Rowhouse Restaurant
515 Van Buren St, Topeka, KS, 66603
Rowhouse Restaurant Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Topeka for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Topeka for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Topeka for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
515 Van Buren St
Topeka, KS, 66603 - Phone (785) 817-6052
- Website https://rowhouserestaurant.net/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
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Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : No
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Dressy
Ambience : Romantic
Noise Level : Quiet
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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B S.
Went here on Saturday with mother in law and husband. Ambience was nice but stairs going downstairs were very steep. They say dressy attire but we saw several people with jeans on. Food was just average. Beef was tough. French onion soup was a very small amount (maybe 1/4 cup), not beefy tasting, very little onion and a crouton on top...was not good. Cauliflower taco was tasteless and kind of gross, did not finish. The desserts were best part of whole meal and I am not a big dessert fan. They are very tight with their portions. I understand that it is suppose to be a fancy restaurant with small tastings but they could give you a little larger amounts. The $37 a plate they charge is ridiculous. They were trying to be upscale and fancy but they quite didn't hit the mark with us. Will not be going back and just stay home and grill Hy-vee's Amana filet mignons. Much better and cheaper. We were greatly disappointed with the food after all the fantastic reviews here on yelp. Do not understand why people say it is fantastic food. Also, there ARE better restaurants within 100 miles.
(1)Clint S.
Amazing experience! For the value, I don't have anything to compare it to. Excellent!!!!!
(5)Dean G.
What a nice surprise! One menu with 6 courses and wine pairings. Fantastic experience for anyone looking for real food prepared by a real chef. Beautiful little garden out back. Perfect place for a couple looking for a romantic treat. Top chef lovers delight. Exactly what I was looking for to liven up my business trip.
(5)Sean B.
This is the "fanciest" restaurant I have eaten at. It's some fine dining and the ambiance matches the food. I ate here with a group of friends and their significant others on a Thursday night. The cost is pretty on par with the quality of the food and a full course meal is about 40 a person. It may sound like a lot but you're paying for a great experience. The staff is friendly and helpful. Very knowledgeable. I recommend this restaurant for special occasions or maybe just a night out to try something new
(5)Erik W.
The Rowhouse is definitely my favorite restaurant in Topeka. Greg and his staff not only prepare delicious food but compliment it with exceptional service. I highly recommend Wednesday nights where you can do the tasting menu at a discounted price. His first bite option along with this soups are always amazing.
(5)Yao Y.
The restaurant was a makeover of a family-style house in a nowhere neighborhood of Topeka. The place is tastefully decorated, with old pictures everywhere (ask for the stories behind them, someone actually knows a few things about them) It is a little pricier than I would normally choose (around $50 per person), but it's worth every penny. The menu, as a few have mentioned, is chosen for you, in the form of a mini 7 course (at least on the day I visited). The chefs there take their creation and business seriously, creatively and with love. They grow some of the leafy vegetables. They give an interesting twist to some of the very basic dishes and make it much more enjoyable (I'll leave that for you to figure out). And they were not too far from perfection in the execution. Service is awesome too. They are very polite, yet warm. Doesn't matter whether it is your first or n-th visit, you will feel welcomed and comfortable. I visited this place while driving across the country, I sampled various restaurants along the way. This is easily the best among the dozens I've been to. If you ever visit Topeka, or live there, this is not to be missed.
(5)Janell B.
I really can't say enough good things about this restaurant! I'm inclined to find my way back to Topeka one day just to enjoy this place again. It's hard to decide where to begin praising this place. The menu is crafted and updated with creative recipes that include fresh and local ingredients. They also have a great wine/beer list. You have the option of a tasting menu where you try small portions of salad, soup, 3 main, and 3 desserts - or you can have the salad, soup, 1 main full size, and desserts. I highly recommend the tasting menu because all the food is so flavorful. This chef has a unique gift for flavors that is refreshing and surprising. The tasting menu was $36 per person, but I have never had a meal that was so worth the price. There was not one moment during the meal where I thought - maybe it's not worth the price. When my boyfriend finished his soup (a chilled pea soup that was such a perfect blend of flavors) he looked up mournfully and said "I'm sad it's gone." The ambiance is really enjoyable, great for groups or an intimate meal. Take a look at the other reviews to read more about the Rowhouse building and history. Drive slowly when you're getting close, it's in a row of narrow brick buildings and is easy to miss. I'll wrap it up by just saying, do not miss this restaurant and enjoy! I wish I was dining there tonight!
(5)Sarah L.
This is the best restaurant in the area, including Kansas City and Lawrence. The menu is eclectic, creative, but still great - and has something for everyone. It's a tasting menu - so a small salad/app/soup, and three small entrees, as well as three small desserts. $37/per person, and they have a fabulous wine list. The place is housed in a cool restored (but never boring and annoying) actual row house (hence the name) with all kinds of nooks and crannies for a romantic and private dining experience. The service is attentive and never overbearing. These folks know what they're doing, and they do it well. Highly recommended.
(5)Lisa R.
We had a wonderful experience at Rowhouse Restaurant! The house itself was built in the 1800s and is a narrow, multi-level home. We had made reservations to celebrate my birthday the weekend before it. The menu changes weekly depending on what is fresh, and it is all sourced in the region. Our server was very personable. I started off with a class of prosecco, and Eric R. had the pineapple upside down cake cocktail (it had a funnier name but I cannot remember it). The amuse bouche was blanched asparagus and tomato slice with parsley-pecan pesto and herb-infused olive oil. The courses were: 1. Local kale and arugula salad with picked beets and merlot cheese in orange marmalade vinaigrette 2. Tomato dill soup 3. Goat cheese polenta with wild mushroom 4. Beef tenderloin with edamame succotash and avocado mash 5. Mahi mahi with pecan praline crust, radish salad, and chive vinaigrette ..insert birthday dessert from restaurant: layered shortbread with icing and rainbow sprinkles.. 6. Dessert trio: pineapple upside down cake with cherry, kiwi sorbet with shortbread cookie, vanilla custard with bananas foster Everything was very good. I really enjoyed the salad, the beef, and the custard dessert. The beef was perfectly cooked considering we did not offer how we like it cooked. It was melt-in-the-mouth tender. Eric R. really liked the mahi mahi. As a diner, you can choose to have just one entree instead of tasting all 3, which is especially great for vegetarians (for whom there is always an option). The restaurant also will accommodate dietary restrictions. Since the menu changes weekly and I live an hour from here, I look forward to my next visit because I know the food will be different and the service and atmosphere are great! At the end of dinner (and a few other drinks - the B-52 was STRONG!), our server took a photo of us and gave us a tour of the entire house, top to bottom. There is a gorgeous patio outside near the herb garden where I would like to sit next time. There is also a secluded room upstairs that would be romantic with a curtain. Definitely come here for a special occasion! Tasting menu with 6 courses is $43 per person.
(4)Amber G.
