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A Guide to Kansas City’s Growing Food Hall Scene
The first food hall arrived in the Kansas City area back in 2017, and the dining trend has only grown since then. Now multiple KC food halls are home to dozens of restaurant concepts, hosting hundreds of visitors every day.
Of course, we’ve seen variations of the food hall for decades. Cafeteria-style restaurants became popular in the U.S. during the early 1900s, selling comfort food at affordable prices. Then in the 1980s and ‘90s, shopping mall food courts brought Americans’ favorite fast-food chains together under one roof.
But today’s food halls have changed in a big way—just like the way people experience and consume food has changed.
Customers will usually find multiple local restaurants created by chefs who run their own kitchens. Food halls typically offer diverse cuisines, everything from African dishes to Thai food. And with so many options, it solves the age-old problem when no one can agree where to eat.
Many of Kansas City’s food halls also feature coffee shops, patios, full bars and live music for a new take on family dinner or a lively night out with friends.
Here’s what to know about Kansas City’s food hall scene.
Lenexa Public Market
Located at Lenexa City Center, the Lenexa Public Market was the first food hall to open in the Kansas City area in 2017. The city wanted a space to support entrepreneurs hoping to jumpstart their new businesses.
Since its opening, Lenexa Public Market has done just that with several restaurants now having their own brick-and-mortar location after starting in the food hall. Other local eateries have also opened spin-off locations inside Lenexa Public Market to expand their customer base.
The two-story space currently has seven restaurant concepts. Guests can enjoy everything from smash burgers and waffle creations to fresh salads and more. Lenexa Public Market also frequently hosts pop-ups and community events like live music and family game nights.
See the full dining lineup here.
Parlor
Parlor opened in 2018 and quickly became a favorite in the Crossroads Arts District. During the day, it’s an ideal spot for lunch with a friend or coworker at one of six restaurant concepts. But as the sun goes down, the two-floor food hall turns into an exciting late-night destination.
You’re sure to find a unique dining experience with options like Indian fusion, elevated Tex-Mex, spicy chicken sandwiches and bold sliders.
Enjoy live music on the weekends with a craft beer or signature cocktail on the covered patio—one of the best in Kansas City.
Strang Hall
Strang Hall opened its original location in downtown Overland Park in 2019, currently housing five restaurants, a coffee shop and bar. Enjoy everything sushi and Thai to tacos and pizza.
Visitors can enjoy a massive outdoor area, featuring picnic tables, yard games and an area for live music in the summer. Inside, ample seating means groups of all sizes can join together for a meal or a drink. A private dining room is also available for larger events with up to 20 guests.
Since the first location opened, Strang Hall has expanded to two popular Kansas City neighborhoods.
The more intimate Strang Chef Collective at Lightwell opened in 2022 near 11th and Main streets in Downtown KC with two restaurants and a bar inside.
In 2023, Strang Chef Collective also opened on the Country Club Plaza, featuring four restaurant concepts, a coffee shop and a bar.
View the menus and order online for all three Strang locations here.
Iron District
Iron District opened in North Kansas City in 2019 with a food hall vibe—except completely outdoors with its restaurants in shipping containers.
Enjoy nine bar or restaurant concepts, including street tacos, Mediterranean cuisine, smash burgers, all-day breakfast, ice cream and local beers on tap.
To add to the outdoor dining experience, visitors will find yard games and live music—and yes, it’s dog-friendly. Iron District also has three vendors selling apparel, accessories and more.