Some have moved, others are gone forever. | Photos via Kansas City Public Library
Earlier this month, we asked: Which Kansas City restaurant do you miss the most? Which restaurant or meal do you wish were still around?
Piece of cake, right? KCtoday readers sent us food for thought — let’s stroll down memory lane, because we love a moment of local nostalgia.
Stephenson’s Old Apple Farm Restaurant
The Independence orchard serving apple fritters and fresh cider by the barrel will soon live on atop grocery store shelves. Reader S. W. misses its country chic decor, mouthwatering brisket, and homemade peach margaritas "....what more is there to say except, Stephenson’s, I hope I find you in heaven.”
Peppercorn Duck Club
The Hyatt Regency Crown Center establishment offered a classic fine dining experience that was best known for its... you guessed it... duck. For readers Karen F. and Cindy M., its chocolate dessert bar can never be beat. “The smell of the Garlic Bread being fried throughout the restaurant will always be a favorite memory,” said John B.
Beignet
“Standing in line on a Saturday morning in the River Market was absolutely worth it to devour a Mr. Crab stuffed beignet with a side of Cajun aioli,” recalls reader Beth O. — and we couldn’t agree more.
Vintage Games at Family Night | 5 p.m. | Lenexa Public Market, Lenexa | Free entry | Learn to play Tiddlywinks and other Victorian-era “parlor games” during this special edition Family Night.
A Homeless Shelter Listening Session | 5-7 p.m. | Independence Boulevard Christian Church | Free with RSVP | The Beacon and a guest panel will discuss the status of homeless shelters in the community + collect items to be donated to local shelters.
Thursday, Nov. 21
Jingle & Mingle: A Holiday Open House | 6-9 p.m. | Colonial Gardens, Blue Springs | $15 | Check a few names off your Christmas list, sample local flavors, and meet Santa while supporting Children’s Mercy Hospital with your ticket + toy donation.
Friday, Nov. 22
Chicken N Pickle Private Magical Igloos | Friday, Nov. 22 | 11 a.m.-9 p.m. | Chicken N Pickle , Overland Park | $40 | Spend date night cozied up in a private igloo with festive food + drinks, no sub-zero temps needed.
KCK Taco Trail Bus Tour “Best of the Best” | 6-8:30 p.m. | 333 N. 6th St., KCK | $33 | On this mouth-watering adventure, 200+ previous riders have picked the city’s best carnitas, chicken, carne asada and al pastor tacos for you to try.
Saturday, Nov. 23
Oddities & Curiosities 2024 | 10 a.m. | Bartle Hall | $12+ | From taxidermy to funeral collectibles, the largest internationally traveling event showcasing all things weird is bringing its sideshow experience to KC.
Turkey Bowling | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Line Creek Community Center | $8+, free with donation | Bring a canned good for free admission, strap on your ice skates, and bowl your way to glory (and a free Thanksgiving turkey).
Holiday Lighting Ceremony | 4-6 p.m. | Zona Rosa | Free | Welcome the season with live music, food trucks, and giveaways as you watch the historic holiday crowns + never-before-seen Grand Christmas tree turn on the lights.
New TV talent show “Second Chance Stage” has dropped its official trailer after filming at The Midland earlier this year. Produced by Chip and Joanna Gaines + hosted (in-part) by KC native Heidi Gardner, the tear-jerking eight-part series will debut on Magnolia Network Thanksgiving night. (Kansas City Star)
Traffic
From four lanes to two — that’s the destiny of 28 KCMO roads upon their next resurfacing, thanks to council-approved road diets aimed at improving safety. Up first: 12th Street, 63rd Street, Gregory Boulevard, James A. Reed Road, North Chouteau Trafficway, Southwest Boulevard, 22nd Street and The Paseo. (The Beacon)
Announced
While Buck O’Neil Bridge does just the opposite. As of this morning, southbound US 169 is open to drivers after two years of construction — meaning no more extended detours for some downtown drivers. Pedestrian access is still in the works, but expected to open in December. (FOX4)
Development
The “C” in our name stands for “cars,” apparently. KC Auto Club is coming to 7505 W. 160th St., featuring bars, lounges, and food + drink options for auto enthusiasts. The project has partnered with nearby luxury garage “The Lux,” and will offer 75 elevated rack storage units of its own. Opening is expected for spring 2026. (KCBJ)
Sports
While we’re excited for the 2025 Women’s Sports Awards in Kansas City, we’re even more excited to hear WNBA star Caitlin Clark will be its featured speaker. Tickets to WIN for KC’s Tuesday, Feb. 4 fundraiser luncheon go on sale to the public today at 10 a.m. (FOX4)
Eat
A little hangry after reading today’s article? We suggest taking a long lunch and finding your new favorite meal at one of the best east Jackson County eateries, recommended by KCUR staff + listeners.
Finance
When this card hit the market, it became the do-it-all card that took the top spot in thousands of peoples’ wallets. Perks include a significant first-year bonus, up to 5% cashback on everyday purchases, no annual fee, and 0% intro APR on purchases + balance transfers into 2026.*
Home
Don’t risk a busted washer or drier in the middle of winter — get American Home Shield Home Warranty. For a limited time, they’re offering $150 off some of their most comprehensive plans.(Think: Peace of mind, for less.)Claim the discount. Read website disclaimer for important consumer information.*
Wellness
No more feeling wired and tired. Seven forms of magnesium in Magnesium Breakthrough help you unwind + sleep deeper. Get 25% off bundles — Black Friday sale ends today.*
Category
Seasonal
🎁 Holiday magic for two
Including comfy flannel and a book embosser. | Graphic by 6AM City
It’s always the ultimate question of the season — what are you going to gift your partner for the holidays? Shop great gift ideas, including local picks.
Local pick:ADHDIY Craft Cafe | $15+ | Create-your-own date night by ordering off the menu — candle pouring, stamp carving, terrarium-making — and sip tea, mocktails, and more while you do it.
With friends and family visiting for the holidays, there’s no better time to break out the board + card games. Here are five for your next family game night:
🎲 Up to 20 players can participate in Herd Mentality for some udderly hilarious fun. 🎲 Ticket to Ride is a top-rated board game for 2-5 players ages 8+. 🎲 Everyone can put their poker face to the test in You Laugh You’re Out. 🎲 Ransom Notes is an easy-to-play game that will leave the entire family belly laughing. 🎲 Coup is a fast and fun bluffing game for 2-6 players ages 13+.
I was finally able to stop by Verdant’s new Morningside location yesterday and, rather than my usual flowers, I walked away with a new candle. Verdant’s amazing refill program means I can burn through it and return its chic stoneware vessel in-person for 50% off any scent. Sustainable has never smelled so good.