Wow. My boyfriend and I ate here before going to a dance, and what a wonderful way to kick off the evening. The ambiance was perfect. I love the building it's in and the way it is decorated. The servers were very attentive without being too overbearing. The food was outstanding. I've never eaten anything like it before, and all the flavors were new and interesting. The menu changes every week, so I won't post what I had. I can't speak for the wine because I'm too young, but I would presume that it complements the food well. It is very pricey, but a wonderful choice for an anniversary dinner or other special occasion. This is the fanciest restaurant that I have eaten at, but it is still very relaxed. I love this place.
(5)Jerry L.
We had an excellent evening. Great seating, great friends, great food, suggested wine pairings (mostly we didn't use). Unique and freshly made food, mixture of new and experienced staff, visited with owner Chef Greg and another Chef. Could not have asked for a thing to be better. Can't believe we have this kind of restaurant in our town. Very fortunate, so support it! Our wine by the glass was $13 each; thought that was a little pricey; in their defense, we didn't ask about it when we ordered a glass of wine each.
(5)Michelle B.
In Topeka, this is as good as it gets. Actually, even in big cities, this restaurant would rate up there with the best of them. I moved away from Topeka to Los Angeles and frequent the Rowhouse because it reminds me so much of fine LA dining. The old row house creates a really nice ambiance and you're treated very well by the staff. The menu is created weekly by chef Greg and he does an excellent job at creating meals centered around what is fresh and in season. I love that he does prix fixed menus with both meat and veggie options. I absolutely look forward to visiting this restraurant every time I'm back home. It's a warm, comfortable environment that makes you feel upscale in a less than upscale city. LOVE
(5)Dallas B.
I have been to the Rowhouse approximately five times and I have never been disappointed. The service is always on point. I have always felt taken care of without feeling smothered. I love the tasting menu because it gives me a chance to taste a variety of dishes. The several course that dinner comes in always seems to be timed perfectly. I also love it that my vegetarian friends can truly enjoy a meal here with me without feeling they are missing out on most of the goodness. They simply have to get a full portion of the vegetarian main course instead of a sampling of the three. Finally, I think it's great that the menu changes weekly, because you always get to have a brand new experience whether you want to or not!
(5)Patricia T.
The RowHouse Restaurant is a unique dining experience! The tasting menu is the best way to enjoy the experience. The food is outstanding and the staff help make it a true experience, not just a meal out! Delicious food, unique old house converted for an upscale meal. We will return!
(5)Amy G.
When people say 'best kept secret in Topeka' they're not kidding. It's by FAR the best restaurant in Topeka. Actually, it's probably one of the best restaurants within hundreds of miles. They have a different menu every week. They have limited space in they very cool and chic Rowhouse so make sure to make reservations at least a few days in advance. Seriously, they probably won't be able to serve you if you don't have a reservation ahead of time. We've gone several times for special occasions. The food is incredible and with decent-sized portions. You will definitely go home feeling full after eating at Rowhouse. The meal consists of - soup - salad - 3 small entrees - 3 small desserts They use to have it where you pick one (larger) entree and one (larger) dessert but the last two times we've gone they switched it to the 3 small of each. I think it was because we went on Wednesday 'sampler' night. Don't expect for this to be a fast bite. It takes most of the night but don't worry you'll actually appreciate the slow-pace of the total experience. Their mixologist is INCREDIBLE so if you're into cocktails you've come to the right place. I will admit the cocktails are pretty expensive but I expect that at the nicest restaurant in town. The cost of the meal is $36 a person which might seem sort of pricey for those not use to paying for gourmet food but trust me, I believe it should cost a LOT more due to the quality. There are 3 levels of the restaurant and they don't have an elevator so if you have difficulty with stairs make sure to mention that when making your reservation. Honestly, the top two levels of the restaurant are my favorite so I'd request that anyway. I can't wait to go back.
(5)Leigha I.
I was in Kansas visiting my boyfriend and he took me to this restaurant on date night. I was not so sure about the restaurant because it is located in one of the smaller cities in Kansas but it was AMAZING! I am a HUGE foodie with a particular mindset about food and NONE of the courses at this place disappointed me. I opted for the tasting menu and I would recommend that to anyone because you get to taste everything on that menu for that day. The atmosphere is quaint, and the service is great. All the servers are very attentive and knowledgable about the always changing menu. I can wait to go back to this place again when I want to splurge on a meal. Since the menu always changes, you can go back for a whole new tasty surprise!
(5)Kelly F.
Excellent prix fixe menu restaurant. Make sure to ask for the tour of the beautiful house and garden.
(5)Floyd M.
Checked this place out a few days ago and it was excellent! Very good quality food and nice atmosphere. - FLOYD MCMILLIN
(4)Dan R.
This is a gem, not only for Topeka, but would outshine many familiar places in Kansas City. We made reservations for this small place and were won over by the charm of this old house. We dined upstairs in a nice little private area. The food was amazing. I really enjoyed the portioning and timing; way to go waitstaff. Our server was pleasant and attentive and even went out of her way to organize a tour for us after the meal. I can't wait to take my wife back here next time we're in town.
(5)Derek S.
Yup. This place is great. It's authentic, unique, quirky, run by a craftsman who is masterful, and serves a wide variety of customers. The fare changes weekly as the proprietor researches and plans interesting flavors. The Rowhouse features a tasting menu. Portions are small to moderate, but many and varied -- you won't leave hungry. Each meal is hand-crafted with some editing available such as vegetarian, allergy accommodation, and "three of these but none of those." Plan for a couple of hours' fantastic conversation with your guest(s) and a memorable meal. Maybe Greg'll even serenade you with his guitar between courses!
(5)Crystal R.
Best restaurant in town! Worth every penny to eat there it is not just food, its an experience.
(5)Chad V.
Everything I had was amazing! Definitely a place everyone needs to try atleast once. The menu was very diverse and pairings you would never think of on your own but excellent.
(5)Lisa H.
Definitely the best and most unique restaurant in Topeka. We made a reservation for a Wednesday night without any problem, and was put in the second level kitchen room for a group dinner. The restaurant is in a house, so it was a very cozy home-dinner atmosphere. Our waiter was amazing, and ran to the chef's house (next door) after dinner to get a cookbook signed after we bought it. Their menu changes every week, and this week the inspiration was show tunes, and they were playing during dinner. The 6-course meal were all modestly portioned, and they were all very flavorful and delicious. It was also nice that the chef would take a second to describe every course as they served it. My favorite was the BBQ glazed beef and the chocolate cake. If I'm ever in Topeka again, I'll definitely come back! Our menu Mar 20 - 23, 2013... Salad: Baby Spinach, Broccoli, Carrot, Radish, Pickled Beet, Pineapple, Orange Vinaigrette Soup: White Bean, Kale, and Trumpet Mushrooms with Cornmeal and Bacon Crouton Vegetarian Entree: Almost Spring Stir Fried Vegetables and Soba Noodles (Cauliflower, Fennel, Peas, Lemon) Entree 2: Sesame seed and Spice Rubbed Salmon, Pineapple Salsa, sweet potatoes Entree 3: BBQ Glazed Beef, Black Beans, Corn Fritter Dessert: Flourless Chocolate Cake Dessert: Banana Ice Cream Dessert: Peanut Butter Crunch Cookie
(5)Lab L.
