Great hipster restaurant on the west side of Kansas City... Just minutes from downtown. The overall ambiance and interior was a pleasant surprise but the wait staff could be more attentive when guests are seated as it took about 15 minutes for a waitress to acknowledge us. That was the only downside. Otherwise the menu is unique and had various fresh, and eclectic options. Three people at the table couldn't resist the grilled Cheese and they all loved it. Gourmet white cheese, that oozed from the sandwich with a side of Parmesan fries. I got the chicken mole tacos which were average but a great attempt at a twist on the bland chicken tacos. Overall, we all said we would love to come back and made this a must for lunch on our next trip.
(4)
Robert H.
We went between the lunch and dinner times 3-5pm so we got in with no wait. Ate off of the appetizer menu and was blown away with the pint of fries and various dips. (see photo) My wife got the hummus plate with half beet dip. The beet dip was better than the hummus. Just loved it all! I also had a tasty bowl (size of a cup) of chicken tortilla soup. Our waitress was Erin and she knew how to take care of us. Can't wait to go back and try more stuff! Super cool place off the beaten path.
(5)
Amy L.
This is one of my favorite areas and restaurants in Kansas City and I always try to go at least once when I'm in town. My go-to is the warm quinoa dish with a dollop of goat cheese. You can add salmon or chicken for an extra 5 dollars, but the main dish usually fills me up on its own. My one complaint would be the price tag. 15 dollars is a bit pricey for quinoa! Also, be sure to make reservations in the evenings - this place fills up fast!
(4)
Rhiannon B.
I loved this place! The location and the ambience are awesome. We went around 8pm on a Saturday night with no reservation and were seated immediately. They have a great cocktail/beer selection. Now for the food..... I had the fall quinoa. Sweet potato, brussels sprouts (my fave), mushrooms and onions topped with pesto and a nice sized dollop of chevre. It was delicious. My brother opted for the veggie burger which was also good. (I love that they make it with cannellini beans). It's definitely worth trying out!
(4)
Carrie M.
Love the food here but wait staff is a hit or miss. I've had some of the best servers here and some of the worst. Some dishes are way overpriced, but for the most part, I enjoy this restaurant. The atmosphere is always great and everything I've tried is delicious - you HAVE to get the apple bread as part of this. You won't be disappointed.
I came here with a few friends for an early dinner about a week ago. Luckily, we had no wait and a pretty empty restaurant. Our waitress was nice, but unfamiliar with the menu. She couldn't remember what they served for dessert, so she had to leave and come back to tell us what the other half of the dessert items were. She also couldn't remember the specials, either. They should probably just hand you menus with those items printed on them. Our meals were good, but nothing to write home about. I ordered the grilled cheese with tomato "soup" for dipping, along with some fries. The house made ketchup was kind of impressive, and the fries were tasty, but maybe just a little limp. I prefer my fries to be crispy. My grilled cheese was nothing special, despite the fancy cheese blend and homemade bread. The slices of bread were much too thick for the small amount of cheese they sandwiched between them. So a pretty dry sandwich. The soup was just kind of weird. It was less of a soup and more of a cup of slightly warmed chunks of tomatoes, like stewed tomatoes. I don't mind a chunky soup, but this was pretty hard for "dipping" since there wasn't much liquid involved at all. For dessert I ordered the lemon creme brulee. I was really disappointed with this. The lemon flavor was good, if maybe a bit too sweet. I prefer more of a tart, fresh lemon taste. What was really unappetizing about the creme brulee, though is that it was runny and underdone. It definitely should have been thicker. It was less of a custard and more of a pudding. I couldn't taste the egg at all. The crust wasn't as crisp as I like, either. I think they could have cooked the sugar on top more. It wasn't as much of a dark, caramel color on top as a light golden color. Overall, I had a nice time here, but I feel that it is overpriced even with the "farm to table" ingredients. It is great that the food is fresh, but the items could have been better prepared.
(3)
K G.
We visited this restaurant on the recommendation of a couple of friends, as we are from out of town. This place is really cute! We sat outside in the back patio area & it was perfect. I had the smoked salmon egg salad sandwich with fries. Those fries...omg!! They are amazing. & the homemade ketchup was great, too. I loved the brioche bun that my sandwich came on. The filling was good, but it could've definitely benefited from some salt. The fries could've been salted more as well. Overall, though, it was a great meal! I had a bite of my boyfriend's burger, & it was perfectly cooked & delicious. Our waiter was quirky & nice.
(4)
Jeanette B.
The food was wonderful and the staff was just lovely. I had the quinoa, my family had the pork chop, pot pie, veggie burger and mac and cheese. We all were so pleased! I can't say enough positive things about this restaurant.
(5)
eva G.
Have been here 3 times haven't been disappointed so far. The food is really good very fresh, good selection of beers. If it's warm sit in the patio perfect place for lunch. Love this place wish we lived closer so i could go more often.
(5)
Elizabeth G.
We went to this place for dinner. It was very cute and cozy with a great atmosphere. Their menu seemed very fresh and creative. We ordered the kale salad and a build your own cheese plate. When the kale salad arrived, it was more the toppings (shaved brussel sprouts, almonds, etc.) on a bed of kale. It was still pretty good, but just not what I expected and a whole lot of kale. The cheese plate was decent too. We tried 3 cheeses we've never had before. The Rosemary goat cheese was phenomenal. Then of course we had dessert and the pumpkin cheesecake was awesome. It wasn't a normal creamy cheesecake it came in a souffle type of dish with a homemade crust. I would definitely come here again. Also, just to keep in mind their ticketing time is a little slower if you're in a rush.
(4)
Ian J.
Great locally-sourced food with a menu that changes seasonally. I had the summit burger with the spicy addon for a couple bucks more. Jalapeños provided just enough of a kick to give it that something extra without overpowering the perfectly cooked medium rare beef. Microgreens and a bit of sweet jelly to balance it out and this was one of the best burgers I've had in KC. The parmesan and parsley fries were also top notch. Wash it all down with a cold KC Pils. Perfect lunch. Highly recommended!
(5)
Barrie L.
1 hour and 15 minutes to get our food and the place wasn't busy, over cooked steak and asparagus. Not really pleased with the service. Had really high hopes because of the referral that was given to try this place. Gave it 2 stars because the ambiance was nice.
(2)
Acprose A.
The place for wine and cheese on a super relaxing patio. creative wine list and a fun cheese and accoutrements menu. crispy trout is a treat. friendly staff, and doggies!
(4)
Emma B.
Westside Local is one of my favorite restaurants in KC. It's farm to table, so the food is always fresh and delicious, and the the decor is really pretty. They even have a beer garden style patio, which is great when the weather is nice. Service can sometimes be a bit slow, but the food and ambiance more than makes up for it. Last week my boyfriend and I took his parents there for dinner and everyone loved it. I got my absolute favorite - the grilled cheese sandwich. I've tried tastes from different meals every time I've been there, and everything is always great, but 90% of the time I get their grilled cheese and am obsessed with it. Delicious melty cheese, amazing tomato fennel for dipping and super tasty french fries. You can't go wrong with it! Or then again, with anything on the menu. Other favorites are their burgers, quinoa main dish and honestly pretty much anything I've tried. When my parents come up for visits, it's our go to. They always say it's their favorite place to go when they're here! P.S. Their cocktails are great, too. I love the Laura Palmer!
(5)
Natalie R.
Excellent Service. Clean restaurant. Fresh ingredients. Amazing menu items. Great assortment of beers. Love it!
(5)
Jin K.
Been here a few times but just recently came here w/ my 2 yr old. We had a great time & the food was great as usual! We split a patty melt & was great! My son, obviously loved the fries, as did I! Great casual feel to the place & service was great. I've also had the mussels here & it was good! Will definitely come back again.
(4)
Stella M.
Consistently good. What more could you ask for in a restaurant? The menu changes regularly, but as cheesy as it sounds, I have yet to have a bad meal here. I feel like a weirdo going there as frequently as I do, but man, I'm 99% certain they put some sort of addictive substance in their french fries. This is the place that got me into the habit of ordering fries as an appetizer - and now I'm that person eating kale salads for my entree after hogging down a bucket of fries to start. Ugh.
(5)
Shruti N.
This was a great farm to table, organic restaurant in Kansas City. The ambiance was great and the service was quick and friendly. I came here with a large group of coworkers (19 people total) and we were all very pleased with both the food and the service. Some of the highlights included the burgers, quinoa, mac n cheese and pulled pork. This is also a great restaurant for vegetarians and healthy eaters, but also satisfies the more indulgent!
(4)
H C.
Great food. And how can you beat the patio? (You can't). Before or after your meal, take a stroll through the neighborhood. Beautiful homes and a great view of the city.
(5)
Marla H.
I had lunch today and this was my first time here. I had the broccoli quinoa burger with the Parmesan fries. Everything was delicious. There must be something that can be put in the burger to keep it intact as it totally fell apart. It might even work better as an open faced sandwich on one piece of vegan bread. The fries were delicious and you could tell the ketchup was made in house, it was very fresh. The sandwich was a nice size, flavorful, kind of a light sweet taste which I wasn't sure if it was the sauce or something on the bun as the top of the bun was a little sticky. The service was good and the atmosphere was nice. I live that they use only local ingredients. Very small menu but I have a feeling they would be flexible. My friend ordered the hamburger and she said the meat had a weird taste to it and she only could eat half of it. I'm looking forward to going back and taking my daughter who is in culinary school. We are always trying to find locally-owned establishments to support. We are tired of the chain restaurants around our house.
(4)
Jessica E.
Delish! Grabbed a bite to eat last night, namely the grilled cheese sammy with the side tomato soup (when I dip, you dip I dip) and french fries. Holy crap that sandwich is huge. Come hungry and the menu will satisfy you for sure. They have a small and simple menu, though it provides a lot of vegan and vegetarian options as well as catering to the fellow carnivores. Drink menu was extensive and they have daily specials; can't vouch for any of their specialty stuff, I just rolled with a PBR yesterday. The space is small and intimate and our server was SO nice and genuinely made us feel welcome. Can't say enough nice things about this joint. See you soon!
(4)
An L.
the Margarita was pretty good and hamburger was great. cook just like I like it.. did I mention that the margarita was good.. would love to sit outside next time.
(4)
Jeremiah L.
An amazing dinner with my lovely wife. Usually there is something that isn't quite right when we go out to eat. Probably cause I'm a bit critical being a chef myself. Everything we ordered was cooked perfectly and tasted exquisite, this never happens to me. The heirloom quinoa with crispy skinned trout was phenomenal, the bison chorizo tacos were from planet Too Good, and the chocolate zucchini bread was straight from chocolate heaven. New favorite restaurant!
(5)
Michele N.
Wow, why did we wait so long to get to this stop on our list? This off the beaten path restaurant offers a great venue to enjoy good food and good beer. They have a beer garden that has large picnic style tables which are community style, as well as smaller tables. I had read a review suggesting that they put speakers outside to enjoy the live music from inside, or just pipe in some pandora...I concur! Other than that the beer garden is awesome. The restaurant interior is nice as well, with exposed brick walls etc. Although the menu is not huge, we had a hard time deciding what to order; everything sounded appealing. We started with a "pick your own" charcuterie and cheese plate. The portions were much larger than we expected (especially compared to the reasonable price), so we ended up just sharing a salad and splitting a burger for our meal after the appetizer. The kale and shaved Brussels sprout salad was a fresh, crisp diversion from the usual. The burger was awesome and accompanied by crispy, delectable fries. They offer a great option for sharing plates that I really appreciated; you can split at no charge or you can pay a modest $2 charge and they split the main dish in the kitchen and give you two full portions of the side (no having to share the fries, woohoo)!
I stopped in for a cocktail while I was waiting for a friend in the area to get home so I could visit him. There's a separate bar and outdoor area slightly off the main dining room that's cozy and sweet. Received friendly service and an okay cocktail (not the best mixology but not the worst). Intrigued by the food menu, and lo and behold, two hours later my friend and I went back and ate dinner. Again, super-awesome/friendly service and great grub. I just really like the atmosphere here. Can't wait to return on my next visit to KC!
(4)
Guillermo V.
Their brunch is the best in KC. Best french toast i have ever had. They have real homemade ketchup to go with great fries!
(5)
Jessica C.
Westside Local fills the "restaurant for out of town coworker business meeting that is deliciously enjoyable, locally pertinent, classy but not stuffy, hip but not pretentious, quite enough for a meeting but pleasantly buzzing" niche. Yes, yes I know this is a ridiculously specific niche, but somehow I end up pulling the Westside Local card at least every other month. Not only does it's artsy vibe and location impress, but the food is consistently satisfying and interesting. The beer garden on pleasant nights is a fantastic place to spend time socializing, enjoying a fancy beer, and scarfing down plate after plate of deviled eggs... OK, so I generally stop at one plate, but good lord they are delicious with their lemony kick and their micro arugula. The long tables force you to get to know your neighbor, which for a painfully social individual like me is worth some bonus points. The grilled cheese is great, the quinoa is darn good, and the servers are always friendly and prompt. Maybe it's the good vibes of the joint, perhaps it's the stiff drinks, but every meeting I've ever had at Westside has ended with great results.
(4)
MARY N.
I was recently introduced to The Westside Local by one of my foodie friend and fell in love with it. They have a great atmosphere and the staff are very friendly, not to mention the food is delicious. My favorite there is the summit burger and their fries, both are done perfectly here. My friend always order a side of zucchini bread, which I tried some and OMG they are delicious. In addition to the great food, you can opt to sit outside and enjoy some of the grapes they have growing on the vines. They let you pick the grapes and eat them all for free! Makes the atmosphere seem fun and relaxed like you're in your backyard. This is def one of my favorite places now in KC.
(4)
Nancy F.
The food was really good, but lately I've had better. Tried their mac n cheese...good. Burger...very tasty...deviled eggs...ok. Spinach salad...ok. Sorry, not sure why it wasn't over the top for me. I look forward to coming back again when the weather is nicer and we can sit out on the patio. This is definitely a place I'd like to try a few times and improve upon my overall review!
(3)
Jeremy G.
Such a great neighborhood spot. The outdoor area is awesome on a sunny day.
(4)
Zach F.
The bottom line : Their hamburger was one of the best I have ever eaten. Ever. Get their green beans on the side if you can. Fries: For me, they were awesome, just a bit too salty though. My wife didn't care much for them though. Skip the mashed potatoes. The atmosphere was a bit rustic, and the volume in the place was just right. The waiters were nice but not intrusive. The reason it gets 4 instead of 5 is the price and a small kitchen snafu. It's a bit high for either the hamburger or the beer. I highly recommend this place.
(4)
Christine B.
Went for lunch and enjoyed it! I love the farm to table aspect of the place--it delivered in most areas! We went early and avoided the crowd for the most part. We both had the grilled cheese and it was very good! The tomato soup was flavorful, homemade ketchup had a nice flavor, and our server recommended accompanying the garlic fries with their homemade ranch dressing as well. I chose the fries because of the raves I'd seen, and really these were a little disappointing. I think I was expecting more "farm" and less "Sysco" taste. I will be back, and order a salad with the sandwich next time. The food was good--simple and tasty. Which brings me to the service. Attentive, helpful, friendly but not bothersome. The person I was with and I were pretty deep in conversation and he read us perfectly! Thanks for a nice lunch.
(3)
Jeffrey S.
Came here during a business trip with a small group of local notables. Staff were attentive, pleasant and kind of strange in a strange way; not a bad way, not a good way -just a strange way. Maybe it's a KC thing. Here's what I experienced: * Braised Rabbit in Winter veggies, herbs and broth. Not terrible, but there are several different ways I'd prefer to have rabbit executed, and this is towards the bottom of my list. Maybe rabbit & dumplings? That'd be interesting. I'd also love to see someone do roast rabbit with a mustard-herb-apricot glaze. Maybe a rabbit pot pie, with fennel-spiced apples in a puff pastry shell? Or, rabbit slow-roasted under maplewood smoked bacon accompanied by a Russian mustard aioli -atop a heap of braised leeks? Me thinks even Elmer Fudd could have concocted a more pleasing dish with this particular sacrificed lagomorph. As it stands I give this dish a 5 out of 10 for its bland matzoh-ball soup flavor. * Deviled eggs - 9/10. Yum. * Garlic fries OMG, 10/10, * Beer selection (though I didn't order any) 8/10. Note, I'm from the land of microbrews, so I'm (too) picky. * Beet salad 10/10. Excellent. * Desserts, of which all were sampled (by all), were absolutely magnificent. 9/10. * Cheese, olive, Italian peasant bread plate was satisfying, but not spectacular. 6/10 One thing that did sort of tweak me a bit, was that it took forever for the food to arrive, and when it did, it came all at once. It was fairly busy so I suppose I should cut them some slack, but I won't. Not being from KC, thus not privy to the variety of what KC has to offer overall, I was still somewhat impressed by this little gem. It's clean, makes good use of its historic brick interior, and has a vibe which reminds me of a cozy, hip, minimalist designed college area restaurant of the neo-Bohemian ilk. Our hosts made a good decision in choosing this place to exemplify what KC can do if/when left with apparent regional ingredients. 7/10 overall.
(4)
Sovana L.
I absolutely love this place. I've always wanted to dine here but a friend of mine gave it a terrible review. Fortunately, I decided to check it out myself the other night and I regret nothing! Moral of the story: Follow your own desires. ;] My party and I walked in to a full house with live music. I was rather impressed considering where it's located. Nonetheless, its live entertainment provided a great atmosphere. I ordered their P.E.I. Mussels. It's pretty much a stew with "spanish chorizo, cilantro, tomato, jalapeños, and lime with a side of grilled baguette slices". One word...AMAZING. I very rarely finish an entire plate because I have a small stomach but this dish was so good I finished everything! I also had their summer shandy cocktail which was quite tasty! I tasted my brother's Quinoa dish which has "haricot verts, corn, tomato, zucchini, red onion, golden raisins, shaved parmesan, & crisp garden ruby chard". I totally loved that dish! We shared everything and nothing disappointed us...including our server. ;] This place is a nice weekend dinner spot. I totally recommend it.
(5)
Brenna P.
I've heard the name "The Westside Local" several times in the year I've lived in Kansas City. Why I haven't been there before now is beyond me. A friend invited me to dinner there on a Friday night. All I can say is YUMMMMMMMM! I have been missing out! To start off, I looked at the drink menu. It's filled with all kinds of imports and microbrews... Oh, and my favorite local, Boulevard's Tank 7. Most places that serve this particular brew have good food, I have noticed. While sipping on my delightfully strong beverage, I glanced over the menu. So many delicious sounding options! I'm used to having slim pickings when it comes to salads, but The Westside Local has some of the best sounding salads. However, I decided to go with a heartier entree and I chose the quinoa ($14). I love that the standard version of this dish does not include meat (although you can add salmon or chicken). The quinoa dish consisted of zucchini, corn, tomato, onion, raisins, parmesan, green beans, and ruby chard. I'm pretty sure I had a mouthgasm with my first bite of this delight. The vegetables were crisp and their flavors paired perfectly between the parmesan and sweet raisins. Parmesan and raisins? Yes, not something I would think to put together, but amazing! I'm definitely returning here in the near future. There are a lot of vegetarian options I look forward to trying.
(5)
Katie W.
This is our favorite place to eat! My favorites are the biscuits and gravy or the almond French toast for breakfast. For lunch nor dinner- you have to try the ham and jam. It is amazing! Their mixed drinks are pricy, but so good!
(5)
Joe K.
Excellent local urban restaurant. Food is great. Great service. Nice beer and wine selections. We sat outside on this nice summer night. The inside was nice too, but the crowd voices made it a little loud. The only drawback was it was a little expensive otherwise it is a 5-star all the way.
(4)
Caleb L.
Simply scrumtralescent! This place is the emobodiment of hipster, and I loved it. The service was friendly and attentive. There was a great selection of beers and liquors to choose from. The food options were unique, and a cut above other restaurants of this caliber. When I see things like "Grass Fed Beef" as an option on the menu, I know I'm at a place that pays attention to details. There were other great options on the menu and it seemed like a place you could close your eyes and point at the menu and be very happy with whatever they brought out. They also had several vegetarian entres (shocker for hipster place, right?). They have excellent french fries cooked with truffle oil and sprinkled with parmesan. To complete my mountainous grass fed burger (which already came with ham), I added bacon which was probably someof the best bacon I have had from any restaurant. I will definitely be back here anytime I'm in the area, although this place merits special trips even if you aren't in the area.
(5)
Ali A.
After a disappointing attempt at another restaurant for dinner my girlfriend and I decided to stop in here and split something. We got the mac and cheese, split, don't do that though just ask for an extra plate because I believe they charge $2 to split something. It was yummy and definitely hit the spot. I enjoyed some good canned beer and for dessert we had a stout chocolate cake also very delicious! Oh and I tried their bloody mary, they make their own mix, it was awesome. I think this place would be great to go on a date to. I will be back Westside!
(4)
jennifer j.
This much anticipated spot is a shot in the arm for the Westside. Trailblazers like Bluebird, Lil's and Fervere have known the charms of this neighborhood for quite some time. Now, there's a place where you can just hang out and have a few beers or a glass of wine on an outdoor patio shaded by old trees. The atmosphere is great. This place has unique charm and quirkiness that just doesn't exist in many other spots. Outside tables are communal. The inside is well done, but tends to feel more like restaurant then a drinking establishment. The thing is, Westside Local is working hard to offer both. The service has some serious kinks. Although there seem to be a good number of servers, the impression was that they were overwhelmed. With the patio only 1/2 full, this should not be the case. The wait for a greet, a drink and food was too extended. It wasn't just our experience, as a party of 3 women grumbled about crackers delivered to them after, rather then during their appetizers. We had dinner & drinks, yet our check was automatically closed & delivered to our table after our meal. So much for another drink. Is this a hint? When you sit down the waiter brings out a few olives sprinkled with olive oil and pepper....a nice touch. Appetizers are extremely straightforward. Deviled eggs, a small pile of ham, a few pickles. A minimalist wet dream. For the non birdlike eaters, there are a selection of sandwiches and larger plates. You can check out their menu online. I had the chicken sandwich and my partner has the roast beef. Both come with garlic fries. Although the fries has a garlic smell, there is no visible garlic, so I am not sure if they are using a powder or infused garlic oil. The bread used on each sandwich was the best part of the sandwich. Nothing really stood out, but nothing was bad either. In summary, I like this place...but to be more specific, I like this place for drinks. To be even more specific, I like this place for drinks on the patio on a beautiful summer night. Kudos to the trailblazers.
(3)
L B.
After not having been back here for a couple years, I've found a surprisingly renewed interest - 4 visits in 4 weeks! Either I just had bad luck when I'd been here before or they have really improved. One of the best mac and cheese dishes in the city - maybe tied with The Jacobsen. The burgers are so fresh and juicy and I love anyone who uses the local Farm to Market pretzel buns. French fries are very tasty and crispy - I tried my best to eat them all but it's a lot of food with the burger. One of my visits, a friend veered off the usual mac and cheese / burger and tried the pulled pork - not as good as the burger, but if I'm not in the mood for cow, will definitely go for the pig next time.
(5)
Kevin C.
I've been on a quinoa-craze for the past two weeks thanks to this place. We had dinner here before heading to the Kauffman Center for a Saturday night performance. (By the way, if the weather is agreeable, parking in the Westside area and walking over to the Kauffman Center is pretty convenient. Don't mind the creepy I-35 overpass on 17th St.) Anyways- we had the PEI mussels and Quinoa entrees. The mussels were pretty tasty but the quinoa really stood out to me. I guess I never really look for it on menus but I was super impressed with the flavors and textures. The crispy arugula was a noteworthy touch. I also like beer and there's a large beer list here. Nice!
(5)
Jennifer C.
My husband and I love coming to this place. But we know that we should try to go before we get hungry, because there is always a wait to get in as it is a smaller restaurant. I think it usually is about a half hour wait or more every time I have come during the dinner hours, which is the only downside of this restaurant to me. I keep coming back for the hamburgers and beer. I think they do a great burger. I love that they try to use fresh and local ingredients in their cooking. It does have a pretty fun, trendy kinda vibe.
(4)
Brenda D.
I absolutely love this place!! Had no idea it was here and so glad we went. Very relaxing, wait service was excellent. It was quiet (for a long time) so we could talk. It did get busier at the night went on. The best Blueberry basil martini I've ever had. Actually the only one but it was so good I ended up drinking 3 of them. We gals got hungry and ordered the Pesto Chicken, The Summit Burger, The Grilled Cheese and the Baked Mac and Cheese - shared all of them. They food is fantastic! I can't enough good things about this place. Wished I had one in my back yard. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Chad B.
Best grilled cheese sandwich I have EVER had! I'll drive 30 miles just for one. Fun place to have a couple of beers with friends (Hitachino white ale).
(5)
Greg N.
Go for the grilled cheese...just like everyone else says. It doesn't get much simpler or better than that!
(5)
Lilian O.
I am extremely happy to report that The Westside Local has worked out the kinks from the change in ownership and chefs. The food and service are both back on track! The last time I came here, I intended to catch up with a friend over some good food and booze in their covered beer garden. The plan was foiled because of the strong winds. Darn you bipolar Midwest weather! We chose to sit indoors and started off with a plate of the deviled eggs and my current favorite beer of Hitachino Nest Red Rice Ale. While the eggs were good, I don't understand why so many people rave about them. I enjoyed the arugula salad that the eggs were garnished with better than the deviled eggs themselves. 6 egg halves (3 whole eggs) is too much to split between two people as I get tired of the taste rather quickly. The quinoa dish is back on the menu and as good as I remember. My friend enjoyed his burger and I enjoyed stealing the Parmesan fries off his plate. It was his first time at The Westside Local and he was impressed by the food and beer selection. I felt cooler for introducing him to the place as it's been on his to-try list for awhile. My next visit there will definitely include plans of sitting in the beer garden. Now if only I had the power to control the weather...
(4)
Marian L.
