You'll find that lifelong Kansans tend to enjoy homestyle food better than the faster alternatives. Nothing's better than a plate full of gravy smothered chicken fried steak or even just a slice of fresh homemade pie. So we took the idea of Kansas comfort food and brought you these 9 country restaurants right here in Kansas that'll have you salivating before you can even get there. Have you been to all of these?

1. Down Home Family Restaurant - 1515 N Pennsylvania Ave., Independence, Kansas

Charm surrounds Down Home Family Restaurant everywhere you look. First of all, the name itself invites you to sit at a table where you'll feel like family. Of course, with a breakfast spread like this, it's no wonder they're such a great restaurant.

2. Mr. K's Farmhouse - 407 S Van Buren St., Abilene, Kansas

Mr. K's Farmhouse really makes some of the best food around, and with a menu full of home style food, there's no way you can lose. Just look at that chicken and waffles!

3. Jim's Country Style Chicken - 649 S Broadway Blvd., Salina, Kansas

Jim's does chicken better than most, and homestyle fried chicken is a weakness plenty of Kansans suffer from. The rest is history.

4. Branding Iron II - 1310 State St., Phillipsburg, Kansas

The Branding Iron II is a local favorite for those around Phillipsburg, and you'll see why as soon as you take your first bite. You'll get big portions of great food at decent prices. What else could you ask for?

5. The Breadbasket - 219 N Main St., Newton, Kansas

A basket full of bread is heaven for some people, but the fresh breads made here at The Breadbasket are far better than your average store loaf. Plus, ordering pasta or soup to go with it is a must during any visit.

6. Fritz's Chili - 6737 W 75th St., Shawnee Mission, Kansas

If you're not always a chili fan but have wanted to try Fritz's in the past, check out their cheeseburgers! They're extra tasty, and served the old way, without all the extra preservatives.

7. Christy's Tasty Queen - 1405 S 55th St., Kansas City, Kansas

If you like tenderloins, why not try the biggest one in Kansas? It's hand breaded and bigger than the bun, so you can be sure that there's plenty on your place.

8. Don's Place - 230 N Broadway Ave., Protection, Kansas

Don's Place is a place where you can sit down and enjoy a meal with staff that feels like family. It's been here since 1973, and the food is just how it's always been. On Thursdays, there's even a full buffet with fried chicken. Doesn't that sound like a great excuse to explore?

9. Stephens Restaurant - 5731, 801 KS-27, Sharon Springs, Kansas

Another great restaurant is Stephens, where you come as strangers and leave as family. They love to get creative with their classic menu, but my favorite by far is the chicken and dumplings.

Looking for even more great restaurants? We think this fried pie shop is also a great addition to this list, so come check it out sometime! Also, please suggest some of your favorite non-chain Kansas restaurants in the comments below. We're always looking for great food in our great state.