

Feeling the Colors

Stepping into the dining area of El Toro Loco, we found a bright space designed for socializing. The overall feeling was like walking into a Mexican hacienda. Colorful artwork hung on the walls, while the ample seating invited us to sit for a spell. Even though we had arrived early for dinnertime, we found that others had come up with the same idea. We were happy to share the space and noticed that most of our table mates were other couples. I guess that made sense for a Friday evening.

We had just settled into our booth when a server arrived with salsa and chips. A decision was made to start our meal with some Queso dip and one of their house margaritas. Nibbling on these stimulated our hunger for more. Time to get down to some serious menu review. There is a vast array of choices, so we were glad to have a snack to tide us over. So many of the menu items sounded intriguing and we decided that if the food was good, we would have to come back for more exploration.

Bring on the Green

While I sought out my selection, I could almost predict what Crystal would choose. It’s almost guaranteed that a dish loaded with avocado will draw her attention. Sure enough, her choice was the Avocado Enchiladas. Made with shredded chicken, they are coated with an avocado cream sauce that met with her complete satisfaction. Spanish rice is another way that she will judge the quality of a Mexican cuisine destination. This one got a big thumbs up, so I guess she’d be okay with a repeat visit.

A Kaleidoscope of Colors

When faced with the almost insurmountable task of choosing from a huge menu, I decided to fall back on my old standard. Now I don’t mean a food choice, but instead a selection process. In these hard moments, I ask the servers a series of questions designed to help whittle down the potential choices. By pointing out that I am always on the lookout for dishes that are photogenic, it makes them look at their own menu in a new light. As our server mentally walked through the menu, they described a few of the most notable choices.

I was surprised to hear them suggest Taco Salad. As they listed the ingredients and the way it is presented, I could almost taste the colors of Mexico. The dish starts with a crispy flour shell that is slightly rolled on the edges. This is filled with black beans, shredded meat (choice of beef or chicken), lettuce, tomato, cheese, and guacamole. As the dish was laid before me, it almost reminded me of a colorful cowboy hat. I enjoyed having the crispy shell to use as a scoop for the filling. As I worked my way through my meal, I savored the flavorful meat that made the base of this entree.

Taste the Colors of Mexico

While El Toro Loco is not like many of the other Mexican eateries in our city, it makes for a good addition to the group. By bringing more styles of dining and dishes to our community, it ensures us that we will have plenty of variety to select from when we are hankering for this particular cuisine. The use of fresh ingredients means that the dishes this locally-owned restaurant serves are packed with taste. We are sure there will be plenty of visits to this location for us in the future. Have you ever sampled the menu at El Toro Loco? We’d love to hear what some of your favorite dishes are, so drop us a note in the comments section below.

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Tapping Into Taste – Burg & Barrel

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 09:00:31 +0000

Living in a city filled with amazing food and drink destinations means that the options always outweigh the opportunities. With the winter weather releasing its grip on Kansas City, it’s time for us to spend more time exploring. Over the colder months, we make note of places we pass and add them to our “future visits” list. Since we attempt to avoid repeating cuisines too often, the need to locate new eateries is always in the back of our mind. Tapping into the taste of Kansas City is much more than barbecue. A wide range of flavors awaits those willing to venture out from their old standards. Since our grill has sat idle for weeks, we were in the mood for some beefy treats.

We want to thank Burg & Barrel for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Out of the Way

During a visit to a new dining hall experience at Strang Hall, we spotted another potential destination. Locating Burg & Barrel, in Overland Park, can be a challenge for those not familiar with the neighborhood. It sits quietly at 7042 W. 76th Street, which puts it just off the main drag along Metcalf Avenue. This was not our first sighting, as a full parking lot will usually grab our attention. We had also noticed an increase of activity on their Instagram account. Those delicious looking photos of food certainly enticed us to reach out for a visit. We scheduled a visit for a Sunday lunch, since we were informed it was a little less crowded at that time. While that was true when we arrived, it didn’t take long for a crowd to filter in and fill the space.

Getting Started

With their tempting menu laid out before us, I decided to order a drink while we discussed options. The Salty Bird lives up to its name by bringing the taste of the tropics to the table. We added a couple of appetizers to our order, which would tide us over while we selected our main courses. Their twin towers of Amber ale battered Onion Rings had a nice crunch that had us coming back for more bites. A bowl of Loaded Spuds had us tapping into a taste combination that really impressed us. The combination of tator tots, bacon bits, pepper jack cheese, sour cream, and green onion was a flavorful mix. We would end up with too much food for two, but we kept returning to this particular dish for more bites.