The food is very good. The servers are pleasant and knowledgeable. The maitre d' is rude and off-putting. This is the second time in two weeks I've dined at Westside Local and been treated snottily by this staff member. The first time, I'll admit, I should have made a reservation for the six people I brought with me to the restaurant. Because of the way the server treated us, I made a reservation for the following weekend using Open Table. We were no more than ten minutes late and arrived to a three-quarters EMPTY restaurant and the maitre d' was snotty again and seated us at a table in the glaring sunlight. There were plenty of other tables in shadier spaces where the hostess seated people who had NOT made reservations (after gently berating them for not doing so). I won't be back. During our dinner, my husband and I listened to the maitre d' and the young hostess take turns gently admonishing any customer who walked in without reservations. This is not how I wish to be treated first thing in a restaurant. And Westside Local? I didn't want to share my concerns on a local forum. I searched your website and Facebook page for a way to send a private email. There isn't one. Please consider adding an email address to your website.
(2)
cathy m.
We ordered three fish tacos, and they were delicious. Why then, did I only give it one star. The fish was almost non-existent. A veggie taco should not taste or cost the same as a fish taco. We ordered a beer off the menu, and our server returned to tell us that it was not available. Then, we were asked if we wanted another beer around the "same price". He did not ask what kind of beer we like - just the price range. When we left, three employees were standing by the door. None of them asked how we enjoyed that meal. None of them said "Good night." We will not go back.
(1)
Erika D.
Reviewing the Westside Local makes me a little nervous. I don't want to appear in a Hipster Attack video with my enthusiastic praise set to strains of flute music. Trust me, if the food were mediocre, I would not hesitate to say so - trendy locale and minimalist design be damned. The truth is that the food is fantastic and should be the main draw at this Summit Street hangout. The locally sourced menu is short, sweet and full of inspired comfort food. The Quinoa is a tangy, crispy, hearty revelation with thyme roasted butternut squash, dried cherries, brussels sprouts, shaved parmesan and crunchy bits of arugula. The Chicken Pot Pie is contentment in a ramekin. Breaking into the fluffy buttermilk biscuit is a satisfying act, and the creamy goodness underneath is bursting with tender chicken and vegetables. The mix and match Localities ($2 each) are meant to be adult appetizers, but make a great kids meal. On our Saturday afternoon visit, Elliott ordered a plate with apples, sweet & spicy pecans, and house made pickles. It came with slices of wonderful, crusty french bread. The bread was a hit with baby Emma as well (even though she was perfectly happy just gnawing on the wood slab tables). Do not leave The Westside Local without trying dessert. I recommend their take on a trio of beloved candy bars: Snickers, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, and Peppermint Patties. These gourmet creations are a far cry from store bought candies; each one is rich, delicious decadence. The moral of my story: don't let the hipster appeal of this sensational restaurant scare you away. You can have your cool and eat it too!
(5)
Michelle F.
My husband and I dined with 3 other couples in January. Jason was our server and he was perfect. He explained the menu repeatedly when we were not paying attention to him and smiled and joked with us as he kept the glasses full and the food coming the whole time. We had the deviled eggs, I really enjoyed the vinegar punch to them but a couple of others thought it was too much, and a build-your-own combination of cheese, olives and prosciutto - it was terrific as well. The guys enjoyed the large variety of beers, including several cans of Stag. "In a glass? No one's ever asked for that before!" Among us we had salmon (raves I tell you, raves!), burgers, the roast beef sandwich and grilled cheese. We passed and nibbled until most people had tried everything, it was all great. The roasted fennel and tomato soup went perfectly with my grilled cheese. We tried each of the three desserts offered, this might have been the only time our table was not the loudest in the house, we were all very busy making sure those desserts were finished down to the last bite! My only complaint about the entire evening is that the old building, while full of charm and character, is incredibly drafty. I kept my coat on the entire evening and a couple of the other girls were putting gloves on in between courses. I'm looking forward to going back, my husband and I really enjoyed the Valentine's Day menu and the beer garden will be a fun place to hang out this summer.
(5)
Carrie B.
It's probably a 4.5. For at least the past two years, my coworkers have been telling me that I absolutely MUST try the Westside Local. Turns out my coworkers know me pretty well! Went for restaurant week lunch--3 courses for 15 dollars. Got a miniscule salad (but again, it was Restaurant Week, but still enough to dock just a bit.) For a main dish I got the quinoa--OH. MY. GOODNESS. The ultimate test of a successful meal (or recipe) is that I crave it despite the inclusion of an ingredient that I typically dislike. The quinoa was so delicious, flavorful, textured, that I gobbled up the brussels sprouts that were part of it, even though I typically loathe them. Yum. Got the panna cotta dessert and discovered I really don't like panna cotta, but not the fault of the restaurant. Service was a touch slow but not overly so, and was quite friendly. Went back again for drinks and to split a beautiful choose-your-own cheese plate. We picked the three best-looking cheeses on the small plates menu, and they came arranged with onion jam, fruits, bread, etc. Not quite up to the level of JP's (RIP) cheese plate (which serves as the standard to which I judge all cheese plates), but a great complement to glasses of organic sauvingnon blanc. Another very viable option on my favorite corner in the city. And this is all before trying the beer garden! (Service note: I didn't go at crowded times on either occasion.)
(4)
Tabitha M.
I have heard so many great things about Westside Local, so I was honestly thrilled to finally go. I went this past Saturday for lunch with two of my friends. There was a decent crowd for 1 o'clock on a Saturday. Everything I tasted was wonderful, but especially the french fries. I don't know, but i am a sucker for french Fries. I have heard that Westside Local used to have garlic french fries, which sounds even more amazing... but i guess that wasn't everyone's cup of tea, so they changed to "normal" french fries. *sigh* Oh well, still yummy. The mac and cheese was good. The guy eating a grilled cheese at the table next to us said it was delicious, and man oh man, did it look delicious. Good service. Reasonably priced food. Nice, clean decor. interesting artwork (i guess it changes out every so often though).
(4)
Dev V.
I have always enjoyed this place, now I finally get to write a review. The other times I've been here, my food has always been good, but the service was always so so. This changed with my visit this past Friday. We sat in the bar area and John was our server, he's also the bartender. He was very pleasant and knew a lot about the wine list since he put it together. Food was great, service was great, atmosphere was great. Patio was hopping as well because of the warmer weather. Keep it local and get your asses to Westside Local!
(4)
Martin H.
I really wanted to like this place more than I did. I gave it a second chance after a so-so first visit because i thought it had potential. The interior looks good, the patio is a great space, and the fries are very good. BUT... the beer is not the right temperature, the burgers are bland, the menu is quite limited, the staff is very hit and miss. If I go again, it will ONLY be for beer and appetizers on the patio.
(2)
Annie A.
LOVED this place!! I went here for the 1st time on Friday for Happy Hour and while it wasn't much of a "scene" it was a great time! The bartender Mick was awesome and being the only 2 ladies at the 8 seat bar.. we got lots of attentive service from him! He had great recommendations for the build your own plate - we opted for the Pears, Baguette, Goat Cheese, Kalamata Olives, Proscuitto and the Irish Porter Cheddar... all were awesome!! They also have Fernet Brianca - the only other place in KC besides Czar Bar to carry my beloved favorite drink that I discovered while living in San Francisco! So VERY excited to return! The wines were delicious too! I'll definitely be back to this quaint little local place!
(5)
Lisa R.
I will preface by saying that I went for the first time at 8:30 on a Sunday night, so my experience may or may not be representative of what going to Westside Local is like another night of the week. The menu was good, and the food, while nothing special, hit the spot, and I really liked the option to get the small plates of things like pear slices and pickles. The decor and set-up had a nice feel. But the music was loud, inconsistent and a bit annoying, and my waiter seemed less than thrilled to be there. I understand what it's like to be a server, and go into restaurants with a lot of empathy, but the empathy can fade when a waiter has a bad attitude that doesn't have anything to do with me. One of three tables in the place, being a bit more attentive would not have been a struggle for him. And I very much wanted to order dessert, but was immediately presented with my check as my plates were rushed away. Maybe it was just an off night. I'd try it again if I were a local, but as an out-of-towner who has just this one experience to rely on, 3 stars is the best I can do.
(3)
Suzanne G.
I love this place. I've been several times and it's a great go-to when I have a friend in town. Most recently, a prego friend was visiting from Ark. The food was excellent and they didn't look down at her for ordering a shirley temple or asking for a salad without feta. In fact, the server anticipated another issue with her entree and made sure to notify the chef. The quinoa and veggie dish I had was excellent. I'm not a vegetarian, but I'm not afraid to eliminate meat in favor of a flavorful dish. It was fantastic. I'm looking forward to good weather - the beer garden is a great way place for happy hour. It's communal so you never know who you'll end up next to!
(5)
Cory K.
I have been to The West Side Local several times and I can say it is always a great place if you want to show someone something different. The food has been a hit or miss a few times but still pretty good compared to other places. The patio is great and they have a great beer selection.
(4)
Shea C.
I wanted to love The Westside Local. The farm-to-table concept, the quirky location, the shared tables on the patio and sleek but earthy interior are all appealing. The food? Not as appealing. I came for lunch with my mom who was visiting from California (where I'm from and whose cuisine I adore). I knew The Westside Local would be right up her alley. I'd been once before for drinks with friends and enjoyed the variety of the wine list, but hadn't ordered food. It was a gorgeous day, so we chose to sit outside, sharing a table with a few other women also out to lunch. We ordered ice teas and enjoyed the sunshine while perusing the menu. Several items were calling to me, but I ended up choosing the chicken salad sandwich with fries and a side of pears. Mom had the local arugula salad with chicken. Unable to resist a pint of Boulevard Single Wide IPA, I ordered that too. My sandwich, which seemed like it would be full of flavor with its chipotle aoil and bacon, was bland beyond belief. I also have a slight pet peeve when a menu states the sandwich will come on a certain type of bread (challah in this case, which I love) and it comes on something else (grilled multigrain). I ended up adding pear slices to the sandwich to try to add some complexity of flavor. The chipotle aoli was barely noticable and the bacon was overpowering. The garlic fries, however, were awesome and didn't even need the homemade ketchup. Mom seemed pleased enough with her salad. She initially wanted the roasted beet salad, but was told she couldn't have it without the cilantro because it was already mixed (disappointing). Service was sllooooowwww, but friendly enough. Had I not been content to sit in the sun and catch up with mom, I would have quickly grown impatient. I still think the charm of The Westside Local is worth experiencing and I'd like to go back and give it another go.
(3)
Joe W.
Great food and fun decor. Try the 1/2 lb (local) beef burger- comes with proscuitto and melted white ched, microgreens and crispy fries. My server was really kind and quick. Great service.
(5)
Jennifer H.
I just don't think the food lives up to the hype. I didn't think it was particularly good at all. The mac & cheese was some of the worst I've had at any restaurant. I spent an extra $6 on about 4oz of bland chicken. The burger was pretty good, but nothing special. The atmosphere and the neighborhood are great. My recommendation for someone who wants to go to patronize this quaint, local restaurant is to order some wine or beer and stick with the $2 localities, but skip the unimpressive food.
(2)
Emilie S.
Probably the best burger I will ever eat. Brioche bun, watercress, perfect mustard. Had tomato fennel soup as app. Also perfect. We had a party of 7 for a late dinner- waiter was friendly, patient and knowledgeable. Nice wine selection. Husband had the mussels and loved them- he hardly talked once the were put in front of him. FIL's salmon quinoa was a hit as well. Mac and Cheese looked crazy good. A highlight of my 6000 mile food tour through Western/Central US of A.
(5)
Betts C.
I definitely needed to update this review. I've been slacking. Because I've been back to Westside Local several more times, and every time I go, I'm really, really convinced that it's one of the best places in KC. It absolutely serves all of my wants. First off, there's the beer list, which is pretty amazing. Secondly, there's the beer recommendations with each of the items on the menu. And I've found that, if you are shy of those and want something a little different, the servers are quite knowledgeable and can pull some secret bit of fantasticness out from behind the bar, and voila, you have some perfect flavor combination. And that combination involved the food. Because really, it is pretty great. It's not the longest menu, but they know what they can handle. And now that the salmon burger is back on the menu, I am one happy,happy lady. It's a phenomenal experience (it counts as an experience) especially when paired with the beet salad. I'm pretty obsessed with beets, and I make a good beet salad myself. But this blows me out of the water. And back to the burger: it's actually salmon. It's not mostly bready or filling of any sort, it's salmon. And it's served on a really great, entirely too caloric roll that probably ruins any healthiness I'd be going for by ordering a salmon burger and salad. But it's ok, it's so very worth it. I've also tried both their winter and springy quinoa dishes, and they're excellent. Fresh, filling, and very healthy. They're not the most exciting thing on the menu, but they are very, very good. And the boy tried their special pulled pork sandwich on one of our visits, and it was, in fact, mighty fine. This was in the middle of the barbecue tour, and even though Westside Local is a far cry from Arthur Bryant's or OkJoe's, that was some excellent, very grown up pulled pork. I will admit that I still haven't had the full Westside Local experience, as I haven't tried dessert. But after spending a lazy afternoon sipping really good beer under vines, eating our sandwiches and basking in the still pleasant sunlight, I'm pretty convinced that Westside Local is fantastic and one of those rare but lovely, non-KC in KC places where I'd like to spend a whole, whole lot more of my time.
(5)
James W.
This place is awesome!!! The only negative was the service was slow at times. They use all local produce and ingredients and have a great local and not so local beer selection. I especially liked they Veggy Sammy and Potato Salad!! Eat or drink out in their beer garden if you can. Truly a great spot in KC!
(5)
Ethan S.
I've been here about 3 times and every time I go it's always a great experience. The ambiance is perfect. I like getting several of the "localities" (their version of a mini appetizer). The deviled eggs are amazing. And I really don't eat deviled eggs that often. And the cheese plate is always delicious. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Lauren K.
Went back for dinner recently and had an amazing meal! We ordered some of the a la carte items, some meats, cheese and 2 perfect litle deviled eggs. I tried the carbonara pasta w. duck egg. I'd never tried this dish before and was thrilled with it.. It was creamy, rich and flavorful. My boyfriend got the steak frites and it was honestly the best steak I've ever tried. We were so satisfied I was on a food high for the rest of the night. This place is just perfect!
(5)
Mike K.
It was a beautiful spring day and our destination was a patio for lunch and libations. We decided to check out The Westside Local since it was close to the office and fit the need for sunshine. The Westside Local is located on the NE corner of 17th & Summit. Parking is a little tight since its mainly street parking, but we were able to find a spot on Summit just a 1/2 block down the street. The inside dining space is a mixture of rustic exposed brick and modern furniture, probably would seat 30-40 people. But our destination was the Patio! We were seating on of 5-6 large picnic tables where it had somewhat of a communal vibe where you could be seated next to another group on the large picnic tables. The server handed us two menus, the food menu and the large beer & wine menu. On one side of the food menu it had a large selection of al a carte 'Localities' - an interesting mix of meats, cheeses, and vegetables, 'Snacks' (a limited appetizer selection), and Soups/Salads. Prices were mixed - individual Localities were $2 each, Snacks were $6-$9, and Soups/Salads $4-12. On the back side of the menu were the Large Plates (main course) which ranged from $15-$22, and Sandwiches $8-11. Now if you're looking for large selection - this isn't the place. If you're looking for a limited menu done well - this is your place!!! The beer & wine menu was extensive, approx 20 wines (didn't look at much), and 30-40 beers which were mainly bottles. I opted for the Summit burger with garlic fries and a nice 22 ounce Avery Salvation to wash it down. Our meals arrived fairly quickly - and WOW we were all impressed with our meals. I could quickly tell this wasn't the standard burger. To start, the burger meat is ground fresh, served on a fresh baked roll from Fervere, arugula, Swiss cheese and a mustard sauce. The garlic fries were served with in-house made ketchup and a lemony aioli. The house made ketchup was a little odd, it tasted more like marinara sauce vs. ketchup - but that's a minor detail. The food was excellent - staff was friendly - and I loved the attention to ingredients. I will certainly go back, now all we need is another sunny spring day!
(5)
steve w.
We made our first visit to the Westside this weekend and were pleased. They have a short, but nicely curated wine list; our Spanish wine was spicy, nicely balanced and an excellent value. We enjoyed their "localities," a way for the customer to economically compose their own appetizers, charcuterie, and such. One minor complaint on that score: some of the localities are attributed, others are not. It would be great if the customer knew where each came from. The braunschwiger was fine, but tasted like Boar's Head - not bad, but not unique. The missus' lamb special was very good, although she could have done without the lamb sausage in favor of an extra chop - the polenta complemented the dish nicely, however. I had mussels in an orange fennel broth. The mussels were gigantic, very flavorful and the broth balanced the sweet and savory perfectly. The garlic fries ... quite good, too. Another small kvetch, though: I initially ordered the trout special, but requested fries instead of mashed only to have the chef decline my request. Wait a minute ... I like your restaurant and I'll be back, but it seemed a little pretentious to decline a modest alteration in starch upon a customer's preference. Just saying. The bread pudding was great. The after dinner drink menu could use some white dessert wines, later harvest Rieslings and such; those were noticeably absent from the after dinner drink offerings. So, three minor reservations, but overall an most enjoyable meal from the Westside.
(4)
Emily s.
So I finally made it back here last night without the kids for a pre-Kauffman dinner. When I made the reservations he let me know that they had a bunch of people coming in at 7pm and would I be done by then - which was nice because I knew the service would be fast and I wouldn't be late for the concert. Emily took care of us and was amazing and friendly. When I indicated that I really wanted a salad but was afraid it would be too much with a full dinner - she said there is actually a side salad size available, which is not on the menu and was perfect! About the size of a large saucer or dessert plate. Yummy arugula! I got the quinoa (Based on the many reviews- thanks Joi) and was very impressed. I would never have ordered it on my own but it was so tasty and unlike anything I've ever had, I'm glad I did. In the spirit of adventure I also got the gin pickle. If you like pickles and gin this is the drink for you! They make their own pickles and use them and the juice for the mixer. It had a night light butter/dill pickle flavor (more dillish but didn't kick you in the teeth). My SO had the pork loin which had a nice light flavor and was medium rare - very large portion of pork in a ham/bean soup. He liked it but I thought the pork could have used a little more flavor. The cornbread would have been good if it hadn't been dry :( I like their fries, very crispy, but the ketchup is too sweet and I don't even understand what that aioli is supposed to be - seemed like homemade mayo and pretty flavorless. I ate the fries plain because they are super tasty and didn't need anything. I can't wait to go back for the deviled eggs and check out the beer garden. The only drawback was the price - just over $100 with tax and tip, but $40 of that was liquor so it could be done much cheaper. Overall I think it was worth what we paid. This was a very unique, fresh, locally produced meal in a great atmosphere. I was stuffed at the end with no room for dessert, even if I had wanted it. Oh, we left at 6:57pm and never felt rushed at all, in fact we even had one more round of drinks after dinner at our servers suggestion (price there vs price at the Kauffman!)
(4)
Bryan E.
The Westside Local is one of my standbys. I truly enjoy the menu and find just enough variety to satisfy most anyone. Extra props for the grilled cheese with tomato soup. Sometimes it is hard to get in or there is a small wait, but overall, I have no complaints. I keep it in my back pocket for out of town guests and nights when we can't agree where to go. Definitely a crowd pleaser.
(4)
D W.
Super atmosphere and food! Locally grown and the freshest I have had in a long time. The outside is not much to look at and it even looked closed but this is a true example of why you should not judge a book by the cover!
(5)
John S.
Really actually like this place and you should go. Good fries, tasty duck, nice decor, thought seemingly put into the food, and the first time I was there our waiter was amazing. Last night, however, we had a bum. You're on the clock, not me pal, SEPARATE CHECKS, SEPARATE CHECKS, SEPARATE CHECKS, oh the gratuity is already include so you don't give a flip, and even after 45min you still can't parse out the bill correctly, sheesh. Sweet hat bro.
(4)
Hannah L.
Headed here on Easter Sunday for a nice, local meal at a new spot, well new to us at least. We opted to sit outside in the beer garden with the nice Spring weather which felt much more relaxed then the stiff dining room that had no one in it. Started with beers off their excellent beer list and while they were all out of the one I chose, the waiter brought over his suggestion which was a nice touch. Their menu is limited or "special" on Sundays, but sometimes with my indecisiveness that's even better. We started with the beet salad - no dressing (not sure if they forgot or if they were trying to let the beets shine and do their thing) - either way, the beets were spot on, fresh, juicy and delicious! I got the Vegetable Shepard's Pie which was YUMMY! Awesome comfort food, which as a pescatarian can be hard to find. The potatoes in the stew were under done, but that's my only complaint. The mushrooms, green onions, carrots, quinoa and crunchy onions on top of the cheesy mashed potatoes more than made up for it. I ate it all...and it was a large portion! My date got the Fried Chicken & Waffles. A Sunday classic. He ate the whole plate and seemed quite pleased, except for the seasoning. Great crunchy breading, but lacked some spice and kick. Seemed like a good dose of cayenne should have been added to the flour. When we asked if the chicken was local, the waiter shared that it was from Lathrop, MO. I was glad he was informative as the waitstaff at other "local" restaurants in KC don't seem to be very knowledgeable. No room for dessert here...I thought about getting something to go, but they all involved ice cream which I suspected wouldn't keep very well. I also asked if they had smoothies since they boasted fresh, local juices for all their cocktails, but nope, no smoothies. There's definitely room for improvement, but I'd go back in a heartbeat to try a new dish, listen to the live music, enjoy a drink in the garden and support restaurants using fresh, local ingredients.
(4)
Farah A.
Hey, Westside Local. You are yummy. So I know other people have raved about the quinoa, but I have to reiterate it. I almost ordered a box of it to go. I like the natural, simple atmosphere inside the restauant and the cozy family-style picnic tables on the patio. My friends and I shared a picnic table with some friendly hipsters who occasionally dabbled in and out of our conversations. One even asked for a bite of my quinoa which I, of course, obliged with a friendly "what's mine is yours attitude" having returned the day before from my post-communist experience in Cuba. He greatly appreciated it and lamented having not ordered it himself. Otherwise the drinks selection was good, the server put up with my 804 questions about the bread pudding [it is possible to ask that many questions about bread pudding, believe it or not], and I enjoyed the two genderless restrooms [where I accidentally walked in on a guy who forgot to lock the door... woops!]. The only thing to note is beware (just in general) of ordering midwestern favorites "your mom makes" like deviled eggs because at these types of trendy, urban establishments they will always have a twist that you may or may not enjoy. All in all... all local, all lovely. Coming back for quinoa. You should too.
(5)
Molly A.
Though I've never found an entree that I absolutely adore, this place is pretty good. Their small plates/appetizers are my favorite - deviled eggs with a twist and the Castelvetrano Olives ... well, I could probably make a whole meal of those. They're like olive oil in solid form. Mmmm. (Almost zero of the salty brine of typical olives. And I'm a girl who loves her salt.) The beer list is always decent, and the service can be hit or miss. The option of a beer garden is always an added bonus. I hope to find an entree that bumps my review up to four stars but until then, it stays at three. I'd definitely recommend it to friends or take out-of-town guests there for some KC-flavor but I don't go there often personally. (Caveat: their "special" braised short ribs were delish ... But I think it's more fair to judge a restaurant off its every-day menu. I prefer to order off it, as well, as special dishes tend to be on the pricier side here.)
(3)
Joe H.
I'm very middle-of-the-road with my feelings on the Westside Local. I love the idea of a communal beer garden, but the two days I've been have been too cold to consider it. The first time we went involved my 18-month old daughter, which was interesting. My initial impression was that it wouldn't be very kid-friendly, and the hipster, d-bag patrons around us confirmed that, but the staff was absolutely great. They dug a high chair out of the closet, multiple wait staff stopped by our table with crayons or to say something. It was some of the best service I have ever received. The second time was sans child, and the service wasn't as welcoming or responsive as before. Still, my beer was cold, my food was hot, and I got out in reasonable time. The food here isn't quite my bag, but it's good. A friend recommended the grilled cheese, which I wasn't a big fan of. My wife got the roast beef sandwich and starting freaking out about the au jus. Seriously. She talked about it for weeks afterward. I got her to switch me a grilled cheese half for the roast beef, and that au jus is the truth. If I was on the State, I'd probably dip my balls in it. I don't care for garlic fries, but I like these. I want to say it's more garlic salt than cloves of garlic, which I approve of. And the ketchup....oh, the ketchup. They should send some over to the Farmhouse to let them know what good, homemade ketchup tastes like. The beer selection is decent. I'm not a big fan or the beer list advertising Boulevard drafts for $4 and them ringing up as $5. Hopefully that extra dollar is funding a future re-printing of the beer menu. I'll probably go back in the Spring when the weather is nice to experience the beer garden. That might bump it to a 4-star, but it's just OK for now.
(3)
Steve M.
I'll give 3.5 stars. My wife's dish was AWESOME, my friend's soup was very good. Her pot pie, however, was 1 star. My dish and my other friend's dish was probably 4 stars. We used Groupons, so the meal was also very reasonable! We all liked that they use locally grown, fresh ingredients. Service was so-so. Tough neighborhood 'shoes' to fit into, with the Blue Bird right across the street!!!!
(4)
Dana A.
Ok, I had a lot of problems with this place so rather than write a long drawn out thing I am going to give you the basics and then write a list. The one really good thing I can say is that this place is beautiful inside -- it was too cold to sit outside but I am sure the other reviewers cover the beer garden. Their fries were good. I was dining for dinner on a Sunday night with 3 other people. Here are the problems I had, in no particular order: * No appetizer plates brought to use with our cheese plate appetizer. I dropped half my Maytag blue on the floor. * No cider on the beer menu. I don't like regular beer, and most places with a good list, e.g. Blanc, or Harry's Country Club, have a cider. I will come back to the alcohol offerings again in a moment. * Boulevard Pilsner was $5 for a bottle, Schlitz was $3. Other places, these beers are the same price point. The premium beers were also a little higher. La Fin du Monde is $2 more than at The Drop. * My grilled vegetable sandwich was COLD grilled vegetables, but the menu doesn't say that they are cold. They were kinda slimy and gross, not grilled and succulent. The focaccia bread was pretty awful too -- like worse than Panera bad. I had them sub the tomatillo salsa for Dijon vinaigrette (because I thought I was getting a hot sandwich), which was actually straight up Dijon mustard when they brought it to me in a ramekin. * The grits in the shrimp and grits my friend ordered were more like cornbread dough. Really thick and doughy tasting. The dish could have used a roux, and maybe some collard greens or something else green on the plate other than green onion. * I had to ask for the dessert menu. The server was just kind of clueless. Oh, and only 1 of the 7 desserts was available. * When we were leaving, only THEN did I notice that there's a room off the main dining room, and if you go INTO that room there's a BAR. Had I KNOWN there was a bar, I would have had drinks with my friends, but the server never mentioned that there was liquor in addition to the beer list, nor is there a sign above that doorway saying there's a bar. There was no cocktail menu, nothing. When they opened it was known they didn't have liquor, so it's the kind of thing they really should be telling people. * The server didn't ask how to split the check, and split everyone's, which was fine, but he ran mine and my boyfriend's tickets as separate transactions on my card even when we explained we were together -- which seemed really odd. Again he was just clueless. In summary, I think I'd give it another try but only go to the bar area for one drink, and order the fries again. Then I'd go somewhere that the prices are what they should be, and the servers are a little more with it. I feel bad because I want to support local places, but I have 3 other choices on that block alone if I want to spend money on the Westside.
