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Stroll streets lined with twinkling holiday lights and Spanish-inspired architecture as you make your way to any number of restaurants that offer fare ranging from perfectly cooked steaks and expertly made sushi to flavorful pastas and indulgent, world-renowned desserts.
The best part? You don’t have to go far to enjoy an unforgettable holiday experience. Instead, head to one of Kansas City’s most beloved destinations—Country Club Plaza—to celebrate over a delicious meal. Consider the following ideas to jumpstart your holiday planning:
Fuel up for holiday shopping
From iconic luxury brands to locally owned boutiques, the Plaza is home to an exciting mix of shops. Before you tackle your holiday gift list, grab a quick bite at one of the Plaza’s casual eateries, including the perennially popular Shake Shack, Chicago’s own Potbelly Sandwich Shop or fast-casual Mediterranean concept, Zoës Kitchen. If you want a bite and to catch a few minutes of the game, stop at The Granfalloon Restaurant & Bar and do both!
And if you’re in need of a snack break, there are plenty of options! Indulge in a frozen treat from Southern Charm Gelato Shoppe or treat yourself at local favorite, Topsy’s Popcorn, which sells popcorn in limited-edition holiday tins—a great gift idea! Grab a cupcake or six at Cupcake à la Mode, the perfect stop if you need to bring dessert to a holiday gathering. The Plaza is home to multiple coffee shops, too, including Kaldi’s Coffee and Starbucks.
Savor a meal with a view
This year marks the 90th anniversary of the Evergy Plaza Lighting Ceremony. It’s hard to believe the Plaza Lights tradition started with a single strand of lights; now, thousands of lights adorn 15 blocks. If the weather cooperates, grab a table on Gram & Dun’s large patio and relax with a craft cocktail as you peruse a menu of sophisticated cuisine. The Cheesecake Factory’s location offers no shortage of photo opportunities. Start the day with breakfast or brunch at The Classic Cup, which features nearly an entire wall of windows (and one of the best patios) for people watching! Zocalo Mexican Cuisine & Tequileria is open late, an ideal choice if you need to accommodate varying schedules. The cozy interior of O’Dowd’s Gastrobar is especially inviting when the snow falls. Watch the flakes fly past the Plaza lights as you enjoy upscale pub fare and handcrafted cocktails.
Craving a healthy holiday? No problem!
Keep your spirits merry and bright with an enticing assortment of health-minded eateries. Casual clean eatery t.Loft offers freshly pressed juices, energy bites, and a menu filled with gluten-free breakfast and lunch options. The quietly upscale interior of Seasons 52 is a welcoming place to escape from holiday stress. The fresh, seasonal menu is a feast for all of the senses, and the restaurant can easily accommodate a variety of dietary needs. True Food Kitchen, a newer addition to the Plaza’s dining scene, offers a bright, light-filled interior that pairs perfectly with the restaurant’s healthy, flavor-forward menu that highlights in-season produce.
Celebrate with a splurge
Sometimes, you simply need to go all out during the holiday season. Several Plaza fine-dining restaurants are ready to make your occasion unforgettable. Iconic Plaza restaurant The Capital Grille recently moved to a new location in the heart of the Plaza. Craving the smoky flavors of a Brazilian churrascaria? Stash that passport and instead head to Fogo de Chão to sample as many skewered, fire-roasted meats as you can hold. Or if you’re in the mood for fondue, you can ‘due it up and dip to your heart’s desire at The Melting Pot!
Something for everyone
Accommodating a picky eater? Not to worry! The Plaza offers a mouthwatering array of restaurants so you can find the cuisine that your group will love. Start with Kansas City’s official food: barbecue! Fiorella’s Jack Stack BBQ is a local favorite, renowned for both barbecue meats and side dishes. High-quality burgers and craft beer are the stars at Hogshead Kansas City, which sources as many local ingredients as possible. Austin-based Chuy’s is a Tex-Mex destination with an incredible happy hour (hello, free chips and queso). Locally owned Rye features fried chicken and all of the fixin’s, not to mention what might be the best slice of pie in Kansas City. Seafood purveyors McCormick & Schmick’s have been a longtime Plaza staple and draw crowds to sample The Chocolate Bag, renowned as one of the best desserts available. Treat your guests to a family-style Italian feast at Buca di Beppo or enjoy a compelling combination of delicious pasta, refreshing cocktails and prime Plaza views at Brio Tuscan Grille. Make an evening of it with a wine tasting followed by dinner at Cooper’s Hawk Winery. If you’re craving sushi and an excellent happy-hour menu, look no further than Kona Grill, also a favorite late-night destination. P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, meanwhile, offers up oh-so tasty Asian flair and Parkway Social Kitchen is perfect for a delightfully delicious date night.
This holiday season, there’s no better place to slow down and make unforgettable holiday memories with the ones you love than at Country Club Plaza. Bon appetit!