KANSAS - Whether you're from Kansas or just visiting, there are dozens of restaurants to choose from. Many of Kansas's finest restaurants specialize in barbeque, but many more establishments offer other cuisines. So, if you've been looking for new restaurants, here is your guide to the best places!
Where to Dine in Kansas State?
1. Cozy Inn Restaurant in Salina
If you're searching for an excellent restaurant to dine in, Salina, KS, The Cozy Inn Restaurant should be your top pick. Open since 1922, this diner has earned a devoted following with its famous hamburgers by the sack that is prepared on its original grill that dates back to its founding. They're served at a tiny counter with only six seats, and the aroma of hamburgers, onions, and pickles fills the air. This hidden diner is one of Kansas Cuisine's 8 Wonders and an absolute must-visit when visiting Salina.
In 1996, brothers-in-law Max Holthaus and Gregg Boyle purchased The Cozy Inn from its original owner. These men breathed new life into the restaurant through their food service expertise and financial acumen, hiring Steve Howard - a longtime local with an eye for business management. Nowadays, The Cozy Inn remains a bustling spot for those wanting an affordable meal; you may even get lucky enough to try one of its legendary sliders that the sack has sold since 1922!
2. Crazy R’s Bar & Grill in Goodland
Crazy R's Bar & Grill, situated near the Kansas-Colorado border, is a restaurant you can count on for quality meals without breaking your budget. Owner Rod Cooper takes great pride in his establishment and relies on satisfied customers to spread the news about his upscale eatery. The menu at Samurai Grills is extensive, featuring burgers, chicken wings, ribs, and steaks as the main course options. There are also plenty of small plates to keep your taste buds pleased as well. Aside from the food and drink, the decor and service set this place apart. It's the ideal spot for lunch with coworkers, a hearty dinner, or a quick bite while traveling the interstate. It truly has something unique to offer everyone.
3. Brookville Hotel in Abilene
The Brookville Hotel was a remnant of the bygone West, situated along the Chisholm Trail, which connected Texas ranches with Kansas City railheads. Unfortunately, it closed its doors in October 2020 but has recently reopened under new ownership. Deanna Munson, co-owner of Munson Angus Farms with her husband Chuck, recently decided to return their world-famous fried chicken dinners to the menu. In addition to coleslaw, biscuits and gravy, mashed potatoes, and creamed corn, their award-winning country-fried steak from Munson Angus Farms and homemade ice cream for dessert.
4. Joe’s Kansas City BBQ in Olathe
Enjoy a casual pit stop for slabs of ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, and meat by the pound at this casual pit stop. It's an ideal spot for an easy meal with friends or family. Joe's Kansas City BBQ began as a gas station and has since expanded to several locations around the metro area. The original location is hidden away in a small strip mall, while other locations can be found in Leawood and Olathe; all offering the same menu! The menu offers mouthwatering smoked brisket and an array of side dishes, including thick beans that have been well-seasoned as well as french fries. A house specialty, the burnt ends sandwich, is a tasty creation comprised of tips of beef brisket that have been slowly smoked for 17 hours to create an irresistibly charred finish.
5. Commercial Street Diner in Emporia
Emporia's two-story red brick restaurant was an impressive sight. Not only were the staff members friendly and the food delicious, but there was also a generous selection of drinks and dishes on the menu - not to mention all those desserts!
6. Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant in Kansas City
Fritz's Railroad Restaurant in Kansas City is a classic diner that serves American breakfasts, hamburgers, and soda fountain treats. Its train-theme decor makes for an enjoyable dining experience with kids. At Fritz's Restaurant, the food is delivered by an overhead electric train called "Skat Cat." Orders are taken from booths on a telephone and dropped into a hopper. After it fills up, a mechanical arm stops it at a platform above your table and lowers it to deliver your meal!
Though the diner's nostalgic railroad atmosphere may be the main draw, the food here is also quite tasty and has a nostalgic flair. The burgers here are legendary, plus they serve some great breakfasts too. Bring your little ones along; they'll love exploring this place - plus, they get to wear an engineer's hat!
7. Carolyn’s Essenhaus in Arlington
Carolyn's Essenhaus is one of Kansas City's tastiest family restaurants, serving American cuisine and some unique German dishes. Diners can expect an array of delectable treats here! The restaurant's signature dish, the legendary fried chicken, has earned itself a well-deserved reputation as one of the best in town. The establishment also serves up an impressive selection of desserts and other treats, including their award-winning ice cream parlor named Best in Kansas by readers of the local paper, The Kansas City Star. While it's unfortunate that this small-town eatery isn't more well known, with highway 61's recent expansion and plans for Kansas' first pedestrian mall being constructed during this generational era, prospects look bright for this eatery in the near future.
8. Chicken Annie’s Original in Pittsburg
When visiting Kansas and searching for an authentic fried chicken restaurant, Chicken Annie's Original in Pittsburg, KS is your best bet. This family-owned establishment began in 1934 when Ann Pichler started cooking dinners for local coal miners from her kitchen. The restaurant quickly outgrew her home, and a building was constructed down the street in 1972. Today, its third generation remains family-run - her daughter Louella and son-in-law Carl Lipoglav running it. They've been serving delicious Southeast Kansas food for over 80 years and are renowned for their award-winning fried chicken restaurants. Their German potato salad and coleslaw also boast a tart sweetness with an irresistibly crunchy texture.
