Can’t get on a plane and hop country to country, but CRAVING the cuisines? Well, get ready, because KC’s food scene is exploding with international flavors that make you FEEL like you are globetrotting.
One of my favorite things about KC is the fact that you don’t have to leave this amazing city to snag a much needed cultural experience.
Check out my guide to some of KC’s most flavorful and authentic ethnic dishes! Restaurants listed by alphabetical country and/or region; message me on what I missed!
Africa
Taste of Africa: Kenyan & Ethiopian spices elevate dishes that include chicken, beef, goat, & fish stews, chapatti flatbread, sautéed cabbage & kale, fried plantains, ugali, samosas, Masala Chai Tea, & more. (Overland Park)
Fannie's African Cuisine: African & Tropical cuisine; don't miss the Shrimp Stew & venture into Whole Blue Crab with Pepper Sauce territory for a unique KC dish. (South Hyde Park)
Blue Nile Cafe: This Ethiopian restaurant sits in City Market & offers a daily $9.95 lunch buffet. Lentils, chicken, split peas, beef, chickpeas, cabbage, injera, & spices make up the lunch & dinner options here. (City Market)
Mesob: Ethiopian & Caribbean cuisine with gourmet flair. Combining bold flavors, fine dining, & a relaxed ambiance, Mesob's menu offers spiced lamb, beef, poultry, & fresh seafood. (Midtown)
Australia
Banksia Bakehouse: Australian classics, like Vegemite Toast, Beef & Potato Pie, & Kangaroo Sausage Rolls, the menu also reflects the Aussie cuisine scene made up of a global fusion influence. (South Plaza + Downtown)
Caribbean
Wah Gwan: Wah Gwan is another way of saying "What's up" in Patois. Wah Gwan has a unique mixture of cooking techniques, flavors, spices and influences for the indigenous people on the island of Jamaica, and the country of Nigeria. (East Brookside)
China
Blue Koi Noodles & Dumplings: Devour Chinese Dumplings, Noodles, Cantonese Roast Duck, Ginger Basil Chicken, Veggie Dishes, & more preceded by a Cocktail or Ginger Tea. (Leawood)
ABC Cafe: This unassuming Chinese restaurant in the heart of Overland Park offers an expansive and authentic Dim Sum menu in addition to its Noodles Dishes, Fried Rice, Chef Specials, and Hot Tea. (Overland Park)
Magic Noodle: Come for authentic Chinese crab rangoon, dumplings and tentacles, hand-pulled noodle bowls, rice, and stir-fried noodle bowls, and a selection of beers and tea. (Overland Park)
Cuba
Romeito Cuban Restaurant: We serve a variety of food here at Romeito Cuban Restaurant. Our menu offers Natilla Catalana, Camaron al Gusto, American Breakfast, Pudin de Pan, Flan, and more! (Olathe)
France
Chez Elle Kansas City: Reminiscent of France, Chez Elle offers sweet & savory crepes alongside a full coffee bar. Don't miss dining al fresco on the charming & flower-lined patio. (Westside)
Seven Swans Creperie: Food truck-turned cafe, Kate wows with her globally inspired crepe creations. DON'T Miss: The savory "Forest" & the sweet "Paris" crepes in this airy & rustic chic ambiance. (Westside)
Westport Cafe & Bar: 'Modern. French. Food.' "Nicolas Mermet, Kevin Mouhot & Romain Monnoyeur have a strong culinary background. All three attended culinary school in France for six years." (Westport)
Ca Va: Unpretentious, cozy & the perfect Parisian-like experience. Candlelit, chic & rustic decor pairs perfectly with Duck Fat Kettle Corn, Deviled Eggs, Pomme Frites with aioli, Cheese Plates & Charcuterie Boards. (Westport)
Café Provence: Café Provence has been honored as a Top 100 US Restaurants, Top 10 French Restaurants in the U.S., & Best Restaurant in Kansas City...Midwest with classic French tradition. (Prairie Village)
Le Fou Frog: Welcome to a bit of France & New York City tucked away...in Kansas City's River Market. Experience elegant food, cozy tables, charming servers & a fun & totally unpretentious atmosphere. (River Market)