(1)
blythe c.
We need more restaurants like this! Locally owned and supporting local farmers and foods is the way to go. The atmosphere and location are also wonderful. I like enjoy a quick lunch or a sit down dinner with friends on the patio. There are usually flavorful vegetarian options for me and other great choices for my friends and family.
(5)
Caroline K.
I really want to like this place. It's great for the west side neighborhood, but unfortunately, they have focused way too much on image and appearance and have tossed service and quality to the side. It's a great place for enjoying a hard to find beer. The bartenders seem untrained when it comes to making a cocktail or martini, but they can recommend the perfect beer for your tastes. The prices are quite high for standard beers, but the rare beers seem worth the cost. As for the food, I cannot recommend any of it. Let me outline what your dining experience will be like if you are suckered into the allure of the food menu. The menu is extremely limited and focuses on locally grown and raised foods, however, they are frequently out of key items, whittling the selection down to a grilled cheese sandwich or a burger. The selection of appetizers and snacks are plentiful and delicious and are your best option. If you order a hot item, it will, without fail, come out ice cold and inedible. The enticing smell will tickle your nostrils, but the waxed-over cheese or tepid meat will beg you not to eat it. You realize that the sandwich isn't on the delicious sounding local bread listed on the menu, but a standard store-bought roll. When you try to flag down your server, they will ignore you completely. You will pick at the delicious but helplessly cold garlic fries, and eventually, give up on the meal completely. Half hour later, after you have lost you appetite, your hipster server will slink over. She won't really care about your pathetic sandwich and will whisk it away in a fury of huffs and eye rolls. The owner will come over to your table and offer you a complimentary dessert, of which, there are only two options remaining from a list of seven. When you decline, he will berate you, swear and touch your arm. The service is poor, the menu is promising but limited by undermining demand, and without prompt service, the food suffers. Stop in for a beer, but visit a different gastropub for food.
(1)
David S.
Not sure what all the negative reviews are about. This is definitely not a five star place, but the food here is of the highest quality, the beer selection is good and the decor is refreshing (probably even better in the spring/summer months when we can sit outside and enjoy the weather at the same time) The food can be hit or miss with greatness. The grilled cheese sandwhich and burger are both delicious. The grilled cheese has a buttery toasted exterier with a delicious melted interior perfectly contrasted and accentuated with a bowl of tomato soup or dipped into the marinara on the side. The burger is locally sourced grassfed beef, cooked perfectly and a delicious experience from start to finish. That being said, when I ordered the polenta with braised rabbit, the polenta cake was seared beatifully and creamy on the inside, the rabbit lacked flavor and did not have any of the rich gaminess I would associate with it. They could have been using any high quality chicken and I would not have known the difference. I really do enjoy the place, even if it is a tad pricy for the inconsistency of the menu.
(4)
Jani D.
Fresh*Fresh*Fresh and soooo tasty! I am a huge fan of the appetizers- ALL of them. The Westside Local is also the home of the PERFECT french fry. The waitstaff has been very knowledgeable during each visit. Some of the drinks are unique and very tasty as well.
(4)
Kevin M.
I love this place. It is what a great neighborhood eatery should be and more. The staff is friendly, the atmosphere is relaxing but has a nice energy to it. They have a nice outdoor patio and an excellent beer list. Of course the focus is on the food and it is wonderful. The menu isn't a book ala Cheesecake Factory (remember that stuff is all made out of a bunch of pre-packaged, vacuum sealed ingredients that are thrown together and in many instances microwaved) but I think there are enough choices to satisfy most people's tastes. What you will find are fresh, local ingredients prepared in innovative ways by people who really know about and care about food. The short rib stroganoff is amazing as is the braised rabbit. They have an excellent roast beef sandwich and they typically have specials based on available ingredients. Also, because the food is local, it is dependent on the season, so this Spring's menu will be exciting. Another great feature is the $2 per item tasting menu that includes great local cheeses, sausage, lovely deviled eggs and some really tasty beets.
(5)
Emily H.
Absolutely love the people, love the neighborhood, enjoy the ambiance, and always make new friends and run into old acquaintances (surprising, as the place is tiny). Their bartenders are fantastic, the liquor selection is delectable and the place is cozy and inviting. The olives and fries are yummy, but oh my, the vegetarian options range from absolutely dismal to nonexistent. It's hard to imagine the meat-based dishes having any decent flavor, seasoning, or accompaniment when created by someone who can't come up with a single vegetarian dish worth adding to the menu. I definitely expect more from the chef --who I have known to create many wonderful and flavorful vegetarian dishes-- and from this particular establishment. The kitchen has the experience, the attention to detail, and the ingenuity to knock anyone's socks off. All said, I love the Westside Local and stopping in for a drink is always a lovely experience, whether it is Sunday afternoon or Friday night. I look forward to the menu being refined as they establish themselves in the neighborhood.
(3)
Matthew L.
Great brunch selections. Deceptively filling portions that leave you wanting more but ok with not. The banana bread was a top choice. Great beer list. Would certainly come back for dinner. You should too.
(5)
Kay L.
Gotta knock off a star... the food is still very good (although overpriced) but the patio has gone downhill. Last time we were there, it just looked dingy & dirty, with some raggedy curtains draped in a swag over the gate, and spiderwebs in the corners. Plus, I know everyone loves a dog-friendly patio, but the woman at the table next to us decided to spend an extensive amount of time petting her Husky on a hot, hot day. The resulting combo of epic shedding & huge fans meant a perfect storm of dog hair blowing around our heads & into our food. It was quite disgusting. If we go back, we'll request indoor seating.
(3)
Kathy M.
We have been fans of this establishment; however, on our last visit hubby ordered a BLT and thought the bread,tomato and lettuce were excellent, but they lost MAJOR points on the bacon. It was one piece of bacon for a good size sandwich. A $14 BLT should definitely have several pieces of bacon on it! I had the salmon which was really good and the cubano at the table was also enjoyed. My daughter had the 1/2 chicken and wished she had ordered the mac and cheese instead. She thought the chicken had a spicy kick, but there wasn't much else going for the dish. We may return; however, we will be more careful about what we order.
(3)
Emily M.
This is one of my all-time favorite restaurants in KC MO. I love that they support all natural and local companies. When we were pulling up, Shatto Milk company was making their morning delivery. I mean, how can you get it any fresher? Went with the daily special of BLT on Sasha's bakery bread with avocado spread and a light jalapeño cream sauce. It was delicious! Also, upgraded side to kale salad - which is a must have! And you can't go wrong with a side of mac & cheese. Thanks for a great lunch, Westside!
(5)
Adam S.
This is a place that embraces Kansas City and Kansas City embraces it. It's higher end, farm-to-table, urban and delicious 90% of the time. It's even climbed my list of places to recommend to people visiting out of town. I've never seen this place slow, including lunch and dinners. It's a great, charming older building that is easy to feel at home at year round. You also get the added benefit of a beer garden on the side for the warmer days. As for the food, there are many good meals that I've tried (grilled cheese with tomato fennel soup, the burger and fries, mac n cheese, and some salads) but there have been a few meals that are a bit underwhelming. Not bad by any stretch, just more of a "this is $16 and tastes like it should be $9" type of feeling. It's a great early First Fridays dinner spot, but it's best to make a reservation because it's always packed.
(4)
Tim C.
We were in town for a conference and decided to venture outside the convention area for a less touristy place to eat. We walked a mile to get to this little spot, and it didn't disappoint. It has a very hipster vibe to it, which normally isn't my thing, but it wasn't to bad. The cocktails were fresh, and well made. The food was fantastic. We sat on the patio, which was a little hot. Maybe some fans that worked a little better may have helped. Our server was very good. I definitely recommend WL for a nice place to grabs cocktail and/or grab a bite to eat with some good conversation.
(4)
Eric S.
Great spot with an incredible menu. It's not every day you find a place that makes it hard to choose. I finally decided on the Summit Burger 1/2 pound ground hormone-free rib-eye, arugula, emmentaler, dijon vinaigrette, on farm-to-market brioche bun and the parmesan & parsley fries (which you'll eat them all, trust me.) It was so good, the beer menu was lengthy and the ambiance was upscale and hip. Look forward to trying the same burger with the jalapeño options next time.
(4)
Tammie H.
So amazing! Kale salad for sure. Comfort food grilled cheese and crispy fries so amazing!
(5)
Sidney M.
Everything we ordered was delicious it did need salt. A lot of business. Very relaxed, warm, inviting, laid back atmosphere. Jeremy was out server and he was awesome!!!
(4)
Kent Jacob S.
I cannot believe I have never reviewed The Westside Local. Shame on me because if anyone ever asks for my opinion on breakfast/brunch places, The Westside Local always pops up in my head first. The food is delicious and the service is top notch! What comes to mind when I think of Westside Local are the parmesan fries and grilled cheese. I swear by it, their fries are probably my favorite anywhere. It beats Oklahoma Joes, In-N-Out, and any other place I've said where fries were amazing. For the life of me, I don't understand why but eating their fries with house-made ketchup and garlic aioli sauces will always stick with me. Therefore, this place must be that good. So, if I haven't raved about it enough, their fries are a must order I tell you! The grilled cheese was just as delicious. The bread is toasty yet moist and that white cheddar cheese is very tasty. The tomato fennel soup is really a good pairing for their grilled cheese, so kudos to the chef here. The people are friendly and they really know the food well. I love putting waiters on the spot and asking them for their favorite dish. I can still remember our waiter telling me about the fennel soup and grilled cheese. The place does get busy but am very pleased that they take reservations. The Westside Local is a great place to go. It's no wonder that Finding KC rates this place as one of the top breakfast joints in all of Kansas City.
(5)
Micah B.
By far the best meal I have had since visiting KC! The lamb chorizo tacos are amazingly on point!!!!
(5)
Frank L.
I had the privilege to check out Westside local for lunch while visiting Kansas City. I came in for lunch on a Friday around 11:20 and 15 minutes later, the place was packed. I decided to sit in the bar area on a high top so was helped by the bartender. He was awesome, and helped decide on my meal. I went with the Veggie Quinoa sweet potato burger with a side of kale hummus. Everythin on the menu looked great. The burger came out pretty quickly and was huge. There was a bi to much bread, so I just ate the yummy insides sans bun. It was my first time trying kale hummus and I was pleaseantly surprised. The craft beer selection was also pretty impressive, albeit a bit pricey for some. All in all a great place.
(4)
Kaitlyn M.
A lovely quiet restaurant with brick walls and high ceilings. Doesn't get over crowded (not to say that the tables weren't full- every table was sat, it just wasn't noisy and uncomfortable like a lot of restaurants tend to get). The food was decent. They have a list of their cocktails, which our table tried a few different kinds, but the cocktails were all pretty unique I guess is a nice way to put it, no one ordered the same drink twice because they didn't love any single one... It's a little pricey, but not terrible, we ended up paying $125 for two people (we had three drinks each)... I just wasn't wowed with what I had, so I don't know if I will go back but I'm glad I went and I had a nice experience.
(4)
A H.
I booked a table for 12 for my birthday. It was a really tight fight - uncomfortable. When 2 more people showed up, we asked if we could put two tables together. A smug guy said, "not a chance." Then when food starts arriving, I wait for mine. And I wait. Five minutes later the server appears to tell me that "they ran out of chicken - but mine is coming." When it does arrive (everyone else is halfway done) it is not correct. (Wrap instead of on a bed of greens). I wait again. By the time I get my food, my friends are mostly done. Very disappointed in the experience. The food is good, but organization and timing matter, as well as manners.
(2)
Joe G.
I'm not sure what happened... But I ordered what I felt was going to be one of the better dishes. It came highly recommended. I had ordered the trout with quinoa, and roasted cauliflower. The portions were rather small and left me hungry later. That was disappointing as it was one of the pricier items listed, and the menu isn't that big. The waitress seemed very indifferent to being there. That's the other factor that turned me off. I will add, that 3 years ago- I had far superior service and better entree as well. I do like this place but had an off night.
(2)
Cindy F.
Wonderful beer selection. Had a bourbon hard cider I fell in love with. Hubby liked Torn Label stout. Had sampling of baguette, venison sausage, & Shatto cheese to start. Deviled eggs are killer. I insist you order some. For main had spring quinoa with trout. Very fresh - had asparagus and chèvre. Very tasty. Hubby had the burger, it was unbelievable. Had ham on it with toasted cheese on the bun. Perfection. Fries were top notch. Patio and restaurant are beyond cute. Had wonderful meal, service was wonderful and attentive. Will be back for sure.
(4)
Thorsten F.
My favorite burger of all time, my favorite fries of all time, AND they have really syrupy Coke. This place is probably my favorite restaurant in KC.
(5)
Shanley C.
Tucked away in a quiet Kansas City neighborhood, Chef Nina Gann at The Westside Local serves up one of the best breakfasts in town. I'm a huge fan of their Veggie Hash made with sweet potatoes, one sunny-side up egg, oyster mushrooms, roasted poblano, breakfast potatoes, kale, Brussels sprouts, fresh herbs and hollandaise. In an area well known for its beef, you might expect hash that contains some of what the Midwest is famous for. But this hash is so delicious you won't miss the meat. From first bite you'll taste the fresh herbs mingled with rich homemade hollandaise sauce that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the dish. Get a forkful of salty Brussels sprouts, snag a mushroom and swipe them both through egg yolk/sauce mix. That's your roadmap to hash euphoria. The restaurant stays true to its name by keeping all of its products and ingredients local - from bacon to brews - just flip over the menu and you'll see a list of all the farmers and local businesses that went into making your meal. If you have room, the Apple Bread French Toast is Westside Local's signature sweet breakfast dish. The homemade apple bread contains loads of vanilla, cinnamon, chunks of walnuts and then battered and topped with chunky apple butter. From its hashtastic start to the satisfyingly sweet finish, Westside Local is your stop for phenomenal food.
(5)
Catherine K.
My friend and I came here while visiting Kansas City, and I can't wait to go back! We ordered the cheese plate, (which had an amazing roasted garlic spread), the charcuterie board (you get to choose three kinds of meat, which come with sides of pickled vegetables, apricot jam, and whole grain mustard-- all delicious), and the fries (which also have three amazing sauces). We spent the evening savoring all of the different flavors, which were also really fun to mix and match. The people were very nice, everything came out in a timely manner, and the servings were generous. A great experience!
(5)
Neeca B.
This is such a trendy little spot almost borderline pretentious but the food is honestly good. I would be totally proud to bring any foodie here. even for a regular joe the burgers would work, and they probably wouldn't balk to much at the price, well maybe a little. Service was a little slow but in all fairness i excepted it since it was a Friday night. decent portion size, ate half, the other even tasted better as next days lunch.
(4)
Abby J.
Stopped in this weekend for the first time and definitely enjoyed my visit. Ordered the Woodhaven Burger with parmesan/parsley fries. The burger was one of the juiciest/freshest burgers that I've eaten to date. Topped with a thick slice of country ham and copious amounts of cheese, it doesn't get much better. Being so fresh, it comes at a little more expensive of a price- a $15 burger. Also, the fries were very flavorful and crisped just right. Usually I have to douse mine in ketchup, but not these! This place has many fresh and healthy options to choose from. Definitely worth a try.
(5)
Anita O.
Doesn't get day better. Food good. Beer good. Ambience good. Attitude toward local food superb. What else is there?
(5)
Geri W.
Since I work in the West Bottoms, I consider Westside Local. . .well, local. (mapquest drive time: 3 minutes!) Of course what it means is that all the food is sourced locally, and it is wonderful! Hubby and I made reservations for 6:00 PM on a Friday. I called at noon that Friday, and just skidded into the reservation, so I would consider noon probably a cut-off for a reservation of choice. So nice to sit down, look around, and feel at home. The vibe at Westside is definitely low-key, relaxing, and organic, with the wood floors, brick walls and candles. The service was excellent. A very attentive waiter disappeared at the right times and arrived at the right times to pour water. He was knowledgeable about the menu, and recommended the hummus to top my quinoa/sweet potato burger. So, so good, this vegetarian burger is. I have had it twice now, and it was delicious both times, with a homemade roll and aioli. And the fries. Westside's fries are delicious and unique: crispy like McDonalds, but real. I longed for some salt, and I brought out a packet from my stash. Our waiter saw the packet, and kidded me about the packet just being "a cry for help." He immediately brought a shaker of salt. Hubby was no dummy and ordered the Westside Local mac 'n cheese. Of course I had a bite, and it was cooked al dente with a mild, but pleasantly biting, yet creamy, white sauce. If you haven't tried the charcuterie board yet, do so, you won't be disappointed. I've been to Local several times now, and it is always good, and the service is great. Westside Local is where I bring people I really like: I don't want anyone else to know!
(5)
Rachel W.
I truly enjoy the atmosphere at Westside Local...as much as I enjoy the entire neighborhood really. It is small, cozy and optimal for conversation. Parking is easy, even on a busy night. Highly recommend for a dinner or drinks date. I've frequented the restaurant a few times over the years both for drinks and for dinner. On my latest visit, I ordered the summer quinoa which is vegan-friendly but also includes the option to add chicken or salmon if you so desire. I stuck with the vegan version and it was yummy. I also had a tasty gin & tonic before my meal came and it was made well. Not too heavy on the gin, not too heavy on the tonic. On previous visits I've enjoyed the mac & cheese (delicious, but I had to take some home bc of the large quantity), the grilled cheese and tomato fennel soup (I love this combo, but to be honest..I've had better grilled cheese), the pint of fries (finger-licking good, not to be compared to KFC of course), as well as the kale salad (I love it when restaurants do salads well). I can't wait to try the sweet potato burger and long list of appetizers someday. Overall, I'm a fan.
(4)
C. W.
Great atmosphere for a weekend lunch with friends. We were excited about having brunch, but beware, BRUNCH IS ONLY ON SUNDAYS starting at 11AM! Our server was a real sweetie, who consoled us and gave us great suggestions. I had the Chicken wrap (gluten-free--served on a bed of greens instead of the flour wrap) and roasted veggies. The flavor of the chicken and greens was sumptuous matching a very creamy dressing. And the roasted veggies offered variety and flavor, though slightly too salty for my taste and I like my roasted garlic chopped up rather than whole. Also, know that the coffee is tasty but strong! I'd come back if I had the chance.
(4)
Tali Z.
We stumbled upon this restaurant after scanning yelp for options in the area, and we were thrilled with the find! The ambiance is lovely - cozy, yet open with a dark wood-planked ceiling and brick walls. We started by ordering drinks; I ordered Bob's Beer Coctail and my friend ordered The Josie. Both were delicious, but I especially loved the combination of beer, juic eand liquor in mine. I would never think to make a mixed drink out of a beer, but it was outstanding. For food we orders the Mac and Cheese and the Summit (heirloom option) Burger. Again, both were mouth watering. The meat in the burger was so flavorful, probably one of the best burger patties I have ever had. It was cooked perfectly to order and the cheese and add-ons added a great burst of flavor. We opted for the veggies on the side, which were again delicious though they did have a kick. If you like spicy, the hot peppers in there are for you. The Mac and Cheese was hearty, cheesy, hot, crispy... just the way it should be! I even found myself scraping the remaining cheese off the side of the bowl. Delicious. We then got the desert; key lime pie with a cookie (not sure what type of cookie - maybe shortbread?). Both were subtle flavors and weren't too sweet or tart, and together they were prefect! We were so thrilled with our food that we even ordered a side of fries (not on the menu as a side, but they'll let you get it) to take home with us. They were even good an hour later :) The only reason I rated at 4 stars as opposed to 5 was because there was a drip from the ac near our table, so they turned us sideways and it was a bit awkward. But it really was not a big deal. Also, our waitress originally told us a different dessert (banana bread) which we ordered and then waited a while thinking it would be brought out, but when she returned she told us they were out of that desert. Again, not a big deal and we happily switched to key lime pie, but it was a bit of a wait for her to let us know... All in all, I think I've found my favorite KC restaurant!
(4)
Andrea G.
This place is nestled in a quiet and snug manner in this old Kansas City neighborhood with a rich history as diverse and changing as the menu. I am glad this place is in my old neighborhood where I grew up, my mom was born and where my grandparents grew up. When I go home to visit my childhood home it is nice to walk up the street to this quaint little restaurant and bar. I embrace diversity especially when it comes with craft beers and happy hour wine prices. I am also glad to see that Kansas City is becoming more integrated I hope. It is not a noisy loud chain restaurant from the suburbs nor did it bring obnoxious new construction to this neighborhood with houses that are more than a 100 years old. The food is decent but what I like it even more is that it is all locally derived. They will also give you a cold glass of almond milk with a chocolate chip cookie if you are are a lactard like me. So I give it a lactose friendly stamp of approval. Cheers to the Westside Local. This is where I meet up with all my friends/family when I am home for a visit.
(4)
Matt E.
Update time! The good: I frickin love their food. I eat here somewhat on the regular, and everything has been fantastic. Their mac and cheese and their grilled cheese are both on point. IN regards to the latter, I vote that you upgrade to include the ham, but still request the tomato and fennel soup rather than the lingonberry jam. I find the jam too sweet for a non-dessert. But still, it's a fabulous meal. Also recommended are the fish tacos. They're saucy and delicious and the kale adds a great texture. Yum yum. Their staff is consistently friendly and helpful. They have great personalities that shine through while they work, which I definitely appreciate as opposed to waitress-bots. I like these people! The bad: one thing. The flies! Sitting inside this isn't a problem, but their patio seems to have an overabundance of the pesty little insects. I hate having to constantly defend my food from dive-bombing bugs. Still, that's not enough to turn me away from the place. I am a big fan of Westside Local!
(4)
Jeremy C.
Been here twice now. The first time, my friend and I came on a Sunday night for dinner and they were out of fries, so we were a bit disappointed. The service at the biergarden that night was subpar, not to mention we were served by two different waiters who kept asking us the same questions. The Deviled Eggs were nothing special, but the Apple Bread was phenomenal. We got the Summit burger and the Windhaven burger. Although I preferred the Shatto cheese on the Windhaven, the ground ribeye used for the Summit burger definitely made it the clear winner. Not to mention the brioche bun (Summit) is much better than the pretzel bun (Windhaven). Came back on a Friday night with a group of 6. There was a last minute cancellation when I called so they had the back table reserved for us. It was perfect and they were incredibly nice and accommodating. Our server this time was a significant upgrade and provided the perfect waiting experience. The local cheese and charcuterie plates were good, but the standout was definitely the kale hummus. The P.E.I. Mussels were served in a type of creamy bisque which was super rich and super delicious. (Pro tip: dip the parmesan fries in the mussels sauce). The baked Mac n Cheese is one of the best in KC (it has Brie in it!). Overall, this is one of my favorite restaurants in KC. Could use some improvement in the waitstaff department, but the food, drinks, and atmosphere make it hard to beat.
(4)
S G.
We've eaten here several times and enjoy the food. The food has never been a disappointment. I gave 4 stars due to service. The waitress didn't really seem enthused to be there. She didn't mention any specials or dive into the menu. I actually felt like she was annoyed to have us there. She perked up a bit at the end. The times we've come before the service has been great. Usually the staff really talk about the menu but oh well. I still recommend this restaurant. It's still is a favorite for us.
(4)
Doug K.
Awesome place to eat/drink. Highly recommend!!! Had the burger special with grilled veggies, amazing. Going to be a usual here.
(5)
Jimmi H.
My husband and I have begun our tour-de-KC food as we wind down our final weeks. Being Westsiders, Westside Local is an obvious stop and last night made for a great meal. First the setting, specifically the patio. One of the best in KC! The space is wonderful for an early autumn dinner al fresco, and perfect for midday meals most of the year. The service is consistent and friendly. The highlight though is the food! Get the hummus. I love hummus and usually only really go for a traditional take on it, but WL just does it right, and I found it went best with the carrots. The tomato fennel soup was like an autumnal holiday in my mouth, just delicious. The only thing that could have improved that cup of soup was crisp autumn air, but I suppose the chef has zero control over the weather. For my dinner I chose the kale salad with a salmon add on. The salmon was light and rich with a delicate crispness that made it the star of the dish. I did find though that the kale, Brussels sprout mix with dressing ratio was way off. I finished my meal with a half of a plate full of dry kale. The best thing on the table though was my husbands meal, buffalo chorizo Mac and cheese! Decadent, rich and unlike any Mac and cheese I've had before, but in a very positive way. It was almost like chili but with everything I love about Mac and cheese; rich creamy sauce, full plump noodles and then mixed with a hearty, full flavor chorizo. Wow! This is a dish to share though. Great experience!
(4)
B. L.
Completely rude staff. Left for Harry's country club.
(1)
Sarah G.
Surprisingly I'm visiting KCMO for the first time- I've lived in St Louis my entire life (it's only about 4 hours away). My friend and I are big foodies and appreciate local foods and neighborhood establishments. I found The Westside Local on a blog as being one of the best Farm to Table restaurants in KCMO. We decided to try it on our first night here and it did not disappoint. The place was full when we arrived but it was worth the wait. We each ordered a cocktail- I had the Pleasant Peasant which is made up of Strongbow, gin, and a house made honey basil tea concentrate. It's a little sweet and very refreshing! We decided to split a few appetizers for dinner- we had the Cheese Plate (the roasted garlic spread is to die for!), the Charcuterie Board (we chose the prosciutto spread, country ham, and Broadway pate), and the Pint o Fries with a trio of sauces. Overall our experience was great and I will definitely be recommending this place to my friends! My one tip if you get the pate on the charcuterie board- try it with the apricot jam- it's delicious
(5)
Nilav R.
