What are some foods that come to mind when you think about Kansas City? Kansas City staples include food and drinks from all over town, and there are a few in particular we wouldn't want to live without. Of course, some are more obvious than others, but they all belong on this list. Have you had them all?
1. Our famous BBQ joints.
This is an obvious top choice for any KC food list. The most popular barbecue restaurants are all worth sampling at least once - that way you can find your favorite and pick a side in the endless debate of who is best.
2. Burnt ends.
Burnt ends might not be something you'd order elsewhere, but here in KC, they're a delicacy that many barbecue restaurants have and few perfect.
3. Boulevard brews.
They have something for just about everyone, and many of their special edition brews sell out as soon as they are stocked.
4. Fervere's cheese slipper.
The cheese slipper is a limited item that's available only at Fervere. There's nothing better than freshly baked bread covered in cheese and plenty of toppings.
5. A Grinders pizza that's been "bombed."
Grinders makes great food, but their pizza only gets better once it's been "bombed" with tots and cheese.
6. Chicken Spiedini.
This creation from Garozzo's Ristorante is a KC favorite and has the restaurant making extra to sell in stores just to keep people happy.
7. A KC strip steak.
Known to many outsiders as a New York strip, this cut of meat was only renamed because a NYC restaurant thought it wouldn't sell. Fools!
8. In-A-Tub tacos.
You might be gasping at the thought of powdered cheese on a taco, but they have a cult following here in Kansas City that just won't put them down.
9. The most stylish chocolates around.
Christopher Elbow makes chocolates that are on the pricey side, but very much worth the experience. Each one holds a flavor you've probably never tried before. It does help that they go on sale for First Fridays at $1 apiece. Yes, that's the sale price!
10. The Z-Man.
Joe's has been named America's best barbecue joint, but that doesn't mean you should only try their meats. The Z-Man is a wonderful creation that brings onion rings and cheese into the mix, and soon you'll be falling in love and trying to make them at home.
11. A glass of local wine.
There are several local wineries to choose from, and each one brings its own flavors to life.
12. A Skyscraper.
Winstead's is our favorite diner, and there's nothing better than a giant milkshake named after the tallest buildings. Of course, if milkshakes aren't your style, don't leave without one of their amazing cherry limeades.
13. Stroud's Cinnamon Rolls.
Everyone knows that Stroud's has amazing fried chicken, but they also have the best cinnamon rolls you'll find around here. They're strangely addictive, and I recommend you order extras to take home with you.
Of course, one of the best foods you can find around Kansas City is the humble (yet versatile) french fry. Here's our favorite places to get them!
What other foods do you think are Kansas City staples that we shouldn't miss out on? Tell us in the comments below!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