Aixois Bistro: "The classic French bistro located in the historic Crestwood shops." (Crestwood)
Cafe des Amis: "A warm & casual environment for an exquisite French dining experience. Ingrid Hanriot assembles a mix of traditional & progressive French dishes." (Parkville)
Tous le Jours: A reputable bakery & café franchise specializing in French-Asian-inspired baked goods, TOUS Les JOURS means “Every day” in French and offers more than 300 different kinds of baked goods, including artisan pastries, gourmet cakes and desserts, and handcrafted beverages. (Overland Park)
Germany
Grunauer: A little Austria in the heart of KC." Grunauer's cuisine of Sausages, Gulasch, Schnitzels, & imported wine & beer make for an outstanding & can't-miss dining opportunity. (Crossroads)
Affare: Affare crafts plates & wine pairings with dishes like Honey Glazed Feta Cheese with Marmalade Salad, Blood Sausage with Caramelized Onions & Bacon, & Brat with Swiss Cheese on a Pretzel Bun. (Crossroads)
KC Bier Co.: German-style lagers & ales from 100% German ingredients; Award-winning, KC Bier Co. also serves Bavarian-style pretzels, sausages, & charcuterie boards in addition to Gulasch, Schnitzel, & Spatzle dishes. (Waldo)
Greece
Tasso’s: People can enjoy authentic Greek food, live music, belly dancing, breaking dishes, fun & hospitality with quality that is second to none. (Waldo)
Mr. Gyro’s Greek Food & Pastry: Mr. Gyro's' fast-casual & inexpensive Gyro Sandwiches, Souvlaki Plates, Dolmades, Greek Salads, Hummus & Baklava are the perfect options for quick & casual Greek feasting. (Overland Park)
Paros Estiatorio: Honest Greek fare with a modern twist; our menu features seafood & locally-sourced produce, embracing the foods that our family has had for generations. (Leawood)
India
Of Course Kitchen & Company: Experience the unique blend of South Indian flavors and American ingredients at Of Course, unlike any other regional restaurant. (Overland Park)
Sohaila's Kitchen: The fusion of Pakistani & Indian flavors Sohaila creates is to die for, & her charisma is heart-warming! Try the Butter Chicken Bowl paired with a cup of Lentil Soup, Samosas, & Naan for dipping. (Lenexa)
Shagan's: Shagan's Chicken and Paranthas is an Indian cuisine establishment that caters to its customers, including delivery and carryout options. (Overland Park)
Kurry Leaves: A variety of traditional Pakistani & Indian dishes served family-style in an unassuming eatery. (Overland Park)
Elephant Wings: Experience a private chef in the comfort of your kitchen, bringing Chef Ameet and his Elephant Wings homestyle Indian cooking, staging, presentation, and service into your home. (Crossroads)
Italy
Il Lazzarone: We pride ourselves on the highest quality ingredients & follow the law of traditional Neapolitan wood-fired pizza. (River Market)
Farina: A Modern Italian concept by James Beard Award-Winning Chef Michael Smith. (Crossroads)
Lidia’s: Lidia’s is backed by the famous Chef herself & offers the rotating daily three-course pasta special with a warm & vibrant aesthetic. Lidia's is a bucket list Italian experience in the heart of the Midwest. (Crossroads)
Jasper’s: Jasper goes to global lengths for its menu: Lobster Cappuccino, Salmon Carpaccio, Creamy Shrimp with Crispy Polenta, Chargrilled Oysters with Garlic Butter, and Arancini, just to name a few. (Leawood)
1889 Pizza Napoletana: 1889 brings the authenticity of the Neapolitan pizza with its "fast-casual" atmosphere; choose from pizzas, salads, shared plates, & more. Don't forget your Italian beer & wine as well. (East KCK)
Lazia: "Old world Italian;" the Bacon & Egg Carbonara won out as our favorite. Mix in King Crab legs, Heirloom Squash Salad, Prime Fillet, & Lazia's Tiramisu & soak up the glowing candelabras. (Crossroads)