This place uses local ingredients from local vendors. All menu items are accompanied with local beer suggestions, which I found to be very unique and creative. The actual food is delicious, I highly recommend trying one of their burgers, they are cooked to perfection!
(5)
Baron A.
If we could have sent everything back, we would have. The mac & cheese had clearly been left in the oven or heat lamps for about 10 minutes too long, and all of the cheese broke-down into oil, so the result was twisting noodles soaking in 1 inch of clear hot oil. To their credit, when I showed it to them, they admitted it was a mistake and took it back; however, how can such a dish even make it to the table. Then, the chicken and polenta is an ill conceived dish. The dish is a chichen thigh and drumstick, polenta cakes, green beans, and a sauce. The problem is that the drumstick is literally sitting in the sauce; so, it is not crispy, and too messy to handle--therefore, you have to eat the drumstick with a fork and knife. But, the same grease problem that plagued the mac & cheese, killed this dish. The polenta was fried and shiny from grease and soaking in the greasy sauce. You could literally see the pools and trails of grease in the sauce. The green beans were cooked, and then oiled, and then cooked, and then oiled, and then cooked, and then oiled and then.... If they truly start with good local ingredients, then it is even a greater sin to coat it in oil and overcook it, because then you might as well be using Safeway ingredients. So, we used a fork and knife and separated the chicken meat off of the bones and then left everything else on the plate. The small amount of chicken that we separated from the small thigh and the drumstick was overcooked and rubbery. As a server, this is a major RED flag: a person done with their meal that didn't eat 9/10's of the plate's food. However, instead of asking "Was there a problem" or "seems like it didn't work out," or anything to acknowledge the uneaten meal, the staff simply said "are you done with that?" and took the plate full of food. Also, we ordered a glass of wine and the taste was horrible--it had the taste of wine that was in the box that your parents would drink. As with the chicken dish, we didn't drink any of it, and the wait staff never asked if there was a problem, and instead simply took the full plate of food, and ignored the completely untouched glass of wine. Lastly, they need to check their water filter. The water smells like an aquarium. I asked if they sold bottled water, and they said no. I would rather have unfiltered tap water, than water that is processed through an aquarium. Worst meal ever . . ..
(1)
Ferzeen P.
Love the atmosphere, esp the back patio. I love the picnic table idea which is great for big groups or meeting new people. Pretty decent happy hour esp for wine. Ordered a make your own meat/cheese board and it was delicious. The Buffalo bison and cheddar were my fave. Everything is farm to table meaning you'll always have fresh food! Def coming back
(4)
Kevin T.
I am on a roll for finding great eats lately and the Westside Local continues my good fortune! This is by far one of the best casual farm-to-table type restaurants I have ever been too. The grass-fed beef burgers are prepared to a pleasing medium and it was topped with pepper-jack cheese, fresh jalapenos, sliced onions, baby arugula and ripe tomatoes. The bun matched the freshness of the other ingredients. Served up with crisp Parmesan french fries and homemade ketchup which was amazing. I really like that they have a lot of local beers available too. I believe the prices to be pretty standard for a farm-to-table place. I am happy to say that I will be starting a new job that is only 1 mile away from here. You can bet I will be a lunch regular!
This is a solid restaurant that we may try again sometime. We enjoyed Saturday lunch there. My hubs had the lamb chorizo tacos and I had the chicken kale wrap. We both enjoyed our selections but not memorable. The service was great and love the local vibe and atmosphere.
(3)
Dina B.
Had reservations, seated with the setting sun glaring in our faces. Our request for a move seemed challenging to the staff, we did get moved to a great table, though. Place was empty on Saturday night. Bad sigh. Cheeses were served cold, too bad-great cheese. Pate had a rough texture and raw herbaceous flavor...ugh. Famous tomato and fennel soup was raw tasting and watery, didn't eat it. Service was okay. Kale and shaved Brussels sprouts salad was all kale, and not as good as in the past, sad. Finally, kale humus was flavorless. Won't return.
(2)
Deva J.
Farm to table concept. Food never disappoints. Loved the grilled cheese sandwich! Seriously yummy! This restaurant also is supporting a good cause.....they are donating 10% of all who ate here today to the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society. How wonderful are they to do that? Amazing!!
(5)
Gina M.
What can I say that's not completely scathing? This place was meh. On a night that wasn't crowded, it took us an hour and a half to be seated. This was after the host assured us it would be 10 minutes. Well every 10 minutes, it was another 10 minute wait. Not cool. When seated, we had a very apathetic waiter who could barely pay attention for the full minute it took for us to order. It took another 30-45 minutes for our food to come out. My grilled cheese and soup were hardly worth the wait and my husband's burger was nothing to be excited about. If we weren't treated so poorly and didn't have to wait so long for our food, maybe our experience would have been a little better. I'm sorry our business was a big inconvenience for you, Westside Local, we won't be back to bother you.
(1)
Jennifer J.
Investing in an otherwise blighted, if emerging, area of Kanas City takes fearless leadership and an appetite for risk. The Westside Local graciously accepts the challenge with a fresh, innovative menu. Come for Blunch and enjoy deviled eggs and fresh beignets alongside sharp, local cheese and crispy crackers. The Apple Bread French Toast is a perfect if you're waking up with a sweet tooth; my boyfriend dove face first into a burrito and we shared strong coffee and mimosas. Rustic and elegant, the restaurant would be a perfect location for any special event and the seasonal outdoor seating is lush and accomodating. Adding this restaurant to my list of Kansas City crave-able food... can't wait to come back!
(5)
JC A.
Grilled Cheese Worth Its Weight in Gold Went to lunch twice there recently and the grilled cheese was so good I got it both times. Not very imaginative of me, but The Westside Local did all the dream work for me with the rocking combo of "brie, emmentaler and shatto white cheddar on toasted sasha's baking co. sourdough, and tomato fennel soup for dipping". Note: Second time I was there, tried the Roasted Red Pepper soup with and loved it even more than the tomato fennel(and the tom fennel is wonderful!) If you have not tried their delicious deviled eggs, you must. They'rr the kind of dish you'd give as a housewarming gift if your deviled eggs sold on the black market for high dollar. Lunch partners got Westside Mac and Cheese( he proposed to it), Pork Belly sandwich(smelled so good we had sandwich envy). Fabulous food, great service and happy place to be all-around.
(5)
Zane W.
Great, local food at a great price. Had a killer 750 ml bottle of beer without breaking the bank. Good service, too.
(5)
Tricia H.
Okay I seriously seriously wanted to LOVE this place...but I didn't at all :(... I LOVED the neat ambiance and the oldness of this building.. It really reminded me of a big city artsy restaurant. Okay to the food ...The Bratwurst Trio was just okay nothing to write home about to be frank they were almost over cooked rubbery :(...I was so excited to taste the spicy pickle's seeing I LOVE pickle's especially spicy ones..another disappoint :( not spicy at all they tasted like garlic pickles outta a jar. The roasted beets were just OK too, nothing special....I really wanted to love this place but nothing really struck me with flavor or that YUMMMM factor for the price. I can say the Fries were bountiful and yummy.. I do plan on going back and trying many other items that are in the reviews...Maybe next time it will be better!!! Wish me luck
(2)
Scott T.
Five stars, solid. What a delightful venue. We were checking several restaurants in the area for lunch but when we saw the menu here the deal was sealed. Why? Anyone using products from The Local Pig on their menu (one of our next stops for the day) is *really* serious about the food they're putting on the table. It shows here. A restaurant can get their products elsewhere easily enough, so why go with a small independent local butcher? Quality. The Local Pig is head and shoulders above the crowd in quality. Now, for the food... best french fries in town, hands down--a real surprise--insane. Someone message me where they're better because I want to go there. We split the cheese and charcuterie platter going for Gorgonzola, Manchego and Rosemary Goat for the cheeses and Rabbit Pate, Prosciutto and Andouille for the meats. Along with that came a marvelous Kale salad (picture included with review) and a couple of great beer selections. We spoke to a few other diners and everyone was raving about the food, and for good reason. The entire beer selection is exceptional, and the wine selection appears to be well thought out as well. The service very pleasant and was ahead of the game (more crackers with the cheese?), another beer? All OK? Appropriate, but not pushy, shared her experiences with some of the dishes. I'm in the area this coming Friday for the opera--no high brow dining for us beforehand. We'll be at The Westside. Keep up the great work!
(5)
Gina M.
Great atmosphere with excellent food choices. Met a friend here for "Blunch" and loved the creative choices on the menu. The ingredients were very fresh, which is always nice. The grilled salmon benedict was a.mazing! My friend had the veggie hash, which also looked (and smelled) delicious ~ must've tasted delicious too, judging by my friend's face and the clean plate at the end of the meal.
(4)
Stephanie G.
Disappointed. I've been told by many to go here. The hummus was way too acidic too eat and was served along with Parmesan crackers that were chewy and tasted like cardboard. The grilled cheese was average, not worth 11 dollars by any means. Way too much bread for grilled cheese, too. I especially liked it when our waitress asked me over my shoulder if I wanted to box that up as I was eating it. Will not go back.
(2)
Rayni K.
Every now and then we are giant cheeseballs and crave cheesy meals. We had one of those days in Kansas City while we were at the Convention Center for a conference. So we took a little walk during the break and got ourselves the Westside Mac & Cheese and the Grilled Cheese. We were in cheese heaven. The tomato fennel soup that came with the Grilled Cheese was actually brilliantly tasty, and I normally dislike tomato soup. The side of fries was also cooked just the way I like it - crispy! We opted for the addition of bacon & shallots on the Mac & Cheese and they did not skimp on the bacon whatsoever. It was a cheesy bacon festival in a bowl. Highly recommended place to eat at. Service may be a tad slow, though.
(4)
Madeline S.
I'd like to update my past review and share a recent dining experience. i had dinner with my brother and dad who were visiting, after taking them to Room 39 and Jack Stack the nights before. They decided that Westside Local was their favorite meal. They both ordered burgers, which were delicious. I tried the fries too and they were great. We chose several items to add to an appetizer plate - salami, spicy pickles, baguette, kale hummus and deviled eggs. Then I had the crispy skin trout. We shared a unique and scrumptious dessert, the strawberry shortcake, that was not anything like your average shortcake, it was more like a buckle.
(4)
Dave L.
An ounce of pretension is worth a pound of manure. The food took an hour to come out and was not worth the $15 it cost.
(2)
Jacy R.
Quiet enough to bring a client in for a handcrafted cocktail. Try the Black Lodge. House infused hibiscus flower tequila, dry curaçao, fresh grapefruit juice, & agave. They menu features many locally sourced options. It's a tad pricey for the area but it won't disappoint.
(5)
Jacques C.
I've been here a good number of times. The good is always seasonal, always fresh, and always well prepared. I can't find anything to complain about except for an occasionally dippy server...and only very occasionally. I just had lunch there today and it was stellar. Granted the prices are a little higher than the normal lunch fare, but the quality is if a sufficiently higher quality to merit the price. Dinner is also superb.
(5)
Stans S.
Being both vegetarian and a foodie can be challenging! I tried their winter quinoa, with Brussels sprouts, winter squash, kale, parsnips, walnuts, goat cheese and more and it was PERFECT! I had fresh fruit (pear, grapes & blueberries) for desert. What a fabulous meal! There is nothing more to say; I was so happy to find this meal!!
(5)
Andria N.
As I realized that I frequent this place about once a week, I realized I need to update my review. I love Westside Local. Their food is ALWAYS spot on... You cannot go wrong with their ever changing specials or my old faithfuls of grilled cheese, french dip, or burger. Their snacks or Appetizers are a great way to start especially when you get their olives (They also have a great selection of cheese and crackers). And to top things off, their beer and wine selection is up to par!
(5)
E H.
We landed at the Westside after falling in love with the neighborhood earlier in the day. Had great food, good drinks, and decent service the first night. The quinoa was subtle and surprisingly delicious, my $10 cocktail strong but tasty, and the olives were truly amazing. So buttery! The second visit was a little less thrilling, but still worthy of four stars.
(4)
Susan N.
Decent beer list. Pretty good food. Awesome atmosphere and service. Met up with fellow yelpers, Lauren O and Tiger W, and hopefully future yelper Amy. We had hoped that this would be a good place to meet up with a group and it was. Whether you choose indoors or outdoors, you'll be absolutely delighted with the atmosphere of Westside Local. The inside gives off a classy bar atmosphere and reminds me of one of my favorite beer bars in Brooklyn. The outside has several communal tables and feels like you could be chowing down in a vineyard. Service was very helpful. We always had someone making sure we're ok and clearing away everything to make room for our endless samples. Garlic fries - Terrific fries. Really flavorful without the pungent taste garlic can sometimes have but without lacking that garlic flavor. Cheese plate - Like a little piece of heaven. I think I near devoured the cheese. A bit of brie, blue cheese and a semi-hard cheese, all with lots of flavor, served with a fig sliced in half, champagne grapes and three slices of bread. Beef ritte - I liked it but I could see how a lot of people wouldn't. If you like liver pate, you'd enjoy it. If you hate pate, don't order this. Deviled eggs - Personally I like mine a heck of a lot better. No relish mixed it and it had a very strong sharp mustard taste. Mexican chocolate cake - Personally wasn't crazy about it. I like the texture the pumpkin seeds gave it and the prickly pear sauce on which it lay but something was just off about the cake itself. Having had Mexican chocolate before, it was not really right. All in all, good, though, and I'd go back.
(4)
Wylee S.
I had the grilled cheese and arugula salad and it was AMAZING. Best grilled cheese I have probably ever had. The restaurant is also very cool inside and it's in a part of town that I wouldn't normally think to go. I'm very excited to go back and try other things!
(5)
Bob R.
It took me longer to make it in here than I had hoped, but it was worth the wait. This review should actually be 3.5 stars, because I definitely will be looking forward to my next visit. I loved the bar area, a very small, quaint bar with a great feel. It felt like an authentic Irish pub. The dining room, however, was a little too big, or spaced out, or something. I really can't put my finger on it. The flourescent lighting shining into the dining room from the kitchen should be covered up. For some reason the room just felt too large or too sterile. It doesn't have the warmth of the rest of the joint. The service was perfect, bordering on pleasant. Our server told us it was his first serving job, and I told him I thought he was a natural. He was relaxed, but attentive. The food was the real winner. The attention to detail really comes across. The salmon club was cooked perfectly and had fantastic flavor. My date's burger was also outstanding. We both loved the deviled eggs appetizer. While I don't know if I'll be back to have dinner in the dining room, I do intend to hit the beer garden for a Three Philosophers Ale, or to just hang at the bar and enjoy some outstanding food at a very reasonable price.
(3)
H L S.
Excellent food, very nice rooms, we'll have to try the beer garden when it isn't so damp outside. Our server was properly attentive, but not in the way. He was extremely easy on the eyes too. Previous posters mentioned some service issues, but I encourage them to return now that The Local has been open for a few weeks. Everything we tried, the frites, the charcuterie, the salmon burger and the luscious grilled cheese sandwich tasted great and had good eye appeal. The frites were seasoned well, needing nothing else. Even so, sample the fresh catsup, it's first rate. To top everything off, the prices make it a great dining value for Kansas City. We'll be back often and will be telling all our friends about The Local. (Loved the tables in the main room, the table tops are made from uneven lengths of re-milled salvaged wood.)
(4)
Dan D.
What is wonderful about this place is the ambiance and the quality of the food. I highly recommend the braised rabbit saison and I will be sure to try the grass feed steak and frites next visit. The outside area is wonderful and as the weather gets a little cooler it will be wonderful to sit out and enjoy beer and wine. I give this place a lot of credit the atmosphere inside is wonderful and the layout makes it wonderful for small or larger parties. Only thing I wish was reservations for groups smaller than 6.
(5)
Josh C.
The food was excellent and fresh. The indoor and outdoor seating was unique and enjoyable. And the service was good. It's a very casual hang out type place.
(4)
Mat E.
This is fairly new and right next to the very popular Blue Bird Bistro so we were excited to check it out. Good: - Burgers are amazing - Very different beer menu with many beers on tap (would be nice to have a few weaker beers for that lunchtime tipple) - Lovely outdoor 'beer garden' for when the weather is appropriate - Nice atmosphere inside - Decent menu - Friendly staff - Reasonably priced Bad: - NO RESERVATIONS FOR GROUPS LESS THAN SIX. So you have a choice of places to go on a date, or a special dinner. Do you want to hang around for maybe 30 minutes waiting for a table on a busy night? Not us, so we only go here for lunch - Friendly staff are pretty slow and not very knowledgeable, they don't have many recommendations or opinions on the food, drink, etc. - Pretty popular so be prepared to wait - Unusual area, never had any problems but looks like you might - Parking can be tricky We've been three times and will probably go one more time this year. Just a shame they don't take reservations for smaller groups.
(3)
Anna S.
This is a delightful place in my dad's neighborhood. I've had some serious deviled eggs, intriguing cocktails, and lovely service. I feel this place does not get the attention it deserves, and I'm really okay with that. Let's keep it neighborhood-y.
(5)
Eilene S.
We were here on mother's day for brunch and it was borderline poor. First our waitress was on slow motion- really slow motion. The restaurant was not very busy and yet it took forever to get refills on coffee. Often we had to flag down another waiter to get refills. They were out of 2 menu items, the french toast and a chicken dish, so I ordered the waffle. It came out luke warm and soggy. The "strawberry compote" was truly frozen strawberries that had been thawed. For a restaurant that bases their menu off "freshest ingredients and dining experience possible" that was very disappointing. My friends ordered the veggie hash and grilled cheese, both these dishes were tasty but also served luke warm. It took forever to get the bill and at this point (despite being mothers day) the restaurant only had a few patrons in it. Overall, very disappointing.
(2)
Bridget K.
I'm all for supporting local business while divulging in great food, but when I went here I only felt like I satisfied half of that objective. The beer list was splendid as one would hope, and I went with my old girlie yet standalone favorite Ephemere because frankly I had a hard time choosing! I look forward to going back for more than just one drink as this is definitely a place for sitting back & drinking, but not for me in the way of eating. I had the grilled cheese which was good by all measures, just not great, as much as I wanted it to be from what I had heard about this place. Also, the fries are just so profoundly overrated I almost wonder if we got them on a bad night. I'm almost positive they use garlic powder because some of our fries tasted like garlic & others tasted unseasoned, which to me somehow feels cheap for the level of innovation in cuisine today. Also, they were cold & dry which could mean a couple of things: 1) our server was slow to deliver them, or 2) they're not made to order or at the very least not kept under a heat lamp, which the thought of isn't appetizing but preferable to just sitting in a well in the kitchen. The patio was lovely in it's simplicity and we went on a perfect day, so kudos to them for snagging a killer plot! I would've lingered there for hours but alas we had to be elsewhere. We were quite impressed with the interior of the bar area and the host desk, but that's all I saw of the inside. The crowd at the bar looked like they were regulars, quite comfortable & gregarious in their hipster-chic attire, yet eyed us as "new meat" carefully. I've heard through the grapevine that although the owners are cool and have the best intentions, I was a little disappointed to hear that they barely support local farms in their food buying, as I thought that would be a given with not only their name, but that that's the newest trend in KC non-corporate eateries, for example, The Farmhouse. I hope that changes, and I look forward to going back for the beer alone if nothing else.
(3)
Josh S.
Don de Dieu - Gift of God. This BSPA made my visit to Westside Local even better. This is a great space to enjoy the approaching fall weather and have a drink with some friends, new and old. The setup with the picnic tables is a fun one and promotes good conversation and meeting some new faces. I did not have a chance to try out any of the food, but did eye a few plates that definitely will have me coming back to try. We had to move inside at 10:30p due to some sort of law? I'm not sure how long this will be in effect or if it's only temporary. Make sure you check this place out before it gets too cold outside and you can't enjoy the patio. PS - The Gift of God doesn't seem so heavenly the next morning.
(4)
Jes S.
I can't say enough great things about The Westside Local. This is one of my favorite places to eat in Kansas City. I love that it is somewhat casual however the food is fresh and local. When visiting the Westside Local you can always count on your favorite staple menu items or seasonal favorites..no matter what you choose you cannot go wrong. Everything including the sauces are made in house and the ingredients are extremely fresh and local. One of my favorites is starting off with numerous items from the small plates. At $2 each you can't go wrong with the devil eggs, fresh cheeses, fruit, chorizo, bread,etc. Another favorite menu item is the basic hamburger and my go to order, the grilled cheese served with a side of tomato soup and fries. If you are looking for more savory, the mac and cheese is delicious. They also have a great selection of craft beers and worldy wines. With weather permitting, they have a great outdoor 'beer garden'/patio that is a great place to spend time with friends enjoying a drink. The Westside Local is a must!
(5)
Jennifer C.
We had a large group (7 adults plus a toddler), and they accommodated well. The atmosphere is casual but cozy; I'm looking forward to coming back when I can try out the patio area. My boyfriend and I ordered two burgers and shared, and both were delicious! The fries were also awesome. My only complaint when it came to the food is that it seemed like they were out of several items, which limited their menu.
(4)
Liz H.
Love, love, love their burger! One of the best around. And the fries with aioli made in heaven by angels. Great looking building and good service. If you want to feel urban and hip, iron your jeans and head to WL.
(4)
D H.
My wife and I had the burger and were both very satisfied. I really enjoyed the French fries and the beer selection is pretty good. A couple of the wait staff were using a long table as a ping pong table....needless to say, it's a fun atmosphere.
(4)
Lindsay S.
So I went back with my GF the other day and our experience was a complete 180 from the glorious experience we had last time inspiring me to write a Yelp review novel on their brunch. We went for brunch again to find out that they had changed chefs and the menus have completely changed (both brunch and dinner) The little things like farm to market bread is no more and the menu has been dramatically reduced. What upsets me also is the prices, for 12 dollars you can get a veggie succotash- but if you want a egg on that add another $4.... A $16 dollar brunch dish? No thanks. Both of us felt our dishes contained a ridiculous amount of oil. Or previously fabulous potatoes were now swimming in grease and both of us decided the Westside Local dream had died and we will not be back for lunch. What a bummer. I do not know what they messed with a good thing. Cause it ain't good anymore.
Loved the simplistic yet warm restored warehouse atmosphere. Eclectic beer and wine list for a small joint. My 9 yr old loved the grilled cheese and my husband nearly licked the bowl after his quinoa feast. Feeling like a light lunch, I had the spinach salad with salmon and wasn't disappointed, though it seems the more adventurous choices were more rewarding for my family. Was able to sample the deviled eggs based on other yelp'd reviews and I would 2nd those recommenations! A unique twist on the old traditional snack. No trouble with service, in fact our waiter was quite helpful and accommodating, though there were only 3-4 other tables occupied... it was 3pm on a Saturday. Enjoyable lunch, hope to make it back.
(4)
Zhanna S.
The food is nothing to write home about and is overpriced. Nevertheless, we've gone there quite a few times to support local business. However, our last visit was the last time we've gone there. It took forever for us to get our food. Our appetizers arrived almost 35 minutes after we have ordered them. The entre was another long and excruciating wait. We were ready to take our dinner "to go." It was definitely a slowest kitchen in town that night (week night) and they were not even busy!
(2)
Taylor W.
Love this place! Great atmosphere, local beers, and delish food! Will definitely be back upon my next visit!
(4)
Holly L.
Great atmosphere, OK food, ridiculous prices. My son and I are always on a quest for the best grilled cheese sandwich and had heard about how amazing theirs is, so we stopped by to give it a try. We were both disappointed. To start, the slices of bread are ENORMOUS -- almost too big to get your chompers around, and the cheese had absolutely no flavor whatsoever. The fries, however, were crazy-good. My husband got the cheeseburger and loved it. An over $50 price tag for lunch without alcohol is a little excessive. Won't be going back.
(1)
Kackie C.
Really love. Moving to Kansas City from a gastro-heaven like Austin I had a self-inflicted chip on my shoulder about the eats in KC. Westside Local was the first place my boyfriend took me to that really started to turn me. Not only is the food delicious (anything with the garlic fries. Dip them in the jus.), but the wine and cocktails are unique and delicious, and THE SERVICE IS GREAT. A+ from me.
(5)
Stephen H.
This review can't attest to the quality of the food...my family came to visit from the East Coast and we brought them to this local food joint to try humanely raised KC steak. Unfortunately they were out of steak since they only buy local meat when it's available. The waiter was apologetic and extremely understanding when we said we'd have to find another option. I think it speaks to the quality of the restaurant that this situation was handled so well and that they stick to their core values.
(5)
June K.
The tapas, especially the pecans were absolutely fabulous! A definite, don't miss. Also, they had one of the best grilled cheese sandwiches I've ever had, great cheese combo on buttered sourdough, though the tomato soup was a bit too sweet and not as flavorful as I would've hoped for. Can't remember the names but had the chorizo and some sort of pate that seemed like bologna and another sausage like dish. The sausage was pretty good and my friends really liked the dates. They are famous for their deviled egg and homemade ketchup, neither of which I thought were out of this world. However, their service was good and the manager was especially accommodating and catering to a small group event we had upstairs. A definite return location to try everything else on their tapas menu!
(4)
Lindsey S.
Quinoa, Quinoa, Quinoa. The most amazing meal ever. Thanks yelpers for the recommendation.
(4)
E S.
Excellent! My party of three had the pint of fries to start, then for entrees, the quinoa, the seared salmon, and the burger. All were fantastic. I was a little disappointed with their draft beer selection, but luckily ended up loving the one I ordered, Abita Turbodog. The laid-back mood and cool, minimal setting were perfect for a hungover Sunday afternoon. Our server was both cute and professional. I'd definitely go back!
(5)
Kim N.
Jason was a great waiter. Super food. Will go back for sure. Very eclectic menu. Deviled Eggs, Olives, Prosciutto, Cheese all on the app menu. Grilled Cheese sandwiches, Hamburgers, Salads, some of the best salmon I have ever had. Over 100 beers. They have a great Russian Stout. Loved it.
