20 Cant-Miss Best Restaurants in the Plaza Area Kansas City

Country Club Plaza, also known as Plaza Area, is well known for its shopping center; the best restaurants in Plaza Area are one of the main attractions that attract locals and tourists.

However, this is the first privately owned regional shopping center that opened in 1923 and has become the most preferred shopping plaza in the city.

Whether you are visiting the Plaza Area for shopping or exploring, make sure to dine in any of the best restaurants that will be on this list.

You will definitely get different world-famous cuisines and an exquisite dining experience.

Best Restaurants in Plaza Area Kansas City

1. Gram & Dun

Pretty shrubbery and a patio before you even walk into the spot. Once in, the enormous wine rack, beautiful lighting, light seating (especially the seat facing outside), the bar area, and the rooms you use for events make Gram & Dun a real treat of a place to come!

Hence, the patio is ideal for dining on the Plaza. Large and spacious, with umbrellas that go up if it’s too sunny and a decent view of the bustling Plaza streets and greenery along Brush Creek.

However, this is one of the best restaurants in Plaza Area for brunch and drinks! A go-to spot if the weather is good and you want to sit outdoors.

Great gluten-free options and amazing service staff who can direct you toward the right menu items. It is really rare for hosts and hostesses to have the knowledge to advise you against substitutions and modifications to dishes that contain gluten.

Also, they have a gluten-free beer that is not an omission or red bridge, which is very rare. Their mixed drinks are fantastic.

Then the food is delicious! The lobster avocado starter is a great combination that balances the smooth texture of the avocado and chunky lobster meat. The shrimp tacos are just spicy enough and refreshing with a spritz of lime juice, perfect on a warm summer night.

In addition to a great atmosphere and wonderful service, this spot provides a really exceptional meal.

Address: 600 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64112

2. The Capital Grille

The true test of a restaurant is how the food is to go, and Capital Grille will not let you down!

Certainly one of the best restaurants in Plaza Area, no commentary is needed for the food, as it is absolutely amazing.

Start off with the calamari; it is very tasty. Then for your main course, sushi-grade tuna steak and a dry-aged KC strip. Both have not only amazing flavor but the top-notch mouth feel and tenderness.

Hence, the food is at the perfect temperature. From appetizers to desserts, the food is phenomenal. Oysters are the perfect size to taste and not too large; their butternut squash bisque and New England clam chowder hit the spot.

You come for the food but return for the experience. The ribeye is amazing and tender, so flavorful.

And the chicken meat is tender to the touch, exquisite to look at, and emits the most pleasant and tantalizing aroma.

Address: 4760 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64112

3. Jack Stack Barbecue – Plaza

First, the smell you walk into just by being around the building is enough to make your mouth water! You walk into a beautiful atmosphere, well decorated and laid out.

This is a beautiful building that is impressive once you walk in. The tall ceilings, exposed pipes, brick walls, beautiful big seats, and fireplaces with dim lighting give you the feeling that you are in an upscale lounge.

However, Jack Stack Barbecue – Plaza is one of the top BBQ restaurants in the Plaza Area. The food and service are always excellent and consistent, whether dining in or curbside pickup.

Truly an epic dining experience with a liquor cellar that rivals many. Every item is memorable and rich without overdoing it, from the wings to the crown ribs to the sides.

Speaking of the food, the order for beef burnt ends with the BBQ baked beans and fries. The ends are amazing, tender, moist, and very flavorful.

Also, getting their hot BBQ sauce to dip over all the food is great, and the service is spot on.

Address: 4747 Wyandotte St, Kansas City, MO 64112

4. Chuy’s

A huge venue, several dining rims, and a perfect outdoor dining area that wraps around the building overlooking the plaza and park with a great view of the fountains.

Interestingly, this spot has photos of dogs customers brought in to hang all over the walls, which is neat.

The entry is full of vintage cameras, and the entire place is a unique walk thigh history with Elvis, old cars, neat photos, and trinkets in every room.

However, Chuy’s is the best Tex-Mex you can get in Kansas City; it is also one of your best options for fresh, flavorful, and affordable Mexican-inspired food.

Hence, all entrees come with sides of Mexican spiced rice and the best re-fried beans you can get in other restaurants in Plaza Area.

Make sure to try some Jalapeno ranch sauce to dip your freshly served bottomless chips and salsa (or any other sauce you would like to ask to dip your chips in at no cost) while you wait for your entrees.

You would be given a platter of their different sauces (all made in-house, as all food comes from fresh ingredients), and they are all absolutely delicious, varying in intensity from mild to hot.

