5 Kansas City Meals That Are Better Than What’s Under Your Tree
Food Editor Grace Pritchett takes us on a culinary tour of her favorite places to share a special meal this holiday season.
Plate. Photo by Anna Petrow
Congrats! You’ve made it this far into December without losing your mind. If you’ve completed your holiday shopping, then you’re a better person than I but I would bet you’re still struggling with gift ideas for a few select people on your list.
In these moments, I opt for a meal among friends and family over a wrapped gift. The holiday season can be overwhelming for our schedules but taking some time to sit down and enjoy the company of the ones you love is my favorite gift to give. Treat yourself and others to a special meal this holiday season, like the ones below.
The Antler Room | 2506 Holmes Street
@antlerroomkc
My recommendation: Chilled Icelandic Leg Salad + Squash and Mozzarella Agnolotti
With a menu full of shareable small plates, The Antler Room is ideal for a holiday gathering. The constantly rotating menu is inspired by global flavors, giving you the chance to try a new dish every time you visit. My favorite move is to grab a seat at the bar but you won’t find a bad seat in the house or a bad drink on the natural wine menu.
Plate | 701 E 63rd Street Suite 100
@plate.kc
My recommendation: Caesar Cardini + Pappardelle Incredible
Plate’s new location sets the scene for an elegant meal, perfect for fancy family events or a bougie brunch with old friends. When it comes to the dinner menu, dive into their grilled romaine Caesar Cardini and get ready to have a new favorite menu item. That is before you try the Pappardelle Incredible and honestly any other pasta item on the menu. Save room for the mouth-watering Cioccolato, which is as visually impressive as it is delicious.
Ravenous | 1830 Walnut Street
@ravenous_kc
My recommendation Double Cheeseburger + Tots
Outside of the dinner rush, visit Kansas City’s newest lunch counter for the Corvino-famous cheeseburger. Between the crispy patty, the tangy pickles, and that perfectly squishy bun, this is a cheeseburger not to be missed. The concise lunch menu includes several other sandwiches and an assortment of sides and desserts for your feast. You may arrive ravenous but you will definitely not leave that way.
Ça Va | 4149 Pennsylvania Avenue
@cavakc
My recommendation: Croque Madame + Pomme Frites (and a bottle of bubbly)
Every time I step into Ça Va, I feel like I’m celebrating something special even if it’s just a regular Thursday night. Cozy up with their Croque Madame, a handful of frites and toast to getting a seat at the best champagne bar in town. Out of towners will love the “Paris of the Plains” atmosphere while regulars will jump at the chance to show you their favorite drink on the menu.
Bella Napoli | 6229 Brookside Boulevard
@foodgalal
My recommendation: Arancini + Amatriciana
Take a tour of this authentic Italian menu full of pasta, pizza, and wine. The arancini alone will get me in the door of Bella Napoli but the pasta is definitely the reason to stay. Pay attention to their weekly specials and snag a seat for Risotto Wednesday or Gnocchi Thursday. Order a few plates of arancini for the table and you’ll soon become the family favorite.
