Trendy Restaurants in Kansas City
Kansas City, renowned for its vibrant food scene, is home to a myriad of trendy restaurants that offer a unique blend of culinary experiences. From upscale dining establishments to quirky cafes, these restaurants are not only about great food but also about creating an unforgettable ambiance. They are the perfect blend of innovation and tradition, serving everything from classic Kansas City barbecue to global cuisines. This article will take you on a gastronomic journey through some of the most trendy restaurants in Kansas City, showcasing their distinctive menus, stylish interiors, and the unique dining experiences they offer. Whether you're a local or a tourist, these eateries are must-visit spots for food lovers.
Voltaire
4.5
(423)
Rustic-contemporary space for wines & bistro-style New American fare with an international touch.
Reviews:
Ate the pommes frites, the shrimp and crab hush puppies were TO DIE FOR, steak meal and ravioli. All were great. Finished it with their in house melon sorbet which I would buy by the pint if I could. The service was amazing and food came fast. Loved the cocktails!
Danielle Heard
Wonderful meal and interesting and delicious menu. Great to share and try lots of things. Cocktails were amazing as well. Service was stellar! Can't wait to go back on next visit to KC!
Shannon Shenker
Wowza this place is excellent. The flavor blends are really exceptional and artistic. The duck breast and steak were out of this world good! Potato aligot, mahi mahi and fries are also a must. The staff is great and the playlist is dope. Go to the west bottoms are check this place out.
Gianni Cavicchi
Came here for the food and atmosphere and it was absolutely incredible! We tried the hummus(best I’ve ever had), yakitori (also best I’ve ever had), and the chef’s recommendation for the Raviolo. Completely blown away and would recommend this place for either a date or casual bite and drink. Has all the qualities of a unique classy place. The staff is unbelievable as well. The GM greeted and checked in numerous times to ensure we were satisfied. Sarah our server went above and beyond. The bartender Kim also was very kind and helpful. Compliments to the Chef Lindy and the owners for curating this fine establishment in the west bottoms. This area is really cool and I highly recommend checking out.
Tony Evangelista
Nice atmosphere, but if you sit near the front, it is way too loud for date night conversation. The food is outstanding, but service was very slow and inattentive, maybe because we were so far toward the front. The food was so good that we will try it again and ask for a table toward the back.
Marty r
1617 Genessee St, Kansas City, MO 64102, USA
Brown & loe
4.5
(1432)
American dishes are paired with a variety of spirits & beer in a historic building.
Reviews:
Brown & Loe is a delightful bistro-style restaurant that promises a culinary experience to remember. The menu is thoughtfully curated, offering a well-defined selection of delectable dishes that cater to a variety of palates. From the moment you step inside, the restaurant exudes a nostalgic charm, celebrating its unique setting within a former bank building. The ambiance is infused with history, adding a touch of elegance and character to your dining experience. Additionally, the large selection of libations ensures there's a perfect drink to complement your meal. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening or a gathering with friends, Brown & Loe offers a delightful blend of flavors, nostalgia, and warm hospitality that is truly a treat for the senses.
The Boss Babe
The food was soooo good. Flavors were so good in everything we had & you can just tell it was prepared well. The service was great & the vibe was super cute. I don’t know what took me so long to get here, but I can’t wait to come back for brunch! Overall, great place to visit when you’re in the River Market area.
Brittany Strohm
We ate dinner in the fresh air under heaters on the outdoor patio. Upon the recommendation of our waitress, I ordered the chicken & dumplings and -- let me tell you -- I was wholly unprepared for the deliciousness I was about to enjoy. This dish is PHENOMENAL!!! (I want to come back again but I'd be hard-pressed to branch out and try something else on the menu -- even though there were many other enticing items!) Highly recommend!
Jordan C
I went there with a family member. We got the arugula salad with goat cheese, pistachios, walnuts, and apricots. It was delicious and very refreshing. I ordered the cheeseburger, and my family memeber got the empanadas with pork belly and a fantastic aïoli sauce. We rounded the event out with the banana cream pie, which came with icing made out of pea flour, which surprisingly was terrific. Our server was professional, friendly, and on point. If you haven’t been inside this restaurant, just going in for a drink and looking at the amazing bar and stucco work. It is worth the price of admission.
Alpha Landingham
Came here for our 2nd marriage anniversary! Such lovely waiting staff and a warm atmosphere. Not to mention how on point the dishes are. Definitely will be coming back for many more celebrations.
Nia Amador
429 Walnut St, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA
Charisse kc
4.3
(268)
A stylish bistro melding French & New American flavors in a polished setting with high ceilings.