Sorry Rowhouse. Tonight, you were more of a disappointment than an experience. The opening salad with wasabi peas and avocado was just blah. Carrot noodles were amazing. Other proteins (chicken and salmon) were also amazing. The desserts were nearly flavorless and not a proud moment for you. Twice, from two different people, we asked for additional bread. The selections were fresh and flavorful. Neither arrived. :( Rowhouse is not automatically at the top of the list for special occasions after tonight's experience.
(2)Tejshree R.
The best meal and cocktails I have ever had ! Ideal place to have an exclusive meal! It is a must visit for anyone visiting the Topeka area !
(5)Janie K.
Wow! I am a bit of a food snob and I frankly did not think there would be a place in Topeka that could even interest me, let alone WOW! me! The Rowhouse did that from the moment I walked in. It is old, but comtemporary. It is classy and quiet. It is small and quaint, but offers the very best. The small bites plates are beautiful and tasty. We had about 7 courses. All of them perfectly prepared and presented. The portions were just right for leaving feeling satisfied, not stuffed! Cocktails are unique and yummy! Wine pairings were brilliant. Totally worth a drive to Topeka!
(5)Katie L.
My boyfriend took me here for dinner on my birthday. I thought it was an excellent choice for a quiet and romantic dinner. The staff was wonderful and catered to our every need. We definitely enjoyed the tasting menu - It was a little adventure for the both of us since each dish was obviously given a lot of time and effort in preparation. What I loved most was being educated on what each dish included - in a sense it makes the flavors more apparent. For me I felt like the small portions altogether made a fulfilling meal - my boyfriend, however, who can put some food away felt like there was more to be desired after the dinner, in other words, he was still hungry. :) The only reason why I can't give this place five stars is because of the setting. For such a nice place, the location was strange, I thought. Some people take comfort in the idea that the Rowhouse has a "homey" atmosphere, like you're dining in someone's house. For me I felt like it would have been more comfortable if they had more space. I would definitely say this place has the potential of a restaurant on the Plaza, but the surrounding area kind of makes it stick out like a sore thumb.
(4)Laura M.
We ate here last Friday night 5-17-13 when the menu was inspired by New Orleans. It was the first time I had been to Rowhouse and I was extremely impressed! The waiter was very knowledgeable and the simplicity of the tasting menu was really convenient. We also had the wine pairings and they were very well matched! Both my companion and I raved about the Blistered Tomato and Green Onion Seafood Stew - it was to die for! I also really liked the Pineapple Gazpacho with Avocado, Basil and Coconut - when I showed the menu to my daughter a few days later, she said "of course you loved it: they had gazpacho!" I am looking forward to my next trip to Topeka so I can visit the Rowhouse again!
(5)Allen T.
Had high hopes, so disappointed. So much presentation, so little food, did not know you could cut cucumbers that thin. Food was not really all that tasty and the organic wine was not so good and overpriced. Go to the Farm House in KC, that's what this restaurant should be.
(1)Rich H.
What a charming restaurant! 1876 row house with 21st century culinary style! Went this past Wednesday and got sample of menu items. Excellent service. Knowledgeable staff. I loved the tomato soup. Tenderloin was perfecto! Lavendar cake was surprising good. Never had lavendar in cake before.
(5)Melissa P.
This place is absolutely, hands down, no foolin' as good as it gets. Nothing compares. Incredible eats, hospitality, care and attention paid to every last detail, presentation, atmosphere, you name it! And you can't beat the value. Prix Fixe for around $35 or so, and you're getting four courses including the chef's Amuse Bouche. This is unpretentious and casual, edgy and modern, with a rustic and eclectic historic Rowhouse location. You won't leave hungry and you won't be disappointed.
(5)Sean B.
This is the "fanciest" restaurant I have eaten at. It's some fine dining and the ambiance matches the food. I ate here with a group of friends and their significant others on a Thursday night. The cost is pretty on par with the quality of the food and a full course meal is about 40 a person. It may sound like a lot but you're paying for a great experience. The staff is friendly and helpful. Very knowledgeable. I recommend this restaurant for special occasions or maybe just a night out to try something new
(5)Justin M.
This place is only open for Dinner Wednesday to Saturday. The menu is brand new each week, and you order from a very limited selection, but what they have is incredible. I have been here a couple of times, and have always opted for the sampling of everything on the menu, (3 partial entrees and 3 small portions of the desserts). They have a small wine list. It is a fine dining restaurant, you just dress casual. I have to say I am not one that goes to these restaurants a lot since I don't have a lot of money and have a large appetite but it was a great experience and the wife always wants to go back.
(5)Thad H.
Everything about this place is amazing. Great atmosphere, amazing libations and divine dishes. The staff is great and will do everything possible to make your experience fantastic!
(5)J W.
Great dining experience in Topeka. We often find ourselves heading to Lawrence or KC to eat but this is quite the gem in Topeka. Food is delicious and unique, menu changes ever week or so and the service is great!
(5)Jon S.
Without question the best place to eat in the area. And not just eat-- experience. The fixed menu (new each week) is a melange of the freshest vegetables and herbs grown either on site or in the Topeka area. Each course is carefully planned and a delicate balance of flavors and textures. Each course also has an optional wine specially selected to complement that specific course- and not your run of the mill cabs and merlots. The selections come from Spain, Chile, Portugal and other areas whose wine has an earthy quality that enhances the courses. Desserts are marvelous. The blueberry cobbler is exceptional! Service is friendly, attentive, informative and is focused on your experience. You are not rushed- but rather, encouraged to linger, relax and enjoy. The Rowhouse is a gem in any city - but shines ever so more brightly in Topeka among chain restaurants and other average dining options.
(5)Erik W.
The Rowhouse is definitely my favorite restaurant in Topeka. Greg and his staff not only prepare delicious food but compliment it with exceptional service. I highly recommend Wednesday nights where you can do the tasting menu at a discounted price. His first bite option along with this soups are always amazing.
(5)Margie O.
This restaurant is a little too chic-chic for my tastes. On the other hand, as far as I can tell, Topeka is devoid of any competitors. If you are looking for a non-chain restaurant meal, this is probably it. My advice to the owners- offer mainstream alternatives to some of your more unusual foods, and tell your waitstaff that "no" means "no".
(3)Jacob G.
The Rowhouse is an excellent restaurant with great service and extremely delicious food. They change the menu every week so I'm always excited to see what's new. I recommend you going there.
(5)Clint S.
Amazing experience! For the value, I don't have anything to compare it to. Excellent!!!!!
(5)Dean G.
What a nice surprise! One menu with 6 courses and wine pairings. Fantastic experience for anyone looking for real food prepared by a real chef. Beautiful little garden out back. Perfect place for a couple looking for a romantic treat. Top chef lovers delight. Exactly what I was looking for to liven up my business trip.
