25 Essential Kansas Tables
From coastal enclaves to downtown institutions, these are the restaurants defining the dining conversation across Kansas.
The Cozy Inn
Salina
Storied nook with counter stools & sidewalk picnic tables doling out small burgers by the sack.
AVI | Seabar & Chophouse
Wichita
Classy, yet casual, steak & seafood restaurant providing a full bar & a sizable wine & spirit list.
Q39 - South
Overland Park
an everyday essential favorite for readers tracking Kansas's most persuasive barbecue restaurant rooms, anchored by a Beam Score of 89.4.
Slap's BBQ
Kansas City, Kansas
No-nonsense barbecue joint serving classics such as brisket & hushpuppies from a counter.
Jack Stack Barbecue - Lenexa
Lenexa, Kansas
Bustling local chain known for its vast barbecue menu encompassing steak & seafood.
Pad Thai Restaurant
Overland Park, Kansas
Pad Thai, plus seafood, stir-fries & curry dishes, in a bright, modern sit-down setting.
Nick & Jake's Overland Park
Overland Park, Kansas
Local bar & grill chain serving classic American fare, pasta, burgers & global bites.
The Depot
Leavenworth, Kansas
Warm, casual & family-friendly stop offering hearty breakfast & lunch classics from eggs to burgers.
Oscar's Authentic Mexican Grill
Olathe, Kansas
Simple, relaxed eatery in a strip-mall offering Mexican grub such as tacos & enchiladas.
Joe's KC BBQ
Leawood, Kansas
Relaxed BBQ pit stop for slabs of ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, meat by the pound & sides.
Carriage Crossing Restaurant and Bakery
Hutchinson, Kansas
Folksy, longtime American fixture with family-style dishes & house-baked goods, plus a gift shop.
First Watch
Overland Park, Kansas
Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.
J. Gilbert's Wood-Fired Steaks & Seafood Kansas City
Overland Park, Kansas
Fine-dining-style establishment offering classic steakhouse fare, cocktails & a big menu of sides.
Ginger Sue's
Olathe, Kansas
Local chain of casual eateries, serving eggs & griddle breakfasts, plus comfort food at lunch.
Italian Delight
Kansas City, Kansas
Thin- & thick-crust pizzas, plus slices, sandwiches & pastas, served in a basic, industrial space.
First Watch
Lawrence, Kansas
Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.
Bigg's BBQ
Lawrence, Kansas
Family-friendly outpost known for Kansas City-style BBQ, plus a bar & many TVs for sports viewing.
Bourbon & Baker
Manhattan, Kansas
Trendy venue showcasing creative Southern-inspired plates with on-tap wines & a long bourbon list.
Ronnie's Restaurant
Lenexa, Kansas
Hearty breakfasts & sandwiches are menu staples at this locally owned joint with a relaxed ambiance.
Hickory Hut BBQ
Salina, Kansas
Simple, counter-serve stalwart dishing up down-home BBQ staples, such as brisket, ribs & burnt ends.
Minsky's Pizza
Lenexa, Kansas
Elevated pizzeria chain with lots of crust & topping options, plus spaghetti & cheesesteaks.
First Watch
Overland Park, Kansas
Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.
Fazoli's
Wichita, Kansas
Fast-food chain doling out baked pastas, subs, pizza & other casual Italian fare plus custom combos.
Wasabi Hinkaku
Wichita, Kansas
Identifies as women-owned. Service options: Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great cocktails.
First Watch
Fairway, Kansas
Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.