Ever wonder who has the best Hole-in-the-Wall restaurant in Kansas City? Kansas City is a city that boasts a rich culinary tradition and an array of dining options. For those looking for a more unique and authentic dining experience, the city’s hole-in-the-wall restaurants are a great place to start. These restaurants may not have the glitz and glamour of their larger counterparts, but they more than make up for it in their authenticity, quality, and flavor. Here is why each one of these establishments is the best restaurant in Kansas City.
Who Has The Best Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurant in Kansas City
1. Town Topic – A classic diner, included as one of the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City, serving burgers, fries, and breakfast all day. This spot has been around since 1937 and is known for its charm and friendly service.
2. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que – This popular BBQ joint, among the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City, has won numerous awards and is famous for its Z-Man sandwich. The restaurant is housed in a gas station and has a casual atmosphere.
3. Gates Bar-B-Q – Another beloved BBQ spot, one of the most popular hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City, Gates has been around since 1946 and is known for its sauce. Customers love the burnt ends and the ribs.
4. Happy Gillis Cafe & Hangout – This cozy cafe, another of the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City, serves breakfast, lunch, and brunch with a creative twist. The menu changes frequently, but customers often rave about the egg sandwiches and the homemade baked goods.
5. Taqueria Mexico – A hidden gem, amid the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City, serving up authentic Mexican dishes that are flavorful and affordable. Customers often recommend the tacos, tamales, and horchata.
Who Has The Best Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurant in Kansas City
Town Topic
Address: 2021 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108
Hours: Mon-Sat: 6am-10pm, Sun: 8am-8pm
Town Topic, included as one of the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City, is a classic diner located in the heart of downtown Kansas City, Missouri. It’s been serving up delicious burgers, fries, and breakfast all day since 1937. The interior of the restaurant is cozy and old-fashioned, with vintage signs and photographs on the walls and counter seating. It’s a great spot for a quick bite to eat or a leisurely meal with friends.
One of the signature dishes at Town Topic is the “Sky High” double cheeseburger, which features two juicy beef patties, melted cheese, pickles, onions, and mustard on a soft bun. It’s a simple yet satisfying burger that has been a customer favorite for years. Another popular item is the breakfast special, which includes eggs, bacon, hash browns, and toast. The hash browns are crispy and golden brown, and the bacon is thick and smoky.
One unique thing about Town Topic is its 24-hour service on the weekends. It’s a great spot for a late-night snack or early-morning breakfast. The restaurant also has a small jukebox in the corner, which adds to its old-fashioned charm. Making this the best Hole-in-the-Wall restaurant in Kansas City.
The service at Town Topic is friendly and efficient. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and quick to take orders and bring out food. The restaurant is always busy, but the staff manages to keep up with the demand without sacrificing quality.
Main Menu Items:
1. Sky High Double Cheeseburger – This is Town Topic’s signature burger, which features two juicy beef patties, melted cheese, pickles, onions, and mustard on a soft bun. It’s a classic burger that has been a customer favorite for years.
2. Breakfast Special – This meal includes eggs cooked to order, bacon or sausage, hash browns, and toast. The hash browns are crispy and golden brown, and the bacon or sausage is thick and smoky. It’s the perfect way to start the day.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Town Topic’s grilled cheese is a classic sandwich that features melted American cheese between two slices of bread. It’s simple, but oh so delicious.
4. Steakburger – This burger is made with a juicy beef patty that is cooked to order, and it’s served with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles on a soft bun. It’s a great option for those who want a classic burger without all the bells and whistles.
5. Chili Cheese Fries – This dish features crispy french fries that are smothered in Town Topic’s homemade chili and topped with melted cheese. It’s a hearty and satisfying snack or meal that’s perfect for sharing.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the Sky High burger and it was amazing! The patties were cooked perfectly and the cheese was melted just right. The fries were crispy and golden brown. I also loved the old-fashioned decor of the restaurant. Highly recommend!”
“The breakfast special is a must-try! The hash browns are the best I’ve ever had and the bacon is so flavorful. The service was great too – our server was so friendly and attentive.”