(5)James A.
I spent the better part of last year traveling to Topeka every 1-2 weeks for business. This is, without a doubt, the best restaurant in Topeka and possibly in northeast Kansas (outside of KC). The food is consistently excellent, but first, I have to commend the folks at Rowhouse for their stellar service. All the people who work there - from executive chef/owner Greg Fox to the wait staff, etc - seem to love what they do, and they treat their customers like family. One time, our waiter offered to give us a tour of the property, which - not surprisingly - is a renovated Victorian-era row house in downtown Topeka. Greg apparently owns most of the block and is planning an expansion of some sort, but I'm not quite sure of the details. Not surprisingly, Greg is generally there at the restaurant, working alongside his staff. He's very personable and a true professional - and he clearly has a passion for great food. On the restaurant's website, he maintains a food blog that's a great resource if you're going to be in the area. I recommend going Rowhouse on Wednesday, when the tasting menu is offered (be sure to make reservations). For around $35, you'll get a portion of each item on the menu, which changes weekly. All of the menus Greg creates showcase his uniquely Midwestern style of modern American cuisine. All of the dishes make use of fresh, seasonal ingredients, many of which come from the restaurant's own garden. Each of the dishes I've had at Rowhouse - my favorites that I can remember include Greg's tomato dill soup (recipe shared here: food.topeka.net/blogs/Gr… ) and a really tasty port and mustard braised beef - have been filled with lots of great flavor. Also, the small bar downstairs serves excellent handmade cocktails. Rowhouse absolutely deserves five stars. You'll leave the restaurant wondering, "am I really in Topeka, Kansas?"
(5)Thad H.
Everything about this place is amazing. Great atmosphere, amazing libations and divine dishes. The staff is great and will do everything possible to make your experience fantastic!
(5)Michael B.
Greg, the owner-chef of this establishment is above and beyond. Please read this review! On my dad's 60th birthday, we went here for dinner. I called ahead and asked Greg if he could prepare a special Rudesheimer Coffee, which we used to have as a family in Germany (decades ago) Not only did he personally serve the coffees in the signature Rudesheimer coffee cups I'd delivered the previous day, but he researched the intricate ritual that goes along with the service and performed a great table show for us... he even took the time to make a home-rolled chocolate stick to shave over the finished coffees. It was very authentic. This meant the world to my dad and my whole family. We were so impressed we gave him the special cups, which he put on display in the main dining room. Like I said, above and beyond.
(5)J W.
Great dining experience in Topeka. We often find ourselves heading to Lawrence or KC to eat but this is quite the gem in Topeka. Food is delicious and unique, menu changes ever week or so and the service is great!
(5)Lisa R.
We had a wonderful experience at Rowhouse Restaurant! The house itself was built in the 1800s and is a narrow, multi-level home. We had made reservations to celebrate my birthday the weekend before it. The menu changes weekly depending on what is fresh, and it is all sourced in the region. Our server was very personable. I started off with a class of prosecco, and Eric R. had the pineapple upside down cake cocktail (it had a funnier name but I cannot remember it). The amuse bouche was blanched asparagus and tomato slice with parsley-pecan pesto and herb-infused olive oil. The courses were: 1. Local kale and arugula salad with picked beets and merlot cheese in orange marmalade vinaigrette 2. Tomato dill soup 3. Goat cheese polenta with wild mushroom 4. Beef tenderloin with edamame succotash and avocado mash 5. Mahi mahi with pecan praline crust, radish salad, and chive vinaigrette ..insert birthday dessert from restaurant: layered shortbread with icing and rainbow sprinkles.. 6. Dessert trio: pineapple upside down cake with cherry, kiwi sorbet with shortbread cookie, vanilla custard with bananas foster Everything was very good. I really enjoyed the salad, the beef, and the custard dessert. The beef was perfectly cooked considering we did not offer how we like it cooked. It was melt-in-the-mouth tender. Eric R. really liked the mahi mahi. As a diner, you can choose to have just one entree instead of tasting all 3, which is especially great for vegetarians (for whom there is always an option). The restaurant also will accommodate dietary restrictions. Since the menu changes weekly and I live an hour from here, I look forward to my next visit because I know the food will be different and the service and atmosphere are great! At the end of dinner (and a few other drinks - the B-52 was STRONG!), our server took a photo of us and gave us a tour of the entire house, top to bottom. There is a gorgeous patio outside near the herb garden where I would like to sit next time. There is also a secluded room upstairs that would be romantic with a curtain. Definitely come here for a special occasion! Tasting menu with 6 courses is $43 per person.
(4)Derek S.
Yup. This place is great. It's authentic, unique, quirky, run by a craftsman who is masterful, and serves a wide variety of customers. The fare changes weekly as the proprietor researches and plans interesting flavors. The Rowhouse features a tasting menu. Portions are small to moderate, but many and varied -- you won't leave hungry. Each meal is hand-crafted with some editing available such as vegetarian, allergy accommodation, and "three of these but none of those." Plan for a couple of hours' fantastic conversation with your guest(s) and a memorable meal. Maybe Greg'll even serenade you with his guitar between courses!
(5)Crystal R.
Best restaurant in town! Worth every penny to eat there it is not just food, its an experience.
(5)Chad V.
Everything I had was amazing! Definitely a place everyone needs to try atleast once. The menu was very diverse and pairings you would never think of on your own but excellent.
(5)Lisa H.
Definitely the best and most unique restaurant in Topeka. We made a reservation for a Wednesday night without any problem, and was put in the second level kitchen room for a group dinner. The restaurant is in a house, so it was a very cozy home-dinner atmosphere. Our waiter was amazing, and ran to the chef's house (next door) after dinner to get a cookbook signed after we bought it. Their menu changes every week, and this week the inspiration was show tunes, and they were playing during dinner. The 6-course meal were all modestly portioned, and they were all very flavorful and delicious. It was also nice that the chef would take a second to describe every course as they served it. My favorite was the BBQ glazed beef and the chocolate cake. If I'm ever in Topeka again, I'll definitely come back! Our menu Mar 20 - 23, 2013... Salad: Baby Spinach, Broccoli, Carrot, Radish, Pickled Beet, Pineapple, Orange Vinaigrette Soup: White Bean, Kale, and Trumpet Mushrooms with Cornmeal and Bacon Crouton Vegetarian Entree: Almost Spring Stir Fried Vegetables and Soba Noodles (Cauliflower, Fennel, Peas, Lemon) Entree 2: Sesame seed and Spice Rubbed Salmon, Pineapple Salsa, sweet potatoes Entree 3: BBQ Glazed Beef, Black Beans, Corn Fritter Dessert: Flourless Chocolate Cake Dessert: Banana Ice Cream Dessert: Peanut Butter Crunch Cookie
(5)Lab L.