Reviews:
Best French onion super I've ever had. That's all I have to say. 🙂🤭🤤 But in all honesty, a really pleasant lunch atmosphere with friendly service and a delightful lunch menu. They even have fresh squeezed lemon and limeade!🍋
Hope Schmidt
We enjoyed dinner here a few weeks back for a date night. We started with the Korean Empanadas - a must! So much flavor packed into each bite. Phenomenal. We had the Flank Steak and the Braised Duck Flatbread for our main dishes. The Flank Steak was cooked as we ordered (love when it's not under or over!) and came with a choice of sauce and side. We chose the veal demi- Glace and the Gnocchi. Both went well with the steak. The duck Flatbread is actually a started but it is large enough to be an entree. The mix of flavors between the duck, arugula, feta, shallots and mushrooms was dynamite. I was blown away with how delicious it was!
Jenni Rohner
Came here for lunch. An old French with neo American twist. Small but classy little spot downtown. I had the chicken sandwich, which was very delicious. Juicy and filling. The aioli really set my sandwich off, and the fries were a tasty, crispy accent. I didn't get to try my wife's salmon, but she said it was great, and it looked top notch. Our waitress was fast, attentive, and professional. Couldn't ask for more. Overall, this place is a top quality eatery imo.
Byron Bruce
Such a fantastic new years eve experience!! We had a large group and they executed it smoothly and it was all so delicious. Fantastic job. Cozy atmosphere and friendly staff!!
Katie griffith
Great atmosphere and delicious food! A must try in KC!
Jacquelyn Dinvaut
1006 Walnut St, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA
Novel restaurant
4.6
(682)
Cozy New American offering inventive dishes made from seasonal ingredients, plus classic cocktails.
Reviews:
Probably the best service in KC. Very welcoming, warn, and providing honest recommendations! The food was delicious, creative & very well executed! Will definitely return! One area of improvement is the wine glass offering. Will definitely return!
Stephany F
Came for dinner and had a very good experience overall. Food was great, presentation was impressive, and portion sizes were large. Understanding we dined during a busy dinner time on a weekend, the servers seemed overworked and some of the dishes came out a little colder than expected. But the taste was still delicious, and we’d certainly be back to give it a second try.
Scott Sulik
Enjoyed dinner here, but was left a little wanting. Some dishes really stood out, some didn't, but enjoyed the cocktails overall. Don't know what to expect from the pork toast. It wasn't what I expected, or necessarily wanted but it was delicious and maybe the standout. Brussel sprout salad was not interesting or really that satisfying. Chestnut ravioli was amazing. Flavor balance between the sauce, pasta and filling were perfect. The duck agnolotti was not as much of a hit. Tasted good but didn't really wow. The server made a point of saying to make sure to get a cherry with every bite. Not possible when there are far less cherries than agnolotti to begin with, and if that's the effect you're going for, just put a cherry in with the duck. Grilled lamb chops disappointed in a way that main courses often do at restaurants like this. The appetizers and pastas, etc., are often more exciting in different ways, and the mains are pretty basic, as was this. Pistachio pie was great. I enjoyed it and would likely go back, but I'd probably be more strategic with the menu next time.
Jess Eig
I recently had the opportunity to dine at Novel restaurant in Kansas City while entertaining a few business clients. Coming from California, we were looking for a place that would provide a unique dining experience, and Novel seemed like a good fit. The environment was great - modern with a touch of swank, and the open kitchen design added an interesting dynamic to the overall dining experience. The menu is diverse and intriguing, offering a range of dishes that cater to a variety of tastes, all made with fresh ingredients. The bread service was a bit of a mixed bag. The whole wheat bread was somewhat bland and could have used a touch more salt or more time to develop. The white bread was solid, and the smoked hummus was nothing short of excellent, offering a delightful start to the meal. The Beef Sirloin Tartare was a standout, despite being a tad too salty. The bright Asian flavors shone through, making it one of my favorite dishes on the menu. The 7 Layer Salad was reminiscent of a classic Caesar salad but elevated to a new level. The Crispy Farm Egg was another winner, with creamy and delicious grits. However, I wasn't a huge fan of the sorghum. Unfortunately, the Fried Pork Pie didn't quite hit the mark for me. I would have preferred a crisp on the pork belly, and instead it was gummy in texture. While the hot sauce wasn't my favorite, I can see why it works for the Midwest palate with its Southern and Carolina taste. The liver mousse, however, was a delight. Overall though, I would totally rework the pork pie. The Broken Lasagna was creamy and tasty, with the sweetbreads adding a nice touch. However, it could have used a bit more sweetbreads and a touch of salt to finish. The Crispy Potatoes were not crispy at all, and instead floppy, which was a bit misleading. They were still yummy, but I would have preferred a thicker cut and triple cooked for that promised crispiness. The Fried Cauliflower had tasty Indian flavors. I think it would be interesting to have a crispy exterior to offset the softness in the rest of the dish. Maybe a corn flour or tempura fried exterior could add that needed texture. The Ramen Noodles were excellent! The miso butter sauce was a wonderful touch and the balance across the dish was perfection. I was a bit surprised that the waiter didn't give us a more confident recommendation when we asked about it. Best item we had that evening. Overall, Novel KC is a restaurant that is serious about their food but still figuring out their voice. There is a lot of room for upward growth, and I look forward to seeing how it evolves. As someone who travels and eats at a lot of establishments across various regions, I may be more critical than most. I believe that with a few adjustments, Novel KC could truly shine. Rating: 3.5/5
Mike Guidry
Truly outstanding all around. From the nice atmosphere to the great service and stunning food, this is a place you must try. The cocktail I had (smoke n flowers) was perfectly mixed and my wife loved their mocktail as well and it’s nice that they have a couple mocktail options on the menu. I had the Wild Alaskan Halibut, which had a perfect sear. The accompaniments of the dish were quite flavorful as well. My wife loved the farm chicken roulade, which is served in medallions and perfectly tender. There are definitely other options on the menu we’d love to try so we’ll be back.
