Tasty KC: Local Eats & Brews for Every Palate

By Kelsey Haynes

Stemming from our rich agricultural history, it’s no secret that Kansas City has the best barbecue around. While we wear the crown thanks to classic spots like Gates Bar-B-Q and new smoke-stack-stars like Harp Barbecue, KC has an endless array of alternative options to satisfy all of your cravings.

From thriving farmers’ markets in every community throughout the region and soul food-inspired bites in KC’s historic jazz district to thirst-quenching cocktail and juice bars that help wash it all down, KC boasts an eclectic and vibrant food scene.

Diet-inclusive eateries Happy Gillis and Cultivare Greens and Grains are among the growing list of nutritious options that incorporate locally-sourced produce into their menu items, serving up light yet (ful)filling soups, salads and shareables.

The Farmhouse and Billie’s Grocery bring nostalgic Midwestern farm-to-table vibes to the heart of the metro with fresh entrees curated from regionally-harvested ingredients.

Local beer favorites, including Boulevard Brewery, Servaes Brewing Company and Martin City Brewing, craft an assortment of flavorful brews and often partner with local, mission-driven organizations to add extra purpose to each pour.

Artisan earth-based options such as Soulcentricitea, which offers 54 flavors of loose leaf tea, and local kombucha tap rooms like Tea-biotics and The Brewkery, are expanding the scope of KC brewing.

Enjoy the authentic taste of traditional Pakistani and Indian dishes at cultural eateries such as Kurry Leaves and Seva, or embark on the Forbes-renowned KCK Taco Trail. This deliciously mapped-out tour features more than 50 local taquerias for a historic and flavorful journey with everyone’s favorite Tuesday dish.

Looking to celebrate in style? The Mercury Room offers guests a one-of-a-kind experience sitting amongst the stars and the KC skyline while imbibing world-class cocktails.

Micheal Smith, one of many James Beard Foundation award-winning chefs in KC, is widely recognized for his Mediterranean and Italian fare at Extra Virgin and Farina. Chef Linda Duerr of The Restaurant at 1900 receives similar accolades for her modern American cuisine.

Wherever you choose to explore, your taste buds are in for a never-ending treat in KC.