Can we chat about Overland Park for a moment?
This lively city in Kansas is not just a bustling hub of activities but also a gastronomic wonderland.
I’ve been there and tried it.
If your taste buds dance to the tune of smoked food, you’re about to embark on an unforgettable culinary journey.
And the way these restaurants present their dishes?
Your eyes will be feasting as much as your belly.
I’ve had the pleasure to personally experience these places, and let me tell you, the variety is dazzling.
So, here’s your personal guide to the best restaurants in Overland Park that you just can’t miss.
Best Restaurants In Overland Park Compared
Ready for a culinary adventure in Overland Park?
Check out our top picks for the best restaurants in town.
Editor’s Choice
Jack Stack Barbecue
Jack Stack, which traces its origin to 1957, serves hickory-smoked meat highlighting the Kansas City flair.
- Taste & Variety: 5/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
#2nd Best Choice
Brobeck’s Barbeque
Set in a mall, Brobeck’s Barbeque serves flavorful meat at a simple location in Overland Park.
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 3/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
#3rd Best Choice
J. Gilbert’s Wood-Fired Steaks and Seafood
J. Gilbert’s stands out as one of the best steakhouses in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
- Taste & Variety: 5/5
- Service: 5/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 2/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Here are the top 15 restaurants in Overland Park open right now.
1. Jack Stack Barbecue (Editor’s Choice)
9520 Metcalf Ave
Overland Park, KS 66212
(913) 385-7427
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Jack Stack, which traces its origin to 1957, serves hickory-smoked meat highlighting the Kansas City flair.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 5/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- High-quality barbecue: They use high-quality ingredients, and their meats are cooked to perfection, resulting in a flavorful dining experience.
- Extensive menu: From classic barbecue dishes like ribs and burnt ends to unique items like smoked salmon and lamb ribs, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Cons
- Higher prices: Compared to some other barbecue restaurants, Jack Stack Barbecue tends to be on the pricier side.
- Crowded atmosphere: This may not be ideal for those seeking a quieter and more relaxed ambiance.
Why It Made The List
Before you enter, you’d already be enticed by the smell of the smoked offerings waiting for you.
It’s proud to have the most extensive barbecue menu that includes award-winning items.
At the same time, this family-owned eatery also has a simple setup that will comfort you well.
No wonder how it emerged as one of the best-rated restaurants in Overland Park.
Popular Dishes to Try
Have the best lunch in Overland Park by having pulled pork mac and cheese for starters.
Every entrée, including burnt ends and pork spare ribs, is cooked to perfection just for you.
Smokin’ Russ, a fan-favorite sandwich, would easily be tempting if you like a spicy flavor.
2. Brobeck’s Barbeque
4615 Indian Creek Pkwy
Overland Park, KS 66207
(913) 901-9700
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Set in a mall, Brobeck’s Barbeque serves flavorful meat at a simple location in Overland Park.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 3/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- Authentic barbecue flavors: Their meats are smoked to perfection, with a rich and smoky flavor that barbecue enthusiasts appreciate.
- Family-friendly atmosphere: It exudes a welcoming and family-friendly environment.
Cons
- Limited menu options: Their menu options may be somewhat limited compared to other restaurants.
- Inconsistent service: Some customers have reported inconsistent service, with occasional delays or lapses in attentiveness.
Why It Made The List
Brobeck’s Barbeque may be small but this eatery can surprise you in every possible way.
What sets its meat offerings apart is the special rub recipes applied to tantalize your taste buds.
You won’t even need to order extra sauce since the meat, in itself, is already oozing with flavor.
It’s surely one of the local restaurants you wouldn’t want to miss in this charming city.
Popular Dishes to Try
Stuff your tummy with a full slab of ribs for a tantalizing food that makes for a satisfying dinner.
Brobeck’s combo platter—featuring ribs, sausage, and sliced meat—would also be perfect.
Make sure to get Brobeck’s regular sandwich for a handheld you’d like.