Osteria Il Centro: "Osteria IL Centro is the kind of comfortable neighborhood venue one would find scattered throughout the Mediterranean; Italian cuisine featuring pasta, meat, fish & vegetable dishes." (South Plaza)
Bella Napoli: Bella Napoli is your go-to casual neighborhood destination to shop for imported Italian goods or to dine inside or out with everything from a deli sandwich to homemade pasta & Italian wine to pair. (Brookside)
Garozzo's Ristorante: "It was described as “food so good, you will taste it in your dreams… in a Sinatra’s kind of hangout; their signature Chicken Spiedini is among the best dishes in town.” (Overland Park + Downtown)
Japan
JINYA Ramen Bar: JINYA's menu boasts a multitude of mouthwatering dishes like Spicy Tuna and Salmon Cones, Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna, Salmon or Spicy Tuna mini tacos, and savory ramen noodle bowls. (Overland Park)
Ika Grill Sushi & Pan Asian: Gorgeous sashimi & nigiri amongst a wealth of delicious creations, like the Fried King Calamari strips with Spicy Mayo, Fresh Basil Shrimp Rolls, Spicy Sushi Burrito, & Maki Combos. (Leawood)
Anousone: A combo of Thai & Lao flavors. these eye-capturing plates capture everything from Crispy Brussel Sprouts to Banh Mi, Sticky Rice, Green Papaya Salad, & Forbidden Rice Pudding. (Overland Park)
Sayachi: Owner Carlos designed the...sushi bar...to be simple yet inviting where guests can enjoy sushi & drinks. Entrust the chef to select & prepare offerings of seasonal, artistic dishes. (Brookside)
Aoyama Ramen: Aoyama brings authentic Japanese noodles with rich savory broth to Olathe. Our menu features Tonkotsu Spicy Ramen, Pork Chashu Don, Gyoza, Pork Bun, and more! (Olathe)
Boru: Bōru Asian Eatery brings a mix of chef-inspired Asian dishes to the heart of Waldo, Kansas City. Featuring crave-able dishes like spring rolls, ramen, bao buns, and crispy crab rangoons, plus craft cocktails, sake, wine, and beer. (Waldo)
Hakata Sushi & Hibachi: Enjoy the finest in steak and seafood skillfully prepared and presented by our chefs over your tabletop grill. Serving you sirloin steaks, chicken, scallops, fish, shrimp, vegetables, etc. (Olathe)
Korea
Chingu: Come experience our version of popular Korean street foods, elements of Korean BBQ, and Korean homestyle cooking. Our full bar program boasts a curated selection of spirits, beers, and wines while highlighting soju (rice spirit), makgeolli (rice wine), and cocktails inspired by Korean and Asian flavors. (Westport)
Bingbox: Try any one of the 10 “preset” Snow Cream options, like the mango base or the chocolate, matcha, or lychee. Or, order a soft serve cup, smoothie, or milkshake to get satisfy your sweet tooth. (Overland Park)
K-Street Hotdog: Here at K-Street Hotdog, we serve menu items such as Spicy Rice Stick Skewers, Rice Cake Skewers, Sesame Balls, Hotteok, and Waffle Fries. (Overland Park)
Mexico
Los Alamos y Market Cocina: Chicken Tinga topped Chiles Rellenos to Pork Tamales for dinner, support local & eat small (well, technically BIG!) at KC's corner cuisine gem in the heart of the Westside neighborhood. (Westside)
Palacana: The Best Homemade Ice Cream in Town! Also, we offer an extensive menu of fresh fruit cocktails, a juice & smoothie bar, filled churros, and traditional Mexican lunch and dinner items! (Olathe + Multiple Locations)
Red Kitchen KC: This authentic Mexican street kitchen is led by Chef Alejandra who has a heard of gold...& tamales. Everything from her breakfast burritos to her tacos & soups is beyond flavorful. (Lenexa)
Jarocho: Mexican Seafood Restaurant in Kansas City - Chef/Owner Falcon brings you the flavor from Veracruz, Mexico. (Armourdale + Martin City)
KCK Traco Trail: 50+ taquerias pull through family recipes, south-of-the-border flavors, homemade sauces, marinated meats and veggies, and dishes you won't find anywhere else around the city. (West KCK)