Sorry Rowhouse. Tonight, you were more of a disappointment than an experience. The opening salad with wasabi peas and avocado was just blah. Carrot noodles were amazing. Other proteins (chicken and salmon) were also amazing. The desserts were nearly flavorless and not a proud moment for you. Twice, from two different people, we asked for additional bread. The selections were fresh and flavorful. Neither arrived. :( Rowhouse is not automatically at the top of the list for special occasions after tonight's experience.
(2)Tejshree R.
The best meal and cocktails I have ever had ! Ideal place to have an exclusive meal! It is a must visit for anyone visiting the Topeka area !
(5)Margie O.
This restaurant is a little too chic-chic for my tastes. On the other hand, as far as I can tell, Topeka is devoid of any competitors. If you are looking for a non-chain restaurant meal, this is probably it. My advice to the owners- offer mainstream alternatives to some of your more unusual foods, and tell your waitstaff that "no" means "no".
(3)Jacob G.
The Rowhouse is an excellent restaurant with great service and extremely delicious food. They change the menu every week so I'm always excited to see what's new. I recommend you going there.
(5)Justin M.
This place is only open for Dinner Wednesday to Saturday. The menu is brand new each week, and you order from a very limited selection, but what they have is incredible. I have been here a couple of times, and have always opted for the sampling of everything on the menu, (3 partial entrees and 3 small portions of the desserts). They have a small wine list. It is a fine dining restaurant, you just dress casual. I have to say I am not one that goes to these restaurants a lot since I don't have a lot of money and have a large appetite but it was a great experience and the wife always wants to go back.
(5)James A.
I spent the better part of last year traveling to Topeka every 1-2 weeks for business. This is, without a doubt, the best restaurant in Topeka and possibly in northeast Kansas (outside of KC). The food is consistently excellent, but first, I have to commend the folks at Rowhouse for their stellar service. All the people who work there - from executive chef/owner Greg Fox to the wait staff, etc - seem to love what they do, and they treat their customers like family. One time, our waiter offered to give us a tour of the property, which - not surprisingly - is a renovated Victorian-era row house in downtown Topeka. Greg apparently owns most of the block and is planning an expansion of some sort, but I'm not quite sure of the details. Not surprisingly, Greg is generally there at the restaurant, working alongside his staff. He's very personable and a true professional - and he clearly has a passion for great food. On the restaurant's website, he maintains a food blog that's a great resource if you're going to be in the area. I recommend going Rowhouse on Wednesday, when the tasting menu is offered (be sure to make reservations). For around $35, you'll get a portion of each item on the menu, which changes weekly. All of the menus Greg creates showcase his uniquely Midwestern style of modern American cuisine. All of the dishes make use of fresh, seasonal ingredients, many of which come from the restaurant's own garden. Each of the dishes I've had at Rowhouse - my favorites that I can remember include Greg's tomato dill soup (recipe shared here: food.topeka.net/blogs/Gr… ) and a really tasty port and mustard braised beef - have been filled with lots of great flavor. Also, the small bar downstairs serves excellent handmade cocktails. Rowhouse absolutely deserves five stars. You'll leave the restaurant wondering, "am I really in Topeka, Kansas?"
(5)Amber G.
Wow. My boyfriend and I ate here before going to a dance, and what a wonderful way to kick off the evening. The ambiance was perfect. I love the building it's in and the way it is decorated. The servers were very attentive without being too overbearing. The food was outstanding. I've never eaten anything like it before, and all the flavors were new and interesting. The menu changes every week, so I won't post what I had. I can't speak for the wine because I'm too young, but I would presume that it complements the food well. It is very pricey, but a wonderful choice for an anniversary dinner or other special occasion. This is the fanciest restaurant that I have eaten at, but it is still very relaxed. I love this place.
(5)Jerry L.
We had an excellent evening. Great seating, great friends, great food, suggested wine pairings (mostly we didn't use). Unique and freshly made food, mixture of new and experienced staff, visited with owner Chef Greg and another Chef. Could not have asked for a thing to be better. Can't believe we have this kind of restaurant in our town. Very fortunate, so support it! Our wine by the glass was $13 each; thought that was a little pricey; in their defense, we didn't ask about it when we ordered a glass of wine each.
(5)Michelle B.
In Topeka, this is as good as it gets. Actually, even in big cities, this restaurant would rate up there with the best of them. I moved away from Topeka to Los Angeles and frequent the Rowhouse because it reminds me so much of fine LA dining. The old row house creates a really nice ambiance and you're treated very well by the staff. The menu is created weekly by chef Greg and he does an excellent job at creating meals centered around what is fresh and in season. I love that he does prix fixed menus with both meat and veggie options. I absolutely look forward to visiting this restraurant every time I'm back home. It's a warm, comfortable environment that makes you feel upscale in a less than upscale city. LOVE
(5)Dallas B.
I have been to the Rowhouse approximately five times and I have never been disappointed. The service is always on point. I have always felt taken care of without feeling smothered. I love the tasting menu because it gives me a chance to taste a variety of dishes. The several course that dinner comes in always seems to be timed perfectly. I also love it that my vegetarian friends can truly enjoy a meal here with me without feeling they are missing out on most of the goodness. They simply have to get a full portion of the vegetarian main course instead of a sampling of the three. Finally, I think it's great that the menu changes weekly, because you always get to have a brand new experience whether you want to or not!
(5)Patricia T.
The RowHouse Restaurant is a unique dining experience! The tasting menu is the best way to enjoy the experience. The food is outstanding and the staff help make it a true experience, not just a meal out! Delicious food, unique old house converted for an upscale meal. We will return!
(5)Amy G.
When people say 'best kept secret in Topeka' they're not kidding. It's by FAR the best restaurant in Topeka. Actually, it's probably one of the best restaurants within hundreds of miles. They have a different menu every week. They have limited space in they very cool and chic Rowhouse so make sure to make reservations at least a few days in advance. Seriously, they probably won't be able to serve you if you don't have a reservation ahead of time. We've gone several times for special occasions. The food is incredible and with decent-sized portions. You will definitely go home feeling full after eating at Rowhouse. The meal consists of - soup - salad - 3 small entrees - 3 small desserts They use to have it where you pick one (larger) entree and one (larger) dessert but the last two times we've gone they switched it to the 3 small of each. I think it was because we went on Wednesday 'sampler' night. Don't expect for this to be a fast bite. It takes most of the night but don't worry you'll actually appreciate the slow-pace of the total experience. Their mixologist is INCREDIBLE so if you're into cocktails you've come to the right place. I will admit the cocktails are pretty expensive but I expect that at the nicest restaurant in town. The cost of the meal is $36 a person which might seem sort of pricey for those not use to paying for gourmet food but trust me, I believe it should cost a LOT more due to the quality. There are 3 levels of the restaurant and they don't have an elevator so if you have difficulty with stairs make sure to mention that when making your reservation. Honestly, the top two levels of the restaurant are my favorite so I'd request that anyway. I can't wait to go back.
(5)Leigha I.