“I stopped in for a late-night snack and was blown away by the quality of the food. I had the cheeseburger and it was delicious. The staff was so friendly and accommodating. I’ll definitely be back!”
In summary, Town Topic is a beloved Kansas City institution that has been serving up delicious burgers, fries, and breakfast all day since 1937. The cozy and old-fashioned interior, along with its signature dishes like the Sky High burger and breakfast special, make it a must-visit spot for anyone in the area. The friendly service and unique 24-hour weekend service only add to its appeal. They rank amid the top 5 hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City for good reasons. Making this the best Hole-in-the-Wall restaurant in Kansas City.
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
Address: 3002 West 47th Avenue, Kansas City, KS 66103
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am-9pm, Sun: Closed
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, one of the most popular hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City, is a renowned barbecue restaurant. It was founded in 1996 and has become a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts from all over the world. The restaurant has a casual and unassuming interior, with picnic tables and booths that give it a down-home feel. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
One of the signature dishes at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is the Z-Man Sandwich. This sandwich features slow-smoked beef brisket, smoked provolone cheese, topped with crispy onion rings, all piled high on a Kaiser roll. It’s a mouth-watering creation that has earned a reputation as one of the best sandwiches in the country. Other popular menu items include pulled pork, ribs, and burnt ends, all of which are cooked low and slow for hours to achieve a perfect smoky flavor. Making this the best Hole-in-the-Wall restaurant in Kansas City.
One unique thing about Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is its history. The restaurant is located in a gas station that was previously owned by Joe’s Kansas City founder Jeff Stehney. The gas station had a barbecue pit in the back, and Stehney started serving barbecue to customers in the 1990s. The restaurant’s location adds to its charm and gives it a quirky appeal.
The service at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is efficient and friendly. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations. The restaurant is always busy, but the staff manages to keep up with the demand without sacrificing quality.
Main Menu Items:
1. Z-Man Sandwich – This sandwich is a Kansas City classic that features slow-smoked beef brisket, smoked provolone cheese, and crispy onion rings piled high on a Kaiser roll. It’s a must-try dish that has earned a reputation as one of the best sandwiches in the country.
2. Burnt Ends – These succulent chunks of beef are cut from the point end of a brisket and smoked until they are tender and flavorful. They are a Kansas City barbecue staple and one of Joe’s most popular menu items.
3. Pork Ribs – These meaty pork ribs are rubbed with a signature spice blend and smoked low and slow for hours until they are tender and fall-off-the-bone delicious. They are served with Joe’s famous barbecue sauce on the side.
4. Pulled Pork – This tender and juicy pork is smoked until it is fork-tender and then pulled apart into bite-sized pieces. It’s a classic barbecue dish that is great on its own or piled high on a sandwich.
5. BBQ Chicken – This flavorful chicken is rubbed with spices and then smoked until it is juicy and tender. It’s a great option for those who want a lighter barbecue dish, and it’s served with Joe’s famous barbecue sauce on the side.
Customer Reviews:
“The Z-Man Sandwich is to die for! The brisket is so tender and flavorful, and the onion rings add the perfect crunch. The service was also great – our server was friendly and attentive.”
“I had the burnt ends and they were incredible! The smoky flavor was out of this world. The service was also top-notch – our server went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed.”
“Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que never disappoints. I’ve been coming here for years and the barbecue is always on point. The service is always friendly and efficient too. Highly recommend!”
In summary, Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for delicious barbecue in Kansas City. The Z-Man Sandwich and burnt ends are standouts on the menu, and the casual and friendly atmosphere adds to the restaurant’s charm. The unique history of the gas station location only adds to its appeal, and the efficient and friendly service ensures a memorable dining experience. They stand out among the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City. Making this the best Hole-in-the-Wall restaurant in Kansas City.
Gates Bar-B-Q
Address: Multiple locations in Kansas City, MO and KS. The original location is at 1221 Brooklyn Ave, Kansas City, MO 64127.