Also, this spot has really nice cocktails, especially flavored margaritas. And really good happy hour specials and a small but private parking lot.

Plan a visit on Mondays – Sundays from 11 AM – 9 PM.

Address: 209 W 46^th Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64112

5. Rye Plaza

Whoever did the interior decoration for Rye should get a raise. So many textures and things to look at while you enjoy your meal! Rustic but classy.

Hence, Rye Plaza makes you feel at home. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, vintage and modern mixed together in stylish form.

Do not let the outside appearance of this restaurant fool you. It looks simple and chic on the outside, but you will fall in love with the interior design as soon as you go in.

However, their apple pie is off the charts. It not only looks like a work of art, but it tastes phenomenal. You can tell by the quality of their food that they really care about what they put on their plates.

Though it is a bit on the pricey side, but they have really good specials. The fried chicken is perfectly cooked, unbelievably crispy, and so juicy.

Also, great pickled vegetables for appetizers. Famous for its fried chicken, some of the best you will ever have, and one of the best restaurants in Plaza Area.

What makes it the best? The source of their suppliers and you taste the chicken, and not the seasoning, is the most important part of the meal.

Then, do not pass up any of the desserts by Meghan, a James Beard Award-winning pastry chef. You will enjoy the lemon meringue pie, smooth and a light richness that is just perfect, with no acidic aftertaste.

Again, great service and atmosphere. And the continuous quality of excellent food. Consistency is important, and Rye is never to disappoint!

Address: 4646 Mill Creek Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64112

6. Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant

An upscale winery and restaurant located on the Northwest side of the country club plaza on a side street.

However, they have a well-stocked gift shop with many holiday-related items for the wine lover in your life.

Although upscale, the menu is diverse, and the price point is reasonable, considering you are on the plaza and their dishes are upscale American.

Hence, one great thing about Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant is that they have adequate bar seating if you are just looking for an after-work hang out rather than dinner. And party rooms for larger groups that can accommodate 15-20 people at a time.

Start your meal with its calamari, which tastes amazing and is fried with the perfect batter.

Then, move on to their entrees which consist of shrimp and scallop risotto, potato-crusted scallops, and churrasco grilled steak. All of it is amazing.

Also, the cilantro lime aioli is the perfect sidecar for a delicious steak. The parmesan fries, which accompany the steak, are probably the best you will have in other restaurants in Plaza Area.

Each ingredient compliments the other, and it turns out to be just a delicious flavor explosion in your mouth.

One cool thing about this spot is they serve “flights” of wine, from the bubbles flight to its signature Coopers Hawk Lux. The bubbles flight is very fun and refreshing, while the lux is more diverse.

However the wine tastings are always great, but they can often get crowded around the counter. So it’s best to come before or after the happy hour/dinner rush.

Plan a visit on Mondays – Sundays from 11 AM – 9 PM.

Address: 4686 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64112

7. The Classic Cup Cafe

Have you ever had their pancakes? One of the best restaurants in Plaza Area that serves the best pancakes. They must have a special secret in their recipe, but everything you order there is delicious. So maybe it’s the chef.

Fresh orange juice in the morning gets you going. But it’s not just about breakfast; they also serve lunch and dinner.

The Classic Cup Cafe puts the “Y” in yummy, the “D” in delicious, and the “S” in service.

Hence, their waitstaff is on point, has fast service, is fun, and is courteous, and they know their product.

When they ask them what’s good on the menu, they can define each meal so you can make an educated decision.

Also, the food, beverages, and desserts are so delicious; should you cheat on your diet, you might. Well, as one of their waiters will tell you, “what you do in The Classic Cup Cafe stays in the classic cup.”

Although the wait can be long if you don’t make a reservation, even so, the food is fantastic, and the coffee drink selections are well-portioned and delicious.

Visit on Mondays – Fridays from 7 AM – 2 PM and Saturdays – Sundays from 9 AM – 3 PM.

Address: 301 W 47th St, Kansas City, MO 64112

8. The Melting Pot

When Americans think of fondue, this is the chain they think about. It can be overwhelming, but it’s far less daunting if you know that you can customize your meal to your liking.

Do not let the price detour you from going and experiencing The Melting Pot; they won’t disappoint you. Their meal is worth every dime you spend at this spot.

However, they are super fast with bringing out your first courses. Also, if it’s your first time, they are very friendly and will walk you through the process, which is easy and fun! Then if your food is not done right, the only complaint you have to make is yourself.

Since you are cooking everything you eat besides the cheese and chocolate portion.