I was in Kansas visiting my boyfriend and he took me to this restaurant on date night. I was not so sure about the restaurant because it is located in one of the smaller cities in Kansas but it was AMAZING! I am a HUGE foodie with a particular mindset about food and NONE of the courses at this place disappointed me. I opted for the tasting menu and I would recommend that to anyone because you get to taste everything on that menu for that day. The atmosphere is quaint, and the service is great. All the servers are very attentive and knowledgable about the always changing menu. I can wait to go back to this place again when I want to splurge on a meal. Since the menu always changes, you can go back for a whole new tasty surprise!
(5)Kelly F.
Excellent prix fixe menu restaurant. Make sure to ask for the tour of the beautiful house and garden.
(5)Floyd M.
Checked this place out a few days ago and it was excellent! Very good quality food and nice atmosphere. - FLOYD MCMILLIN
(4)Janie K.
Wow! I am a bit of a food snob and I frankly did not think there would be a place in Topeka that could even interest me, let alone WOW! me! The Rowhouse did that from the moment I walked in. It is old, but comtemporary. It is classy and quiet. It is small and quaint, but offers the very best. The small bites plates are beautiful and tasty. We had about 7 courses. All of them perfectly prepared and presented. The portions were just right for leaving feeling satisfied, not stuffed! Cocktails are unique and yummy! Wine pairings were brilliant. Totally worth a drive to Topeka!
(5)Jon S.
Without question the best place to eat in the area. And not just eat-- experience. The fixed menu (new each week) is a melange of the freshest vegetables and herbs grown either on site or in the Topeka area. Each course is carefully planned and a delicate balance of flavors and textures. Each course also has an optional wine specially selected to complement that specific course- and not your run of the mill cabs and merlots. The selections come from Spain, Chile, Portugal and other areas whose wine has an earthy quality that enhances the courses. Desserts are marvelous. The blueberry cobbler is exceptional! Service is friendly, attentive, informative and is focused on your experience. You are not rushed- but rather, encouraged to linger, relax and enjoy. The Rowhouse is a gem in any city - but shines ever so more brightly in Topeka among chain restaurants and other average dining options.
(5)Dan R.
This is a gem, not only for Topeka, but would outshine many familiar places in Kansas City. We made reservations for this small place and were won over by the charm of this old house. We dined upstairs in a nice little private area. The food was amazing. I really enjoyed the portioning and timing; way to go waitstaff. Our server was pleasant and attentive and even went out of her way to organize a tour for us after the meal. I can't wait to take my wife back here next time we're in town.
(5)Katie L.
My boyfriend took me here for dinner on my birthday. I thought it was an excellent choice for a quiet and romantic dinner. The staff was wonderful and catered to our every need. We definitely enjoyed the tasting menu - It was a little adventure for the both of us since each dish was obviously given a lot of time and effort in preparation. What I loved most was being educated on what each dish included - in a sense it makes the flavors more apparent. For me I felt like the small portions altogether made a fulfilling meal - my boyfriend, however, who can put some food away felt like there was more to be desired after the dinner, in other words, he was still hungry. :) The only reason why I can't give this place five stars is because of the setting. For such a nice place, the location was strange, I thought. Some people take comfort in the idea that the Rowhouse has a "homey" atmosphere, like you're dining in someone's house. For me I felt like it would have been more comfortable if they had more space. I would definitely say this place has the potential of a restaurant on the Plaza, but the surrounding area kind of makes it stick out like a sore thumb.
(4)Laura M.
We ate here last Friday night 5-17-13 when the menu was inspired by New Orleans. It was the first time I had been to Rowhouse and I was extremely impressed! The waiter was very knowledgeable and the simplicity of the tasting menu was really convenient. We also had the wine pairings and they were very well matched! Both my companion and I raved about the Blistered Tomato and Green Onion Seafood Stew - it was to die for! I also really liked the Pineapple Gazpacho with Avocado, Basil and Coconut - when I showed the menu to my daughter a few days later, she said "of course you loved it: they had gazpacho!" I am looking forward to my next trip to Topeka so I can visit the Rowhouse again!
(5)Allen T.
Had high hopes, so disappointed. So much presentation, so little food, did not know you could cut cucumbers that thin. Food was not really all that tasty and the organic wine was not so good and overpriced. Go to the Farm House in KC, that's what this restaurant should be.
(1)Rich H.
What a charming restaurant! 1876 row house with 21st century culinary style! Went this past Wednesday and got sample of menu items. Excellent service. Knowledgeable staff. I loved the tomato soup. Tenderloin was perfecto! Lavendar cake was surprising good. Never had lavendar in cake before.
(5)Melissa P.
This place is absolutely, hands down, no foolin' as good as it gets. Nothing compares. Incredible eats, hospitality, care and attention paid to every last detail, presentation, atmosphere, you name it! And you can't beat the value. Prix Fixe for around $35 or so, and you're getting four courses including the chef's Amuse Bouche. This is unpretentious and casual, edgy and modern, with a rustic and eclectic historic Rowhouse location. You won't leave hungry and you won't be disappointed.
(5)Yao Y.
The restaurant was a makeover of a family-style house in a nowhere neighborhood of Topeka. The place is tastefully decorated, with old pictures everywhere (ask for the stories behind them, someone actually knows a few things about them) It is a little pricier than I would normally choose (around $50 per person), but it's worth every penny. The menu, as a few have mentioned, is chosen for you, in the form of a mini 7 course (at least on the day I visited). The chefs there take their creation and business seriously, creatively and with love. They grow some of the leafy vegetables. They give an interesting twist to some of the very basic dishes and make it much more enjoyable (I'll leave that for you to figure out). And they were not too far from perfection in the execution. Service is awesome too. They are very polite, yet warm. Doesn't matter whether it is your first or n-th visit, you will feel welcomed and comfortable. I visited this place while driving across the country, I sampled various restaurants along the way. This is easily the best among the dozens I've been to. If you ever visit Topeka, or live there, this is not to be missed.
(5)Janell B.
I really can't say enough good things about this restaurant! I'm inclined to find my way back to Topeka one day just to enjoy this place again. It's hard to decide where to begin praising this place. The menu is crafted and updated with creative recipes that include fresh and local ingredients. They also have a great wine/beer list. You have the option of a tasting menu where you try small portions of salad, soup, 3 main, and 3 desserts - or you can have the salad, soup, 1 main full size, and desserts. I highly recommend the tasting menu because all the food is so flavorful. This chef has a unique gift for flavors that is refreshing and surprising. The tasting menu was $36 per person, but I have never had a meal that was so worth the price. There was not one moment during the meal where I thought - maybe it's not worth the price. When my boyfriend finished his soup (a chilled pea soup that was such a perfect blend of flavors) he looked up mournfully and said "I'm sad it's gone." The ambiance is really enjoyable, great for groups or an intimate meal. Take a look at the other reviews to read more about the Rowhouse building and history. Drive slowly when you're getting close, it's in a row of narrow brick buildings and is easy to miss. I'll wrap it up by just saying, do not miss this restaurant and enjoy! I wish I was dining there tonight!
