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DINERS, DRIVE-INS, AND DIVES

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our Topeka Story

our Topeka Story

Since 1948, Bobo’s Drive In — which was featured in 2008 on the hit show “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” — has been known for its popular drive-up service. There is limited seating and an old-fashioned lunch counter inside, but Bobo’s classic car service continues to be a local favorite. Outside, a neon marquee adorns the building, and a large menu can be found facing vehicles that park under the drive-in canopy. Carhops take your order and deliver meals, so you never have to leave the luxury of your vehicle. You can’t go wrong ordering a cheeseburger and fries. LOCAL TIP: Try a side of ranch with your fries, and don’t skip the chocolate milkshake!

Global Dining

Traverse the globe without ever leaving Topeka! The capital city is home to a variety of people and food, adding to the area’s diverse dining scene and culture. From Thai to Indian to Mediterranean and more, local eateries offer something for every palate. Check out a few of our favorites below! Just remember — this list only scratches the surface.

Asian Fusion

• 4 Guys Bistro

• Oriental Express

• Ling’s Bistro

• Saigon

INDIAN

• Globe Indian Cuisine

• Indian Bistro

• Monsoon Indian Grill

• Pal Indian Cuisine

JAPANESE

• Kiku Japanese Steakhouse

• Mizu Sushi

• Yuki Restaurant of Japan

MEDITERRANEAN

• Olive Cafe

MEXICAN

• Casserolle

• El Mexicali

• Los Charros

• Los Mandiles Rojos

• Tacos El Guitarron (food truck)

• Tacos El Sol

• Taqueria El Coyote

• Zoila’s Cafe

THAI

• A-Hann Thai

• Jong’s Thai Kitchen

• Tuptim Thai

Meet the Chef:

Chef Tony Mashaal was raised in Egypt. His Mediterranean restaurant has taken Kansas by storm. People will often drive an hour to enjoy his fresh hummus and gyros!

LOCAL TIP:

The Egyptian Baklava is a must try. This small flaky pastry combines the perfect mix of honey and pistachio, topped off with a sweet homemade syrup!

STILL THIRSTY OR IN NEED OF A MUNCHIE?

• COFFEE BAR located near Washburn University, community focused, the perfect day-tonight spot

• DIALOGUE COFFEE HOUSE coffee with a cause, cozy atmosphere, BIG cookies

• JUDEE’S COFFEE fresh syrups, homemade pop-tarts and baked goods, along with great coffee dine-in or drivethrough, friendly and community minded

• MILK & HONEY COFFEE CO.

Coffee Central

Topeka is no stranger to great coffee shops offering treats of all kinds! Both PT’s Coffee and Blue Jazz Coffee Roasters call the capital city home, with multiple spots serving their special roasts. But wait — there’s more to explore! With popular locations across the city that will keep you coming back for more, don’t miss the following coffee hotspots.

CIRCLE COFFEE CO.

A neighborhood coffee bar with a bit of flare; find freshly baked treats and specialty sips on tap, like their nitro cold brew and carbonated lemonades. Stick around for a Saturday night, and you may just catch another local business popping up after hours!

Coffeehead

Featuring a rotating seasonal menu, this modest establishment packs a punch, with creative coffee drinks, boba and milk teas, house-made sandwiches, and delightful desserts you won’t find anywhere else.

Blackbird

ESPRESSO BAR & BISTRO

A local favorite for breakfast and lunch, where you can snag your typical coffee or an after-lunch beer or glass of vino. Keep an eye on their rotating selection of pastries and soups for some mouth-watering goodness!

THAT’S JUST THE START!

We can’t name every place here, so be sure to check out VisitTopeka.com for a more complete list of the caffeine suppliers in town!

Vino

(For nearby wineries, look for the “regional attractions” section on page 32 of this guide!)

• SALUT WINE AND COCKTAIL LOUNGE

Sip the night away on bubbles or vino at Topeka’s newest wine bar! Grab tapas like their “Hot Artichoke Dip” to complete the experience.

• THE WHITE LINEN

A fine-dining establishment known for its extensive wine list! Enjoy a tasting menu that changes monthly, with the option to add a wine pairing to each course. Visit TheWhiteLinen.com for more.

• THE WEATHER ROOM

For wines you may not find elsewhere, The Weather Room downtown, on the first floor of the Cyrus Hotel, is your stop!

• CHEZ YASU

Topeka’s premier spot for French cuisine, Chez Yasu offers a variety of wines and a full bar, served alongside dishes like duck, lamb, and escargots.

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