Aaron Schneider
1927 McGee St, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
The american reserve
4.3
(354)
Restaurant & lounge at the Ambassador Hotel serving New American cuisine in a stylish, airy space.
Reviews:
We had dinner for special occasion and found this place online. The ambient of this restaurant was nice and quiet. Classy touch of the interior decor located inside of a hotel building in downtown. Ordered Shrimp and Grits & Double cut Pork Chop with four cheese Campanella. The pork chop was little under cook so our waitress helped us to bring it back to kitchen. Later we realized we were missing the cheese baked Campanella so our waitress reminded the kitchen for us. She was very attentive and friendly so we were grateful for the service she provided that evening. We also appreciate of her took the meals out of our bill due to minor mishaps of the food prep.
V C
Great diamond inside the ambassador hotel popped in for a light fare and WOW! Caesar salad with house made Caesar dressing was amazing! The shrimp cocktail were some of the biggest shrimp I have ever eaten and delicious! And the bar tender Claire was amazing heavy pours on the cocktails! Stop in relish the ambiance and enjoy the drinks!
J T
Great dining option to go to before a concert at T-mobile. The shrimp and grits were full of flavors and it was a good size portion. Wine selection was pretty good as well. Friendly and efficient staff. Lovely place.
Doris Holderness
We went to this place for Christmas dinner as we got stuck in KC due to flight delays. This place seemed like an upscale scene that would be great for a dinner setting. We got there and the hotel (Ambassador) didn’t disappoint with its curb appeal and entrance. The reassurance was super nice inside and presentable. The scene definitely wasn’t upscale but rather a bit laid back. The menu was at best a glorified bar food menu. The prices were attached to the upscale part of the façade. The food was delicious and the portions were great. The prices were high ($25 for a Ruben, $20 for a French dip, $12 for Caesar salads) but we didn’t mind because the food was good. The winter mule was a good choice on drink but again, $16 for a drink was a bit steep. Our waitress (Kendra) was excellent and did a great job serving us while they were short staffed there. All in all this place was fantastic, I was just thrown off by the fancy outside and look and the laid back vibes, crowd, and staff.
Brandon Rivera
Staff was on point. The restaurant space is rather small and feels kind of crowded. The decoration is art deco, strong 1920s glitz theme. The food was solid standard fare for a four-star hotel. Nothing bad just nothing all that special. I got the steak and my dad got the fish. Our server was definitely worthy of note as were the cocktails/bar. I would give the overall experience 3.8 stars. Enjoyable, but not exceptional.
Alpha Landingham
1111 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA
Lazia
4.3
(209)
Lively, low-lit option in a hotel with updated Italian fare with wines, modern music & a roof bar.
Reviews:
Absolutely amazing. My wife and I could not have loved it more, honestly. We saw Lazia recommended online and it did not disappoint. To start, I had the Six Degrees, a great whiskey based cocktail. My wife enjoyed a mocktail, which they seem to do well. For our appetizer, we had the aglio focaccia, a bread starter that was perfect. Next was the salsiccia. It was our least favorite of what we had but still *very* good. For our main dishes, we had the garganelli gigante verde and the lemon poppyseed spaghettini. WOW. My wife was in love with the garganelli and I was blown away by my spaghettini. The blend of lemon and jalapeño flavors was so beautifully paired that I can’t believe I haven’t experienced it before. Our server, Davy, was delightful but the whole staff was friendly and helpful. We found out the head chef has a nice IG account @crosschefkc. We most definitely will return to try other dishes.