3. J. Gilbert’s Wood-Fired Steaks and Seafood
8901 Metcalf Ave
Overland Park, KS 66212
(913) 642-8070
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J. Gilbert’s stands out as one of the best steakhouses in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 5/5
- Service: 5/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 2/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- High-quality steaks and seafood: Their wood-fired cooking technique adds a distinct flavor to the dishes, making them a favorite among steak and seafood enthusiasts.
- Upscale ambiance: The restaurant is well-designed with a sophisticated atmosphere.
Cons
- Higher prices: It’s more expensive than casual dining establishments in the area.
- Limited vegetarian options: It focuses on steaks and seafood, which means their vegetarian options are limited.
Why It Made The List
Level up your food adventure by trying out fine dining in Overland Park.
Here, not only will you find a swanky vibe but also scrumptious steaks and seafood.
It offers world-class black Angus beef that will surely leave a lasting taste in your mouth.
Hold your events here if you’re seeking one of the best birthday restaurants in Overland Park.
Popular Dishes to Try
Indulge in the combination of the steak and jumbo lump crab cake for a heavy fare.
Make sure to add a maple plank roasted salmon with bourbon glaze if you want more seafood.
Consider adding a grilled vegetable platter for a healthy balance to your meal.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Overland Park-Convention Center, an IHG Hotel
Also See:
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4. Q39 South
11051 Antioch Rd
Overland Park, KS 66210
(913) 951-4500
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Q39 South, one of the top Overland Park restaurants, occupies a location at the Overland View Village.
Why It Made The List
Are you searching for restaurants near you after playing at the Brookridge Golf & Fitness?
Look no further since Q39 South is only within a three-minute drive from the golf course.
As a chef-driven eatery, the barbecue dishes boast impressive flavors you won’t find elsewhere.
Of course, the family-friendly orientation of this place further adds to its appeal.
Popular Dishes to Try
Have a smoked and charred half-chicken for a chipotle barbecue flavor you can’t resist.
It would be ideal to add bacon-wrapped shrimp to delve into their seafood offers.
End your meal with a champion cheesecake for a truly delectable dessert.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: DoubleTree by Hilton Kansas City – Overland Park
5. Nick & Jake’s
6830 W 135th St
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 681-8535
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Nestled by Deer Creek, Nick & Jake’s prepares traditional favorites paired with cold beers.
Why It Made The List
Nick & Jake’s has earned a reputation as one of the coolest places to drink in the city.
Inside, you can bask in a chill vibe and friendly atmosphere that will make you feel relaxed.
Wines and beers can complement your food inspired by global cuisine.
Some items are gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian-friendly so you won’t have a hard time if you have restrictions.
Popular Dishes to Try
Avail yourself of the chicken pot pie, meatloaf, and chicken fingers if you want Nick’s Favorites.
Make sure to add smokey chicken pasta to fill your stomach with fantastic food.
Grab a bottle of Bud Light, Guinness Stout, and Blue Moon to enjoy cold draft beers.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Aloft Leawood-Overland Park
6. Overland Park Grill
11471 Metcalf Ave
Overland Park, KS 66210
(913) 469-1995
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Overland Park Grill has been welcoming guests for more than two decades near the Aspiria area.
Why It Made The List
If you’re a fan of contemporary feel, this would be one of the best places to eat in Overland Park for you.
It whips up traditional food that tastes even better when matched with the perfect wine available.
Some of the delicious dishes you can expect are steaks, sandwiches, seafood, and salads.
Without a doubt, this eatery sets the perfect stage for a romantic date with your significant other.
Popular Dishes to Try
Start with deviled eggs or spinach con queso for a light fare.
Among the entrées, the filet mignon and cilantro shrimp are two items you wouldn’t want to miss.
Be sure to add broccoli, mashed potatoes, and fresh vegetables for some great side dishes.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites Kansas City Overland Park
7. Cinzetti’s
7201 W 91st St
Overland Park, KS 66212
(913) 642-0101
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Founded in 2003, Cinzetti’s creates incredible Italian dishes at a place near the Johnson County Museum.
Why It Made The List
It serves as the go-to place for those who want to dine in the best restaurants downtown.
After all, who would not want to taste authentic dishes that would provide you with a taste of Italy?