(5)Sarah L.
This is the best restaurant in the area, including Kansas City and Lawrence. The menu is eclectic, creative, but still great - and has something for everyone. It's a tasting menu - so a small salad/app/soup, and three small entrees, as well as three small desserts. $37/per person, and they have a fabulous wine list. The place is housed in a cool restored (but never boring and annoying) actual row house (hence the name) with all kinds of nooks and crannies for a romantic and private dining experience. The service is attentive and never overbearing. These folks know what they're doing, and they do it well. Highly recommended.
(5)Callie E.
There is a reason all 10 previous reviews are 5 stars - it's just that good. Really, it is. And while I'd like to knock off a star for being in Topeka and not Kansas City (ahh, the drive), I'll refrain. Let's start with the drinks - Nothing makes me happier than a unique cocktail that is beautifully prepared. And these, were just that. Not only were the flavors on key, but the presentation was incredible - I couldn't stop staring at them, as it was something straight out of the pages of a Martha Stewart magazine - And yes, that is a good thing. Saturated hues, simple garnishes and complimentary glasses - They were lovely. The service - exquisite. Professional, friendly, and not at all over-bearing. They were trained, and it showed. The atmosphere - homey, inviting, but with a touch of big city chic. I also loved the women's restroom - again, very chic with white fixtures and light pink walls. Great touch! The food - We went on a Wednesday night, where it's a pre-fixed tasting menu. Essentially, for about $32-37 you get to sample the beginning of that week's menu - from starters, to entrees, to desserts. A few high points, as the menu changes each week (love!) - Chilled Spring Pea and Mint soup; incredibly fresh and flavorful. There was a bit of texture in the soup, as opposed to being blended to death, and it just enhanced the freshness of the spring peas. It was light, chilled, and just the perfect way to start a meal. I'm not a soup fan, but I will be recreating this in my own kitchen. The BBQ Glazed Salmon was killer - I believe it was Sockeye (given it's mild buttery flavor - and that it's in season) and the polenta that it was served on was just heavenly. You hear 'BBQ' and think heavy, but the sauce was incredibly light without overwhelming the salmon's natural flavor. However, the show-stopper of the meal (IMO) was the basil whipped cream. I kid you not, this is the stuff dreams are made of. It was paired beautifully with a strawberry rhubarb crisp, but to tell you the truth, I just wanted to eat buckets of the basil whipped cream. In fact, first thing this morning I called my naturopath and put in a special order for basil essential oil - my rendition will more than likely not be as good, but I am hoping it will keep the withdrawal shakes at bay :) Overall - The reviewer who said it might just be the best restaurant within a 100 mile radius, pretty much hit the nail on the head. However, I would say 'it is' the best within a 100 mile radius (take a hint KC). Also, I'll be moving to San Francisco this fall and so far, this is the only restaurant that has made the 'must eat there before moving' list (even if I do have to drive an hour+). This is what food should be.
(5)Eddy S.
Not much new to add, but I was in town doing a consult with a possible future competitor and went back to my client and said, "go eat at Rowhouse and imitate their quality and you won't go wrong." In Topeka?! Really wonderful, attentive, but not drowning service. Food was fantastic although not 100% perfect to the bite, but nothing was regrettable. I've seen higher sourcing ethics, but they are few and far between. Great job Rowhouse!
(5)Carson E.
No doubt that this new gem of a restaurant is one Topeka's very best offerings! Sadly, most of the restaurants in my hometown are chains and most of the local places are without much personality, charm, or innovation. So THANK GOODNESS for Row House. I don't do much listing in my reviews but the good folks at Row House deserve a list of their great attributes. 1.The restaurant is in downtown Topeka in a converted (yes) Rowhouse that was clearly once a residence many many years ago. If downtown Topeka is going to be revitalized, it needs high quality businesses to attract people to visit and enjoy themselves. Rowhouse is just what the doctor ordered.... 2.The restaurant has personality and charm. They have renovated each of the rooms in the house to accommodate a few dinner tables and each of the rooms has a different atmosphere and vibe. The renovations to the house are tasteful and the local artists on the walls add to the local flavor of the place. The only change I might suggest is simply to dim the lights in the main lower floor dining room. All of the other rooms seemed very cosy. It might have been just a "night I was there" issue...but it was a touch bright for me. I like restaurants to glow. 3.The ethic of the place is virtuous and commendable. The chef uses in- season ingredients, patronizes suppliers he believes in, and is committed to providing fine dining in Topeka. (He made a special note on the menu about the reasons for his selections of the week and he details in the menu and drink list why he chooses what he chooses. I.E. He serves New Belgium beer products because he believes in their environmental policy and fair labor policies in addition to it being damn good beer. Fat Tire...yum.) 4.The staff is personable, kind, attentive, and generous. Every table is asked if they have dined at The Rowhouse before and if they have not, they are offered a tour of the entire establishment. (A tour worth taking to take in the history and charm of the house.) The staff appears often to make sure you are being taken care of. 5.THE FOOD. Finally....OK...here is where Rowhouse really sets itself apart in Topeka. If there is another restaurant in Topeka that offers an amuse-bouche...I've never been to it. Not long after we sat down, a delicious little morsel arrived...it was a crustini with fresh pesto, goat cheese, and a specially soaked mini-tomato. It was delicious and did just what it was supposed to....got me very excited about what was to come. Then...their signature approach to dining is a tasting menu that samples a wide variety of tastes and explorations. There was a great pear salad with blue cheese and a tasty tomato bisque to begin with. The night we dined, there was halibut with butternut squash puree (Wonderful).. There was exquisitely prepared tenderloin drizzled in some fantastic wine sauce that was really just some of the best I've tasted.. (I appreciated they didn't ask about done-ness...they just served it perfectly medium-rare and it melted in my mouth.) . Finally, a trio of deserts including pumpkin cheesecake, chocolate cake, and a wonderful blueberry peach cobbler. The price was not bad at all considering....the fixed price sampling menu was just $36. For the care, quality, service, staff, ambience, portions, and skill put into it...a total bargain. I am a huge fan of The Rowhouse and I wish them nothing but success. This is just the kind of high quality establishment that Topeka deserves and I hope it thrives.
(5)amy w.
Amazing. Tracey is right, Rowhouse is a culinary gem in Topeka. I've eaten there twice and both times we had great wine, amazing food and a phenomenal experience. Take the tour when you go! It was cool to see the entire restaurant and how it's decorated differently throughout.
(5)Callie E.