Aaron Schneider
We had a great meal @laziakc this weekend. We have been before with other chefs, @crosschefkc has completely changed the menu and my mind about Lazia. The favorites from the evening were the carne crudo with @thesaltcreekfarm beef and truffle, fegatini di pollo (fried chicken livers!!!), and cherry lime sorbet with italicus bergamot. Fried livers and tartare are 2 of my favorite things and these are well done. This is a meal and a show. Between the hand pulled mozzarella, truffle shaving table side, and plating of the serpente the staff is working hard to make sure that each customer has a wonderful experience. They are kind, knowledgeable, and helpful.
Elizabeth Hunt Esco
Most amazing service I have ever had. Beautiful dining area. Best and tastiest hand made pasta in town.
Tyler Jones
Any meal you have here is more an experience than a meal. Upon entering, which you enter through the Crossroads hotel and there are valet signs outside then you walk in and walk left to the red Lazia sign, you are offered a liqueur to help cleanse your pallet and start you off on the right foot. From here you will see the drinks and menu offerings. The drinks are unlike anywhere else as the options are created by the bartenders and crafted perfected. Dishes are served in a style where they space them out and let you eat through them at a nice yet entertaining pace. Highly recommend the serpenete as it’s a small spiral pasta with fresh decadent truffle shredded on top and then a light broth poured over it. Smaller serving but strong flavoring throughout. The whipped ricotta is an excellent appetizer as it’s not too sweet and not too filling but just curbs your hunger correctly and gets you ready for the bold flavoring ahead. People may argue that the prices are high but for food of this quality and excellent wait staff and cocktails, this place is worth it - hands down! if you want to impress some in town travelers, have a work party, romantic date, or a phenomenal dish, Lazia is right for you.
Sara
I’ve always seen this restaurant inside of the hotel and decide to Try it! I recommend making reservations as we did not have one and waited roughly 30 min on a Monday night, we didn’t Mind tho as there’s a nice bar/ seating ne’er the lobby. As I walked up to the front of the restaurant I was offered a free same of Amaro Nonino, I was told it was a sort of palette cleanser before dinner, the shot was excellent! We sat down in the center of the restaurant, the table was well decorated and I believe most are candle lit. I loved the dim light vibe of this place. The menu was sort of different then I’m used to as far as Italian goes, I did have to google some of the ingredients as I didn’t know what they were. The server was friendly and helped with questions and gave me suggestions based on what dish i wanted that was similar. The food was phenomenal, each dish I tried has so much flavor. Also some of the best tiramisu I’ve ever had. Based on the food and vibe I definitely recommend this place. A great restaurant to date a date or just go with family. The food prices are spot on and not overly expensive.
Eric
2101 Central St, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
Tannin wine bar & kitchen
4.6
(990)
Seasonal American plates & a range of wines in a brick-lined space with bar, lounge & table seating.
Reviews:
I enjoyed my entire dining experience at Tannin Wine Bar & Kitchen. From my entrance to my exit I was treated well, greeted, engaged, and served with excellence. I was giving the proper amount attention. I met a colleague for dinner and conversation. We dined on Crispy Shrimp, Roasted Amish Chicken, Pan Roasted Salmon, Housemade banana ice cream, and a Fudge Stuffed Peanut Butter Cookie. The food was fabulous. My chicken was juicy and filled with The cappuccino was bold and creamy! I had a spirited mocktail aptly named Queen of Heart. It certainly had a royal kick to it. What a bright, open, congenial atmosphere. The restaurant was impressively clean and well polished. The seating was comfortable and spacious! The decor was contemporary with a fun vibrant theme.
Kimberly Henderson
Tonight we had a random date night and came here for the first time. Emma was our server and she was so sweet and personal. She had a lot of knowledge of the menu and was so helpful what to choose when I told her I was pregnant. We will definitely be back!
Porche Owens
Appetizers are very nice. Pretty good ambiance—Perhaps the private dining room is the nicest spot. Servers are very polite but for some reason they dressed like maintenance workers (e.g. overalls).
Maxwell Krem
Love this place. First time to visit was March 2019. Have been here once a year since then. Food is great…wine options amazing: sadly only one Old World Madeira tonight (Boston). First time I came I had a flight of five!
David Bruce
Cool place with a lot of good ones. Wait staff seemed pretty knowledgeable about the wines that they had on. We had the summer salad and it was amazing. You can add salmon to the salad. Wines are pretty overpriced for the exact same bottle you can buy locally at the store.
Hannah Mountford
1526 Walnut St, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA