Three local restaurants, one letter at a time, chosen for their atmosphere, cuisine, and ability to turn a simple night out into something memorable.
Akoya Omakase- Crossroads
106 W 12th St, Kansas City, MO 64105
A chef-led omakase experience where each course is introduced and explained by the chef, creating an interactive and memorable evening centered on trust and technique.
The Mood:
Intimate and polished, with counter seating that places guests directly in front of the chef. Guided pacing encourages conversation and keeps the evening relaxed and intentional.
Best For:
Couples and special-occasion date nights. Best suited for adults and smaller groups.
Favorite Things:
Dish: Masu San with torched ocean trout, fried shallots, and chili ponzu.
Drink: Ichigo Chan with fresh strawberries, basil syrup, lime, and ginger beer.
**Fun Fact:** Omakase means “I’m in your hands” in Japanese, reflecting the trust guests place in the chef to guide the entire meal.
Bamboo Penny’s- Leawood/Prairie Village
5270 W. 116th Place, Leawood, KS 66211
A vibrant Thai dining destination offering bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a menu that blends traditional Thai techniques with modern flair.
The Mood:
Warm, colorful, and energetic, with a lively dining room and an upstairs Bamboo Room that adds a social, cocktail-forward feel to the experience.
Best For:
Girls’ nights, casual date nights, and group or family dinners. Welcoming and approachable for a wide range of diners.
Favorite Things:
Dish: Pad Thai A La Penny or Pineapple Fried Rice
Drink: Livin’ La Vida Loca with Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, Orgeat, toasted almond bitters, dry Curacao, Thai Chili tincture, lime juice, dark rum float.
**Fun Fact:**
Bamboo Penny's guests consume 10,000 of Penny's famous rangoon's weekly....every one, hand made on-site!
Cafe Trio- Plaza
4558 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64111
A longtime Kansas City favorite offering live piano, contemporary American cuisine, craft cocktails, and a lively atmosphere that turns dinner into a social occasion.
The Mood:
Hip and glamorous yet welcoming, Café Trio blends contemporary American cuisine, cocktails, and live music into an elevated but comfortable experience. The lively dining room and all-seasons patio add to its approachable fine-dining vibe.
Best For:
Casual date nights, girls’ nights, and celebratory dinners with friends. Easygoing enough for groups while still feeling special.
Favorite Things:
Dish: Lamb Shank Tagine- braised lamb shank, couscous, preserved lemon, olives, vegetables, charmoula.
Drink: So many martinis! My favorite is the White Diamond.
**Fun Fact:** Café Trio fully decorates for both Christmas and Halloween, transforming the space each season. It’s a must-see experience!