(4)
Nicole W.
Great food and excellent service, would highly recommend for in towners and out of towner!
(5)
Richard R.
What a gem! Westside Local looks cool, sounds cool, and is has the vibe that my favorite places in my home Portland (or anywhere) have. I automatically felt comfortable here as the waitress brings me a Boulevard Single Wide IPA that is at a perfect temperature and goes down smoothly. I ordered the garlic hummis appetizer and pan seared Colorado Striped Bass - both specials for the night and not generally on the menu. First off, hummus was perfection and the slight grilling of the pita bread was a great touch. It had just a kiss of grill "juice" and scent to it too - nice. The bass with leaks, shitaki mushrooms, and tempura sweet potatoes - well, unbelieveable. Not even going to try to explain it, just get it if you see It on the menu. I'm generally a man of few words and to the point! Get the point? Thanks for the recommendation KC yeeps.
(5)
Joe C.
First off, I love the neighborhood that Westside Local sits in. It has an energy different than any other part of town. Secondly, the food is amazing! Deviled eggs, oh yeah! The olives, mmm hh. The beer selection, amazing. The grilled cheese, oh so comforting. The garlic fries, again, the garlic fries and house made ketchup!!! The decor is cool. I'm in love with Westside Local.
(5)
Scott D.
A sophomore visit to the Local, -results: Friday at lunchtime the place was bustling. I ordered the Carbonara-something, my wife the vegetable stir-fry with chicken added to it, -they were both very well done and pretty tasty. Service was pretty good considering they were slammed. The interior is very chic. However, the place was SO LOUD I was tense from the get-go. After we gave the waiter our order, I dashed to the car for a pair of foam earplugs, then I was able to sit with a bit more serenity. I know, I know, -I'm a little crazy about noise, and wearing earplugs in a nice restaurant is downright eccentric. But the acoustics at the Local are all hard surfaces, almost solely brick, wood, and glass, and conversation requires a distinct and concerted effort. If I ever go back, it will be during off-peak hours.
(3)
Danielle W.
This place is great! I love the patio and selection of beers. The food was very good, I had the chicken sandwich and could not finish it. It is a little pricey, but a wonderful little find in Kansas City, especially on a nice afternoon!!
(4)
Luke N.
My review from a few months ago was only four stars--but this time it was a rock solid 5 starts. Mainly because of the mussels which were so delicious and in such a unique broth--not wine and garlic heavy like many--but still packed with fresh flavor. And then, there was the steak frites, which was absolutely amazing. This place is definitely on the top of my list now...
(5)
Jack O.
white wine and grilled cheese= the best meal i've had in a while my girlfriend shared some bratwurst with me another time and it wasn't as good. served cold. the only reason i am 4-starring this place. just have some riesling's order a grilled cheese. trust me
(4)
Margaret D.
I have never had service this bad. Restaurants can be awfully busy which can slow service. Slow service is one thing, slow service with a bad attitude is another. Dirty table, cold food, no service; what can I say? Remember: don't say anything or you'll be told: "I don't want to hear it." Why is no one watching to see that food goes out while its hot or at least warm? I don't want to judge the food because it wasn't served hot and I didn't eat much of it. On the positive side, the restaurant with its exposed brick walls is inviting and the beer list has something for everyone.
(1)
Jenny M.
This really is one of the best places in Kansas City. The food is always fantastic, fresh and local. I love the snack options, cheese, fruit, deviled eggs, olives. Oh the olives, how I love the olives. Each visit I have had to the Westside Local has always been better than the last. The mussels were to die for as was the black & tan quinoa which was cooked to perfection. My husband seems to always order the roast beef sandwich with the molasses au jus, I myself do not eat a lot of meat but the bites I have had of that sandwich dipped in the au jus, boy that molasses au jus is something else.
(5)
Sam C.
Only had drinks here, but enjoyed the atmosphere and look forward to trying the food out.
(4)
TL M.
Snottiest staff EVER. Not sure I will go back. Tried to sit outside and order a bottle of wine. The server asked if we were having food. After hearing "no" he told us to go get our own drinks. Horrid. We left.
(1)
Rich S.
Had a fantastic dinner here. Very good atmosphere when you walk in the door. We were seated promptly. The menu was fantastic. The spinach salad with blueberries, peaches and salmon was outstanding. Make sure you try the deviled eggs. We will definitely be back.
(5)
Mad C.
I love this place and I've only had an appetizer thus far. The sardines were tasty, but I'm giving this place 5 stars for the space alone. I didn't notice any service issues, but I was sitting at the bar and the bartender was someone whom I know to be a professional. I looked at the rest of the menu and it was right up my alley with the grass fed beef. I'm going back on Sunday to check it out some more. I wish this place had been open when I lived in da hood.
(4)
Chris J.
This place is awesome. We went on a saturday night. The patio was open. Let me begin with parking...there is a small parking lot behind the building otherwise there is street parking. The servers are attentive and don't rush you nor do they care if you are there for dinner, snacks, or just drinks. They take the time to explain the menu and offer drink suggestions if you can't decide. The food is fantastic because it is fresh with local ingredients and though small has excellent variety. There was nothing wrong with this place other than more people need to know about it. So everybody tell your friends to meet you at the westside local!
(5)
Brian C.
I will save my breath on this one, there is not much to add that the previous +40 reviews have not covered. Good, local, worth the trip. Stop by and enjoy.
(5)
Kerry K.
Found this place on Yelp while I was in town and it was great. The space is gorgeous with a lovely back patio with communal tables, a perfect place to get together with friends and have a drink. The menu was also full of really interesting choices. I got a beet salad with soup and my friend for small dishes of different meats and cheeses. The owner sat down with us later and chat with us. They apparently just moved back to Kansas City to open the place. Great place to hang out with friends after work. I was really impressed.
(5)
Mark S.
Past experiences here have been excellent. I recommend then when they do their groupons or for Taste of Kansas City. Their steak and chips are awesome, and they have a huge selection of beers. I enjoyed their unique salads and desserts in the past as well. I'm noticing an increasing lack of service each time I go, however. This past weekend was one example: 1. I fell through a chair on a rotted-out back patio that they have, immediately when sitting down. The owner and waitstaff were mildly apologetic, but asking me if I'm going to sue them BEFORE asking me if I'm ok was pretty rude. They didn't even do anything to try to make my experience better (maybe a beer or an appetizer or dessert for the table would have been nice!). Learn some courtesy instead of mocking your guests, please. 2. When we asked what we should eat, the waitstaff told us about their specials and recommended items that they liked, and then told us that they were out of these! Why tease us with your "best dishes" if you don't have them to serve us! Rude! 3. Some dog of the owners was jumping on the tables and stretching out all over the peoples' food; then it got into a dogfight outside, then came to our table begging. I'm sorry, but at the prices we pay at this place, I'd rather not have some scrappy mutt disturbing my dinner. I'm a dog-lover, but please let me enjoy my dinner, thanks. 4. It got dark; it took them about 25 min and us asking TWICE to get a few candles to our table. Seriously, The Westside Local, you need to improve your customer service and courtesy to your patrons. Shame on you! (Also, PotPie's mussels blow yours out of the water!)
(2)
Tyson S.
Wife and I split the special: Jerk chicken BLT with parmesan fries. In-credible. We will be back...soon! Back patio is perfect in nice weather.
(5)
Amy R.
Gosh I love this place! We had our belated holiday dinner here last week and it was phenomenal! The service was outstanding. We arrived one at a time and he had no problem getting each person a drink as they sat down. Food was great: rosemary hummus and french fries were divine! My salad was lovely. Such a fun funky atmosphere. Love it.
(5)
Wayne F.
Our first time at WL and it was really good. No reservation but were seated right away. Our waiter was attentive and knew the menu well. Lime and Lemon non-alc drinks were good. I ordered the angus beef burger, which was very tasty (albeit a little too much dijon), and great fries. Portion (the burger) could definitely be a larger. My gf had a veggie burger which turned out to be also very good. Loved the place and location. 4 out of 5 because although our food was very good and I would recommend it to others, it simply wasn't amazing.
(4)
Randy D.
This is one of the few gems for dining and hanging out. Try it you will love it! Great menu and libation choices.
(5)
Daniel H.
I thought my GPS was sending me to the wrong location but remembered somebody took a picture of the restaurants sign. I saw that as I slowly drove by and found parking. I don't think you will have problems finding street parking because there was plenty; in addition, walking almost never hurt anybody. lol I was here for a CMYE (Community Manager Yelp Event) outside in the patio area and our waiter was nice and helpful. He helped me decide on the kind of beer that would be good since I've never been here. I ordered the Boulevard Dry Stout (normally $5 but it was $3 for happy hour) and the Summit Burger ($11). The Boulevard Dry Stout was good and I wouldn't mind ordering it again but there were other drinks on the menu that I want to try because it sounded good. I didn't pay attention as to how long it took our food to come out because I was chatting/listening to everybody at the table. I know that everything came at once so that's good. My Summit Burger was pretty good and the only thing that was kinda ehh for me was the dijon vinaigrette sauce. It had an interesting taste especially on a burger like this. I still added it to my burger even though it was kinda ehh for me. lol The fries were pretty tasty and they gave me the right amount. I saw a couple of us order the Deviled Eggs ($6) and I didn't try those but they looked good! I stayed after all except one Yelper (Lilian O.) left and I sat while Lilian and her fiance (also a Yelper) ate their dinner inside. The inside had fewer tables and seats and it was busy! I think it was around 9pm? or something. I guess everybody was off from work and came here to eat dinner. Good place to eat and drink!
(4)
meli l.
This is a go-to restaurant for us; the food is consistently good and the staff is friendly and competent. Usually we go for dinner, and this weekend we decided to stop in for brunch. While the night staff is excellent and the food consistently some of the best in Kansas City, our brunch experience was mediocre. We were seated outside, in spite of the fact that it was raining; there's a slight shelter over part of the patio, but several in our party got soaked before we were able to readjust, and there was still a lot of dripping throughout the meal (including onto our food). Our waiter took a long time to show up to take drink our orders, then disappeared for over 15 minutes before taking our food order. The food quality in our party varied wildly. Folks who ordered half-orders of biscuits and gravy got plates of food the same size as those who ordered the full meal; the biscuits were fluffy and flaky and the gravy was delicious. The grilled cheese plate was generous and the Belgian waffles perfectly cooked. On the other hand, those who ordered the vegetable hash with Hollandaise were given less than a cup of the hash with a tablespoon or so of sauce. Absolutely outrageous for $12, and on top of that, it was lukewarm and the potatoes in the hash were undercooked. We all agreed that Westside Local is on hiatus for us, brunch-wise, until they get the staff and food situations under control.
(3)
Sara D.
I never realized this place was so popular and I'm thrilled I got the chance to try Westside Local at the latest CMYE. There is nothing better than sipping wine at a picnic table surrounded by vines, on a beautiful evening, while chatting with your favorite people. Our server extended Happy Hour for our group. I got some kind of white wine for $4. I ordered the grilled cheese for $10 which I consider far too expensive, but found the grilled cheese much tastier than Eden Alley's. Westside Local's dish also came with a side of tomato soup and a choice of either potato salad or french fries. Katie was kind enough to share one of her deviled eggs with me, and it was absolutely delicious! I enjoyed chatting with Katie and Rhonda and watching David and Susan's dog sniff around for any wayward crumbs he could find. Westside Local's Beer Garden is a lovely area. Our service was excellent. I found the food to be too expensive and wished the menu was a bit more extensive, but overall I had a fabulous time!
(4)
Ben S.
Terrible service. Water wasn't refilled the entire night, became the running joke of the evening. How many times could we ask for water and be ignored. At dessert time one of our party was in the restroom so we asked if the waitress could wait to share the dessert options till everyone was there, especially the expectant mother. Waitress says I will just tell you the options and you can remember and tell her. The drinks were tiny. Margaritas were literally about 2/3 full in the cup. We asked for a full drink and the manager came out and offered to fill them up with fruit juice. Dinner was mediocre, not bad, but nothing special. For dessert we got an apple tart. It came out like a soup. I really think they might have forgot to cook it. Will not be going back.
(1)
Kirin A.
This is probably my favorite restaurant in the city. It's tucked away in the cute Westside neighborhood, definitely a hidden gem. The food is delicious and the drinks are great too. I'm a big fan of the grilled cheese. The service can be a little so-so if it's too busy, but that doesn't keep me away. The patio is great during the nice weather as well.
(5)
Dan J.
I have now been many times and may soon call myself a regular. Now that spring is finally here I'm looking forward to the patio dining. Never disappointed here. Even taking my customers here for dinner.
(5)
Samantha L.
I guess I get the appeal, but I am just not as into it as so many of my peers. The food is pretty good but pretty expensive. Cool neighborhood, great house-made ketchup. The outdoor area is pretty good if you don't mind picnic benches and smokers. I guess I just think it's a bit over-rated, but I find myself there pretty often because it makes my friends happy.
(3)
Stephen H.
It was the end of the academic year, and for my teaching company, that meant an end-of-the-year celebration. Brandon was nice enough to accommodate our group of 15 and we had come up with a special menu beforehand for 3 courses and two beers/wines/well drinks for $30. Our waitstaff was excellent, the food was well done, and the dessert was AMAZING (a granola-chocolate concoction with some creme fraiche): Thanks Nina!!!
(5)
Boris Y.
Came for a quiet birthday dinner with a dear friend on a Thursday night. Perfect atmosphere for what we needed! Made a reservation online - fairly easy. The wait-staff wasn't overly attentive - SO refreshing! - they refilled our drinks when necessary, gave great recommendations, and weren't too overly or underly perky. JUST right for a quiet night out. The drinks were good, but nothing spectacular. We ordered the "Fernet Me Not" and "Black Lodge." Parmesan fries with different sauces as an appetizer: BRILLIANT. Presentation was clever, taste was everything you'd ever want in a French fry. Curry Quinoa - spectacular. Windhaven Burger - spectacular. Chicken Tortilla Soup: not the best, more like chili. But each item we ordered was so cleverly original, it really didn't matter. Lemon custard almond cake for dessert - to die for! All in all a GREAT experience! More expensive than I usually go for... But was NOT disappointed in the slightest.
(5)
Jen D.
I felt compelled to update my Westside Local review after eating there again last night. This time around, our server, Phillip, was quick and attentive. He was fantastic, actually, as last night was one of those sought after nights of drinking, eating and conversing at a relaxed, leisurely pace. Phillip didn't rush us at all, and made a great recommendation for an appetizer (ask him about building a cheese plate, you won't be disappointed!). The appetizers and entrees were great. I stuck with comfort food by ordering the grilled cheese sandwich (the stuff dreams are made of), and the bf had a burger. Sorry, not just a burger, but the "best burger he has had since he can remember". We both really enjoyed our experience this time and will definitely put the Westport Local in our rotation. Per Joi's recommendation, I look forward to relaxing in the beer garden when the weather decides to be consistent.
(4)
Amanda R.
My friend and I went here for happy hour one weeknight and I was thoroughly impressed with the cheese plate and the beer/wine/drink selection. I thought I had found my new favorite place! I brought my boyfriend in that Friday for date night and was excited to try the dinner menu. I got my nice glass of white wine and he got to try their bourbon selection - which he found a couple new ones he might buy. We ordered the Trout and a Burger. It was just ok. The burger was just a burger on a nice bun with some good fries on the side. The curry alioli was a welcome change from ketchup or ranch. But again, nothing to squeal about. The Trout was pretty good, but the bed of additives it was on did not complement the trout at all and made the entire dish bland. Oh well, perhaps I'll just stick to happy hour!
(3)
Zach K.
I'm on a trek to find the best burger in KC. The Westside Local's was a contender, and it truly is one of the best in the city. My recommendation is to NOT do the "uptown" version (adding the glaze + mushrooms) -- It's fine as it is! Everything is locally sourced and fresh. Perfect weekend dinner spot or weeknight dinner after a long day at work.
(5)
Jessi B.
A cluster. Snooty hostess started off our evening, someone needs to teach her to smile. We sat at the bar while waiting for our table. We each had a nice cocktail, we were seated quite quickly and I asked if our tab would be transferred, a different hostess said yes. As we were having our appetizers the bartender came and asked us to settle up with her. Ok, that's why I asked in the first place. We had the cheese plate which was pretty but no wow pairings of cheese and accompaniments. I had the trout, it was cooked well but over salted. The beet root risotto was a flavorless mush. My co diner had a burger that was very good. We never had our empty water glasses refilled. I was never asked if I wanted another cocktail. Plates weren't cleared until I put my napkin on my plate and walked out. I definitely won't be returning. I love the atmosphere and space but the service we received turned us off for good. Edited to add, the waiter decided we didn't tip well enough so added an extra $10 to his tip on his own. The restaurant did refund the money, but nothing else to compensate for their employee committing a felony. I'll be letting everyone I know about this one.
An old college friend of mine visiting from Chicago, my husband, and I dined here on a Saturday evening. We were lucky to grab a table even though initially we were told they were all reserved. The atmosphere was calm, intimate, and artsy. I liked the charcuterie plate - having never had Braunchweiger before, it is a delicious meat treat! And gotta love those crackers. My friend ordered a Manhattan, which I sipped a bit of and thought it was quite nice. I ordered a cocktail on the menu - Rosemary Regatta - but was not impressed. It was a bit too sweet, and just about zero rosemary taste shined through. No matter - dinner was soon served. I left thinking I should have gotten the grassfed burger or the grilled cheese sandwich like my dining mates did. But, wanting to stay at least slightly Paleo, I got the mussels. They were good, but I wasn't dazzled. And one of them I had to spit out since it tasted too much like the sea. Those fries that came with my husband's burger = AMAZING. We ordered coffee at the end of our meal, which was presented very nicely, and kept quite full by the staff. Our server was lovely, too bad I don't remember her name! :( And our water glasses were never left wanting. You should try it! Depending on what you order I think you'll probably have a great time. My friend from out of town said he wants to go back. That's all a restaurant can ever ask for.
(3)
Charley B.
I finally made it out and gave The Westside Local a try and while I think it's a solid restaurant it just didn't live up to its hype. I stopped in for brunch and what really stood out were the biscuits. Amazing. I ordered the biscuits and gravy and another in our party had a bacon egg and cheese biscuit. Both of us couldn't stop talking about them. The mushroom gravy over my biscuits held a good flavor and was nice and thick. Another party ordered the french toast, which were seasoned well, but fell apart way too easy. I was a little disappointed in the service. Our server scoffed a little when all of us decided to stay with water as a beverage. I also ordered a egg to go with my meal. The server asked if I wanted scrambled, I told her over easy, but she still brought me scrambled. I didn't send it back, but I was disappointed she didn't write my order down. I'd like to give dinner a try sometime because I've heard some of those dishes can put you in a coma but I'm not sure if that will be any time soon.
(3)
Christyn K.
I only heard of this place because someone had given me a gift certificate, stating, "It's a foodie place - and you seem like a foodie." Not knowing what to expect, I made a reservation for two for a Saturday night. When we arrived the hip little place was no where near full, though the hostess was turning those without a reservation away. We sat down near the back of the old store-front turned restaurant layout and admired the local art on the walls while watching the place fill up at an enormous speed. Though the atmosphere at first seemed snoody, our server was personable and very patient with us as we read over the menu at length. The options were awesome - appetizers are create-it-yourself cheese plates with humus or bread or olives :) I ordered a bunch of cheese and bread and an entree of mac and cheese with sweet potato (I can start my diet tomorrow). We enjoyed a few drinks with our food and left perfectly full but not stuffed. As we were leaving we noticed a huge line waiting to get in. Sure glad we made online reservations through Yelp earlier that day (a super easy step which made the whole evening possible). I can't wait to show this place off to my out-of-town friends here.
(5)
Shannon S.
No matter how many times I go its always an exceptional experience. Saturday night I ordered the beef entree. Everything was cooked to perfection, especially for a take out order. They didn't fuss about items being in a to go box, which suited my recovery from Friday night perfectly. Love this place!!
(5)
Carol A.
I'm a happy camper after having lunch at The Westside Local today. It is always fun to find a "new-to-me" place where I know I'll want to make a return trip because there were so many good choices on the menu that I couldn't try them all. Today I chose A Vegetable Sammy that was wonderful with portabella mushrooms and lots of other sliced veggie goodness and picked a wonderful spicy bean soup which was the daily selection as my side. Even the whole grain, hearty bread (from Farm to Market) was exceptional. Hubby got a Summit Burger and fries and Sis ordered a phenomenal looking Grilled Cheese with a cup of tomato fennel soup for dipping and some yummy looking spiced roasted potatoes as a side. Both got compliments from the diners and had me plotting a return trip. Everyone was too full to order dessert but I'd like to save room next time, as there were a couple, including a bread pudding, that sounded intriguing. The restaurant space is all exposed brick and has a soaring ceiling and there were a series of beautiful urban paintings on the walls that just popped and seemed to complete the feel of the place. It was a good lunch and I was very happy to find another good place to eat on Summit. (Which is becoming one of my favorite destination spots in the city.)
(4)
David A.
This place has been on a downward spiral for me. I've been here 5 times. 4 out of 5 times food were misses. However, here is what is going for it: Great service, great ambience in the beergarden and the patio dog friendly. I've really enjoyed their drinks and they have quite a good bartender who knows how to mix them up well. Would I come back? Yes, to hang out with friends and my dog at the beergarden and enjoy some drinks. Food? I really have given up.
Great! A lazy post st paddys day evening found blondie and I looking for some interesting eats. Westside local was exactly what the doctor ordered. Based on reviews, I was expecting uninterested and slow service. Nothing could be farther from the truth! On a busy Friday night, we bellied up to the bar rather than wait for a table. The bartender was great and gave lots of information about the menu items and food preparation.... I love that! In summary....Everything said of the deviled eggs is true. The tomato fennel soup is good, but Id whir it up a bit and kick in some additional. The arugula salad is amazing with the matag bleu bits, roasted grapes and pumpkin seed brittle. However...... The quinoa is the closet rockstar on the menu!! It's a rollercoaster of flavor! Roasted squash, cherries, haricot verde, Brussels sprouts, shaved Parmesan! Forget rollercoaster, this is a pinball game going on with your tastebuds! Add a perfectly cooked piece of salmon (yes, perfectly medium!) and your tastebuds are doing the dance of joy! Next time, I'm trying ...umm... Everything. This is a place I will return to till I've tried it all. P.S. Because we were at the bar, several of the servers talked with us while waiting for drink orders and they were all very friendly pleasant engaging folks. I can't imagine getting poor service here.
(4)
Lee R.
This is the perfect "Go To" place. The menu is small, but I still have a hard time deciding what I want every time I go. The inside atmosphere is pretty cool - nothing amazing, but unique. The outside space is what really gets me though - it's awesome. Huge picnic tables and a fenced in, covered area. I'd recommend this place for happy hours, business lunches, or dinner and drinks. Probably not the best venue for any more than 4 people.
(5)
Mel h.
Initially seated by window, blazing hot. Manager asked us to stay and moved us to a much better spot. Saved our night.
(5)
William R.
I took my girls (3 and 6) out for a fancy dinner, for them, and we were treated very nicely by the staff at Westside Local. Our host was cordial and seated us quickly, with crayons and paper. The room is somewhat noisy, so some kid noise wasn't overly disruptive. Our waiter offered to split the mac and cheese (which is a large portion) for them, in fact he suggested it. I had the crispy pork belly which is one of the tastiest things I've had at a restaurant all year. I'd love to learn the secret of the crispy outside and decadent inside. Wow. Great selection of draft beers, and craft bottles. I've been here many times, and it seldom disappoints. The inside bar is very cozy, great place for a grownup drink. The outside beer garden can not be beat in warmer weather in Kansas City, in my opinion. I can't say enough how nice they were to this (for the night) single slightly overwhelmed dad and small girls.
(5)
Mnason M.
So how the hell did I not know about this place sooner! My older brother, Jachin M., told me about this gastropub because I tend to like gastropubs a lot. My wife and I went there on a Sunday afternoon. The place was pretty quiet. In fact, the bartender was our waitress in the main dining area. I believe her name was Jenna. I must say she was excellent! I think she could tell my fancy for beer. Therefore she answered my questions in detail along with giving suggestions and provided samples basically without even asking... They had some good beers on tap, so if you combine that with their bottled list then you have quite a selection! We started off with a strange, but fitting, appetizer of bacon and scrambled eggs. Good start. Then we ordered a couple of Summit Burgers. My wife did customize hers a little bit but mine was OEM. What I have to say... what an awesome burger! Perfectly cooked rib-eye burger at medium, juicy, and the arugula with melted cheese on top was a great addition. The Garlic Fries were great too! I was disappointed they were out of Deviled Eggs which is one of the items they are known for so I'm not sure how that works... I do plan on making a second trip in my future so hopefully they have them next time. Summary: - Great food! The Summit Burger was awesome! - Great beer selection when you combine taps and bottles - Great, and helpful, service! - Out of Deviled Eggs during my visit which made me sad - The location is a little on the rough side. So stay in a group or don't wander around aimlessly. And lock your car (-; - Highly recommended so far. I hope my next visit is as good if not better
(4)
Lisa K.
I've been told by numerous farm to table foodies that I MUST try Westside Local so I attempted to dine there on a Sunday night at 6pm.. no reservations. Walked in with my group of three and was told they didn't have any available tables until 8:30 pm for dining inside or the patio. I looked around and noticed five open tables, rolled my eyes and moved on down the road to La Bodega for sangria ( LOVE their sangria so the night wasn't a complete loss!) Attempted to go again (glutton for punishment I guess) but went on a Saturday afternoon at 1pm.. Once again plenty of indoor seats and outdoor seats available and was granted a table. Maybe they noticed the snarl on my face and decided not to mess with my twice. We dined on the patio and sat on a picnic table. Our hippy waitress who wore her sunglasses over her glasses (is that now in style?) took her sweet time coming around to take our order (the water filler was ON TOP of making sure our glasses were full at all times. Yeah!) We ordered two deviled eggs ($2), rosemary hummus and crackers as appetizers ($4). All were delish and devine. Our Entrees of choice included a magnificient large kale salad $11 (walnut tahini dressing, shaved cauliflower and sauteed shallots) and we added chicken $6. The salad was amazing however the chicken was bland, blah, boring, dry.. etc. but I needed some protein so.. oh well. Hippy chick took her sweet time bringing our bill and we were ready to bail since our bottoms were hurting from being camped on a picnic table for over an hour.. Go for the kale... bring a cushion for the patio. all is good.