A Spicy Avocado

I can remember the days that Crystal would stick to the most generic dishes on the menu. Her burger choices would be the American style that resembled one that just came off the grill at a backyard barbecue. These days she has expanded her culinary horizon by adding more spice to her diet. The Spicy Avocado Burger offers a nice combination of tastes that blend together with near perfection. Burg & Barrel takes their Angus beef patty and tops it with cheddar cheese and applewood smoked bacon. That would make a good bacon cheeseburger, but they didn’t stop there. Throw on some avocado slices and Chipotle-Cilantro mayo for extra flavor. As if we didn’t have enough carbs, the plate comes with a side, and Crystal chose the Sweet Potato Fries.

Saddle Up Cowboy

I’ve been menu adventurous for a longer period, so these days I look for dishes that are photogenic. Tapping into taste will almost always be a given if you pick a restaurant’s most notable menu item. In the burger category, it would be the Cowboy Burger at Burg & Barrel. This selection was a nice alternative to firing up our own grill. It starts much like Crystal’s choice, with Angus beef patty, smoked bacon, and cheddar cheese. The standard veggie accompaniments are just what you would expect at a cookout. The difference is that they reach new burger heights when they toss on one of their puffy, yet crunch onion rings. It almost required me to unhinge my jaw to devour this masterpiece.

Tapping Into Taste at Burg & Barrel

If you think this was a lot of food, you are absolutely correct. It was quickly apparent that we could not finish it all, but our taste buds kept drawing us back for bites. During bouts of digestion, we would gaze around the space. Crystal made note of the various beer taps that line the rafters of Burg & Barrel. While we didn’t count them, it was obvious they have more than 100 on display. We also noticed that many of the other patrons seemed to be regulars. Clearly this place serves double duty being a neighborhood bar, as well as a metropolitan restaurant. It is also a good reminder to keep your eyes peeled when cruising around town on errands. You’d be surprised how many of these delectable dining options are hidden all around town.

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Start Your Morning With A Twist – Snooze A.M. Eatery

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 28 Feb 2020 10:00:44 +0000

When we heard that Snooze A.M. Eatery was planning a Kansas city location, it brought a smile to our faces. We enjoy a standard breakfast as much as the next couple, but the chance to start your morning with a twist makes it extra special. This funky and friendly Denver-based chain has a reputation for bringing fun to the breakfast table. Their newest location is at 4144 Broadway Boulevard in Westport. During a pre-opening weekend, they invited us in to experience a little late morning Snooze. We certainly weren’t going to pass up this opportunity to find out what’s cooking in their kitchen.

We want to thank Snooze A.M. Eatery for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

Smiles, Everyone!

The purpose of the pre-opening party was to prep the staff for the days of regular service to come. When we arrived, we were greeted with big smiles and bubbly personalities. It was definitely a great way to kick off a visit. While Snooze has expanded to over 30 restaurants, they are still selective about the areas they serve. Their “funky” style is best served up in neighborhoods that can embrace its team of “Snoozers”. (The nickname for the staff.)

Pleasing Color Palette

The place was buzzing with activity, but the open-air design of the space makes it feel appropriate. The three-day weekend pre-opening event was a no-charge experience, but each day they were collecting donations for a different charity. This was a huge hit with us because we usually only share chain restaurants that show community involvement. We noticed that all of the servers were in various Disney outfits. Our server explained that was the type of atmosphere that Snooze likes to inspire in their employees. Each of the three days they chose a different theme to represent. We will have to keep our eyes peeled to see if this is a common occurrence now that they are open every day.

Bravo for Breakfast

After scouring the robust menu, it was decided to bring some variety to our table. Our daughter, Amanda, was joining us, so that means three dishes to sample. Crystal has become a little predictable, but when you know what you like why not test the waters at each location. (I am the same way when I see a Cuban Sammie on a menu.) Snooze has found a way to start your morning with a twist by combining some interesting tidbits to a standard dish.

A good example of this was Crystal’s choice of Bravocado Toast. We would usually find an avocado blended with a few seasoning herbs spread across some artisan toast. That’s not where they stop at Snooze. Let’s blend in some red onion honey jam and diced fresh tomatoes, then we will cap it off with a pair of sunny-side-up eggs. Oh, why not add a serving of Parmesan and citronette dressed greens for some extra color and flavor? It worked!

Feeling Funky

Since Crystal has done the deed of choosing from the healthy side of the menu, it left me to showcase something with a little more pizzazz. Can you say Funky Monkey French Toast? I mean, the name alone had already piqued my interest. If you’re going to start your morning with a twist, why not make it as sweet as possible? This dish did not lack in that department. It starts with slices of griddled banana bread. Yes, you read that right. Not brioche or some other fluffy white loaf. Real banana bread!