Hours: Varies by location. The original location is open Mon-Sat from 10:30am-8pm and Sun from 11am-6pm.
Gates Bar-B-Q, among the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City, is a casual, counter-service barbecue restaurant that has been serving up classic Kansas City-style barbecue since 1946. The interior is decorated with red and yellow checkerboard tablecloths, vintage photos, and neon signs, giving it a classic diner feel.
The signature dish at Gates Bar-B-Q is their “Hi-May” sandwich, which features sliced beef, ham, and sausage piled high on a bun and topped with Gates’ signature barbecue sauce. Other popular menu items include the pork spare ribs, sliced brisket, and burnt ends.
One unique feature of Gates Bar-B-Q is their distinctive greeting when customers enter the restaurant. The staff yells out a friendly “Hi, may I help you?” to everyone who walks in the door, creating a fun and lively atmosphere. Making this the best Hole-in-the-Wall restaurant in Kansas City.
The service at Gates Bar-B-Q is friendly and efficient. Customers order at the counter and then pick up their food when it’s ready. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations.
Main Menu Items:
1. Hi-May Sandwich – Sliced beef, ham, and sausage piled high on a bun and topped with Gates’ signature barbecue sauce.
2. Pork Spare Ribs – Slow-smoked and seasoned with Gates’ dry rub, then finished with their classic barbecue sauce.
3. Sliced Brisket – Tender, juicy beef brisket smoked low and slow over hickory wood.
4. Burnt Ends – The flavorful, caramelized ends of beef brisket, served in a sandwich or on a platter.
5. Barbecue Beans – A blend of kidney beans, pork, and Gates’ signature barbecue sauce, slow-cooked to perfection.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the brisket and it was amazing. Tender and full of flavor. The sauce was perfect too. I love the atmosphere of this place – it’s like stepping back in time. Can’t wait to come back!”
“The Hi-May sandwich is the bomb! So much meat and flavor. I also tried the burnt ends and they were fantastic. The staff was friendly and welcoming. Definitely recommend!”
“Gates has been a KC staple for years and it’s easy to see why. The barbecue is consistently delicious and the service is always friendly. I love the classic diner atmosphere too. Make sure to try the beans – they’re some of the best around.”
Gates Bar-B-Q is a classic Kansas City barbecue joint with a lively atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious food. Don’t miss their signature Hi-May sandwich and make sure to soak up the atmosphere while you’re there. They deserve to be ranked among the top 5 hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City. Making this the best Hole-in-the-Wall restaurant in Kansas City.
Happy Gillis Cafe & Hangout
Address: 549 Gillis St, Kansas City, MO 64106
Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm
Happy Gillis Cafe & Hangout, another of the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City, is a cozy neighborhood cafe located in the Columbus Park neighborhood of Kansas City. The cafe has a rustic, vintage feel with wooden tables and chairs, exposed brick walls, and a black and white tiled floor. The menu offers a variety of breakfast and lunch dishes, as well as a selection of coffee and tea.
The signature dish at Happy Gillis is their Croque Madame, a classic French sandwich made with ham, gruyere cheese, bechamel sauce, and a fried egg on top. The sandwich is served with a side of dressed greens and has become a local favorite. Making this the best Hole-in-the-Wall restaurant in Kansas City.
Happy Gillis offers a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of seating both inside and outside on the patio. They also have a small market area where customers can purchase local products and pantry items.
The service at Happy Gillis is friendly and attentive, with staff members taking the time to make recommendations and chat with customers. Orders are taken at the counter and brought to the table when ready.
Main Menu Items:
1. Croque Madame – A classic French sandwich made with ham, gruyere cheese, bechamel sauce, and a fried egg on top. Served with a side of dressed greens.
2. Avocado Toast – Toasted bread topped with fresh avocado, radishes, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Biscuits and Gravy – Flaky, tender biscuits smothered in creamy, peppery gravy.
4. Breakfast Burrito – A flour tortilla filled with scrambled eggs, sausage, potatoes, and cheese. Served with a side of salsa.