Hence, the cheese (quattro formaggio) is flavorful and delicious. The salads (specifically the California salad) are very fresh and tasty.

Also, the meat tastes very high quality, the smores chocolate is so good, and they flambeed it at the table, which is super fun.

Though it is a bit expensive, but one of the best restaurants in the Plaza Area. So I think for special occasions, it is absolutely worth it.

Address: 450 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64112

9. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood

As soon as you pull up to this spot, you already feel like it’s a fancy place due to the complimentary valet service.

Inside, the four personal jazz group is noticed right away and compliments the atmosphere. Also, reservations are a must.

However, the place is perfectly lit and very clean, and the staff is very professional and will do their best to make it a lovely dining experience for every customer.

Now the food, try the crab cake to start. This is one of the crab cake restaurants in the Plaza Area to dine in.

The crust on it is light and flaky, and it makes a difference. Also, try the steak medallions Oscar style, which comes with lobster tail and asparagus drizzled with Bearnaise sauce.

Hence, try the scallops, a lobster tail, and lobster mashed potatoes. Best potato dish you will ever have; the steak is wrapped in bacon and cooked to perfection. The lobster is well-presented and way better when dipped in butter.

Then for your drinks, try the citrus fruit and micro greens; also, try the 24-karat drink.

Though it’s probably meant for women, it is an interesting drink with a unique flavor. This spot has a huge selection of wine.

Overall, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood is a fine dining restaurant, and it costs fine dining prices. The lavender-scented hot towels are a special touch; it’s a great place for special events.

They even have private rooms for different-sized groups and patio dining; if you want to enjoy an evening with friends or a date when visiting Kansas City, make sure to stop by this spot.

Address: 700 W 47th St Ste 115, Kansas City, MO 64112

10. Stock Hill

It’s actually really hard to beat this spot. First, the restaurant is just beautiful, warm, super comfy chairs, and cozy. Yet still modern with a uniquely wonderful bar.

Speaking of the bar, the cocktails are very nice all the way. The wine list is exceptional; bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable.

Also, the drinks are quick to the table, unique, and seasonal. And the table service is at the top level of service you can get in other restaurants in Plaza Area.

Hence, Issac and James are exceptional. They bring professionalism that makes people want to go out to eat; nothing ever goes undone.

They know the menu inside out, and the chef is hands-on with every beautiful plate of food coming out of the kitchen.

You can see if you are facing the kitchen. Stock Hill has a really cool semi-open kitchen concept where you can see all the action. Not only is the food great, but the presentation is unbelievable.

Chef Nic Bandelie shows Kansas City why Stock Hill won the 31st best steakhouses in America.

Address: 4800 Main St Ste G-001, Kansas City, MO 64112

11. Prime Sushi On Main

The location is beautiful and classy but welcoming; service is prompt and attentive. Even if you have little experience with sushi, the staff will be helpful with recommendations.

The first thing you will notice off the bat is that the presentation is outstanding. Each roll is like a little work of art; it really enhances the experience you get when artisans craft every dish.

And you will be surprised by the size of the portions. Prime Sushi On Main is more expensive than other sushi restaurants in Plaza Area, but the presentation and size of the portion are definitely worth it.

Of course, none of that matters compared to the flavor. The fish is so fresh, and the flavors are well-composed. It is delicious; you should try the mango cha roll.

Also, the sushi variety is amazing. Each roll has its own flavor! And that’s a must for sushi; so many sushi restaurants in Plaza Area and nothing beats this divine spot.

All in all, you will have a fantastic experience. Especially since their menu is extensive and there are tons of things to try.

Address: 4980 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64112

Want to explore the whole of Kansas City? Check out our best Restaurants in Kansas City to dine at!

12. Peanut On Main

You will only find the classiest of people dining at the Peanut On Main, for obvious reasons.

One would think a restaurant of this caliber would only be found in the Hamptons of New York or the mountains of eloquent Aspen, Colorado.

However, this fine dining experience certainly baths in the same league as Gram & Dunn and Seasons 52 on the plaza.

But the peanut’s exquisite cuisine and service take the crown every time. The perfect first date spot for any man looking to land the woman of his dreams and have her get the wings.

Hence, they use the expensive jumbo wings, the entire wings. Drumette, wingette, and tip. These are not like other restaurants in Plaza Area; if you think the wings from those restaurants are good, you should be ashamed of yourself.

Go here during off-peak hours, when you have a minute to wait on your food to be cooked to order, and you are not trying to seat a large party.

Also, the wings are phenomenal if you get lucky enough to have them nail the cooking time, so the skin is nice and roasted crispy.

