KC's Signature Foods
Burnt Ends
Burnt ends originated in Kansas City and are cut from the end of a brisket. Although you can order at many local barbecue joints, the burnt ends at LC’s Bar-B-Q are especially delicious. Note, this joint is the true definition of a dive: small parking lot and restaurant, but outstanding food.
LC’s Bar-B-Q: 5800 Blue Pkwy. Kansas City, MO 64129. 816.923.4484. www.lcsbarbq.com
Glazed Donuts
Let’s face it, even a bad donut is a good donut. But if you’re looking for a fluffy and tasty donut, look no further than Lamar’s. The first location opened in 1960, and today you’ll find 25 stores in five states.
Lamar’s Donuts: Multiple locations www.lamars.com
Tamales
For tamales that are tasty and authentic, try Dos de Oros.
Dos de Oros Restaurant: 13029 Holmes Rd. Kansas City, MO 64145.
Dos de Oros Taqueria: 650 E. Blue Ridge Blvd. Kansas City, MO 64145
Macarons
A macaron (not to be confused with a coconut macaroon, as I often do) is a meringue-based sweet treat that is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Annedore's makes a mean macaron, and bonus, offers classes on how to make your own at home!
Annedore's Fine Chocolates: 5000 State Line Rd., Westood Hills, KS 66205. 913.831.0302. Annedores.com
Fried Chicken
Fried chicken to me means a Sunday dinner with extended family. But let’s face it, frying chicken is a lot of work and a messy job. Stroud’s has been serving their famous pan-fried chicken since 1930. You can order family style or individually and you will have yummy leftovers.
Stroud’s: Multiple locations www.stroudsrestaurant.com
Ice Cream Cone
I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream—especially during the summer! For a really decadent scoop, head to Betty Rae’s where you’ll find traditional flavors, along with some very creative concoctions.
Betty Rae’s: Waldo 7140 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, MO 64114. 816.237.1168 and River Market 412 Delaware St., Ste. D Kansas City, MO 64150. 816.214.8753 www.bettyraes.com
Empanadas
An empanada is a turnover stuffed with meat, cheese and other ingredients. Royals player Salvador Perez (out for the season due to injury) loves the empanadas at Empanada Madness, and we agree!
Empanada Madness: 906 Southwest Blvd. Kansas City, MO, 64108. 816.503.6931 and 13135 State Line Rd. Kansas City, MO 64145. 816.701.6002 www.empanadamadness.com
Pizza
You can find great pizza all over, but in KC, Minsky’s is a fave for a slice of pie. The pizzeria has been around for more than 43 years. The standard toppings are good, but the gourmet pizzas are sooo good! My fave is the Five Star Cheese with a white sauce and loads of cheese. In addition to pizza, you’ll find sandwiches, salads and more.
Minsky’s: Multiple locations www.minskys.com
Pie
Pies are often associated with holidays, but at Upper Crust Bakery, you can enjoy a piece of pie any time of year. Stop by for a slice or an entire pie.
The Upper Crust Pie Bakery: 7943 Santa Fe Overland Park, KS, 66204. 913.642.2999 www.uppercrustpiebakery.com
Gourmet Burger
For a juicy, mouthwatering lunch or dinner, what is better than a burger with fries? BRGR Kitchen + Bar offers up lots of twists on the classic burger, and the sweet potato fries are yum-o! You can make any burger turkey or bison, and they also offer a veggie option.
BRGR: Multiple locations. www.brgrkitchen.com
Margaret Sarver lives in Lenexa, KS, with her family and loves to enjoy a good meal or a treat all over KC!