How can you ever improve on that? Oh, they did. Snooze chefs dug deep in their bag of tricks and came up with the perfect accompaniments. They drizzle a caramel sauce over the warm slices of toast. To this, they add candied pecans and whipped mascarpone cream. It’s impossible to add any more flavor, but leave it to this place to try. How about throwing in some brûléed bananas for an extra punch of sweetness. I almost expected a monkey to swing by and try to steal my dish.

Benny with Style

Being a chef-inspired restaurant, we were anxious to see what combinations they would have for their Bennies. If you are planning to start your morning with a twist, this is one dish that offers nearly limitless possibilities. They showed seven flavor combinations on the menu, so we think they are willing to push the envelope in this category. Amanda landed on the Habanero Pork Belly Benny, but a recent run on this dish had temporarily shelved it from the menu. She fell back to regroup and chose the Chili Verde Benedict. This dish comes with a choice of barbacoa style beef or slow-cooked pulled pork for the meat. She selected the latter of the two.

Snooze chefs seemed to have outdone themselves on this dish, as well. They whisked away the traditional English muffin base and replaced it with green chili sauced tortillas topped with melted cheese. The standard poached eggs are dressed up with a green chili hollandaise sauce, pico de gallo, and grated Cotija cheese. A serving of the House Hash Browns balances out the plate. I’m not going to say I was jealous of her choice, but you can bet I’ll be “Bennying” on my next visit.

Start Your Morning with a Twist

Snooze A.M. Eatery gets bonus points with us for their dedication to doing what’s right. The company slogan, “It only takes a moment to make a difference” reflects the culture that they are instilling in their employees. By sourcing as much as possible locally, they lower the amount of waste in their food chain. They also encourage recycling and composting, as they strive to run a “green” restaurant. This is a trend that is slowly sweeping the food scene and one we hope builds momentum. So the only question left unanswered is, “When will you visit Snooze?”

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Skipping The Chains – Strang Hall

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 10:00:52 +0000

What happens when you gather six chefs all under one roof? You end up with an upscale food court, like the one at Strang Hall, in downtown Overland Park. The idea for this chef collective came from a desire to add a new twist to the dining scene. This collection of restaurants allows the locals a chance of skipping the chains and trying something unique. Located in the Edison District, it brings new dining options to the mixed-use development just west of Metcalf Avenue.

A Chef Collective

The name hearkens back to railroad magnate, William Strang, who laid out the original city of Overland Park. His 600 acres of property were located south of Kansas City, back in 1905. Nearby, you will find an assortment of shops and restaurants along Santa Fe Drive. We have had the pleasure of exploring the area during their monthly Third Friday Local Life events. Of course, from now on we will have more dining options during our nights out in downtown Overland Park. The large open space of Strang Hall is very inviting and we noticed the crowds fill it quickly.

Basabasa

Midwestern dwellers are very familiar with fried chicken for dinner. I can still remember my mom cooking up platters of this crispy entree for the whole family. While the base of this dish remains the same, the choice of spices can dramatically alter the end product. This is exactly what they have done at Basabasa. The name comes from a mythical bird that was mentioned in Japanese mythology. It had chicken-like features but would spout flames of ghost-fire.

A New Twist on Fried Chicken

We decided to make a meal of a variety of dishes that we picked from the various restaurants inside Strang Hall. Our first choice was Karaage, which is made with chicken thighs soaked in a sake marinade. The name is derived from a Japanese cooking method like tempura, except for the added step of marinating. These bone-free bites are served with a Miso Mayo dipping sauce, which accented the flavor perfectly. You can imagine the concern that arose from five pieces having to be split between two people, but we ended up negotiating a peaceful solution. By skipping the chains, we were able to sample a new twist on fried chicken.

Nida

Keeping with the small bites scheme, our next stop was at Nida. This Spanish based restaurant offers a variety of tacos and shareable items. Once we had decided on our order, we paid for our dish. It should be noted that none of the restaurants accept cash. All transactions are done by card. Another unique feature at Strang Hall is the notification process. After you pay for your meal they will ask for a phone number. This will be used to text you that your food is ready. Once you are notified, you head up and grab it. Pretty simple and effective process.

Cheesy Dipping

When we first started scoping out the menu at Nida, we considered sampling a couple of flavors of tacos. While we discussed the choices, another customer arrived to pick up their order of Cast Iron Cheese. This gooey dish is made with melted cheeses that stretch to unbelievable lengths. The addition of caramelized leeks adds a smooth oniony flavor and the chili oil gives it just a bit of bite. A couple of flour tortillas make useful hand tools to scoop out the delectable mixture.

Anousone

We realized that we had not accounted for vegetables in our choices, so we needed one more dish. Since we had already chosen our table, we decided to grab something from the restaurant nearest our location. This happened to be Anousone, which serves up Southeast Asian cuisine. After speaking with the owner, we found out that the business happens to be named in honor of his late brother. We were certain that any dish we chose would certainly have us skipping the chains.

