Places To Eat

There’s one thing you’ll need in Independence — your appetite! The city is chock-full of delicious dining options that range from casual and kid-friendly to the stuff of date night dreams.

Fun fact? The city’s history extends to its restaurants, too. Beloved burger and beer joint, Courthouse Exchange, was a favorite of Harry S. Truman’s — and it’s been open since 1891! Barbecue is always on the menu in the Kansas City area, and a favorite local BBQ restaurant, Gates, has an Independence location so you can get your fill of burnt ends, a local staple.

You might already know Kansas City-style barbecue, but what about Kansas City-style chili? The metro’s oldest family-owned restaurant, Dixon’s Chili, has been serving up dishes of flavorful chili like you’ve never had it before since 1919. Here’s the scoop: Beans and meat are cooked separately and the chili is served on a plate with a bean-based broth (not tomato). Pile on DIY condiments like onions, jalapeno relish, vinegar, hot sauce, cheese and sour cream.

The city’s fine-dining experiences are equally unforgettable. Escape to Italy inside the cozy on fines of Café Verona or enjoy elevated American cuisine at Ophelia’s, an inviting and contemporary restaurant that also includes an upstairs inn. You’ve heard of saving room for dessert after your meal, but what about shopping? Vivilore, a popular lunch and dinner spot in the Englewood Arts District, offers three floors (!!) of shopping above the restaurant. Browse antiques, collectibles, home décor, jewelry and more. We bet you’ll be going home with more than leftovers!

Casual, family-friendly dining options await throughout the historic Independence Square, whether you’re in the mood for gourmet hot dogs, square pizza, burgers and apps or locally brewed sodas.

And speaking of soda? The city’s beverage scene is just as exciting as its culinary counterpart. Coffeeshops are abundant throughout Independence, the perfect spots to linger over your favorite brew as you plan a day of sightseeing. For the happy hour crowd, take your pick from local beer breweries, whiskey and wine bars, neighborhood hangouts (often with live music).

That leaves just one question. Where are you headed first?