Food halls have become more and more popular in Kansas City over the past several years. This month, why not check out one (or more) of them? It’s an excellent way to support local small businesses.
One of KC’s original food halls is Parlor, a two-story establishment located in the Crossroads. It is currently home to seven different eateries and the Parlor Bar. The food choices run the gamut: nachos, wings, Indian, Mediterranean, pizza, burgers, tacos and fried chicken. So many great options under one roof! The hot chicken from Mother Clucker is a popular option. Personally, of my favorite items is the fig and goat cheese slider from long-standing concept Slideshow. The Parlor Bar, located on both the first and second levels, offers wine by the glass or bottle; a wide array of beer; and on-tap, craft and custom cocktails. While Parlor’s eateries change out from time to time, there is never any shortage of good food, and the atmosphere is fun and laid-back. It can get a bit loud and crowded on the weekends, so we prefer to go at an off-time or during the week.
1 of 2
2 of 2
Strang Hall in downtown Overland Park is my favorite of the local food halls. It’s all on one level and is quite spacious inside. Currently home to six chef-driven concepts plus Strang Bar, this place has an easygoing atmosphere and plenty of great food options, including Asian favorites like curry, pho, sushi and banh mi; tacos and burritos; salads and sandwiches; pizza and pasta; and more. It’s perfect for a weekday lunch, happy hour with friends or casual date night. They have a nice patio with plenty of seating and turfed areas for the kiddos to run around. And if you hang out long enough, you can end your time with some coffee or a milkshake at the cafe.
1 of 3
2 of 3
3 of 3
Lenexa Public Market, located in downtown Lenexa, was the first food hall to hit Kansas City in 2017. Over the past eight years, numerous concepts have come and gone, but what hasn’t changed is the classy vibe. Currently, seven eateries make their home at this establishment, including everything from African, Thai and Pakistani cuisine to pizza, donuts and burgers. There is even a place where you can play board games (with several hundred to choose from) and nosh on waffles or imbibe a boozy beverage. Lenexa Public Market offers classes throughout the year, live music on their patio during warmer weather, plus other events like festivals, sip-and-shops, family nights and more.
