It may not be entirely accurate to call Waldo a hidden gem, but it’s pretty close. It is typically left off the list of entertainment districts in Kansas City, and you won’t find it popping up on “Best of Kansas City” lists by larger publications. But the true locals know Waldo is one of the best neighborhoods in Kansas City, and Waldo restaurants serve some of the tastiest food in town.
Waldo is the area between Gregory on the north and 85th on the south, Troost on the east and Ward Parkway on the west. The heart of Waldo is at the intersection of Wornall and 75th Streets. The area is more residential than districts like the Crossroads and Westport. Cottage-style homes line streets filled with large trees, and young families and older couples alike call the neighborhood home. Woven into the fabric of this neighborhood are more than 40 restaurants and businesses.
This is your guide to restaurants in Waldo, Kansas City. Take your time and make a list of the places you want to go — there’s plenty here to explore.
Waldo Kansas City Restaurants
Of the many charming elements about Waldo, the local, historic and family-run nature of many of the best Waldo restaurants is near the top of the list. These are not chains or projects by out-of-town groups. These are local spots supported by the community and operated by your neighbors.
Also, there are a lot of restaurants in the Waldo area. So, without further ado, here are Waldo restaurants you should visit:
Lew’s Grill + Bar: There are a few things you need to know about Lew’s. First, it’s a local bar serving classic pub food. It’s open ‘til 3 in the morning every day. It’s a great place to watch games, and has an outdoor patio for food and drinks on a nice day. Also, it’s home to Lew’s Das Boot, an 84 ounce pour of beer served in a glass shaped like a cowboy boot. Do with that what you will.
District Pour House & Kitchen: Waldo restaurants offer an incredibly large variety of beers. The case could be made for Waldo as the beer capital of Kansas City, and District Pour House & Kitchen is a great example. This restaurant has more than 100 beers available between bottles and drafts, plus delicious food to pair with your brew.
Emilie’s French Teas: Waldo KC restaurants like Emilie’s give the area its unique flair. Classic comfort foods are great, but where else can you find a wide variety of top-notch French teas in an elegant café?
McLain’s Corner Bakery: If you like fresh, you’ll love McLain’s Corner Bakery. Serving breakfast, brunch and lunch daily, McLain’s makes meals from scratch to satisfy your hunger. It’s a great place for a late Saturday morning brunch or a weekday work lunch.
The Well: If you want classic American food on a nice day, The Well is one of the best Waldo restaurants for you. The Well has two outdoor areas: a lower patio and a rooftop bar. The rooftop bar is the main attraction. Grab a seat, enjoy the view and eat some food.
Kokoro Maki House: The diversity in Waldo restaurants and bars is one thing that makes the area desirable. If you’re not feeling a bar and grill meal, try Kokoro Maki House for authentic Japanese and Korean cuisine.
Governor Stumpy’s Grill House: Governor Stumpy’s has been around since 1997. It’s a classic neighborhood bar with salads, pizza, sandwiches and burgers to pair with a cold brew or cocktail. Stumpy’s is also a great place to catch a Royals or Chiefs game.
Waldo Pizza: Consistently rated among the top pizza places in Kansas City, Waldo Pizza is a mainstay of the Waldo business community. Grab a slice, a whole pie, pasta or dessert. Dine in, carry out, have it delivered or catered. This is a great little pizza shop, and it’s worth a visit.
Summit Grill: Casual, comfortable, delicious — Summit Grill is a local restaurant serving upscale American fare and one of the Waldo restaurants where you can find a great meal. Stop in for the daily happy hour from 3–6 for the best deals.
Second Best Coffee: Fuel up at this award-winning coffee shop on the corner of Wornall and 85th Street. Second Best roasts locally and brews excellently. Whether it’s a cappuccino or a pour over, you’ll get a high-quality drink in a café with chill vibes and friendly service. Bring a book or your laptop and stay a while.
Walsh’s Corner Cocktails: Locally owned and operated since 1978, this hole in the wall is one of the best places for a drink and burger in Kansas City. Walsh’s is a Waldo institution, and you can’t miss it if you want an authentic experience of Waldo restaurants.
Boru Asian Eatery: Are you new to the trend of upscale ramen houses? If so, Boru Ramen is a good place to start. Split an order of bao buns with the table and then try whichever bowl sounds best to you.
Believe it or not, there’s actually even more restaurants in Waldo, Kansas City, than this. Who knew such a small area was hiding such an amazing food scene? Head to Waldo and check it out for yourself. There’s plenty to try in this Kansas City neighborhood.
- Betty Rae’s Ice Cream
- BIBIBOP
- Bobby Baker’s Lounge
- Chelly’s Café
- The Classic Cookie
- Crows Coffee
- KC Bier Co.
- Johnny Kaw’s
- Jovito’s Italian Café & Deli
- Social
- South of Summit Taqueria & Tequila
- Taj’ Mahal Restaurant
- Tasso’s Greek Restaurant
- Tommy’s… The Happy Place
- Waldo Thai
- Waldo Tropical Sno
- Walsh’s Corner Cocktails