Eat This Now

Eat This Now

Specialty Combo at The Combine

By Sarah Sipple

The Combine resides in a former Wonder Bread factory at 30th and Troost. Flour filled the air there before most of us were born. Now, owner Alan Kneeland brings new life to the space with lunch and dinner offerings, a rooftop patio, and a welcoming atmosphere.

During the week, the main floor dining area is spacious and has a comfortable calm. Weekends are more lively, with Chiefs watch parties and live music now and then. An extensive bar with a cocktail menu also helps to keep the restaurant versatile.

One of the most economical options is the lunch special. It is ideal for a casual lunch meeting, quick carryout, or a filling meal before checking out the other shops in the building. These include Solid State Pinball Supply, HairKCMO, Ruby Jean’s Juicery across the street, and more.

The Specialty Combo includes a massive slice of any specialty pizza, a generously-portioned side salad, and a drink (with refills) for $10.50—or save $1 by ordering a two-topping slice if you are craving a simpler ‘za.

A mega-slice arrives well-baked but not too crispy and on the thinner side as far as pizza crusts go. Toppings take the spotlight as the sauce and cheese are satisfying but minimal. I opted for the Veggie Delight, but the opposite end of the spectrum would be Cowtown Lovers with pepperoni, beef, sausage, Canadian bacon, and Romano cheese.

In case you’re not in the mood for pizza, The Combine also serves hot and cold sandwiches, wings, calzones, and salads. As a nod to the building’s history, there is a selection of Wonder Bread sandwiches available, like a Fluffernutter sandwich with chips for $5.

The lunch special is available Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. for dine-in or carry-out.