Neighborhood Guide: Westside South
A guide to eating and drinking your way through KC’s wonderful Westside– a neighborhood so full of life & great eats, that we’re splitting it into two parts.
Anchored with big names like Boulevard and The Roasterie, the Westside South neighborhood has no lack of local flavor to explore. Check out the list below and wander around to find even more gems in this area. If you missed it, check out our Westside Part 1 article, too!
Photo by Anna Petrow
Acosta’s Taqueria| 906 Southwest Boulevard
If fresh guacamole and quesabirria are on your mind, head to Acosta’s for some of the best.
Alma Mader Brewing | 2635 Southwest Boulevard
Consistently ranking on fan-favorite lists, Alma Mader has made a big name as a small brewery. Its focus on hop-forward beers has delighted customers since 2019. The taproom on Southwest Boulevard is the only place to enjoy most of their offerings, so stop in on Wednesdays - Sundays to taste for yourself.
Photo by Anna Petrow
Bisou | 2122 Jefferson Street, Suite A
If you’re drawn to European sophistication but working with a limited budget, head to Bisou to get a taste of crossing the pond for the price of a coffee instead of a plane ticket. Bisou offers drinks, pastries, and books in a posh setting made for soaking up la dolce vita. Order an affogato for an extra special treat while you soak up the sunlight on the patio.
El Pueblito | 810 Southwest Boulevard
There’s no better time than happy hour to indulge in El Pueblito’s Mexican delights. Happy hour isall day on Tuesdays and Sundays and 3:00 - 7:00 pm and 10:00 - Midnight on all other days.
Fox & Pearl | 2143 Summit Street
Chef Vaughn Good’s French culinary training and Midwestern roots blend seamlessly at his locally-sourced restaurant. On top of the show-stopping food, Fox & Pearl is always a vibe whether you choose the dining room, the cozy, lower-level record bar, or the wisteria-covered patio. Don’t miss Saturdays when Good’s Night Goat Barbeque takes over the menu with smoked meats cooked low and slow.
Photo by Anna Petrow
La Bodega | 703 Southwest Boulevard
Grab your favorite crew and fill the table with tapas. New to Spanish small plates? Start with the Pintxos de Higo (roasted red pepper, goat cheese, and fig coulis on toasted bread), Papas Fritos con Ajo (refried-roasted potatoes with garlic, parsley, and garlic-cumin aioli), Datiles con Jamon y Chorizo (pancetta-wrapped dates stuffed with chorizo). If you want a show with your dinner, order the Spanish Coffee (coffee liqueur, 151 rum, cinnamon & sugar rim, homemade whipped cream). You’ll feel the heat as your drink is concocted tableside with flame-kissed cinnamon.
La Fonda El Taquito | 800 Southwest Boulevard
Order carnitas and beans at La Fonda El Taquito to get a taste of authentic Mexican food with a long Kansas City history.
Photo by Anna Petrow
Lilly’s Cantina | 900 Southwest Boulevard
Lilly’s offers Mexican comfort food for big appetites. Come hungry to order The Cousin Rob Plato–a chicken or beef taco, one tostada, one cheese mole enchilada, one crunchy corn quesadilla, and a choice of rice or beans.
Photo by Kelly Bunch
Miranda’s Mexican Food Truck | 3029 Southwest Boulevard
One of the best Mexican spots in town is a food truck. Order a Huarache and the Tacos de Canasta for a well-rounded meal.
Photo by Anna Petrow
Palacana | 830 Southwest Boulevard
When summer’s heat is in full force, Palacana’s frozen treats will cool you down. They offer a full food menu, but people line up for homemade ice cream, aguas frescas, and gourmet popsicles. A pina colada popsicle is hard to beat on a sweltering summer day.
Photo by Anna Petrow
Panther’s Place | 1000 W 25th Street
Tucked away and dripping in vines, Panther’s Place feels like a secret oasis within the city. The bar is casual enough for a relaxed night out with friends but unique enough to impress a date. Dress for the weather since the entire venue is outdoors.
Ricos Tacos Lupe | 802 Southwest Boulevard
Behind a bright orange facade on Southwest Boulevard, Ricos Tacos Lupe has been slinging affordable tacos, burritos, tamales, and more for years.
Photo by Anna Petrow
Sandlot Goods | 2915 Southwest Boulevard
When they say locally-made, they mean it. From designs to production, every Sandlot Goods product is made right in here in KC. Find your new favorite hat, wallet, pennant, and more. They’re also the home of the delightful Yardball–a softer, lighter baseball that’s a ball and glove all in one. Who wants to play catch?
Tacos El Gallo | 806 Southwest Boulevard
Since 2017, Tacos El Gallo has graced the Boulevard with traditional Mexican food and aguas frescas. Grab a patio seat and a margarita to make a great meal even better.