Cinzetti’s allows you to see firsthand the specialty cooking stations where the chefs prepare your food.
Bring out the foodie in you by tasting the pizza, pasta, and salad that’s right in front of you.
Popular Dishes to Try
Visit this eatery on a weekend to taste the chicken marsala pasta for brunch.
Of course, pancakes, Belgian waffles, smoked bacon, and other morning favorites are also here.
Don’t skip the Margherita and pepperoni pizza for some awesome additions you won’t regret.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard Kansas City Overland Park / Convention Center
Also See:
Restaurants: Manhattan, KS
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8. Korma Sutra
12112 W 87th St
Overland Park, KS 66215
(913) 345-8774
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Opened in 2004, Korma Sutra helped popularize the piquant taste of Indian food in Overland Park.
Why It Made The List
Craving foreign cuisine but not sure where to eat in Overland Park?
Head over to Korma Sutra to expose yourself to the unique offerings inspired by Indian flair.
Make sure to bring a big appetite before coming since this eatery offers lunch buffets, too.
Have no worries about the cost since the dishes are highly affordable.
Popular Dishes to Try
Pair the tandoori chicken with seafood biryani or a mixed rice dish to discover the true Asian flair.
Korma Sutra Korma, a mixed vegetable dish, would be great if you’re seeking a healthy meal, too.
Take the chance to taste the almond-flavored rice pudding known as Badam Kheer.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place Kansas City Lenexa City Center
9. First Watch
9102 Metcalf Ave
Overland Park, KS 66212
(913) 871-5900
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First Watch sets itself apart as one of the most popular restaurants to try for a hearty breakfast.
Why It Made The List
Start your morning the right way by paying a visit to this award-winning restaurant in Overland Park.
Here, you don’t have to choose between traditional and creative offers as both are within reach.
It also boasts a juice bar where you can pick refreshing drinks that will soothe your morning.
Not to mention, the homey vibe of this eatery would also lure you in.
Popular Dishes to Try
Stick to the classic favorites by having the traditional dish featuring eggs, bacon strips, and toast.
Those who opt for a healthier alternative may want to try the superfood bowl featuring a fruit mix and toast.
Sip the morning meditation with fresh juice for a mix of orange, lemon, turmeric, organic ginger, beet, and agave nectar.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard Kansas City Overland Park/Metcalf, South of College Boulevard
10. Bristol Seafood Grill
5400 W 119th St
Leawood, KS 66209
(913) 663-5777
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Bristol Seafood Grill lines itself among the upscale eateries available at the Town Center Plaza.
Why It Made The List
If you’re crazy about seafood, this posh restaurant would easily pique your interest.
It boasts an expansive menu showcasing the traditional and seasonal favorites they prepare.
From fresh fish, shrimp, to sushi, this restaurant won’t run out of food to offer.
Couple that with the chic and contemporary vibe of this place then you’re in for a good time.
Popular Dishes to Try
Shrimp and white cheddar grits would please your palate if you like something traditional.
Satisfy the seafood lover in you even more by having pretzel-crusted trout.
Leave some space for the blackened chicken penne pasta if you prefer an Italian-inspired dish.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place Kansas City/Overland Park/Metcalf
11. North Italia
4579 W 119th St
Leawood, KS 66209
(913) 232-5191
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North Italia, established in 2002, welcomes guests who are craving made-from-scratch Italian dishes.
Why It Made The List
Have you gone through the best restaurants Overland Park has to offer?
You’ll be surprised to find even more options when you walk around its neighbor, Leawood.
North Italia would be perfect if you’re down to explore some of the casual spots to eat.
Its food offerings are already impressive but the rustic farmhouse feel makes things better.
Popular Dishes to Try
Have a go at the wild shrimp scampi for a meal that you can share with the whole group.
Margherita, spicy meatball, and the pig are some of the mouthwatering pizza flavors you can try.
It’s best paired with chicken pesto pasta so you can maximize your food experience in Kansas.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Inn & Suites Overland Park
Also See:
Restaurants in Leawood, KS
Places to Eat in Lawrence, KS
12. Louie’s Wine Dive
6701 W 119th St
Overland Park, KS 66209
(913) 469-4177
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Louie’s Wine Dive subscribes to a sustainable dining tradition for a fresh experience in Overland Park.