(3)
Zack Y.
I had been wanting to give the Westside Local a try for awhile so when my dad came to visit me here in KC I figured it was the perfect opportunity to impress him with some of the cool and interesting restaurant options we have here in KC. It ended up being, well, just okay. It was a very busy Thursday night but we were able to get seats on the (totally beautiful) patio with literally no wait at around 7:15. Our server was able to take drink orders but the manager came by to make sure because apparently she was taking care of a large party inside. The manager dropped off our drinks and took our food order. Apparently there were no specials or anything, which I was surprised about, and the chicken was unavailable. Cocktails ended up being fine. Nothing special or super-impressive, but at least when you order something there you know what to expect. Our salads came out super-quick despite how busy it was. A few bites in, though, the manager came out with our entrees. He apologized and told us that it was his mistake, not our servers. That apology was as far as any attempt to make sure we were cool with this mistake went. He didn't really wait for a response from us. No discount or anything. I'm usually pretty laid back eating out and so I didn't make a big deal out of it, but as I was sitting there eating two courses at once I realized it was pretty detrimental to the experience I had. I had to eat quicker so my trout wouldn't get cold, the flavors of my salad didn't work well with anything else, it pretty much changed the dish, and not for the better. I didn't want to make a big fuss about it but looking back I sort of wish that I had. That said, if not for this mistake the food would have been excellent. I'm pretty sure, anyway. I can at least say that the trout was cooked well. We stayed for dessert--some brownies baked with local figs. They came out on a single plate with a single mug full of milk, which would have been fine if not for the fact that we were sharing dessert and that I'm lactose-sensitive and the server forgot to mention that they came with milk. The brownies themselves were delicious, though. Our server was friendly and attentive and the food was great, but silly mistakes sort of kept us from having the five-star meal I was hoping for. I might try going back before the rush instead of after it next time.
(3)
Roger D.
The Westside Local will keep you on the Right Side of good health! They serve gourmet Local Fruits, Vegetables, Meats, Fish, Breads, Beers, Wines and Desserts. The Service is phenomenal, friendly, personable and professional. Their Sunday Brunch will make your Day. You will want to return with your Family & Friends for many memorable meals.
(5)
Rachel B.
I want to give this restaurant more stars, but I just can't. The food has been really hit or miss for us the past few times we have been. The "hits" we have had In the past were the chicken sandwich, mac and cheese, and their burger. all were fantastic. However, we went on Saturday, and had a horribly disappointing meal. I tried the Halcyon mussels, the broth had a weird bitter after taste. I didn't even use the bread to soak up any of the broth, that's how bad it tasted. Husband had the pork sandwich, which was nothing special, just a bland, boring sandwich. Our friend had the quinoa dish, which was also completely bland. What an over-priced, disappointing meal. My advice: If you are a risk-taker go for it, you may happen to have a great meal! But if you don't want to risk spending good money on a mediocre meal, there are so many better restaurants in the area.
(3)
Jillian C.
Out for a ladies night, we hit up this joint for some upscale food and fun. I had the kale salad and the andouille sausage soup. Both were good, though I was expecting greatness. I liked the sausage but only got one piece in my whole little tiny bowl. The kale salad was yummy too but a bit dry. It came out looking like I wasn't expecting. The kale leaves were torn into rather large pieces and then it was topped with a combo of shaved brussels, almonds, parm, fried shallots, brown sugar bacon, and a maple-tahini dressing. So it felt more like brussel sprout salad (in the style of a deli chicken salad) on top of some dry kale leaves. In retrospect, I could have done without the kale and just had the brussel sprout part. Still though, I think the flavors were there. The saving grace of dinner was a nice glass of red wine, generously poured, and the bread pudding with cranberries, oranges, and chocolate chips. I could...and actually mostly did...eat the whole thing myself. I was worried it would be much too fruity but it wasn't. The orange and cran flavors were assertive but you got enough of the chocolate to make it feel dessert-like enough. Well balanced dessert.
(4)
Sofie C.
The food was delicious. We had a party of 6 and we all ordered a variety of things. Everyone was pleased with their choice. Our server was great. She brought my girlfriend dessert for her birthday and when I received the bill, she comped it! She didn't have to do that, but she did. Great quality food, nice atmosphere. You can have a nice date night with yummy food and a bottle of wine for under $60.
(5)
Jangs J.
Local: We've loved you for two years, but you're slipping. Last night stunk to the tune of my having to wake up early on a Saturday and write a yelp review. Damnit, Local. So, there's the stuff that some people get bent out of shape about--like the waiting 20 minutes past the reservation time for a table and the being seated without a drink menu and the bad live music and the general cacophony of it all--but not me. (Except maybe the music. Holy crap. What was that 20-minute repetition of the same scale thing about?) It's the food. It actually stunk last night. The giardiniera was crap--like cauliflower sitting in Wishbone Italian salad dressing. My grocery store makes a better giardiniera. The deviled eggs were good, as usual, but did they have to show up literally french kissing the dish of gross giardiniera? And the barbecued chicken sandwish you served my wife, that was so gross. The pretzel bun seemed to have come from a wet t-shirt contest just before serving as the soggy, pasty base of a mound of bland shredded chicken. We'll be back, but not before you think about what you're doing. You enjoy a good rep and can probably survive a few bad reviews from people who still come to you for food and not just for social capital. But do you really want to be that restaurant?
(3)
Kyle G.
Went in for lunch after reading previous reviews and was lucky to have a get a table on a Wednesday afternoon. Great concept of simple, clean, local foods. Ordered the Cuban sandwich with sauteed greens for a side. The pork in the Cuban was perfectly cooked and was nice and moist alluding me to believe it was cooked today and not re-heated. A little pricier for a lunch, but you definitely get the quality you pay for.
(5)
Dana C.
I've been wanting to try this place for awhile. Thanks to Groupon, I was finally able to try it last Sunday! It was a dark and cloudy night...no seriously, it was a perfect, intimate evening to spend at Westside Local. My date and I arrived around 6:45PM. We were seated promptly. The decor and atmosphere were right on. I sat on the booth side of the table, not the most comfortable, but it was clean. I enjoy clean restaurants! My boyfriend and I had looked over the menu before leaving for our destination so we knew what we wanted. I ordered the grilled cheese on a friend's recommendation, and he ordered the BLT. I had a feeling there would be a bit of a wait, but we weren't in a rush. We each also ordered a beer. I forget which beer we ordered, but it was quite tasty. We waited almost an hour for our food, no joke. It didn't feel like an hour, so I'm not complaining. My grilled cheese tasted just as amazing as it had been described to me, and the garlic fries complimented it well. Super silly, but I need to mention it. My sandwich didn't come with a pickle on the side. I love pickles. The customers seated to to the left and right of me both ordered the same dish as me, and they got pickles. Yeah, I took note - don't judge me. All in all, it was everything I expected it to be. The restaurant is a little higher in price than I can normally afford (understandably, it's local and delicious). I will definitely be back once I have some extra $$.
(4)
Jessi H.
I hate to write a bad review because of one horrible experience, but i'm going to. this restaurant used to be one of my favorites. so much so that we had our wedding night dinner there. last friday, we showed up at about 6:30 without a reservation. the hostess couldn't even look us in the eye to tell us how long of a wait we would have (even though we were willing to wait over an hour or more). instead, she said things like "well, it's going to be very long" and "um, yeah, you don't have a reservation?" (they had at least 7 empty tables at the time. ) Lucky for us, a couple was just leaving a table in the bar where we were told we could eat dinner. We sat. We waited. The service has always been slow, but this was ridiculous. We finally ordered a couple glasses of wine, which were nice pours and good wine. Then, I chose to order the kale salad described as kale with shaved parm and crispy prosciutto. to add chicken or fish was $6, but i did. And then, I waited for my $16 salad. You guys, SIXTEEN DOLLARS. My salad and my husband's sandwich were delivered to our table by a server from the dining room. She was so rude to me and gave me the bitchiest look I'd ever received that I actually had to ask my husband if she was a former girlfriend of his. When I asked for salt and pepper, she brought it out, threw it down on the table, turned her back and stomped off. Now let's talk about the $16 salad. It had one 1-inch size piece of crispy prosciutto. ONE. I paid $16 for a handful of kale, 3 shaves of parm, 1 inch of prosciutto and a 2-ounce portion of chicken. I'm sad because I've had so many other experiences there that have been good, but this was horrible. You know what they say about first impressions. Well, it's also true for sixth impressions.
(2)
Brandi C.
I want to give The Westside Local 4 stars, I really do, but so far they're really only a 3 1/2 star place in my book. Not because of the food, which is really, really good, but more because of the service. Allow me to explain... We've been in here twice now. Once for dinner, and once for lunch. Both times the atmosphere has been great, the food has been great, and I have absolutely nothing to complain about there. The servers, though, have been apathetic, forgetful, and somewhat inept. I've also felt somewhat rushed both times. Maybe it's the super tight skinny jeans they all seem to wear? Maybe I'm just more discerning now that I'm Yelping about my experiences? I don't know. The first time around we had to ask about any specials, but then things went pretty well until dessert. (I had salmon, and it was cooked perfectly. My husband had the Roast Beef sandwich, and he loved it.) When it came time for dessert we were game to split something, so our server told us what was on offer for the evening but neglected to mention that what we ordered included a large amount of strawberries. (Don't know how you forget to include that in the description of the dessert? It was a pretty major ingredient.) This would've been a deal breaker for me, since I'm allergic. Instead, I think I got one bite of non-strawberry contaminated dessert and had to watch my husband enjoy the rest on his own. Sad, I know. But apparently it was good! On our most recent (lunch) visit, we were handed menus, given some time to look over them, and then asked what we would like (pretty standard, really). Of course, I ordered the one item (Chicken Salad) that they were out of...apparently the server was just hoping neither of us would want that. (Really. He actually said that.) *SIGH* Might have been helpful info to tell us they were out of that option when handing us the menus, huh? So, instead I opted for the Grilled Cheese with tomato-fennel dipping sauce, and my husband got the Roast Beef sandwich (again), both with fries. I also ordered an iced tea...which came with sweetener or sugar as needed, but nothing to stir the tea with, not even a straw. I ended up just using my knife, as the server was nowhere to be found. The sandwiches were great, the fries were garlicky little bites of potato heaven (you do need to like garlic, though!), and the tomato-fennel dipping sauce made the grilled cheese excellent. All in all, it was a perfect lunch...if only the service would've been a little more clued in. Will we be back? Yes. Will I continue to hope for better service? Yes. Would I still recommend Westside Local to other people? Yes.
(3)
Leland M.
Food: Tasty burgers, Diverse beer selection Atmosphere: The vibe in Westside Local is relaxing. The interior is full of dark tones and simple yet beautiful shapes through contemporary design with a slight eastern flair. great atmosphere!
(4)
Layla R.
Best restaurant in KCMO hands down. Great food. Organic, healthy, fresh food. The ambiance is just right with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick walls, it's inviting and warm while still keeping an upscale vibe. Also, the food is delicious and the service is fantastic. Best spot in KC without a doubt.
(5)
Robert L.
We went to lunch on a lovely late spring day and got right in at one of the shared tables in their courtyard. There was so much sun I went back to the car to get our hats and sunscreen. When some guests left we moved over a bit into the shade under the grape leaves. Our service was quick and pleasant. The food was perhaps the best we've had in KC. We shared the arugula salad with the restaurant's buttermilk dressing, and their grilled cheese sandwich, probably the best I've ever had. This was served with amazing French fries what were seasoned to perfection including some Parmesan cheese and the restaurant's own ketchup for dipping. It was all finished off with a horchata coconut granita and chocolate truffle dessert. This was perfect. It made for a great lunch and we'll certainly be going back.
(5)
Kelly S.
My favorite lunch date friend and I decided to try a new place last week and we landed on Westside Local! Everything we had was awesome. I ordered the veggie burger, which I was told was new on the menu, along with the soup of the day- chicken tortilla. The burger didn't have a normal burger consistency but the taste was awesome. The soup was more brothy than creamy and had crunchy tortilla strips in it. We both loved it! My friend got the pulled pork sandwich that comes with cole slaw on top and the flavor made me feel like we were in an actual barbecue restaurant. All in all- great food, cute place, not too expensive. Two thumbs up!
(5)
Logan Locke B.
If you follow my reviews, you know I evaluate the service just as equally as I do the food. The qualities of both are very important to me as a customer. Not often do restaurants match up to 100% in both categories. Lucky for you, me and Kansas City---WESTSIDE LOCAL is the place for outstanding service (ask for Jason) and incredible food! I was at a table of 5 & everyone enjoyed their meals immensely (several times throughout the meal it was verbalized how delicious the food was), the wide variety of beers, wine & cocktails, and the delicious biscuit bread pudding (that was more like the very best strawberry short cake I have ever had). Might I recommend any of the salads with salmon (perfectly cooked), quinoa (with so many flavors), grilled chicken sandwich, "Best Burger In Town", and DEFINETLY, MOST DEFINETLY if you love tomato soup, you must not walk out the door without trying the TOMATO FENNEL SOUP!
(5)
Monica A.
I went for brunch with four girlfriends about a month ago. I was excited as I'd heard and read great things about The Westside Local. The restaurant only had a few other tables sat when I got there, and we went to a cute picnic table on their back patio. Here's where things start going wrong. I'm not going to get in to the specifics with how poor the service was because even now, weeks later, it still annoys me to think about. Our server was incredibly inattentive and inappropriate. Do we want to know that you went on a bender last night and that's why you've been so MIA? No. Now I can't stop wondering if you've been puking in the bathroom in your hungover, sweaty state, and you're touching my plate, which makes me feel ill. Never mind that the food, once it did come out 35 minutes after ordering (I wish I was exaggerating), was delicious. I had the egg & bacon biscuit and wish somewhere I enjoy going to would duplicate it. I also couldn't believe that the manager didn't notice (with so few patrons in the restaurant) that our service was beyond poor and we were clearly distressed sitting there, waiting.... and waiting for our food. I do think I'll try it again and hope for a better experience, because I do like supporting local restaurants and food providers. But if I see that server in the restaurant, I'm out of there and never looking back.
(2)
Nicole K.
What this place gets right, it gets really, really right. The deviled eggs have a devilish kick, and the mac and cheese is worth every single calorie. The service is always friendly and personal. The appetizers and localities are tasty and fresh. The quinoa is delicious. The bar is cozy and inviting for hanging out with your friends. The patio is perfect for a warm spring night. The ambience is warm and comfortable. Just a few quibbles. The bathroom door was too small for my buddy to get into in his wheelchair (not cool), and both times I've had sandwiches here, the bread was greasy but not flavorful. So as long as you're not bringing a good friend with a disability here or wanting the grilled cheese, this is the place to be.
(4)
otto h.
I really enjoyed my kale salad without bacon and cheese. Had a nice vegan lentil soup, too. Glad there are a decent number of vegan options on the menu, but wish there were some vegan dessert choices!
(4)
Jon N.
We had an excellent meal. They had a nice selection of food. The menu online was a little different than the one that they were using when we were there. Overall it was great though. We had a nice bottle of local wine and some amazing food.
(4)
Brandy C.
I have been here to dine on two different occasions. The restaurant is nice but nothing unique. The food is okay but definitely not worth the price. The mac and cheese was fine...but $15 for mediocre mac and cheese is a bit crazy. Service left a lot to be desired as our waitress was quite rude, in my opinion. My friend and I both sat with empty water glasses for some time. There are definitely better options in the same part of town.
(2)
Amanda G.
I generally tend to think of Westside Local as more of a place to drink than eat, but that may just be because of my more recent visits and the fact that the beer garden is incredible on a warm summer night. However, it is one of the great places around town that offers delicious, thoughtful options for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. For brunch, the veggie hash is a tasty combination of veggies, potatoes and hollandaise sauce that makes you forget it doesn't have any kind of breakfast meat involved. The grilled cheese sandwich on the lunch/dinner menu is a must try, with an amazing dipping sauce that is reminiscent of tomato soup. The garlic french fries are some of the best fries I've ever had, and the deviled eggs are spicy and fresh-tasting. The impressive beer menu is what keeps me coming back, and the happy hour prices are competitive to other, less cozy and sophisticated settings. I love the tiny bar area (off to the left when you walk in) probably more than the main dining area. It gets crowded, but it feels friendly. As I said above, the beer garden is one of the best outdoor restaurant spaces in town, but when it gets crowded be prepared to be patient when ordering food or drinks.
(4)
Katie C.
Alright, this is probably my favorite restaurant I have discovered in Kansas City!! My husband and I have gone numerous times alone and brought family and friends. All the dishes I have ever had here is fantastic - Burger, Grilled Cheese, Spicy Chicken. Definitely get the mashed potatoes!! Good selection of hand crafted cocktails. Great ambiance in a terrific neighborhood. Great place for a date or to celebrate a special occasion. The only reason I am choosing 4 stars over 5, is the price. Make reservations :)
(4)
Bill B.
I went there expecting to be unhappy --- very unhappy. I am a pesco vegetarian, and the online menu looked like a turnoff. Also I usually prefer wine to beer, while Westside Local emphasizes its unusual beer selections. To make things worse: when I walked in, the hostess immediately informed me that the blackened tuna on the menu was not available that evening. Groan. Well, I was already there, so I figured I should give it a try anyway, and maybe go somewhere else afterwards for food I might like. Was I ever wrong. This place blew me away. I had four courses: peanut soup, a beets salad, garlic fried potatoes, and sliced pears. I had a glass of each of three different interesting wines, and a double espresso. The server, Jason, was exceptionally considerate of my somewhat unusual preferences, and everything was first rate. The decor is Greenwich Village/Montmartre, and they evidently have live entertainment many evenings starting at about 6 pm. If I were in the market for art, I'd be more inclined to buy what is on the walls here at reasonable prices than what I often see on the walls three blocks to the east in the Crossroads Art District at less credible prices. There is a parking lot directly across the street and another one behind the restaurant. It's because of places like this that I like KC so much. Otherwise I'd spend more time in Lawrence.
(5)
Kimberly V.
The grilled cheese sandwich was the best I've ever had! I also would highly recommend the potato salad!
(5)
Layne R.
Delicious. Stopped in for a late lunch and was not disappointed. Had the Summit Burger. 1/2 lb of meat, wilted arugula, Emmethaler (sp?) Cheese, a tasty vinaigrette and a side of garlic fries. All of it was great. Atmosphere is laid back and service is friendly. If you are near the Westside, I highly recommend stopping in. Updated: I've since been back a couple times and the Summit Burger continues to deliver and the fries are excellent. The first time I went the vinagrette/aioli whatever it is that came with the meal and I dipped my fries in was amazing. AMAZING. the last two times it hasn't been quite as spectacular which makes me a little sad. Still all good, but I really want that amazing taste again. It was SO good.
(4)
Tj P.
This place is A ok. The deviled eggs are ok but not outstanding, they did not invent them you know. The hostess had a stick up her butt. The waiter was great. All in all a yes.
(3)
Jim X.
Westside Local. Where to begin? Locally sourced, yes. Fresh flavors, no doubt. Original, definitely. Seasonal menus ensure there's always something new to try. Take their Winter Quino. Packed with flavor and fresh earthy veggies. Top that with your favorite protein and it's heaven on earth. Bottom line, if you're in KC and looking to branch out of the ordinary, this is your spot.
(4)
krysztof n.
Flavor. It's why we eat. Let me rephrase that: It's why we ENJOY eating. I'm no foodie. Call me a "Flavor Savant", perhaps? I know that when it goes in my mouth, it better fire synapses of delight in my brain and satisfy that pit in my gut that needs sated. And what have I found over the years? It's no surprise: food grown locally, fresh to table, served with love in an environment of warmth usually tastes the best. Especially if I'm not the one cooking. I ended up here the other night after the KC Crossroads Artwalk with Local Diners and Appreciators The Fellow Gentleman and his gal The Fashion Plate while The Dame was out of town (and sorely missed by us all), and we weren't disappointed. Each of our plates (and drinks) was amazing, and what made it even more so was that our server took the time to field our many questions about WHY it was so amazing. Our time there was too short, however; I would have loved to stayed longer after the meal, maybe enjoyed some desert or another drink, but alas it wasn't in the cards. I can't wait to take The Dame back for another round, and to see how she reacts when that same quality of flavors hits her tongue.
(4)
Jason C.
This is my first visit to this little gem. Really nothing to complain about here. Very quaint, comfortable spot. My server was very friendly, and gave just the right amount of attention. I started with the deviled eggs (very nice). I then had the quinoa burger, with the house tomato fennel soup as my side. Both were very fresh and delicious. They boast a farm-to-table menu here and they definitely seem legit. I will return.
(4)
Jocelyn R.
I've had drinks at the Westside Local before but this past weekend I finally got to eat dinner there and wow - such a home run decision that was! I will definitely be back soon. Drinks and appetizers were perfect - I love roasted garlic so was excited to see that on the menu along with a lovely cheese plate. I ordered the grilled cheese and fries which was an upscale version with several kinds of cheeses and a little cup of tomato soup for dipping. My husband ordered the pork belly which he said was delicious. The service was great and the prices were reasonable. Go there.
(4)
Bailey W.
Unfortunately, after having been wanting to try The Westside Local out for many months, we checked it out and had a pretty disappointing experience. I'll start with the good. My boyfriend ordered a burger and said it was good. The deviled eggs weren't bad either, but Beer Kitchens are exponentially better. The limeade was good though. Now for the bad. The grilled cheese was just average. There's so much bread that I ended up taking off one slice. I noticed that there was something in it that looked like a piece of paper or something. Eventually the waitress came back and informed me it was the rind of the cheese and that it was edible. Then she took away my meal without asking if I was done or would have liked a box for the deviled egg and tomato soup I had left. Also the ketchup(?) was a bit runny. The service was what was really disappointing. Besides the fact that she took my food away, she also never brought my boyfriend the lemonade he ordered. After bringing our food, she never checked on us until we had already finished, despite there being only four occupied tables and her checking on the table right next to us twice. It's a shame since I'd been looking forward to trying it. Had the service been better, I would be willing to give it another shot and try something different on the menu.
(2)
Renee H.
If it is a warm day, sit outside. Seriously. This a great restaurant to discover and enjoy Paleo food.
(4)
Tracy K.
Totally awesome place! The food is amazingly good, everything we've had has been so full of flavor. It's a can't miss! Call for a reservation is a best bet to eating quicker. Bar is small so not much in the way of eating in there although we have done it before.
(5)
Callie E.
Here's why I love West Side Local: Strong focus on local brands and/or produce Hip, urban atmosphere Consistently delicious food - vegetarian and vegan friendly (yeah!) Service hasn't disappointed thus far West Side Local is the one place in town (ok, I kid, there are maybe four) that I can recommend to my friends and confidently know they will enjoy. A few of my favorite dishes include: Quinoa Broccoli Burger, Roasted Carrot Soup (holy Sh*t - I hate soup, but love this), Tomato - Fennel Soup (again, read note above) and Kale Salad (minus bacon). It's places like this, that make moving back from The Bay, an excellent decision!
(5)
James H.
Pretty good. I really liked the bar and the outdoor seating. The fries were amazing with the garlic aioli and habanero sauce. My fish tacos were pretty good but I've had better for cheaper. My whiskey sour was not what I think of when ordering a whiskey sour. It was more of a whiskey lemonade/iced tea. Pretty good selection of specialty beers as well.
(4)
Reed N.
I was so damn close to giving 5-stars. So close. Just the texture of the burger was the difference. Let me explain... but first know that it you want a good burger you can pull the trigger on this place without hesitation. You see, I am a burger guy. It is a last rights food for me. Beef, fat all ground into a juicy patty of goodness. On a bun, Farm-to-Market brioche no less. Chopped jalpenos. Aioli. Arugula. Out. Of. Control. The only thing not perfect about my southwestern burger was that it was a little too "tight" or patted together too long. Other than that... this place nailed it. The fries were a crispy treat, and were flour dredged or something. The coating was light and they stayed crisp in my take out box for 10 minutes. I know treated fries may be blasphemy to OCD spud lovers out there, but get over yourselves long enough to taste something purely on its own merit. There are no rules in cooking these days unless you profess them as part of your business model. Which Westside Local does do on a different plain... in their name. Much of the ingredients are local sourced. : )
(4)
Daniela G.
Ladies night was just kicked up a notch! The drink were amazing, our server was super helpful with the menu and suggestions and the food delicious. I can't wait to bring my boyfriend here! I gave on less star because of the snooty little hostess who not only spent the entire time we were there playing on her phone but dismissed us when we asked for a table away from the door because we were really cold. Other that her this place is one of my new favorites in Kansas City!
(4)
Carly F.
One of my favorites in KC. The service can be slow sometimes and the wait staff a little snooty, but the food and drinks make up for it.
(4)
Adrn H.
I read the reviews prior to going, and I really resonate with those put-off by the service. Local is by no means a new fad, but that doesn't mean you need to half-ass it. I mean you don't need to go all Portlandia on us and offer a dossier on our meals, but please gratify me and explain how my sub-par BLT was locally sourced. (Or my husband's mussels, for that matter.) As a bleeding heart, I can concede a little quality if I know a little bit of the story. But from Westside Local? Nothing. No stories, mention of local farms, just a hastily printed (and soggy) menu. Additionally, the critiques of service are dead-on. I found the waitstaff detached and unconcerned with our experience. The host took us to a booth where I immediately sat in a HUGE water puddle and soaked my dress. When I asked the server for an explanation, he gestured up and mumbled "uh, yeah, that happens a lot." Evidently they're okay with the AC dripping condensation on patrons during their meal. The food? Mostly uninspired nu-comfort food. Drinks were expensive and watery. If you go, I'd stick to the pint o' fries and a table not under the AC ducts.
(2)
Kathleen M.
