Are you in search of a great steak in Kansas City? Well, with the city being known as “Cow Town,” there’s an indication that you’re likely to find exceptional steakhouses here. As Kansas City locals, we can confirm that!
The reputation of a “Cow Town” dates back to the 19th century when the Kansas City Stockyards opened in the West Bottoms in 1871. By the early 20th century, these stockyards were one of the largest in the country.
The city’s location in the heartland as well as the proximity of the railroads meant that Kansas City became a hub for meatpacking. This really shaped the city’s culture and identity.
Unfortunately, by the mid-20th century, changes in transportation and livestock handling led to a decline. The stockyards eventually closed in 1991, marking the end of an era.
Don’t fret – Kansas City’s backstory as a steak town can still be felt today in the selection of exceptional steakhouses around the city. And we’re sharing them all!
Best Steakhouses in Kansas City
We know you’ll love these iconic steakhouses.
1. Stock Hill
Neighborhood: Country Club Plaza
Pricing: $$$$
At Stock Hill, the essence of a traditional steakhouse is reimagined for the modern age.
Renowned for its innovative interpretations of steakhouse favorites, every dish is the result of exceptional craftsmanship and a passion for culinary excellence.
The culinary team meticulously sources the finest cuts from Midwestern ranches, ensuring each bite is a unique encounter with the region’s rich flavors. Recognized as one of the 31 Best Steakhouses in America by Thrillist and a recipient of a Four-Diamond rating by the AAA, Stock Hill is more than just a delicious steakhouse – it’s a gastronomic gem.
The ambiance is modern and chic with a bar area boasting plush green couches and gold accents and the dining area with its white tablecloths and cozy dimmed lighting.
The handcrafted cocktails and artisanal sides complement the dining experience, as does the exceptional Midwestern hospitality.
Menu highlights include the wagyu ribeye, gruyere spaetzle, dry aged steak, roasted mushrooms, and smoked carrots.
2. Golden Ox
Neighborhood: West Bottoms
Pricing: $$$
Dining at the Golden Ox means stepping into Kansas City’s history. Established in 1949, it’s one of the city’s most iconic steakhouses.
Located in the historic Stockyards District, The Golden Ox, with its old-school charm and classic steakhouse menu, has long been a cornerstone of Kansas City’s dining scene.
The ambiance features a timeless elegance with its rich wood paneling, brass lighting, comfortable leather booths, and vintage décor.
Known for serving some of the finest cuts of meat in the city, The Golden Ox sources high-quality, locally raised beef, ensuring each steak is perfectly cooked. In addition to steaks, they serve seafood and hearty sides.
Manu highlights include the prime rib (slow-roasted to perfection) flat iron steak, risotto, and hearty sides.
3. The Majestic Restaurant and Jazz Club
Neighborhood: Downtown
Pricing: $$$$
The Majestic Restaurant, offering old-world charm in downtown Kansas City, carries the rich history and tradition of the city within its walls. This vintage steakhouse, set in the historic Fitzpatrick Saloon Building dating back to 1909, offers a blend of old-world charm and modern luxury.
Famous for its dry-aged steaks, The Majestic never fails to impress its guests with its fine dining experience.
The menu extends beyond its renowned Kansas City Strip Steak. With an array of over 150 whiskeys and numerous wines, The Majestic caters to every palate, providing an impeccable pairing to complement each meal.
As evening descends, the restaurant transforms into a vibrant jazz club, echoing the tunes that made the city famous. This modern speakeasy stands as a homage to the Prohibition era, when the original saloon was converted into a hidden bar.
Menu highlights include dry aged ribeye, creme brulee, seafood etouffee, scallops, and onion soup.
4. Pierpont’s At Union Station
Neighborhood: Crossroads Arts District
Pricing: $$$
Pierpont’s is unique in that it makes you feel like you’re a rail traveler from the 1800’s stopping in for a swanky steak dinner and martini before your train departs.
Named after the renowned railroad baron J.P. Morgan, Pierpont’s in historic Union Station offers an atmosphere of casual elegance, combining 1914 decor and the long mahogany bar with modern touches. As you step into Pierpont’s, you’re instantly transported to a bygone era.
The restaurant has a timeless charm with its high ceilings, rich wood furnishings, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Pierpont’s is known for their perfectly seared steaks, particularly the filet mignon.
5. Jess & Jim’s Steakhouse
Neighborhood: Martin City (South KC)
Pricing: $$
A family-run establishment since 1938, Jess & Jim’s Steakhouse in Martin City is a testament to the timeless allure of a good steak. This no-frills, down-to-earth restaurant is famed for its unpretentious ambiance and top-quality meat.
The first thing you’ll notice is the life-sized cow perched on the roof of the restaurant. The walls are covered with yellowed articles, restaurant reviews, and old photos.
Locals recommend their Playboy Strip, named after the Playboy magazine which declared it the best steak in America in 1972 and is described as “25 oz. of pure beef goodness for $51.99.”
6. 801 Chophouse
Neighborhood: Power & Light
Pricing: $$$$
Established with a vision to bring a classic New York chophouse experience to Kansas City, 801 Chophouse offers a sophisticated dining experience.
It has a 1920’s old-school steakhouse charm with rich mahogany paneling, plush leather booths, and soft lighting that creates a warm ambiance.
Although not local to Kansas City, it originated in the midwest in 1993 and has just a handful of locations.
They serve up USDA Prime steaks, notably an exceptional bone-in filet.
Menu highlights include the prime rib, scalloped potatoes, creamed corn, and lobster.
7. Anton’s
Neighborhood: Downtown
Pricing: $$$
Anton’s combines a traditional butcher shop and steakhouse experience with modern sustainability practices. The restaurant has been dedicated since 2012 to developing relationships with local farmers.
The menu at Anton’s features a wide array of selections, including in-house aged steaks.
The interior is cozy with warm wood tones and brick walls.
What is the Oldest Steakhouse in Kansas City?
The title of the oldest steakhouse in Kansas City goes to the Golden Ox. Its doors opened in 1949, and it has been a staple in the local dining scene ever since. Although it was closed for a period of time and has changed ownership, dining there still feels like a trip back in time.
Another historic steakhouse is The Majestic, set in the historic Fitzpatrick Saloon Building dating back to 1909.
What is the Best Steak in Kansas City?
We surveyed Kansas City locals who lean heavily carnivore, and their take on the best steak in Kansas City may surprise you. It’s the Fou Filet at Le Fou Frog. This is a French restaurant in downtown’s River Market, and while you might not think that the best steak would be found at such a place, it came up again and again as the best steak in KC.
The locals have spoken.