Why It Made The List
Overland Park eats are simply a haven for wine aficionados.
At Louie’s Wine Dive, you can expose yourself to food-friendly wines that will excite you.
Its use of locally sourced ingredients further elevates the overall dining experience.
Many would even say that you’ll taste the best food in Overland Park in this restaurant.
Popular Dishes to Try
For starters, you may want to try the pollo and bacon nachos if you want to eat light first.
Enjoy a plate of the spicy shrimp diablo along with Kansas City strip steak as the main course.
Have a glass of Maso Canali Pinot Grigio for a light and fruity wine from Trentino, Italy.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Candlewood Suites Overland Park W 135th St, an IHG Hotel
13. Best Regards Bakery and Café
6759 W 119th St
Overland Park, KS 66209
(913) 912-7238
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Best Regards has been operating for over two decades for sweets and pastries in Overland Park.
Why It Made The List
Pastry lovers would never go wrong in this family-owned establishment.
In fact, you can easily spot the gourmet sweets you’re craving in this go-to bakery in the city.
Some of its offerings, including the delicious cinnamon roll, have even won awards.
That, in itself, can already explain why locals fancy coming to this place.
Popular Dishes to Try
Grab a bite of the huge cookies and the cinnamon roll to fulfill your sweet cravings right away.
Of course, you shouldn’t miss your chance to taste the all-time favorite turkey sandwich, too.
Check out the Torbinator Grilled Cheese if you can fit an enormous sandwich into your tummy.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Overland Park, an IHG Hotel
14. Unforked
7337 W 119th St
Overland Park, KS 66213
(913) 661-9887
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Unforked has been partnering with local producers to serve organic options since its inception in 2011.
Why It Made The List
No tourist would want to skip the best dinner places in Overland Park on every visit.
So, make sure to take the time to check out Unforked to savor organic food in a fast-casual setup.
It’s widely revered for its eco-conscious orientation that puts primacy on local ingredients.
With this, you won’t need to wonder why this is one of the good restaurants in Overland Park.
Popular Dishes to Try
Consider ordering the pure burger which features a premium black Angus ground chuck.
The Impossible Burger, meanwhile, would be perfect for those guests seeking a healthier fare.
Pair your gourmet burger with the classic lime margarita to quench your thirst.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place Kansas City/Overland Park/Convention Center
15. The Brass Onion
5501 W 135th St
Overland Park, KS 66224
(913) 851-5940
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Set in Prairiefire, the Brass Onion has won awards for its awesome take on traditional American cuisine.
Why It Made The List
Step into this esteemed dining place to maximize your trip to the best restaurants in Overland Park.
Beyond the taste, this restaurant also ensures that the dishes are highly pleasing to the eye.
It blends a sophisticated atmosphere with the comfortable feel like you’re at home.
What’s more, the feel-good vibe of this place sets the perfect stage for intimate revelries.
Popular Dishes to Try
Sample the slow-roasted prime rib or the 14 oz. KC Strip if you’re a fan of steaks.
Low-country macaroni and cheese would also be a great addition to your meal.
Never leave this place without taking a sip of the sangria for your special craft cocktail.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Overland Park
Dining Guide
Comparing Restaurants: Which One Is Right For You?
Let’s talk about the top three restaurants on this list.
Walking into Jack Stack Barbecue, the aromatic embrace of smoked meats felt like a warm, comforting hug.
Here, I experienced a fusion of traditional Kansas City style with a sophisticated flair, particularly evident in their crowd-pleasing Crown Prime Beef Ribs.
The next stop was Brobeck’s Barbeque.
It’s rustic and laid-back, reflecting its no-frills approach to BBQ.
They serve up delicious meats like ham and sausage with their signature “thin end” slices, but the unexpected star was their tangy, addictive coleslaw.
Finally, I found myself at J. Gilbert’s, an elegant yet cozy haven for steak and seafood lovers.
The delectably charred steak and fresh, perfectly seared scallops were a culinary dream.