However, it’s truly like going back in time to your dad’s urban neighborhood sports bar. Beer is cheap, and the ambiance reveals the history of the place.

Plan a visit on Mondays – Saturdays from 11 AM – 1:30 AM, Then on Sundays from 10 AM – 12 AM.

Address: 5000 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64112

13. O’Dowd’s Gastrobar

Formerly known as O’Dowd’s Little Dublin, located on the plaza in Kansas City.

O’Dowd’s Gastrobar still serves the best; the outside remains the same, while the inside is a revelation.

However, upon entry to the newly redesigned space is impressive with decor that is industrial chic, dominated by an impressive bar in the middle of the main floor and a long community table made from repurposed industrial equipment with a hardwood top.

Although the space is resplendent in dark woods and tiles, it is at the same time very open and features niches that make one part of the whole atmosphere a more intimate and private area, allowing for easy conversations.

Also, street-side windows allow one to take in the weather and experience the Plaza.

This spot also has a large open-air venue and a unique twist on the restrooms, separate necessary areas for men and women.

Then the new menu is a mix of appetizers, sandwiches, flatbreads, Irish classics, and traditional Midwest entrees, along with a strong wine list and a full bar.

Hence, you can try the warm day go-to with a tall GTO (Gin & Tonic with Olives) or a glass of Merlot.

And for the entrees, try the thick, bone-in pork chop grilled to perfection and served with decadently rich mashed potatoes and a hash of kale and lardons, which is flavorful and matched perfectly to the other items on the plate.

For your desserts, try the bourbon maple cheesecake. The flavor of the bourbon and the maple syrup shows through both the cheesecake and the sauce; the drizzle around the plate is a touch of genius, adding an acidic tartness to the divine sweetness of the main event.

Compared to other restaurants in Plaza Area, the price can be considered mid-range. And with the extensive menu yet to be explored, you should try out this restaurant.

Address: 4742 Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, MO 64112

14. Mission Taco Joint – South Plaza

The seating here at Mission Taco Joint – South Plaza is nice and open, which is nice.

You can scan a QR code for a menu and offer physical menus if needed, which is nice because not everybody knows what a QR code is.

However, the environment is top-notch! It’s a home away from home that is always clean, and they put service first.

Hence, the bartenders are attentive and friendly. You never have to wait, be it drink or food; it’s consistently delicious.

Also, you cannot go wrong with their fresh juiced margaritas. No matter what you are hungry for, the menu has it covered.

Though the price is on the high side, but that’s expected being on the Plaza. You can get the burrito because it seemed to be more bang for your buck. Or a couple of tacos of varying styles.

Also, try the chips and salsa as an appetizer because, unlike many other Mexican restaurants in Plaza Area, they don’t give you gratis chips and salsa.

Interestingly, this restaurant does have a kid’s menu, and there are vegetarian and vegan options, so don’t shy away if you are vegetarian or vegan.  Also, they have Mexican coke and burritos for those of you who like them.

Address: 5060 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64112

15. Minsky’s Pizza

Hands down, Minsky’s Pizza is one of the best pizza restaurants in the Plaza Area you should try.

First, they have the best selection of pizza toppings, and they are not stingy.

Instead, you get toppings in every single bite. When you order the hamburger, the pizza is covered with it. It is not a chunky hamburger; it is ground, browned, and in a million, trillion tiny bits.

However, they also have great specialty pizzas, it is difficult to choose a favorite, but I love their cheeseburger pizza. Complete with ketchup, mustard, and pickles, just try it; it is fantastic.

Also, if you have a large party, try their monster pizza. It is huge, and I mean huge! Minsky’s also has excellent sandwiches, pasta, and great appetizers.

Hence, they hold a comfortable atmosphere here, presenting mouthwatering, smoky, and savory flavors from their original oven with each hand-crafted pizza pie.

Incredible food and quality service make this restaurant a local favorite in the heart of downtown Kansas City.

Address: 5105 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64112

16. Cupini’s

If you are looking for great Italian food, look no further! Quaint, homey spot with an extensive menu.

One of the best restaurants in Plaza Area, everything is made from scratch daily, from pasta, sauces, and an amazing selection of desserts.

However, it is a family-owned business that makes you feel very welcome whenever you visit. Fair prices, and worth every penny for the quality food.

Furthermore, the chicken and persuito tortellini are hands down my favorite dish here. Best pasta you will ever have; they even sell their pasta, sauces, ad many other items ready to take home and make yourself a fabulous dinner in your very own kitchen.

