4 minute read
Foodie Finds
There’s plenty to love about Emporia’s food scene. With a diverse population, our locals prepare authentic cuisine from a range of cultures to tantalize your taste buds.
Good Eats
Immerse yourself in Emporia’s Latino culture at CASA RAMOS (402 Merchant St) with authentic Mexican dishes and a full bar. For craft beer, brick oven pizza, and more, a visit to RADIUS BREWING CO. (610 Merchant St) will surely satisfy. Dine under a whimsical indoor cherry blossom tree at HAGAYA RAMEN SHOP (1111 Commercial St). Slurp down a noodle bowl with your choice of Japanese broths, or try one of their flavorful sushi rolls. Ave) offers an unbeatable combination of juicy, hand-pressed burgers and flavorful, fresh ingredients that deliver a perfect bite every time. Their friendly, hometown vibe makes every visit feel like you’re part of the family. Looking for BBQ? BOBBY D’S (607 Merchant St) is a must. Once featured on BBQ Pitmasters, you’ll quickly learn why at Bobby D’s, “It’s all ‘bout da meat!” UNION STREET SOCIAL (225 E 6th Ave) is described as half speakeasy and half grandma’s weird basement. This eclectic eatery features upscale cocktails and hip American bistro cuisine.
Food Trucks
Everyone loves a food truck! In between traveling, many trucks here in Emporia are planting roots to create hybrid dining opportunities that shouldn’t be missed. THE DAILY STATION (312 W South Ave) masterfully combines fresh, locally sourced ingredients with creative, mouthwatering flavors that you can’t find anywhere else. Plus, their friendly service and commitment to quality make every meal feel like a special experience. CHI EM EATS (find them on Facebook) delivers authentic, vibrant flavors with dishes like savory pho, fresh banh mi, and flavorful spring rolls made from cherished family recipes. Their dedication to quality ingredients and traditional techniques ensures an unforgettable taste of Vietnam with every bite. FOOD-A-PALOOZA FOOD TRUCK RALLY hosted by the Flinthills Mall is typically held in spring and fall. Check visitemporia.com for specific dates.
Coffee & Sweets
GRANADA COFFEE COMPANY (809 Commercial St), has been voted the best coffee in the Flint Hills for 18 straight years. Snuggle up in an oversized chair and enjoy the local vibe in this unique shop. One block south is GRAVEL CITY ROASTERS (715 Commercial St), an eclectic sanctuary with a friendly and welcoming vibe. You’ll find everything from coffee drinks, Italian soda, teas, sweet or savory breakfast rolls, Greek salad, cupcakes, and more. THE SWEET GRANADA (803 Commercial St) gourmet chocolate shop uses premium ingredients to whip up sweet perfection daily, whether it be fudge, truffles, candies or best-seller PopChoc.
Night Life
Emporia’s hometown atmosphere is perfect for a casual night out with friends. BOURBON COWBOY (605 Commercial St), is a 6,000 sq. foot, two-level country dance bar and pool hall. MULREADY’S PUB (717 Commercial St) serves 23 beers on tap, 70+ bottles of beer, and over 140 combined bourbons, scotches, and whiskies from around the world. Tap into your inner lumberjack and step up to throw down at THE AXE SHEDD, 616 Commercial Street. BRUFF’S BAR & GRILL is the place to be with a full food menu, pool tables, darts, and bar. TROLLEY HOUSE DISTILLERY (502 S Commercial St), is one of only 6 microdistilleries in the state. Their tasting room is the perfect place to enjoy seasonal cocktails.
MET&L Prairie Pour Tour
Consider yourself a craft beverage enthusiast?! The MET&L Prairie Pour Tour takes you on a journey through the beautiful Flint Hills of Kansas, including the communities of Manhattan, Emporia, Topeka, and Lawrence. Check in at local breweries, wineries, and distilleries using the Prairie Pour Tour App and win prizes. Go to prairiepourtour.com for 2025 tour dates.