5. Smoked Salmon Toast – Toasted bread topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, and red onion. Served with a side of dressed greens.
Customer Reviews:
“The Croque Madame is the best sandwich in town! The bechamel sauce is creamy and rich, and the egg on top is perfectly cooked. I also love their coffee – it’s the perfect pick-me-up in the morning.”
“The patio at Happy Gillis is a hidden gem – it’s quiet and peaceful, with plenty of shade. I had the avocado toast and it was delicious. The bread was toasted just right and the avocado was fresh and flavorful.”
“This is my go-to spot for breakfast on the weekends. The biscuits and gravy are out of this world – the gravy is creamy and peppery, and the biscuits are flaky and tender. The staff is always friendly and welcoming too.”
Happy Gillis Cafe & Hangout is a charming neighborhood cafe that serves up delicious breakfast and lunch dishes, as well as a variety of coffee and tea. They have earned the rank of the top 5 hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City. Don’t miss their signature Croque Madame sandwich and make sure to take a stroll around the small market area before you leave. Making this the best Hole-in-the-Wall restaurant in Kansas City.
Taqueria Mexico
Address: 910 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108
Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00am-9:00pm
Taqueria Mexico, amid the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City, is a casual Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Kansas City. The interior of the restaurant is decorated with bright colors and traditional Mexican decor. The menu features classic Mexican dishes such as tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, as well as specialties like ceviche and tamales.
The carne asada tacos are a customer favorite at Taqueria Mexico. The tacos are made with tender, grilled steak, served on soft corn tortillas with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime. The restaurant also offers a variety of homemade salsas to add extra flavor to the tacos.
One unique aspect of Taqueria Mexico is their homemade corn tortillas, which are made fresh daily. The restaurant also offers a salsa bar with a variety of homemade salsas to choose from, including mild and spicy options. Making this the best Hole-in-the-Wall restaurant in Kansas City.
The service at Taqueria Mexico is friendly and efficient. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations for first-time visitors.
Main Menu Items:
1. Carne Asada Tacos – Tender, grilled steak served on soft corn tortillas with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime.
2. Chile Rellenos – Roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese.
3. Enchiladas – Corn tortillas filled with a choice of shredded chicken, ground beef, or cheese, topped with enchilada sauce and melted cheese.
4. Ceviche – A refreshing seafood dish made with shrimp, octopus, or a combination of both, marinated in lime juice and served with fresh vegetables and tortilla chips.
5. Tamales – Homemade tamales filled with seasoned pork, wrapped in corn husks and steamed until tender. Served with a side of salsa.
Customer Reviews:
“The carne asada tacos are the best I’ve ever had! The meat was so tender and flavorful. The homemade tortillas and salsas were also delicious. I highly recommend this place.” – Carne Asada Tacos
“The tamales were amazing! The masa was perfectly cooked and the pork filling was so flavorful. The service was also great, and the staff was very friendly.” – Tamales
“The ceviche was so fresh and flavorful. The seafood tasted like it was just caught that day. The portion was also very generous. I will definitely be back for more.” – Ceviche
Overall, Taqueria Mexico is a great spot for authentic Mexican food in Kansas City. The restaurant’s homemade tortillas and salsas set it apart from other Mexican restaurants in the area, and the carne asada tacos are a must-try. The friendly service and vibrant atmosphere make for a pleasant dining experience. They can definitely be counted among the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City. Making this the best Hole-in-the-Wall restaurant in Kansas City.
From the classic burgers and shakes at Town Topic, to the mouth-watering barbecue at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Gates Bar-B-Q, to the eclectic brunch dishes at Happy Gillis Cafe & Hangout, and the authentic Mexican fare at Taqueria Mexico, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This is why they are the best restaurants in Kansas City for you to discover. So if you’re ever in the area, be sure to stop by one of these top-rated hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Kansas City for a true taste of the city’s culinary delights. Making each one of these establishments, the best Hole-in-the-Wall restaurant in Kansas City.
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