Dining al Fresco in Kansas City
The term al fresco is Italian and means “outside” or “in the fresh air.” So, al fresco dining means eating outdoors! Although we don’t have the kind of weather here in Kansas City that allows us to do this year round, we do have many restaurants that offer outdoor dining for when the weather is nice. No matter what part of town you are in, you can find some excellent options.
Situated on the beautiful Country Club Plaza is Rye. Their cafe-style, street-side seating is inviting, and their menu is full of innovative and flavorful dishes, including quail, lamb, shrimp and grits, and fried chicken. You can’t go wrong with any of the choices. But before you even get to the entree, you must try the blue crab hushpuppies appetizer and the complimentary corn muffins. I could have made an entire meal out of those two things alone. Once you are finished eating, take a stroll around the Plaza and enjoy the beautiful architecture.
Ignite Wood Fire Grill is located in Lenexa City Center, Lenexa’s new downtown, and their patio is a fantastic place to find yourself on a Sunday morning. They have a delicious appetizer buffet for $15 that can easily stand in for your entire meal. For another $3, you can add on an entree to eat then or take to go. They also have great brunch drink specials, including $1 refills on mimosas, bloody marys and bellinis. Honestly, there is no better value for your money than brunch at Ignite. You will leave with a smile on your face and one happy tummy.
Nestled in the quaint little town of Parkville, MO, and one level up from the street is Cafe des Amis, a charming French bistro. Try them for lunch and enjoy their lovely outdoor patio. If you are a vegetarian (or just love veggies), they have a scrumptious veggie crepe with Swiss cheese, ratatouille and béchamel sauce. They also have great seafood choices, quiche, and vol-au-vent, which is puff pastry towers filled with chicken, cheese, and béchamel. After you have finished there, check out Parkville’s stores and coffee shop, try your hand at mini golf, or enjoy a stroll at English Landing Park.
Just down the street from the old Ben Franklin store in Independence, MO, in the historic neighborhood of Englewood, is Vivilore. According to the owners, Vivilore means “life story”—and what a story it has to tell! It boasts of modern American cuisine, antiques, fine art and home decor. It’s a mishmash of dining and shopping, all under one roof. But the best part about Vivilore is the lush courtyard garden out back. It is a magical place perfect for date nights, anniversary celebrations and girls night out, and it is THE place to be on a beautiful spring or summer day. Their entire menu is worth a try, but be sure to sample the coconut shrimp and bread pudding. You won’t regret it.
Arguably the best outdoor dining in Kansas City can be found at Trezo Mare (featured photo). It sits up on a bluff in Briarcliff, just north of downtown, and offers great views of the city. It’s pretty during the day and even prettier at night with all the lights aglow. Their outdoor, south-facing patio is sizable and offers couches, a fire pit and plenty of tables—some with umbrellas. It’s the perfect place for a romantic night out or brunch with your friends. If you go for dinner, try one of their seafood dishes. All are spectacular and artfully plated.
Hannah Berry is a local writer with a penchant for delicious dining and eclectic treasures.