Every city in America has its own iconic foods, and in Kansas City, Missouri, that food is barbecue. But sometimes we aren’t always craving barbecue, and that’s okay, because when it comes to iconic Kansas City food, barbecue isn’t the only option. It’s true. You might not know it, though, because if you ask, “What food is Kansas City known for,” you’ll most likely hear barbecue. For a city with one really iconic food item, it’s sometimes hard to feel like the others get their share of the limelight. For that reason, here’s a list of Kansas City food items to eat before you die. Luckily, they are mostly not barbecue. Mostly.

Related Stories

8 Mom & Pop Restaurants Around Kansas City That Serve Home Cooked Meals To Die For

8 Mom & Pop Restaurants Around Kansas City That Serve Home Cooked Meals To Die For

7 Amazing State Parks Around Kansas City That Will Blow You Away

7 Amazing State Parks Around Kansas City That Will Blow You Away

8 Must-Visit Flea Markets In Kansas City Where You'll Find Awesome Stuff

8 Must-Visit Flea Markets In Kansas City Where You'll Find Awesome Stuff

So, have you tried all these awesome things to eat in Kansas City, Missouri restaurants? Did you know about these famous Kansas City food items? Ever tried these iconic dishes? How would you answer the question, “What food is Kansas City known for?” Tell us!

When it comes to must-try Kansas City food, there’s much more than the dishes mentioned above. For instance, these bakeries in Kansas City serve up some of the state’s best cupcakes.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Kansas City Food

What is the most popular restaurant in Kansas City, Missouri?

The list of iconic Kansas City food could go on and on, just like the list of iconic Kansas City restaurants. Among the unique, most popular restaurants in Kansas City, though, is The Farmhouse. Opened in 2009, the farm-to-table restaurant, which is located in the KC River Market, specializes in locally sourced fresh food. The restaurant secures its ingredients from more than two dozen local farmers! And since the eatery uses only the freshest of the fresh, the menu changes regularly, depending on what’s available, so every visit offers a new experience.

What are the local favorite restaurants in Kansas City, Missouri?

When it comes to local favorite restaurants in Kansas City, you can’t go wrong with one of the many hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City. Just like books, restaurants should never be judged by their looks, and several city restaurants, including Cupini’s, prove that point. Since opening in 2003, Cupini’s has become a go-to for Italian staples, such as pasta, pizza, and Panini. Never on Sunday is another eatery that doesn’t look like much, but serves up some great grub. A laid-back Greek restaurant, the menu features classic dishes, such as gyros, hummus, and more. Max’s Burgers and Gyros is another great place to get your gyro – or burger – fix. Not only is the food delicious, but it’s incredibly fresh. Everything is made right in front of you, from scratch.

What is the smallest restaurant in Kansas City, Missouri?

Good things really do come in small packages, and Tay’s Burger Shack is proof! True to its name, it’s a no-frills spot; however, what it lacks in frills it more than makes up for with the delicious fare. The old-fashioned burgers are so good they’ve transformed the eatery from a local favorite into a sought-out destination by burger lovers from near and far. Another tiny eatery that shouldn’t be overlooked is Humdinger Drive-In and Food Truck. A must-visit since 1962, the eatery is known for serving up quality grub at affordable prices. The menu is pretty varied, too, and includes everything from breakfast to burgers.