My favorite restaurant hasn’t existed for years. A restaurant that was simultaneously fancy and playful, quirky and upscale, Bluestem in KC was a place I had only gone to once, but wish I had gone to at least another time. By the time I had an opportunity to go again, it had closed.
I remember an amuse-bouche (a nibble of curiosity), a wonderful cheese tray, and a comforting atmosphere. I felt like I didn’t have to be someone else to enjoy the place, I didn’t have to play dress-up in a black dress or a red suit, and I could enjoy imaginative and upscale food without impersonating someone sophisticated. I appreciate great food, but not so much pretension.
Another favorite restaurant which is still open would be Waldo Thai, again in Kansas City. They do Thai and Thai fusion food. Their dishes are authentic and show the best of Thai food: the melodious use of spices and citrus, rich coconut milk and sweet soy; all the things I remember from cooking at a Thai cafeteria in the late 80s. Much more sophisticated, though. I would like to work my way through their drink list.
A restaurant doesn’t have to be fancy to capture my fancy. I enjoy going to Swagat north of KC, which is a very solid Indian restaurant with an excellent buffet. I especially love their goat curry, although that is always served bone-in, so it takes some care to eat. If it were closer, I would try to eat there weekly. There’s also Raku in my town, where I go for their relatively non-brothy ramen, which has become one of my favorites.
I am always looking for new favorites. If I were to visit you, what restaurant would you recommend?
Words Like Me 