Hello folks – Michael Gortenburg here, checking in from Kansas City.
As we slowly make our way out of quarantine conditions and our city businesses have reopened to more capacity, I thought we could chat about something that everyone’s been missing: our beloved restaurants.
It has been a tough time for restaurant owners and workers – so it is important to support them and other local businesses now that we have the ability to do so. I’d like to take a moment to spotlight a few of my personal favorites. That being said, this is only a select list which does not nearly encompass all the wonderful places Kansas City has to offer.
Jack Stack Barbecue
I’ve talked before about how Kansas City knows its BBQ — and Jack Stack’s BBQ is one of the best. They have five locations around the city and are renowned for the barbeque style dubbed for our city, Kansas City BBQ. People travel all around the world to get a taste of their ribs, cornbread and local brews. If you don’t feel comfortable enough to eat out just yet — try their curbside pick-up.
Cascone’s Italian Restaurant
This Italian eatery has been family-owned and operated since 1954. There are four generations working at Cascone’s and its fresh and delicious traditional Sicilian meals has drawn regulars for years. This is the perfect place to go with family or have big celebrations. The meals are hearty, but I promise you, you will finish your plate.
La Bodega
Tapas anyone? From tortilla espanola to patatas bravas to pintxos de higo – transport yourself to Barcelona with La Bodega. The restaurant atmosphere is reminiscent of Gaudi with colorful mosaics on the tables and the opportunity to have paella in an authentic pan! As of June 1st, you can visit the restaurant with patio and sidewalk seating. After a few glasses of sangria, you’ll believe you’re in a Taperia on Las Ramblas.
Grunauer
This Austrian restaurant has a delicious array of eastern European options. I suggest ordering one of their locally made bratwursts with a side of sauerkraut, washing it down with one of their selections of beer, and finishing the night with one of their traditional apple strudels for dessert. You’ll be still thinking about your meal the next day.
Seva Cuisine of India
If you’ve never tried Indian food before — this is the place that will have you ordering Indian cuisine every week. Seva’s is one of the most top-rated places in all of Kansas City and it’s no secret why: they have a great selection of tasty savory traditional Indian dishes. It’s a great option for lunch with their signature lunch buffet, but that might not be available currently. They also have fantastic and complimentary Chai tea! Portions are generous and prices are reasonable — what’s not to like?
Minsky’s Pizza
Since 1976, Minsky’s has offered some of the best pizza Kansas City has to offer. Their slogan “Gourmet, and going to stay that way,” wholly encapsulates Minky’s. Their dough is baked to perfection, the cheese is bubbly and gooey, and the toppings are always fresh and locally sourced. They also have other delicious offerings like hot sandwiches. Minsky’s is a great option for lunch or dinner.
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These are just a few of the many wonderful restaurants we have in Kansas City.
We are fortunate to have such a great array of diverse cuisines, and we’d like to keep it that way! So if you don’t feel comfortable going out to eat yet, consider ordering in, and please make sure to leave a tip. Workers have struggled unbelievably over the past few months, so they need all the support we can give them.
Enjoy!
~ Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri
Michael Gortenburg 