Many grateful thanks to fellow Yelper Ken B for steering me here. I owe you a recommendation! We came here for lunch after a great visit at the National World War I museum and it was the perfect place. We were still chewing our experience at the museum,the horror of war, etc. and needed a calm oasis of good vibes and better food. Faster than you can sing Over There we were exactly at that oasis. Our waiter was super friendly and answered all my questions about the area, the neighborhood, etc. I had the chicken sandwich which I would have cheerfully saluted. I also adored the potato salad. We split the mini candy bar dessert, too much for one but perfect for two. Such fun to come eat at a fresh, healthy place and it was a great contrast to other places we had visited. My only complaint about Kansas City is that we have to go home tomorrow and haven't seen, done and eaten everything we wanted to. Thanks for such a great time!
(5)
Clifford S.
This was a darn good meal - great burger and the best fries I have ever tasted. The waiter promised they were and he was right. We liked the whole package - the neighborhood, the ease of street parking and the good food. It was friendly; like the whole city of Kansas City. I hope the Cubs play here again so we can come back to the city and this restaurant.
(5)
Christine H.
Food was awesome! Service was great. One of the best veggie burgers in town. Creative food, great atmosphere and quality food.
(5)
Ken B.
My partner called and made reservations at Westside Local to take Granny out for Mothers Day. We arrived, stated our name and got the look of Who What Where are you sir!!! Well, he had made it for the following Saturday. Not what you want to hear when you have a hungry grandparent with you. Without missing a beat, they made us feel welcome and found us a table to be seated at. So nice. The waitress (which I regret I don't have her name.....though she is the one pregnant with twins) was more than fantastic. Personable, funny, knowledgeable, attentive and professional. Really, the best kind of waitress you could ever hope to have. The attentiveness and slowness of the waitstaff had always been the problem for me at Westside Local, but as of my last handful of visits, that is a thing of the past. The food was still amazing. Fresh and flavorful. The menu has gone through some downsizing but all of the favorites still remain except for my favorite beer that I had discovered here, but there are many more options for me to happily try til I discover my new favorite. The atmosphere is still one of my favorites in the city and I look forward to some great spring/summer nights out in the beer garden. I think my partners mistake of making the reservation for a week later than what we were planning will not be wasted......we kept it in place and will happily return in a week to have another great night out. Thanks Westside Local!
(5)
Derek T.
Easily in my top 3 favorite restaurants in KC. Must go!
(5)
Rhonda S.
I feel as if I'm one Yelper behind the rest, as I had never visited Westside Local till last night. I attended a Yelp event, but I am reviewing the restaurant. Being a bit budgeted for food money last night, I can't see spending 13.00 for a sandwich, period. 11.00 for grill cheeses? Well, it looked good. I'm trying to decide between 3 or 4 stars, and the prices bought the review down, not the atmosphere or service. One person can easily spend above $20.00 on a meal, and to me, $20.00 can buy alot of other things. Their food is produced locally, which might account for higher prices. We sat outside, under a wooden roof, I think this was a beer garden. I love places that have outside areas like this. We sat at a picnic table, with vines around us, with bamboo plants, and vines on the roof of the garden area. We were presented with menus, which didn't surprise me of the prices. They extended happy hour for us, making the cheapest beer $2.00. It was PBR, and I happen to like PBR. The next cheapest thing ont he menu was French fries, with house ketchup and aioli sauce, which I ordered. Katie D. raved on the deviled eggs, I was surprised of the price being $6.00. (I don't eat chicken embryos), but was expecting them to bring a plate of several deviled eggs, yet, it was only one egg, in half. Later I was told, it was $2.00 for an egg, which is sitll expensive to me. Sara, Katie and Treesha, around me, all had the grilled cheese. The grilled cheese, which I considered, but was very budgeted, were 11.00, and were presented with salad I'd never eat, and something else. The menu increased in price, and the cheeseburger that Daniel had, (he was sitting next to me) though it looked good, was $13.00. The grill cheese looked really good, but not the salad with it, or the other offering. And I might want to go back for it. But i'm sure I'd be paying for the salad, which, though I lean vegetarian, cold vegetables aren't on the top of my list to order. They offer Quinoa, which Joi says is really good. I wanted to order it, but couldn't. I mean, how does WSL price their food? Too high. I cannot ever fathom a sandwich over $8.00. Especially a hamburger, which I doubt I'd ever order. At this point, I need to mention it was Lilian O's last Yelp event here in Kansas City, and she is the one who introduced me to Donna's Dress Shop. But the place is cute, has charm, and good service. It is dog friendly, as can be verified by Colt, the cocker Spaniel who owns David and Susan. Colt had a joyous time when the waiter accidently dropped some food. I certainly enjoyed the company, and my fellow Yelp friends. I like the location of WSL, but the prices might turn me away. .
(3)
Lindsay P.
Okay, so this is a bit random...but I LOVED their ketchup. It has a cidery taste that goes perfectly with their amazing french fries. I'm hoping to come back on a future trip to KC to scope out more of their menu, but the beer and wine list are pretty rocking, and they have some great small dishes if you're just looking for a tapa-esque experience. Our server was also great with suggestions as to what to drink/try.
(4)
Joi B.
This place just hits all the right spots. It's been a year since my last review and because the star rating doesn't get any higher than five, so my rating remains. But! There have been some changes here, subtle, but great. And yes, I do realize some of the small plates are no longer on the menu, but maybe when in season, they'll reappear (sun chokes... anyone?) Regardless, I like what they have on there now and we tend to get the same thing, parmesan and the aforementioned Castelvetrano olives (the K gets his beloved prosciutto and being that I grew up with the stuff being on many a Sunday dinner's antipasto, WL's is the bomb). The quinoa is better than ever. I swear it has improved and I'm not even sure how that's possible, but I'm craving it right now. All those delightful textures and flavors. It's the ultimate. The real reason for this update, though, is to note that I love sitting in the bar area the most. Because I suck at planning ahead and rarely make reservations (it's true), the last several times they asked if we'd mind sitting in the bar. Now, I normally *loathe* sitting at those high tables and chairs. I can't put my finger on why exactly, but let's just say I feel like I'm sitting in a highchair and I don't recall ever liking being in a damn highchair even as a child (I was born sophisticated, what can I say?). At Westside Local, however, if I'm not sitting out on that divine patio, the bar area is where I want to be sitting! That bartender is one of the best servers in the city, I've found. Not only can he whip you up any drink you desire, but he also is "on it" all the time: manning the bar, serving the three or four tables in his section and generally just being awesome. So, there you have it. My updated review for one of my favorite places in town. I'm especially excited just thinking of sitting out on the patio in the upcoming months. Bring it on!
(5)
Kelsy M.
I am already looking forward to coming back to The Westside Local. The ambiance is great and the food was delicious. I definitely recommend the kale salad. I have never had a salad so delicious in my life, I need to get the recipe! The reason I gave it 4 stars was because I also ordered the mac and cheese with my kale salad. I wish I didn't order the mac and just got a bigger salad, that's how delicious it was. The mac was pretty good, it wasn't the most amazing mac I have ever had. I think it lacked some salt and I think they should have used a stronger cheese, it was very mild tasting. Perhaps it's just a personal opinion, but I like a little more pizzazz to my mac.
(4)
Nicole B.
Since I love restaurants where the food is locally sourced, I'm not sure how I haven't dined here sooner. The decor is simplistic and not over done. Local art is displayed on the walls. Service was attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly. Good beer selection as well. To start, my dining mates and I shared a cheese plate and charcuterie plate. We let our server decide on the meats and cheeses. He did an awesome job at doing that! The Beemster cheese and Rabbit Pate were outrageously good. I also loved the roasted garlic on the cheese plate. For my meal, I went with the Crispy Pork Belly. I was expecting a larger portion, but it was still delicious. The polenta was creamy and tasty. The pork belly was crispy on the outside and tender in the middle. Everyone else was very happy with their meals as well. I'm looking forward to dining again so that I can try more of the menu options.
(4)
Jennifer C.
My husband and I love coming to this place. But we know that we should try to go before we get hungry, because there is always a wait to get in as it is a smaller restaurant. I think it usually is about a half hour wait or more every time I have come during the dinner hours, which is the only downside of this restaurant to me. I keep coming back for the hamburgers and beer. I think they do a great burger. I love that they try to use fresh and local ingredients in their cooking. It does have a pretty fun, trendy kinda vibe.
(4)
Brenda D.
I absolutely love this place!! Had no idea it was here and so glad we went. Very relaxing, wait service was excellent. It was quiet (for a long time) so we could talk. It did get busier at the night went on. The best Blueberry basil martini I've ever had. Actually the only one but it was so good I ended up drinking 3 of them. We gals got hungry and ordered the Pesto Chicken, The Summit Burger, The Grilled Cheese and the Baked Mac and Cheese - shared all of them. They food is fantastic! I can't enough good things about this place. Wished I had one in my back yard. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Chad B.
Best grilled cheese sandwich I have EVER had! I'll drive 30 miles just for one. Fun place to have a couple of beers with friends (Hitachino white ale).
(5)
Greg N.
Go for the grilled cheese...just like everyone else says. It doesn't get much simpler or better than that!
(5)
Lilian O.
I am extremely happy to report that The Westside Local has worked out the kinks from the change in ownership and chefs. The food and service are both back on track! The last time I came here, I intended to catch up with a friend over some good food and booze in their covered beer garden. The plan was foiled because of the strong winds. Darn you bipolar Midwest weather! We chose to sit indoors and started off with a plate of the deviled eggs and my current favorite beer of Hitachino Nest Red Rice Ale. While the eggs were good, I don't understand why so many people rave about them. I enjoyed the arugula salad that the eggs were garnished with better than the deviled eggs themselves. 6 egg halves (3 whole eggs) is too much to split between two people as I get tired of the taste rather quickly. The quinoa dish is back on the menu and as good as I remember. My friend enjoyed his burger and I enjoyed stealing the Parmesan fries off his plate. It was his first time at The Westside Local and he was impressed by the food and beer selection. I felt cooler for introducing him to the place as it's been on his to-try list for awhile. My next visit there will definitely include plans of sitting in the beer garden. Now if only I had the power to control the weather...
(4)
Marian L.
The food is very good. The servers are pleasant and knowledgeable. The maitre d' is rude and off-putting. This is the second time in two weeks I've dined at Westside Local and been treated snottily by this staff member. The first time, I'll admit, I should have made a reservation for the six people I brought with me to the restaurant. Because of the way the server treated us, I made a reservation for the following weekend using Open Table. We were no more than ten minutes late and arrived to a three-quarters EMPTY restaurant and the maitre d' was snotty again and seated us at a table in the glaring sunlight. There were plenty of other tables in shadier spaces where the hostess seated people who had NOT made reservations (after gently berating them for not doing so). I won't be back. During our dinner, my husband and I listened to the maitre d' and the young hostess take turns gently admonishing any customer who walked in without reservations. This is not how I wish to be treated first thing in a restaurant. And Westside Local? I didn't want to share my concerns on a local forum. I searched your website and Facebook page for a way to send a private email. There isn't one. Please consider adding an email address to your website.
(2)
Lauren K.
Went back for dinner recently and had an amazing meal! We ordered some of the a la carte items, some meats, cheese and 2 perfect litle deviled eggs. I tried the carbonara pasta w. duck egg. I'd never tried this dish before and was thrilled with it.. It was creamy, rich and flavorful. My boyfriend got the steak frites and it was honestly the best steak I've ever tried. We were so satisfied I was on a food high for the rest of the night. This place is just perfect!
(5)
Erika D.
Reviewing the Westside Local makes me a little nervous. I don't want to appear in a Hipster Attack video with my enthusiastic praise set to strains of flute music. Trust me, if the food were mediocre, I would not hesitate to say so - trendy locale and minimalist design be damned. The truth is that the food is fantastic and should be the main draw at this Summit Street hangout. The locally sourced menu is short, sweet and full of inspired comfort food. The Quinoa is a tangy, crispy, hearty revelation with thyme roasted butternut squash, dried cherries, brussels sprouts, shaved parmesan and crunchy bits of arugula. The Chicken Pot Pie is contentment in a ramekin. Breaking into the fluffy buttermilk biscuit is a satisfying act, and the creamy goodness underneath is bursting with tender chicken and vegetables. The mix and match Localities ($2 each) are meant to be adult appetizers, but make a great kids meal. On our Saturday afternoon visit, Elliott ordered a plate with apples, sweet & spicy pecans, and house made pickles. It came with slices of wonderful, crusty french bread. The bread was a hit with baby Emma as well (even though she was perfectly happy just gnawing on the wood slab tables). Do not leave The Westside Local without trying dessert. I recommend their take on a trio of beloved candy bars: Snickers, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, and Peppermint Patties. These gourmet creations are a far cry from store bought candies; each one is rich, delicious decadence. The moral of my story: don't let the hipster appeal of this sensational restaurant scare you away. You can have your cool and eat it too!
(5)
Michelle F.
My husband and I dined with 3 other couples in January. Jason was our server and he was perfect. He explained the menu repeatedly when we were not paying attention to him and smiled and joked with us as he kept the glasses full and the food coming the whole time. We had the deviled eggs, I really enjoyed the vinegar punch to them but a couple of others thought it was too much, and a build-your-own combination of cheese, olives and prosciutto - it was terrific as well. The guys enjoyed the large variety of beers, including several cans of Stag. "In a glass? No one's ever asked for that before!" Among us we had salmon (raves I tell you, raves!), burgers, the roast beef sandwich and grilled cheese. We passed and nibbled until most people had tried everything, it was all great. The roasted fennel and tomato soup went perfectly with my grilled cheese. We tried each of the three desserts offered, this might have been the only time our table was not the loudest in the house, we were all very busy making sure those desserts were finished down to the last bite! My only complaint about the entire evening is that the old building, while full of charm and character, is incredibly drafty. I kept my coat on the entire evening and a couple of the other girls were putting gloves on in between courses. I'm looking forward to going back, my husband and I really enjoyed the Valentine's Day menu and the beer garden will be a fun place to hang out this summer.
(5)
Carrie B.
It's probably a 4.5. For at least the past two years, my coworkers have been telling me that I absolutely MUST try the Westside Local. Turns out my coworkers know me pretty well! Went for restaurant week lunch--3 courses for 15 dollars. Got a miniscule salad (but again, it was Restaurant Week, but still enough to dock just a bit.) For a main dish I got the quinoa--OH. MY. GOODNESS. The ultimate test of a successful meal (or recipe) is that I crave it despite the inclusion of an ingredient that I typically dislike. The quinoa was so delicious, flavorful, textured, that I gobbled up the brussels sprouts that were part of it, even though I typically loathe them. Yum. Got the panna cotta dessert and discovered I really don't like panna cotta, but not the fault of the restaurant. Service was a touch slow but not overly so, and was quite friendly. Went back again for drinks and to split a beautiful choose-your-own cheese plate. We picked the three best-looking cheeses on the small plates menu, and they came arranged with onion jam, fruits, bread, etc. Not quite up to the level of JP's (RIP) cheese plate (which serves as the standard to which I judge all cheese plates), but a great complement to glasses of organic sauvingnon blanc. Another very viable option on my favorite corner in the city. And this is all before trying the beer garden! (Service note: I didn't go at crowded times on either occasion.)
(4)
Tabitha M.
I have heard so many great things about Westside Local, so I was honestly thrilled to finally go. I went this past Saturday for lunch with two of my friends. There was a decent crowd for 1 o'clock on a Saturday. Everything I tasted was wonderful, but especially the french fries. I don't know, but i am a sucker for french Fries. I have heard that Westside Local used to have garlic french fries, which sounds even more amazing... but i guess that wasn't everyone's cup of tea, so they changed to "normal" french fries. *sigh* Oh well, still yummy. The mac and cheese was good. The guy eating a grilled cheese at the table next to us said it was delicious, and man oh man, did it look delicious. Good service. Reasonably priced food. Nice, clean decor. interesting artwork (i guess it changes out every so often though).
(4)
Dev V.
I have always enjoyed this place, now I finally get to write a review. The other times I've been here, my food has always been good, but the service was always so so. This changed with my visit this past Friday. We sat in the bar area and John was our server, he's also the bartender. He was very pleasant and knew a lot about the wine list since he put it together. Food was great, service was great, atmosphere was great. Patio was hopping as well because of the warmer weather. Keep it local and get your asses to Westside Local!
(4)
Martin H.
I really wanted to like this place more than I did. I gave it a second chance after a so-so first visit because i thought it had potential. The interior looks good, the patio is a great space, and the fries are very good. BUT... the beer is not the right temperature, the burgers are bland, the menu is quite limited, the staff is very hit and miss. If I go again, it will ONLY be for beer and appetizers on the patio.
(2)
Annie A.
LOVED this place!! I went here for the 1st time on Friday for Happy Hour and while it wasn't much of a "scene" it was a great time! The bartender Mick was awesome and being the only 2 ladies at the 8 seat bar.. we got lots of attentive service from him! He had great recommendations for the build your own plate - we opted for the Pears, Baguette, Goat Cheese, Kalamata Olives, Proscuitto and the Irish Porter Cheddar... all were awesome!! They also have Fernet Brianca - the only other place in KC besides Czar Bar to carry my beloved favorite drink that I discovered while living in San Francisco! So VERY excited to return! The wines were delicious too! I'll definitely be back to this quaint little local place!
(5)
Lisa R.
I will preface by saying that I went for the first time at 8:30 on a Sunday night, so my experience may or may not be representative of what going to Westside Local is like another night of the week. The menu was good, and the food, while nothing special, hit the spot, and I really liked the option to get the small plates of things like pear slices and pickles. The decor and set-up had a nice feel. But the music was loud, inconsistent and a bit annoying, and my waiter seemed less than thrilled to be there. I understand what it's like to be a server, and go into restaurants with a lot of empathy, but the empathy can fade when a waiter has a bad attitude that doesn't have anything to do with me. One of three tables in the place, being a bit more attentive would not have been a struggle for him. And I very much wanted to order dessert, but was immediately presented with my check as my plates were rushed away. Maybe it was just an off night. I'd try it again if I were a local, but as an out-of-towner who has just this one experience to rely on, 3 stars is the best I can do.
(3)
Suzanne G.
I love this place. I've been several times and it's a great go-to when I have a friend in town. Most recently, a prego friend was visiting from Ark. The food was excellent and they didn't look down at her for ordering a shirley temple or asking for a salad without feta. In fact, the server anticipated another issue with her entree and made sure to notify the chef. The quinoa and veggie dish I had was excellent. I'm not a vegetarian, but I'm not afraid to eliminate meat in favor of a flavorful dish. It was fantastic. I'm looking forward to good weather - the beer garden is a great way place for happy hour. It's communal so you never know who you'll end up next to!
(5)
Cory K.
I have been to The West Side Local several times and I can say it is always a great place if you want to show someone something different. The food has been a hit or miss a few times but still pretty good compared to other places. The patio is great and they have a great beer selection.
(4)
Shea C.
I wanted to love The Westside Local. The farm-to-table concept, the quirky location, the shared tables on the patio and sleek but earthy interior are all appealing. The food? Not as appealing. I came for lunch with my mom who was visiting from California (where I'm from and whose cuisine I adore). I knew The Westside Local would be right up her alley. I'd been once before for drinks with friends and enjoyed the variety of the wine list, but hadn't ordered food. It was a gorgeous day, so we chose to sit outside, sharing a table with a few other women also out to lunch. We ordered ice teas and enjoyed the sunshine while perusing the menu. Several items were calling to me, but I ended up choosing the chicken salad sandwich with fries and a side of pears. Mom had the local arugula salad with chicken. Unable to resist a pint of Boulevard Single Wide IPA, I ordered that too. My sandwich, which seemed like it would be full of flavor with its chipotle aoil and bacon, was bland beyond belief. I also have a slight pet peeve when a menu states the sandwich will come on a certain type of bread (challah in this case, which I love) and it comes on something else (grilled multigrain). I ended up adding pear slices to the sandwich to try to add some complexity of flavor. The chipotle aoli was barely noticable and the bacon was overpowering. The garlic fries, however, were awesome and didn't even need the homemade ketchup. Mom seemed pleased enough with her salad. She initially wanted the roasted beet salad, but was told she couldn't have it without the cilantro because it was already mixed (disappointing). Service was sllooooowwww, but friendly enough. Had I not been content to sit in the sun and catch up with mom, I would have quickly grown impatient. I still think the charm of The Westside Local is worth experiencing and I'd like to go back and give it another go.
(3)
Joe W.
Great food and fun decor. Try the 1/2 lb (local) beef burger- comes with proscuitto and melted white ched, microgreens and crispy fries. My server was really kind and quick. Great service.
(5)
Jennifer H.
I just don't think the food lives up to the hype. I didn't think it was particularly good at all. The mac & cheese was some of the worst I've had at any restaurant. I spent an extra $6 on about 4oz of bland chicken. The burger was pretty good, but nothing special. The atmosphere and the neighborhood are great. My recommendation for someone who wants to go to patronize this quaint, local restaurant is to order some wine or beer and stick with the $2 localities, but skip the unimpressive food.
(2)
Emilie S.
Probably the best burger I will ever eat. Brioche bun, watercress, perfect mustard. Had tomato fennel soup as app. Also perfect. We had a party of 7 for a late dinner- waiter was friendly, patient and knowledgeable. Nice wine selection. Husband had the mussels and loved them- he hardly talked once the were put in front of him. FIL's salmon quinoa was a hit as well. Mac and Cheese looked crazy good. A highlight of my 6000 mile food tour through Western/Central US of A.
(5)
Betts C.
I definitely needed to update this review. I've been slacking. Because I've been back to Westside Local several more times, and every time I go, I'm really, really convinced that it's one of the best places in KC. It absolutely serves all of my wants. First off, there's the beer list, which is pretty amazing. Secondly, there's the beer recommendations with each of the items on the menu. And I've found that, if you are shy of those and want something a little different, the servers are quite knowledgeable and can pull some secret bit of fantasticness out from behind the bar, and voila, you have some perfect flavor combination. And that combination involved the food. Because really, it is pretty great. It's not the longest menu, but they know what they can handle. And now that the salmon burger is back on the menu, I am one happy,happy lady. It's a phenomenal experience (it counts as an experience) especially when paired with the beet salad. I'm pretty obsessed with beets, and I make a good beet salad myself. But this blows me out of the water. And back to the burger: it's actually salmon. It's not mostly bready or filling of any sort, it's salmon. And it's served on a really great, entirely too caloric roll that probably ruins any healthiness I'd be going for by ordering a salmon burger and salad. But it's ok, it's so very worth it. I've also tried both their winter and springy quinoa dishes, and they're excellent. Fresh, filling, and very healthy. They're not the most exciting thing on the menu, but they are very, very good. And the boy tried their special pulled pork sandwich on one of our visits, and it was, in fact, mighty fine. This was in the middle of the barbecue tour, and even though Westside Local is a far cry from Arthur Bryant's or OkJoe's, that was some excellent, very grown up pulled pork. I will admit that I still haven't had the full Westside Local experience, as I haven't tried dessert. But after spending a lazy afternoon sipping really good beer under vines, eating our sandwiches and basking in the still pleasant sunlight, I'm pretty convinced that Westside Local is fantastic and one of those rare but lovely, non-KC in KC places where I'd like to spend a whole, whole lot more of my time.
(5)
Bryan E.
The Westside Local is one of my standbys. I truly enjoy the menu and find just enough variety to satisfy most anyone. Extra props for the grilled cheese with tomato soup. Sometimes it is hard to get in or there is a small wait, but overall, I have no complaints. I keep it in my back pocket for out of town guests and nights when we can't agree where to go. Definitely a crowd pleaser.
(4)
D W.
Super atmosphere and food! Locally grown and the freshest I have had in a long time. The outside is not much to look at and it even looked closed but this is a true example of why you should not judge a book by the cover!
(5)
Mike K.
It was a beautiful spring day and our destination was a patio for lunch and libations. We decided to check out The Westside Local since it was close to the office and fit the need for sunshine. The Westside Local is located on the NE corner of 17th & Summit. Parking is a little tight since its mainly street parking, but we were able to find a spot on Summit just a 1/2 block down the street. The inside dining space is a mixture of rustic exposed brick and modern furniture, probably would seat 30-40 people. But our destination was the Patio! We were seating on of 5-6 large picnic tables where it had somewhat of a communal vibe where you could be seated next to another group on the large picnic tables. The server handed us two menus, the food menu and the large beer & wine menu. On one side of the food menu it had a large selection of al a carte 'Localities' - an interesting mix of meats, cheeses, and vegetables, 'Snacks' (a limited appetizer selection), and Soups/Salads. Prices were mixed - individual Localities were $2 each, Snacks were $6-$9, and Soups/Salads $4-12. On the back side of the menu were the Large Plates (main course) which ranged from $15-$22, and Sandwiches $8-11. Now if you're looking for large selection - this isn't the place. If you're looking for a limited menu done well - this is your place!!! The beer & wine menu was extensive, approx 20 wines (didn't look at much), and 30-40 beers which were mainly bottles. I opted for the Summit burger with garlic fries and a nice 22 ounce Avery Salvation to wash it down. Our meals arrived fairly quickly - and WOW we were all impressed with our meals. I could quickly tell this wasn't the standard burger. To start, the burger meat is ground fresh, served on a fresh baked roll from Fervere, arugula, Swiss cheese and a mustard sauce. The garlic fries were served with in-house made ketchup and a lemony aioli. The house made ketchup was a little odd, it tasted more like marinara sauce vs. ketchup - but that's a minor detail. The food was excellent - staff was friendly - and I loved the attention to ingredients. I will certainly go back, now all we need is another sunny spring day!
(5)
steve w.
We made our first visit to the Westside this weekend and were pleased. They have a short, but nicely curated wine list; our Spanish wine was spicy, nicely balanced and an excellent value. We enjoyed their "localities," a way for the customer to economically compose their own appetizers, charcuterie, and such. One minor complaint on that score: some of the localities are attributed, others are not. It would be great if the customer knew where each came from. The braunschwiger was fine, but tasted like Boar's Head - not bad, but not unique. The missus' lamb special was very good, although she could have done without the lamb sausage in favor of an extra chop - the polenta complemented the dish nicely, however. I had mussels in an orange fennel broth. The mussels were gigantic, very flavorful and the broth balanced the sweet and savory perfectly. The garlic fries ... quite good, too. Another small kvetch, though: I initially ordered the trout special, but requested fries instead of mashed only to have the chef decline my request. Wait a minute ... I like your restaurant and I'll be back, but it seemed a little pretentious to decline a modest alteration in starch upon a customer's preference. Just saying. The bread pudding was great. The after dinner drink menu could use some white dessert wines, later harvest Rieslings and such; those were noticeably absent from the after dinner drink offerings. So, three minor reservations, but overall an most enjoyable meal from the Westside.
