Best Local Casual Restaurants in Kansas City
Kansas City's vibrant food scene is a distinctive, flavorful journey known for iconic barbecue and scrumptious soul food. While there is no shortage of fine dining options in the area for special occasions and nights out on the town, casual restaurants are some of the most highly-praised local eateries. It's always nice to be able to go directly to a restaurant without worrying about finding the right attire or making a reservation first.
Whether you're visiting Kansas City or a local seeking new favorites, finding destinations with amazing food at affordable prices will instantly make you feel at home. We've compiled a line-up of some of the best casual restaurants in Kansas City to help you find new favorites or revisit local icons.
LC's Bar-B-Que
Amazing Kansas City dining begins with old-school barbecue, slow-cooked in award-winning Bar-B-Q sauce. LC's has been a Kansas City staple for more than three decades. The establishment is a pit stop for sports teams and fans and has appeared on Anthony Bourdain's "No Reservations."
Diners consistently praise the burnt ends, baked beans, and deep barbecue flavor in every entree from ribs to sandwiches. LC’s Bar-B-Que offers both beef and pork burnt ends, and they even allow you to order half of each. The full menu offers a range of entrees, including sandwiches, meat by the pound, chicken, and ribs. Sides range from classics like baked beans, coleslaw, and potato salad to fried mushrooms, okra, spicy green beans, and jalapeno poppers.
Generous portions and classic cooking methods make every dish taste like a home-cooked meal. The restaurant's no-frills atmosphere is the perfect casual setting, putting all the attention on the excellent food and service.
The Westside Local
When you're looking for seasonal comfort food in a cozy atmosphere, Westside Local is at the top of the list. The charming dining room features exposed brick, a wood floor, and a comfortable, laid-back vibe. The meals served here feature as many local ingredients as possible, and many components are made fresh. Their daily soup options constantly change and are sure to please!
Once it arrives at the table, the food quickly steals the scene. The dynamic menu changes seasonally to highlight the freshest local ingredients and cater to a wide range of tastes. They serve up unique dishes, such as bison summer sausage, alongside select wines.
Diners praise the freshness of every dish, excellent, prompt service, and availability of vegan and vegetarian options. Reservations are available. Be sure to stop in for Taco Tuesday, and save room for dessert. Their bread pudding served with bourbon crème anglaise could easily become one of your favorite local desserts!
Waldo's Pizza
Pizza deserves a top spot on everyone's casual dining list, and the top choice in Kansas City isn't a chain you'll find anywhere else. Waldo's Pizza has been serving Kansas City residents for more than 30 years, and customers continue to enjoy their savory pies with a variety of crusts and toppings.
Diners praise the different crust and sauce options, as well as the quality of the pizza and sides. Gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options are available. Large groups are welcome, and you can book private events. Waldo's is less than 15 minutes away from The Retreat at Woodlands apartments, making it an ideal option for pizza night.
Blue Bird Bistro
A true local gem, this small bistro has been a favorite of locals for over 20 years. Sit at the bar or choose a table in an intimate setting, perfect for casual conversation at brunch, lunch, or dinner. The expansive menu revolves around the use of locally sourced and organic ingredients whenever possible, and features a wide range of changing options.
Choose casual fare such as a burger or salad, or entrees from salmon or beef to vegetarian or vegan options. The full bar offers a wide range of cocktails, wines, and beers. If you want to try a little of everything, reserve a spot at their Wednesday Night Table. You'll enjoy a pre-fixe menu featuring local and organic ingredients, along with an optional wine pairing. Everyone eats together, making it a memorable social experience!
Winstead's
Ask anyone where to find the best fast food in Kansas City, and the answer will likely be Winstead's. Step inside and you'll feel instant nostalgia, even if you're not old enough to fondly remember 1950s diners. From round stools at the counter to mint green booths, a tiled floor, and a neon sign, everything about the dining room looks like an era from the past.
On the menu, you'll find the restaurant's famed steakburgers, which are best ordered with 50/50 fries and onion rings. Other options include chicken sandwiches, chili cheese dogs, BLTs, tuna salad sandwiches, and even chicken breast salads. Choose from typical fast food sides, including tater tots, chili, and chicken strips. Of course, a classic drink list is also available, with cherry limeade, milkshakes, malts, and root beer floats. Banana splits and sundaes are still on the dessert menu too!
District Biskuits
The original comfort food, biscuits, take every sandwich in this restaurant to the next level of casual eating. The massive biscuits are made from scratch daily and act as the platform for almost every sandwich on the menu. They serve biscuits and gravy made with chicken sausage gravy. They also serve their own take on macaroni and cheese, the DB Mac, which comes covered with fried chicken, bacon jam, and hot honey.
Their Howlin’ Fowls hot chicken has a dedicated local following, and they make many dishes that include their spicy chicken. The most popular menu item is The Wonder Biscuit, named after the Wonder Bread Building on Troost Avenue. It is a fried chicken breakfast sandwich topped with a fried egg, beef bacon, and American cheese. If chicken's not your thing, The Crown smash burger with grilled onions, pickles, American cheese, and DB sauce is a great option. District Biskuits is a filling and fast option in North Kansas City.
Finding Your Apartment Near Kansas City's Best Casual Restaurants
If you already live in the area or have fallen in love with Kansas City's dining scene, come check out The Retreat at Woodlands Apartments. We're a short drive from the major area highways, allowing easy access to any Kansas City neighborhood or eatery.
Our apartment homes have private entrances, air conditioning, fireplaces, large closets, and more. We're pet-friendly and have a variety of on-site amenities, including a clubhouse, private pool, and picnic areas. Get in touch today to schedule a tour.