Rudy's: A 2-location taqueria serving family recipes, Rudy's is a staple when it comes to a down-to-earth experience of Fajitas, Burritos, Tacos, & more. (Westport + Lenexa)
Ponak's: A beloved favorite for their Margaritas & Tacos, you'll walk away fat & happy having wondered how you made it beyond filling up on the chips & salsa alone. (Midtown)
Ixtapa Mexican Cuisine: We believe that items made fresh provide a flavorful & authentic experience. Our Chips & salsa are made fresh daily. (North KC)
Teocali: Many times, Mexican recipes are changed in the United States to entice a wider customer base. However, we use the same recipes that have been in our family for generations. (Hospital Hill)
Cafe Ollama: This deliciously unique Latin-owned and inspired coffee shop in the Crossroads has an incredible cinnamon and clove coffee and keeps local artists on rotation in their cozy cafe. (Crossroads)
Taco Naco: Feast on some of KC's BEST tacos-off-the-grill, chips and guac, burritos, tequilas, traditional margaritas, and cinnamon + ginger-spiced churros with goat milk caramel and condensed milk. (Overland Park + Westport)
Yoli Tortilleria: They produce stone-ground corn tortillas, Sonoran-style flour tortillas, salsas, tamales, aguas frescas and recently introduced Eat Yoli zine series where storytelling intersects with food. (Westside)
Carniceria y Tortilleria San Antonio: Full-service meat market and restaurant (Armourdale)
Middle East
Baba's Pantry: Family-owned Palestinian American Deli & Pantry famous for their silky hummus, specialty sandwiches, salads and toppings, and desserts. (East Brookside)
Jerusalem Cafe: Authentic Greek & Mediterranean fare, come into this fast casual for all the hummus, dolmades, gyro meats, falafel, pita, & tzatziki you can get your globally inspired taste buds on. (Westport + Liberty)
Clay & Fire: Turkish & Near Eastern cuisine in the charming Westside, Clay & Fire serves farm-to-table dishes of traditional Turkish Menemen, Breakfast Spreads, Flatbreads, Chickens, Coffee, Soups, & sweets. (Westside)
Queen Sweets & Bakery: Lebanese & Jordanian cuisine in Kansas City! Our menu features Greek Salad, Lentil Soup, Chicken Shawarma Sandwich, & Beef Gyro Wrap. (North KC + Lenexa)
Falafel Express: Falafel Express is one of our go-to's for amazing Middle Eastern/Mediterranean bowls and wraps served up by an incredibly sweet married couple using all the delis family recipes. (Overland Park)
South America
Brix: Brix is an array of Latin flavors from southern to northern America. Bright, balanced, and exclusive savory bites. Brix will be a trip down the border, exploring cultures, and different dishes all in one place. (Westport)
Geo's Gourmet Bakery: Brazilian Bakery (Olathe)
Antojitos Del Peru: Peruvian food is a mix of 3 cultures: the Inca culture, the Chinese culture, and most people don’t realize we have a lot of Italian culture. When you mix these 3 cultures at once, then you have the magic that is Peruvian cuisine. (Lenexa)
Cafe Corazon: Serving up true Latin Specialty drinks, traditional South American Yerba Mate herbal tea, & authentic Kitchen Tamale varieties, alongside a STUNNING mural not to be missed. (Westport + Crossroads)
Piropos: The taste of Argentina is very American Midwestern...a very diverse culture & the food reflects that with a touch of Spanish, Italian, French & other ethnic foods. (Briarcliff)
Empanada Madness: Fast Casual, authentic South American cuisine serving Empanadas, Sandwiches, Pastalitos, Arepas, Plantains, & a wealth of entrees & aides to choose from. (Crossroads)
Taste of Brazil: Our menu was inspired by our moms who worked their lives to provide savory...we learned how to prepare & cook the foods we loved. Now we bring these tasty cuisines to you. (City Market)