There is a reason all 10 previous reviews are 5 stars - it's just that good. Really, it is. And while I'd like to knock off a star for being in Topeka and not Kansas City (ahh, the drive), I'll refrain. Let's start with the drinks - Nothing makes me happier than a unique cocktail that is beautifully prepared. And these, were just that. Not only were the flavors on key, but the presentation was incredible - I couldn't stop staring at them, as it was something straight out of the pages of a Martha Stewart magazine - And yes, that is a good thing. Saturated hues, simple garnishes and complimentary glasses - They were lovely. The service - exquisite. Professional, friendly, and not at all over-bearing. They were trained, and it showed. The atmosphere - homey, inviting, but with a touch of big city chic. I also loved the women's restroom - again, very chic with white fixtures and light pink walls. Great touch! The food - We went on a Wednesday night, where it's a pre-fixed tasting menu. Essentially, for about $32-37 you get to sample the beginning of that week's menu - from starters, to entrees, to desserts. A few high points, as the menu changes each week (love!) - Chilled Spring Pea and Mint soup; incredibly fresh and flavorful. There was a bit of texture in the soup, as opposed to being blended to death, and it just enhanced the freshness of the spring peas. It was light, chilled, and just the perfect way to start a meal. I'm not a soup fan, but I will be recreating this in my own kitchen. The BBQ Glazed Salmon was killer - I believe it was Sockeye (given it's mild buttery flavor - and that it's in season) and the polenta that it was served on was just heavenly. You hear 'BBQ' and think heavy, but the sauce was incredibly light without overwhelming the salmon's natural flavor. However, the show-stopper of the meal (IMO) was the basil whipped cream. I kid you not, this is the stuff dreams are made of. It was paired beautifully with a strawberry rhubarb crisp, but to tell you the truth, I just wanted to eat buckets of the basil whipped cream. In fact, first thing this morning I called my naturopath and put in a special order for basil essential oil - my rendition will more than likely not be as good, but I am hoping it will keep the withdrawal shakes at bay :) Overall - The reviewer who said it might just be the best restaurant within a 100 mile radius, pretty much hit the nail on the head. However, I would say 'it is' the best within a 100 mile radius (take a hint KC). Also, I'll be moving to San Francisco this fall and so far, this is the only restaurant that has made the 'must eat there before moving' list (even if I do have to drive an hour+). This is what food should be.
(5)Eddy S.
Not much new to add, but I was in town doing a consult with a possible future competitor and went back to my client and said, "go eat at Rowhouse and imitate their quality and you won't go wrong." In Topeka?! Really wonderful, attentive, but not drowning service. Food was fantastic although not 100% perfect to the bite, but nothing was regrettable. I've seen higher sourcing ethics, but they are few and far between. Great job Rowhouse!
(5)Carson E.
No doubt that this new gem of a restaurant is one Topeka's very best offerings! Sadly, most of the restaurants in my hometown are chains and most of the local places are without much personality, charm, or innovation. So THANK GOODNESS for Row House. I don't do much listing in my reviews but the good folks at Row House deserve a list of their great attributes. 1.The restaurant is in downtown Topeka in a converted (yes) Rowhouse that was clearly once a residence many many years ago. If downtown Topeka is going to be revitalized, it needs high quality businesses to attract people to visit and enjoy themselves. Rowhouse is just what the doctor ordered.... 2.The restaurant has personality and charm. They have renovated each of the rooms in the house to accommodate a few dinner tables and each of the rooms has a different atmosphere and vibe. The renovations to the house are tasteful and the local artists on the walls add to the local flavor of the place. The only change I might suggest is simply to dim the lights in the main lower floor dining room. All of the other rooms seemed very cosy. It might have been just a "night I was there" issue...but it was a touch bright for me. I like restaurants to glow. 3.The ethic of the place is virtuous and commendable. The chef uses in- season ingredients, patronizes suppliers he believes in, and is committed to providing fine dining in Topeka. (He made a special note on the menu about the reasons for his selections of the week and he details in the menu and drink list why he chooses what he chooses. I.E. He serves New Belgium beer products because he believes in their environmental policy and fair labor policies in addition to it being damn good beer. Fat Tire...yum.) 4.The staff is personable, kind, attentive, and generous. Every table is asked if they have dined at The Rowhouse before and if they have not, they are offered a tour of the entire establishment. (A tour worth taking to take in the history and charm of the house.) The staff appears often to make sure you are being taken care of. 5.THE FOOD. Finally....OK...here is where Rowhouse really sets itself apart in Topeka. If there is another restaurant in Topeka that offers an amuse-bouche...I've never been to it. Not long after we sat down, a delicious little morsel arrived...it was a crustini with fresh pesto, goat cheese, and a specially soaked mini-tomato. It was delicious and did just what it was supposed to....got me very excited about what was to come. Then...their signature approach to dining is a tasting menu that samples a wide variety of tastes and explorations. There was a great pear salad with blue cheese and a tasty tomato bisque to begin with. The night we dined, there was halibut with butternut squash puree (Wonderful).. There was exquisitely prepared tenderloin drizzled in some fantastic wine sauce that was really just some of the best I've tasted.. (I appreciated they didn't ask about done-ness...they just served it perfectly medium-rare and it melted in my mouth.) . Finally, a trio of deserts including pumpkin cheesecake, chocolate cake, and a wonderful blueberry peach cobbler. The price was not bad at all considering....the fixed price sampling menu was just $36. For the care, quality, service, staff, ambience, portions, and skill put into it...a total bargain. I am a huge fan of The Rowhouse and I wish them nothing but success. This is just the kind of high quality establishment that Topeka deserves and I hope it thrives.
(5)amy w.
Amazing. Tracey is right, Rowhouse is a culinary gem in Topeka. I've eaten there twice and both times we had great wine, amazing food and a phenomenal experience. Take the tour when you go! It was cool to see the entire restaurant and how it's decorated differently throughout.
(5)Michael B.
Greg, the owner-chef of this establishment is above and beyond. Please read this review! On my dad's 60th birthday, we went here for dinner. I called ahead and asked Greg if he could prepare a special Rudesheimer Coffee, which we used to have as a family in Germany (decades ago) Not only did he personally serve the coffees in the signature Rudesheimer coffee cups I'd delivered the previous day, but he researched the intricate ritual that goes along with the service and performed a great table show for us... he even took the time to make a home-rolled chocolate stick to shave over the finished coffees. It was very authentic. This meant the world to my dad and my whole family. We were so impressed we gave him the special cups, which he put on display in the main dining room. Like I said, above and beyond.
(5)B S.
Went here on Saturday with mother in law and husband. Ambience was nice but stairs going downstairs were very steep. They say dressy attire but we saw several people with jeans on. Food was just average. Beef was tough. French onion soup was a very small amount (maybe 1/4 cup), not beefy tasting, very little onion and a crouton on top...was not good. Cauliflower taco was tasteless and kind of gross, did not finish. The desserts were best part of whole meal and I am not a big dessert fan. They are very tight with their portions. I understand that it is suppose to be a fancy restaurant with small tastings but they could give you a little larger amounts. The $37 a plate they charge is ridiculous. They were trying to be upscale and fancy but they quite didn't hit the mark with us. Will not be going back and just stay home and grill Hy-vee's Amana filet mignons. Much better and cheaper. We were greatly disappointed with the food after all the fantastic reviews here on yelp. Do not understand why people say it is fantastic food. Also, there ARE better restaurants within 100 miles.
(1)