Kansas City Restaurants

Kansas City is famous the world over for its barbeque. It all started in the early 1920s, when Henry Perry, the "Father of KC Barbeque," began selling barbeque that he'd cooked in an outdoor pit, wrapped in newspaper. Others emulated Perry's style, and the rest is history. Every local has his or her own favorite joint, but the undisputed "Big Three" of KC barbeque are Arthur Bryant's (1727 Brooklyn Ave.), Gate's (3205 Main St.), and Fiorella's Jack Stack(13441 Holmes Rd., near 135th St.). Though Kansas City barbeque is all slow-smoked, usually over hickory wood, each establishment has its own special recipe for meats and sauce. No matter where you go, make sure you try the KC's defining delicacy: burnt ends (the dry, blackened ends of the brisket).

You won't get stellar service, you won't have to dig very deep—prices range from $8 to $15 at all barbeque joints. The American Royal BBQ Contest (www.americanroyal.com) is a two-day festival held in the West Bottoms neighborhood each October. It's the largest amateur competition of its kind in the world, and it's a great way to sample a lot of local flavor in one stop.

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  • 1. André's Confiserie Suisse

    $ | Café

    The menu changes monthly at this local favorite, but you can always count on Swiss favorites like the cheese pie and the cheese, onion, and...Read More

  • 2. Arthur Bryant's

    $ | 18th and Vine Historic District | American

    Although there are more than 100 barbecue joints in Kansas City, Bryant's—low on decor but high on taste—tops the list for locals, who don't...Read More

  • 3. Californos

    $ | Westport | American

    Try the filet mignon or the grilled salmon with soy vinaigrette at this laid-back restaurant with a California feel in trendy Westport, 10 minutes...Read More

  • 4. Chappell's Restaurant and Sports Museum

    $ | American

    Just north of downtown, Chappell's is best known for meat entrées like the London broil and burgers, but it also serves lighter sandwiches and...Read More

  • 5. Figlio

    $ | Italian

    The pasta served here is made in-house daily, and specials are updated weekly. Other delicacies include pizzas prepared in a wood-burning oven...Read More

  • 6. Golden Ox

    $ | West Bottoms | Steakhouse

    Down the street from Kemper Arena, this popular steak house serves prime rib and steaks prepared your way in a comfortable western atmosphere. ...Read More

  • 7. Jazz

    $ | American

    Traditional Cajun fare mixes with a variety of specialty pastas at this lively and boisterous downtown eatery. Neon lights together with zydeco...Read More

  • 8. Peachtree of KC

    $ | 18th and Vine Historic District | American

    Southern soul food—fried chicken and catfish, crawfish, cornbread dressing and collard greens—is the order of the day at Peachtree's two locations...Read More

  • 9. Peachtree of KC

    $ | 18th and Vine Historic District

    ...Read More

  • 10. Westport Flea Market

    $ | American

    Smack-dab in the middle of the aging yet charming flea market that gives it its name, this burger joint and bar is a hang-out for colorful regulars...Read More

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