While these three restaurants are unique, they all share the common thread of quality and soul-warming hospitality.
Deciding among them depends on the atmosphere you’re seeking: upscale rustic at Jack Stack, unpretentious charm at Brobeck’s, or refined elegance at J. Gilbert’s.
Each one offers its own slice of Overland Park’s culinary personality, making the decision a deliciously difficult one.
How I Picked The Restaurants
As I embarked on my quest to find the best restaurants in Overland Park, I didn’t rely on guesswork alone.
I wanted to ensure that the places I recommended had the stamp of approval from firsthand experience, thorough research, and insightful conversations with locals and fellow travelers.
I personally visited each of these restaurants, indulging my taste buds in their delectable offerings.
From the moment I stepped foot inside, I immersed myself in the ambiance, observed the service, and savored the flavors that danced on my palate.
To provide you with a comprehensive guide, I delved into extensive research, exploring online reviews, reputable food websites, and local dining guides.
I wanted to ensure that my recommendations aligned with the consensus of food enthusiasts and experts.
But my quest didn’t stop there.
I also sought the wisdom of the locals and fellow travelers, eager to hear their personal experiences and recommendations.
Their insights added a valuable layer of authenticity to my selection process, enabling me to capture the essence of the dining scene in Overland Park.
Armed with my own experiences, meticulous research, and the collective wisdom of the community, I handpicked these restaurants for their outstanding qualities, diverse menus, and ability to deliver memorable culinary experiences.
Our Restaurant Rating Method
We rate these restaurants based on the following criteria.
- Taste & Variety: We use it to evaluate the variety and food quality served at every restaurant. Does the restaurant serve tasty dishes with unique flavors? Does the restaurant’s menu cater to different dietary preferences, like vegetarian and gluten-free? We ask ourselves these questions to evaluate the taste and variety criterion.
- Service: It’s used to evaluate the quality of service provided by the restaurant’s staff. Are their servers knowledgeable about their food? Are they friendly, prompt, and courteous? These are the important questions whenever we rate the service of every restaurant.
- Atmosphere: It evaluates the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Is the restaurant comfortable and inviting? Does the restaurant’s atmosphere match the type of cuisine they serve? We consider these factors when evaluating the restaurant’s atmosphere.
- Affordability: We use this to assess the value of money provided by the restaurant. Are the food portions ideal for the price? Are the guests going to be satisfied with what they pay for? We ask ourselves these questions in order to rate the restaurant’s affordability.
- Accessibility: It measures how accessible the place is for the guests. Is the restaurant in a convenient location that is easy to get to? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have enough parking space? Is it wheelchair accessible? We use these questions to assess the accessibility of every restaurant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Upscale Dining Options In Overland Park?
Yes, J. Gilbert’s Wood-Fired Steaks and Seafood is a renowned upscale restaurant in Overland Park. They are known for their high-quality steaks and seafood, elegant ambiance, and wood-fired cooking technique, making it a favorite for those seeking a refined dining experience.
What Cuisine Types Are Available In Overland Park?
Overland Park, KS, has a diverse food scene with a wide range of cuisines, including American, Mexican, Italian, Asian, and Middle Eastern food, among others.
Are There Kid-Friendly Restaurants In Overland Park?
There are many kid-friendly restaurants in Overland Park, including Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant, where food is delivered by a miniature train, and Unforked, which offers a variety of kid-friendly options.
Conclusion
After delighting in the smoky symphony of flavors, our top choice among the best restaurants in Overland Park is Jack Stack Barbecue.
From its upscale rustic atmosphere to its variety of succulent smoked meats, it charmed my taste buds and soul.
It’s not without competition, though.
Each contender, like the homely Brobeck’s Barbeque and the refined J. Gilbert’s, showcases a unique piece of the Overland Park culinary puzzle.
The deciding factor will hinge on your desired dining experience, but one thing’s for sure: Overland Park is a haven for those who love great food.
Editor’s Choice
Jack Stack Barbecue
Jack Stack, which traces its origin to 1957, serves hickory-smoked meat highlighting the Kansas City flair.
- Taste & Variety: 5/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