Fried Brussel Sprouts

Once again, our choice came from the visual presence of another customer’s meal. Once we spotted a tempting dish of the Fried Brussels Sprouts, we knew it needed to be sampled. It is obvious what the base of this plate is created from, but it’s the addition of unique flavors that make it special. After frying up the cut heads, they toss them in a sweet chili herb sauce that bursts with flavor. This ended up being our favorite, although the other two dishes were close behind.

Skipping the Chains

With our first foray into Strang Hall complete, we knew that return visits were a certainty. After all, there were still more restaurants to sample, as well as coffee and cocktails. With so many unique choices, we would have no problem skipping the chains. The chef collective format seems to be a style that is gaining ground, and we expect more of these upscale food courts to open soon. While you are waiting for one in your area, why not make a trip to downtown Overland Park to check out Strang Hall.

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Room 39 – Why Winter Is Brunch Season

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 10:00:40 +0000

We have to believe that we are not much different than most of our readers. Like others, we enjoy a good meal, and trying new restaurants is usually a fun experience. During the winter, we find ourselves having brunch more often. A good example was a stop in Room 39, located at 1719 W. 39th Street. This farm-to-table eatery has been serving Kansas City diners for about 15 years. They offer an upscale dining experience, but their breakfast through lunch meals is a bit more laid back. As we sat there enjoying the moment, it made us contemplate why winter is brunch season.

Cold Starts

I guess the best way to approach discovering the answer is to look at how winter differs from the other seasons. The shorter daylight hours mean that sunrise is delayed. With fewer sunshine hours, it takes longer to warm up. Now that we have gone over the basics that everyone already knew, we need to figure out how that is impacting our lives. The colder mornings make us hesitate to leave our home, so the first meal is often postponed. Of course, we have no issue partaking in our morning coffee ritual. This helps us suppress our hungers a little longer.

Late Morning Crowds

Eventually, the pangs of hunger will drive us out of the house, but by then it is usually brunch time. Even with a sunshine-filled morning, often the temperatures struggle to move the thermometer very far. Moving quickly from home to car to restaurant, we try to limit our exposure to the winter atmosphere. It’s not that we are afraid of the cold, we just prefer to face it on our terms. As we entered Room 39, we noticed that the delayed start of the day was being observed by lots of others. This cozy spot was filled with the buzz of locals eager to see the return of warmer weather.

Getting Our Coffee Fix

Yes, I did say that we had already started our morning with coffee, but there is always room for more. We sat sipping our go-juice and continued thinking about the reasons why winter is brunch season. Since it was fast approaching the noontime hour, we were ready to eat. Having such a late start to dining meant that we would likely only eat twice that day. Since wintertime can bring an urge for partial hibernation, we find the amount of calories needed has decreased. Two main meals provide plenty of nutrition and keep us from having so much bodywork to do in the spring.

Avocado Toast

Since brunches have become more popular over the past few years, we have been discovering more and more restaurants jumping on board the ‘Brunch Train’. This is a winning situation for all of us local diners since now we have many new options. We are finding eateries offering this late morning option at various price points. Some are serving up brunch buffets, which usually include a smorgasbord of dishes, but we have always leaned toward the more traditional meal design. This approach will tend to yield plates that were made fresh to order.

For this meal, Crystal chose the Avocado Toast. This is a dish that she will often select since it offers a nice amount of protein. At Room 39, they add their unique twist to this meal. The combination of flavors comes from blending the avocado with lemon and cilantro. A healthy dose of this is piled high on a slice of grilled ciabatta toast. On top, they sprinkle Grana Padano, which is a flavorful cheese from the Parmesan family. The tower is topped with a poached egg, which adds another boost of protein.

Oven Eggs

There is a well-established dish named Toad-in-a-hole. Some of you may be familiar with it, and I’m guessing a few of you just Googled it. When I spotted Oven Eggs on the menu, it had a reminiscent sound to it, so it became my choice. I was also aware of the need to have plenty of protein if we were going to limit our intake to just two meals that day. The dish is quite simple, yet filled with complex flavors. A thick slice of toast is topped with Genoa salami and Gruyere cheese. This combination offers a salty, yet slightly sweet component. Plop a couple of eggs down, before baking, and you have a robust final product. With distinct dishes like these, it was apparent to us why winter is brunch season.

Why Winter is Brunch Season

So we hope this article has helped shed a little light on why we find ourselves enjoying brunch more frequently in the winter. Fortunately, we have found plenty of brunch options lately and hope you have enjoyed some of these, as well. While we are always ready for warmer weather, we plan to take advantage of these colder days to explore more brunch choices all around our city. We highly recommend you give some of these a shot, too.

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