Sweet Kiss Brigadeiro: Sweet Kiss is Kansas City’s first artisanal brigadeiro shop. Each candy is handcrafted with high-quality ingredients and gourmet chocolate. Get a true taste of Brazil with the authentic family recipe we’ve perfected over generations. (Plaza)
Spain
Extra Virgin: Tapas Bar & Restaurant serving Spanish-inspired Bites, Starters, Cured Meats & Cheeses, Favorites, & additional delicious savory & sweet selections. (Crossroads)
La Bodega: Spanish Tapas & Lounge serving Ensaladas & Sopas, Chilled & Hot Tapas, Spanish Cocktails (South Blvd)
Switzerland
Andre's Confiserie Suisse: Beautiful Chocolate candies, cakes, & tortes paired with lunch options, like the Quiche Lorraine. Andre’s offers an evolving menu served with a dessert of your choice. (Leawood + South Plaza)
Taiwan
Chewology: Authentic Taiwanese street food including dumplings, bao, rice, and noodle dishes, and a selection of impressive signature cocktails make this beautiful space worth visiting. (Westport)
Thailand
Waldo Thai Place: Authentic Thai experience; this dim & exotically decorated ambiance acknowledges the Thai culture with beautiful art. Absorb all the sweet, salty, spicy, & sour beef, chicken, fish, & vegetable flavors. (Waldo)
Pad Thai: One of the best Thai restaurants in South Johnson County, dine on white table clothes or al fresco on all of your favorite, authentic Thai dishes. (Overland Park)
Bamboo Penny's: Claiming the space between traditional cooking and contemporary craft, Bamboo Penny’s is bringing tropical Thai flavors to Leawood in style, showcasing bold flavors & fresh ingredients that encompass every color of the rainbow. (Leawood)
I Am Frozen Dessert Cafe: This cafe has a whimsical ambiance serving Shaved Ice, Thai Iced Coffee, & Honey Toast topped with Western world flavors like Cinnamon Toast Crunch & Oreo. (Overland Park)
Thai Orchid: Authentic Thai recipes since 1991, try Shrimp Spring Rolls, Steamed Dumplings, Tom Kha Soup, Kaeng Ped Roast Duck Curry, & Orchid Signature Chicken paired with any one of their Thai cocktails. (Mission)
Lulu's Thai Noodle Shop: Thai Curries, Rice Dishes, Pad Thai, Drunken Noodles preceded by Lettuce Wraps, Rolls, Rangoon & more, get authentic Thai street food at either of Lulu's 2 locations. (Crossroads + Overland Park + Westwood)
Baramee Thai Bistro: Baramee "offers a taste of Northeastern Thai dishes & from-the-wok Thai-style cooking with the freshest produce from the City Market & locally grown ingredients." (Crossroads)
Thaiger: Far East comfort food. (North KC)
Ice Cream BAE: "Ice Cream Before Anything Else!" Creative & colorful Ice Cream Milkshakes, Sandwiches, & more loaded with toppings & flavors. (Leawood + Plaza)
KC Thai: If you've never had Mango Sticky Rice, Yellow Curry Seafood Stir Fry, or Thai Iced Coffee, get ready for these to blow your mind at South OP's KC Thai. (Overland Park)
Vietnam
iPhotower: iPhotower is a great place to stop in Kansas City, MO if you want delicious Pho, Vermicelli, or Bahn Mi. Come try our Vietnamese/French fusion cuisine! (Midtown)
Cafe Vie: Authentic Asian fusion dishes infused with eastern world flavors. Cafe Vie is a counter service, a fast-casual restaurant offering Beef Pho, Steamed Pork & Red Bean Buns, & Shrimp Spring Rolls. (Overland Park)
Vietnam Cafe: Notoriously one of KC's best Vietnamese food destinations, Vietnam Cafe offers delectable Pho, Spring Rolls, Noodles, and Fried Rice plates. (Downtown)
Cafe Ca Phe: Here for the Vietnamese Coffee Wave to take over; brewing up authentic Vietnamese beans right here and now in KC, they do it paired with a vibrant mural and traveling cafe. (Columbus Park)
Pho Good: Offering a popular Vietnamese rice noodle soup made with slow-simmered broth, Pho Good's menu also features a variety of other dishes, including buns, rice noodle dishes, and much more. (Shawnee)