Hence, if you want to dine at Cupini’s, you will order your food at the deli counter and sit down in the next room.

It immediately has this semi-fancier feel to it than where you ordered, but at the same time just has a very inviting feel.

Although the food is great, they serve wine by glass or bottle. And have very friendly people bringing you your food, bussing tables, and ensuring you don’t need anything.

Though not quite in a waiter/waitress kind of way, since the drinks are self-serve, but just in a way “we care about our customers kind of way.” And the dessert counter, which is the first thing you see when you walk in, has a huge selection of desserts.

Old Italian deli meets nice sit-down restaurant meets local hip hangout.

Address: 1809 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64112

17. Rudy’s Tenampa Taqueria

This spot has been an integral part of the restaurant scene in Westport for over 20 years, and in 2018, it made its expansion into Johnson County off of 87th street and Lackman.

However, you will not enjoy the engaging service and delicious food at Rudy’s Tenampa Taqueria but also the generosity and commitment to the community they readily offer.

Hence, with their menu having something for everyone and a proven record of excellence, you can expect an amazing service-minded staff and key menu items that will always amaze with flavor and precision.

New items filter through for special occasions, margaritas and beverages that are more than consistently aimed to please, unbeatable pricing, and an environment for fun and satisfaction of all ages.

If you have not had the pleasure of visiting this family-owned and community-driven Kansas City triumph, I believe it should be on your agenda sometime soon. It has two locations, Westport and Lenexa.

Address: 1611 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111

18. Twin City Tavern

This is one of the best restaurants in the Plaza Area to get a burger and a beer.

It is a typical local bar that has been open since the 1940s, and I can confidently say it hasn’t lost its touch.

However, the decor looks original and has features that remind you of what hometown pubs used to be before all the television screens hanging up and the loud music you often see at restaurants now.

Hence, not many local pubs make you feel welcome and homey like Twin City Tavern does. The music is on point all night, with a mix of crowd favorites, indie and rock classics, and more.

Besides, you can sit outside on the back patio for a bit before cozening into a booth inside, where you can order the bud light pitcher with onion rings and creamy fried jalapeno cheese bites.

This is the real-life cheers, a hole-in-the-wall establishment with cheap drinks and a great selection of bar food. The bartenders are great, especially Christina, and the drink pours are heavy.

Also, the food is good quality, better than the normal bar fare, and prepared well.

Plan a visit on Mondays – Sundays from 11 AM – 1:30 AM.

Address: 1815 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111

19. Mike Kelly’s Westsider

I can’t say enough good things about the way it feels to know that you are in the right place.

If you want a great, laid-back atmosphere with the most friendly people, outstanding original local live music, some of the region’s best grateful dead tribute bands, and one amazing array of daily house-made food specials, meticulously created by owner Mike Kelly himself.

Also, royals games are always on TV there too, and you should check out the local original artwork covering the bathroom walls! Ruthie Becker Clark has absolutely outdone herself with her beautiful gift.

Absolutely one of the best restaurants in the Plaza Area to see live music.

Mike Kelly’s Westsider is just that incredible establishment; no jukebox is needed here, a great food selection, so you can eat, drink, and be merry. It’s the holy trinity.

Address: 1515 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111s

20. Ragazza Food & Wine

Like many good restaurants in Plaza Area, getting to the restaurant run you through some unsavory parts of the town.

However, parking is around the back and is limited to about ten spots on top. You can’t miss the large size walking up from the street; the building is beautiful from the outside and well-lit on the parking side.

Then, as you walk into Ragazza Food & Wine, you are greeted by not only the friendly staff but color tiles in lovely patterns all over the floor. The entire restaurant has a warm and almost “date” feel about it.

Hence, one whole side has a bench with pillows that hang on a metal rod and can be moved.

Everything on the menu tastes really good, from the appetizers and mains to desserts and a bar you can just chill and mingle.

The pork chop, which you have to see to believe, is very thick as a novel, deliciously moist, and looks just like a giant lamb chop in the bone.

Interestingly, they make their own limoncello for cocktails, which is wonderful. As silly as it is, the pre-meal pecorino butter which comes with the bread will send you to the moon.

Address: 4301 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64111

Final Remark

The Plaza Area, also known as Country Club Plaza, is one of the best shopping centers in Kansas City and also hosts some of the best restaurants in the Plaza Area.

However, these restaurants offer great food options and a modern, comfortable dining atmosphere. You will encounter many dining options in the Plaza, where you can try different cuisine.

Like American cuisine, Mexican dishes, Italian cuisine, and Asian dishes. You will love them all.