(4)
Emily s.
So I finally made it back here last night without the kids for a pre-Kauffman dinner. When I made the reservations he let me know that they had a bunch of people coming in at 7pm and would I be done by then - which was nice because I knew the service would be fast and I wouldn't be late for the concert. Emily took care of us and was amazing and friendly. When I indicated that I really wanted a salad but was afraid it would be too much with a full dinner - she said there is actually a side salad size available, which is not on the menu and was perfect! About the size of a large saucer or dessert plate. Yummy arugula! I got the quinoa (Based on the many reviews- thanks Joi) and was very impressed. I would never have ordered it on my own but it was so tasty and unlike anything I've ever had, I'm glad I did. In the spirit of adventure I also got the gin pickle. If you like pickles and gin this is the drink for you! They make their own pickles and use them and the juice for the mixer. It had a night light butter/dill pickle flavor (more dillish but didn't kick you in the teeth). My SO had the pork loin which had a nice light flavor and was medium rare - very large portion of pork in a ham/bean soup. He liked it but I thought the pork could have used a little more flavor. The cornbread would have been good if it hadn't been dry :( I like their fries, very crispy, but the ketchup is too sweet and I don't even understand what that aioli is supposed to be - seemed like homemade mayo and pretty flavorless. I ate the fries plain because they are super tasty and didn't need anything. I can't wait to go back for the deviled eggs and check out the beer garden. The only drawback was the price - just over $100 with tax and tip, but $40 of that was liquor so it could be done much cheaper. Overall I think it was worth what we paid. This was a very unique, fresh, locally produced meal in a great atmosphere. I was stuffed at the end with no room for dessert, even if I had wanted it. Oh, we left at 6:57pm and never felt rushed at all, in fact we even had one more round of drinks after dinner at our servers suggestion (price there vs price at the Kauffman!)
(4)
John S.
Really actually like this place and you should go. Good fries, tasty duck, nice decor, thought seemingly put into the food, and the first time I was there our waiter was amazing. Last night, however, we had a bum. You're on the clock, not me pal, SEPARATE CHECKS, SEPARATE CHECKS, SEPARATE CHECKS, oh the gratuity is already include so you don't give a flip, and even after 45min you still can't parse out the bill correctly, sheesh. Sweet hat bro.
(4)
James W.
This place is awesome!!! The only negative was the service was slow at times. They use all local produce and ingredients and have a great local and not so local beer selection. I especially liked they Veggy Sammy and Potato Salad!! Eat or drink out in their beer garden if you can. Truly a great spot in KC!
(5)
Hannah L.
Headed here on Easter Sunday for a nice, local meal at a new spot, well new to us at least. We opted to sit outside in the beer garden with the nice Spring weather which felt much more relaxed then the stiff dining room that had no one in it. Started with beers off their excellent beer list and while they were all out of the one I chose, the waiter brought over his suggestion which was a nice touch. Their menu is limited or "special" on Sundays, but sometimes with my indecisiveness that's even better. We started with the beet salad - no dressing (not sure if they forgot or if they were trying to let the beets shine and do their thing) - either way, the beets were spot on, fresh, juicy and delicious! I got the Vegetable Shepard's Pie which was YUMMY! Awesome comfort food, which as a pescatarian can be hard to find. The potatoes in the stew were under done, but that's my only complaint. The mushrooms, green onions, carrots, quinoa and crunchy onions on top of the cheesy mashed potatoes more than made up for it. I ate it all...and it was a large portion! My date got the Fried Chicken & Waffles. A Sunday classic. He ate the whole plate and seemed quite pleased, except for the seasoning. Great crunchy breading, but lacked some spice and kick. Seemed like a good dose of cayenne should have been added to the flour. When we asked if the chicken was local, the waiter shared that it was from Lathrop, MO. I was glad he was informative as the waitstaff at other "local" restaurants in KC don't seem to be very knowledgeable. No room for dessert here...I thought about getting something to go, but they all involved ice cream which I suspected wouldn't keep very well. I also asked if they had smoothies since they boasted fresh, local juices for all their cocktails, but nope, no smoothies. There's definitely room for improvement, but I'd go back in a heartbeat to try a new dish, listen to the live music, enjoy a drink in the garden and support restaurants using fresh, local ingredients.
(4)
Farah A.
Hey, Westside Local. You are yummy. So I know other people have raved about the quinoa, but I have to reiterate it. I almost ordered a box of it to go. I like the natural, simple atmosphere inside the restauant and the cozy family-style picnic tables on the patio. My friends and I shared a picnic table with some friendly hipsters who occasionally dabbled in and out of our conversations. One even asked for a bite of my quinoa which I, of course, obliged with a friendly "what's mine is yours attitude" having returned the day before from my post-communist experience in Cuba. He greatly appreciated it and lamented having not ordered it himself. Otherwise the drinks selection was good, the server put up with my 804 questions about the bread pudding [it is possible to ask that many questions about bread pudding, believe it or not], and I enjoyed the two genderless restrooms [where I accidentally walked in on a guy who forgot to lock the door... woops!]. The only thing to note is beware (just in general) of ordering midwestern favorites "your mom makes" like deviled eggs because at these types of trendy, urban establishments they will always have a twist that you may or may not enjoy. All in all... all local, all lovely. Coming back for quinoa. You should too.
(5)
Molly A.
Though I've never found an entree that I absolutely adore, this place is pretty good. Their small plates/appetizers are my favorite - deviled eggs with a twist and the Castelvetrano Olives ... well, I could probably make a whole meal of those. They're like olive oil in solid form. Mmmm. (Almost zero of the salty brine of typical olives. And I'm a girl who loves her salt.) The beer list is always decent, and the service can be hit or miss. The option of a beer garden is always an added bonus. I hope to find an entree that bumps my review up to four stars but until then, it stays at three. I'd definitely recommend it to friends or take out-of-town guests there for some KC-flavor but I don't go there often personally. (Caveat: their "special" braised short ribs were delish ... But I think it's more fair to judge a restaurant off its every-day menu. I prefer to order off it, as well, as special dishes tend to be on the pricier side here.)
(3)
Joe H.
I'm very middle-of-the-road with my feelings on the Westside Local. I love the idea of a communal beer garden, but the two days I've been have been too cold to consider it. The first time we went involved my 18-month old daughter, which was interesting. My initial impression was that it wouldn't be very kid-friendly, and the hipster, d-bag patrons around us confirmed that, but the staff was absolutely great. They dug a high chair out of the closet, multiple wait staff stopped by our table with crayons or to say something. It was some of the best service I have ever received. The second time was sans child, and the service wasn't as welcoming or responsive as before. Still, my beer was cold, my food was hot, and I got out in reasonable time. The food here isn't quite my bag, but it's good. A friend recommended the grilled cheese, which I wasn't a big fan of. My wife got the roast beef sandwich and starting freaking out about the au jus. Seriously. She talked about it for weeks afterward. I got her to switch me a grilled cheese half for the roast beef, and that au jus is the truth. If I was on the State, I'd probably dip my balls in it. I don't care for garlic fries, but I like these. I want to say it's more garlic salt than cloves of garlic, which I approve of. And the ketchup....oh, the ketchup. They should send some over to the Farmhouse to let them know what good, homemade ketchup tastes like. The beer selection is decent. I'm not a big fan or the beer list advertising Boulevard drafts for $4 and them ringing up as $5. Hopefully that extra dollar is funding a future re-printing of the beer menu. I'll probably go back in the Spring when the weather is nice to experience the beer garden. That might bump it to a 4-star, but it's just OK for now.
(3)
Steve M.
I'll give 3.5 stars. My wife's dish was AWESOME, my friend's soup was very good. Her pot pie, however, was 1 star. My dish and my other friend's dish was probably 4 stars. We used Groupons, so the meal was also very reasonable! We all liked that they use locally grown, fresh ingredients. Service was so-so. Tough neighborhood 'shoes' to fit into, with the Blue Bird right across the street!!!!
(4)
Dana A.
Ok, I had a lot of problems with this place so rather than write a long drawn out thing I am going to give you the basics and then write a list. The one really good thing I can say is that this place is beautiful inside -- it was too cold to sit outside but I am sure the other reviewers cover the beer garden. Their fries were good. I was dining for dinner on a Sunday night with 3 other people. Here are the problems I had, in no particular order: * No appetizer plates brought to use with our cheese plate appetizer. I dropped half my Maytag blue on the floor. * No cider on the beer menu. I don't like regular beer, and most places with a good list, e.g. Blanc, or Harry's Country Club, have a cider. I will come back to the alcohol offerings again in a moment. * Boulevard Pilsner was $5 for a bottle, Schlitz was $3. Other places, these beers are the same price point. The premium beers were also a little higher. La Fin du Monde is $2 more than at The Drop. * My grilled vegetable sandwich was COLD grilled vegetables, but the menu doesn't say that they are cold. They were kinda slimy and gross, not grilled and succulent. The focaccia bread was pretty awful too -- like worse than Panera bad. I had them sub the tomatillo salsa for Dijon vinaigrette (because I thought I was getting a hot sandwich), which was actually straight up Dijon mustard when they brought it to me in a ramekin. * The grits in the shrimp and grits my friend ordered were more like cornbread dough. Really thick and doughy tasting. The dish could have used a roux, and maybe some collard greens or something else green on the plate other than green onion. * I had to ask for the dessert menu. The server was just kind of clueless. Oh, and only 1 of the 7 desserts was available. * When we were leaving, only THEN did I notice that there's a room off the main dining room, and if you go INTO that room there's a BAR. Had I KNOWN there was a bar, I would have had drinks with my friends, but the server never mentioned that there was liquor in addition to the beer list, nor is there a sign above that doorway saying there's a bar. There was no cocktail menu, nothing. When they opened it was known they didn't have liquor, so it's the kind of thing they really should be telling people. * The server didn't ask how to split the check, and split everyone's, which was fine, but he ran mine and my boyfriend's tickets as separate transactions on my card even when we explained we were together -- which seemed really odd. Again he was just clueless. In summary, I think I'd give it another try but only go to the bar area for one drink, and order the fries again. Then I'd go somewhere that the prices are what they should be, and the servers are a little more with it. I feel bad because I want to support local places, but I have 3 other choices on that block alone if I want to spend money on the Westside.
(1)
blythe c.
We need more restaurants like this! Locally owned and supporting local farmers and foods is the way to go. The atmosphere and location are also wonderful. I like enjoy a quick lunch or a sit down dinner with friends on the patio. There are usually flavorful vegetarian options for me and other great choices for my friends and family.
(5)
Caroline K.
I really want to like this place. It's great for the west side neighborhood, but unfortunately, they have focused way too much on image and appearance and have tossed service and quality to the side. It's a great place for enjoying a hard to find beer. The bartenders seem untrained when it comes to making a cocktail or martini, but they can recommend the perfect beer for your tastes. The prices are quite high for standard beers, but the rare beers seem worth the cost. As for the food, I cannot recommend any of it. Let me outline what your dining experience will be like if you are suckered into the allure of the food menu. The menu is extremely limited and focuses on locally grown and raised foods, however, they are frequently out of key items, whittling the selection down to a grilled cheese sandwich or a burger. The selection of appetizers and snacks are plentiful and delicious and are your best option. If you order a hot item, it will, without fail, come out ice cold and inedible. The enticing smell will tickle your nostrils, but the waxed-over cheese or tepid meat will beg you not to eat it. You realize that the sandwich isn't on the delicious sounding local bread listed on the menu, but a standard store-bought roll. When you try to flag down your server, they will ignore you completely. You will pick at the delicious but helplessly cold garlic fries, and eventually, give up on the meal completely. Half hour later, after you have lost you appetite, your hipster server will slink over. She won't really care about your pathetic sandwich and will whisk it away in a fury of huffs and eye rolls. The owner will come over to your table and offer you a complimentary dessert, of which, there are only two options remaining from a list of seven. When you decline, he will berate you, swear and touch your arm. The service is poor, the menu is promising but limited by undermining demand, and without prompt service, the food suffers. Stop in for a beer, but visit a different gastropub for food.
(1)
David S.
Not sure what all the negative reviews are about. This is definitely not a five star place, but the food here is of the highest quality, the beer selection is good and the decor is refreshing (probably even better in the spring/summer months when we can sit outside and enjoy the weather at the same time) The food can be hit or miss with greatness. The grilled cheese sandwhich and burger are both delicious. The grilled cheese has a buttery toasted exterier with a delicious melted interior perfectly contrasted and accentuated with a bowl of tomato soup or dipped into the marinara on the side. The burger is locally sourced grassfed beef, cooked perfectly and a delicious experience from start to finish. That being said, when I ordered the polenta with braised rabbit, the polenta cake was seared beatifully and creamy on the inside, the rabbit lacked flavor and did not have any of the rich gaminess I would associate with it. They could have been using any high quality chicken and I would not have known the difference. I really do enjoy the place, even if it is a tad pricy for the inconsistency of the menu.
(4)
Jani D.
Fresh*Fresh*Fresh and soooo tasty! I am a huge fan of the appetizers- ALL of them. The Westside Local is also the home of the PERFECT french fry. The waitstaff has been very knowledgeable during each visit. Some of the drinks are unique and very tasty as well.
(4)
Kevin M.
I love this place. It is what a great neighborhood eatery should be and more. The staff is friendly, the atmosphere is relaxing but has a nice energy to it. They have a nice outdoor patio and an excellent beer list. Of course the focus is on the food and it is wonderful. The menu isn't a book ala Cheesecake Factory (remember that stuff is all made out of a bunch of pre-packaged, vacuum sealed ingredients that are thrown together and in many instances microwaved) but I think there are enough choices to satisfy most people's tastes. What you will find are fresh, local ingredients prepared in innovative ways by people who really know about and care about food. The short rib stroganoff is amazing as is the braised rabbit. They have an excellent roast beef sandwich and they typically have specials based on available ingredients. Also, because the food is local, it is dependent on the season, so this Spring's menu will be exciting. Another great feature is the $2 per item tasting menu that includes great local cheeses, sausage, lovely deviled eggs and some really tasty beets.
(5)
Emily H.
Absolutely love the people, love the neighborhood, enjoy the ambiance, and always make new friends and run into old acquaintances (surprising, as the place is tiny). Their bartenders are fantastic, the liquor selection is delectable and the place is cozy and inviting. The olives and fries are yummy, but oh my, the vegetarian options range from absolutely dismal to nonexistent. It's hard to imagine the meat-based dishes having any decent flavor, seasoning, or accompaniment when created by someone who can't come up with a single vegetarian dish worth adding to the menu. I definitely expect more from the chef --who I have known to create many wonderful and flavorful vegetarian dishes-- and from this particular establishment. The kitchen has the experience, the attention to detail, and the ingenuity to knock anyone's socks off. All said, I love the Westside Local and stopping in for a drink is always a lovely experience, whether it is Sunday afternoon or Friday night. I look forward to the menu being refined as they establish themselves in the neighborhood.
(3)
Stans S.
Being both vegetarian and a foodie can be challenging! I tried their winter quinoa, with Brussels sprouts, winter squash, kale, parsnips, walnuts, goat cheese and more and it was PERFECT! I had fresh fruit (pear, grapes & blueberries) for desert. What a fabulous meal! There is nothing more to say; I was so happy to find this meal!!
(5)
Anna S.
This is a delightful place in my dad's neighborhood. I've had some serious deviled eggs, intriguing cocktails, and lovely service. I feel this place does not get the attention it deserves, and I'm really okay with that. Let's keep it neighborhood-y.
(5)
Susan N.
Decent beer list. Pretty good food. Awesome atmosphere and service. Met up with fellow yelpers, Lauren O and Tiger W, and hopefully future yelper Amy. We had hoped that this would be a good place to meet up with a group and it was. Whether you choose indoors or outdoors, you'll be absolutely delighted with the atmosphere of Westside Local. The inside gives off a classy bar atmosphere and reminds me of one of my favorite beer bars in Brooklyn. The outside has several communal tables and feels like you could be chowing down in a vineyard. Service was very helpful. We always had someone making sure we're ok and clearing away everything to make room for our endless samples. Garlic fries - Terrific fries. Really flavorful without the pungent taste garlic can sometimes have but without lacking that garlic flavor. Cheese plate - Like a little piece of heaven. I think I near devoured the cheese. A bit of brie, blue cheese and a semi-hard cheese, all with lots of flavor, served with a fig sliced in half, champagne grapes and three slices of bread. Beef ritte - I liked it but I could see how a lot of people wouldn't. If you like liver pate, you'd enjoy it. If you hate pate, don't order this. Deviled eggs - Personally I like mine a heck of a lot better. No relish mixed it and it had a very strong sharp mustard taste. Mexican chocolate cake - Personally wasn't crazy about it. I like the texture the pumpkin seeds gave it and the prickly pear sauce on which it lay but something was just off about the cake itself. Having had Mexican chocolate before, it was not really right. All in all, good, though, and I'd go back.
(4)
Wylee S.
I had the grilled cheese and arugula salad and it was AMAZING. Best grilled cheese I have probably ever had. The restaurant is also very cool inside and it's in a part of town that I wouldn't normally think to go. I'm very excited to go back and try other things!
(5)
Bob R.
It took me longer to make it in here than I had hoped, but it was worth the wait. This review should actually be 3.5 stars, because I definitely will be looking forward to my next visit. I loved the bar area, a very small, quaint bar with a great feel. It felt like an authentic Irish pub. The dining room, however, was a little too big, or spaced out, or something. I really can't put my finger on it. The flourescent lighting shining into the dining room from the kitchen should be covered up. For some reason the room just felt too large or too sterile. It doesn't have the warmth of the rest of the joint. The service was perfect, bordering on pleasant. Our server told us it was his first serving job, and I told him I thought he was a natural. He was relaxed, but attentive. The food was the real winner. The attention to detail really comes across. The salmon club was cooked perfectly and had fantastic flavor. My date's burger was also outstanding. We both loved the deviled eggs appetizer. While I don't know if I'll be back to have dinner in the dining room, I do intend to hit the beer garden for a Three Philosophers Ale, or to just hang at the bar and enjoy some outstanding food at a very reasonable price.
(3)
H L S.
Excellent food, very nice rooms, we'll have to try the beer garden when it isn't so damp outside. Our server was properly attentive, but not in the way. He was extremely easy on the eyes too. Previous posters mentioned some service issues, but I encourage them to return now that The Local has been open for a few weeks. Everything we tried, the frites, the charcuterie, the salmon burger and the luscious grilled cheese sandwich tasted great and had good eye appeal. The frites were seasoned well, needing nothing else. Even so, sample the fresh catsup, it's first rate. To top everything off, the prices make it a great dining value for Kansas City. We'll be back often and will be telling all our friends about The Local. (Loved the tables in the main room, the table tops are made from uneven lengths of re-milled salvaged wood.)
(4)
Dan D.
What is wonderful about this place is the ambiance and the quality of the food. I highly recommend the braised rabbit saison and I will be sure to try the grass feed steak and frites next visit. The outside area is wonderful and as the weather gets a little cooler it will be wonderful to sit out and enjoy beer and wine. I give this place a lot of credit the atmosphere inside is wonderful and the layout makes it wonderful for small or larger parties. Only thing I wish was reservations for groups smaller than 6.
(5)
Josh C.
The food was excellent and fresh. The indoor and outdoor seating was unique and enjoyable. And the service was good. It's a very casual hang out type place.
(4)
Mat E.
This is fairly new and right next to the very popular Blue Bird Bistro so we were excited to check it out. Good: - Burgers are amazing - Very different beer menu with many beers on tap (would be nice to have a few weaker beers for that lunchtime tipple) - Lovely outdoor 'beer garden' for when the weather is appropriate - Nice atmosphere inside - Decent menu - Friendly staff - Reasonably priced Bad: - NO RESERVATIONS FOR GROUPS LESS THAN SIX. So you have a choice of places to go on a date, or a special dinner. Do you want to hang around for maybe 30 minutes waiting for a table on a busy night? Not us, so we only go here for lunch - Friendly staff are pretty slow and not very knowledgeable, they don't have many recommendations or opinions on the food, drink, etc. - Pretty popular so be prepared to wait - Unusual area, never had any problems but looks like you might - Parking can be tricky We've been three times and will probably go one more time this year. Just a shame they don't take reservations for smaller groups.
(3)
Ethan S.
I've been here about 3 times and every time I go it's always a great experience. The ambiance is perfect. I like getting several of the "localities" (their version of a mini appetizer). The deviled eggs are amazing. And I really don't eat deviled eggs that often. And the cheese plate is always delicious. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Eilene S.
We were here on mother's day for brunch and it was borderline poor. First our waitress was on slow motion- really slow motion. The restaurant was not very busy and yet it took forever to get refills on coffee. Often we had to flag down another waiter to get refills. They were out of 2 menu items, the french toast and a chicken dish, so I ordered the waffle. It came out luke warm and soggy. The "strawberry compote" was truly frozen strawberries that had been thawed. For a restaurant that bases their menu off "freshest ingredients and dining experience possible" that was very disappointing. My friends ordered the veggie hash and grilled cheese, both these dishes were tasty but also served luke warm. It took forever to get the bill and at this point (despite being mothers day) the restaurant only had a few patrons in it. Overall, very disappointing.
(2)
Bridget K.
I'm all for supporting local business while divulging in great food, but when I went here I only felt like I satisfied half of that objective. The beer list was splendid as one would hope, and I went with my old girlie yet standalone favorite Ephemere because frankly I had a hard time choosing! I look forward to going back for more than just one drink as this is definitely a place for sitting back & drinking, but not for me in the way of eating. I had the grilled cheese which was good by all measures, just not great, as much as I wanted it to be from what I had heard about this place. Also, the fries are just so profoundly overrated I almost wonder if we got them on a bad night. I'm almost positive they use garlic powder because some of our fries tasted like garlic & others tasted unseasoned, which to me somehow feels cheap for the level of innovation in cuisine today. Also, they were cold & dry which could mean a couple of things: 1) our server was slow to deliver them, or 2) they're not made to order or at the very least not kept under a heat lamp, which the thought of isn't appetizing but preferable to just sitting in a well in the kitchen. The patio was lovely in it's simplicity and we went on a perfect day, so kudos to them for snagging a killer plot! I would've lingered there for hours but alas we had to be elsewhere. We were quite impressed with the interior of the bar area and the host desk, but that's all I saw of the inside. The crowd at the bar looked like they were regulars, quite comfortable & gregarious in their hipster-chic attire, yet eyed us as "new meat" carefully. I've heard through the grapevine that although the owners are cool and have the best intentions, I was a little disappointed to hear that they barely support local farms in their food buying, as I thought that would be a given with not only their name, but that that's the newest trend in KC non-corporate eateries, for example, The Farmhouse. I hope that changes, and I look forward to going back for the beer alone if nothing else.
(3)
Josh S.
Don de Dieu - Gift of God. This BSPA made my visit to Westside Local even better. This is a great space to enjoy the approaching fall weather and have a drink with some friends, new and old. The setup with the picnic tables is a fun one and promotes good conversation and meeting some new faces. I did not have a chance to try out any of the food, but did eye a few plates that definitely will have me coming back to try. We had to move inside at 10:30p due to some sort of law? I'm not sure how long this will be in effect or if it's only temporary. Make sure you check this place out before it gets too cold outside and you can't enjoy the patio. PS - The Gift of God doesn't seem so heavenly the next morning.
(4)
Jes S.
I can't say enough great things about The Westside Local. This is one of my favorite places to eat in Kansas City. I love that it is somewhat casual however the food is fresh and local. When visiting the Westside Local you can always count on your favorite staple menu items or seasonal favorites..no matter what you choose you cannot go wrong. Everything including the sauces are made in house and the ingredients are extremely fresh and local. One of my favorites is starting off with numerous items from the small plates. At $2 each you can't go wrong with the devil eggs, fresh cheeses, fruit, chorizo, bread,etc. Another favorite menu item is the basic hamburger and my go to order, the grilled cheese served with a side of tomato soup and fries. If you are looking for more savory, the mac and cheese is delicious. They also have a great selection of craft beers and worldy wines. With weather permitting, they have a great outdoor 'beer garden'/patio that is a great place to spend time with friends enjoying a drink. The Westside Local is a must!
(5)
Jennifer C.
We had a large group (7 adults plus a toddler), and they accommodated well. The atmosphere is casual but cozy; I'm looking forward to coming back when I can try out the patio area. My boyfriend and I ordered two burgers and shared, and both were delicious! The fries were also awesome. My only complaint when it came to the food is that it seemed like they were out of several items, which limited their menu.
(4)
Liz H.
Love, love, love their burger! One of the best around. And the fries with aioli made in heaven by angels. Great looking building and good service. If you want to feel urban and hip, iron your jeans and head to WL.
(4)
D H.
My wife and I had the burger and were both very satisfied. I really enjoyed the French fries and the beer selection is pretty good. A couple of the wait staff were using a long table as a ping pong table....needless to say, it's a fun atmosphere.
(4)
Lindsay S.
So I went back with my GF the other day and our experience was a complete 180 from the glorious experience we had last time inspiring me to write a Yelp review novel on their brunch. We went for brunch again to find out that they had changed chefs and the menus have completely changed (both brunch and dinner) The little things like farm to market bread is no more and the menu has been dramatically reduced. What upsets me also is the prices, for 12 dollars you can get a veggie succotash- but if you want a egg on that add another $4.... A $16 dollar brunch dish? No thanks. Both of us felt our dishes contained a ridiculous amount of oil. Or previously fabulous potatoes were now swimming in grease and both of us decided the Westside Local dream had died and we will not be back for lunch. What a bummer. I do not know what they messed with a good thing. Cause it ain't good anymore.
Loved the simplistic yet warm restored warehouse atmosphere. Eclectic beer and wine list for a small joint. My 9 yr old loved the grilled cheese and my husband nearly licked the bowl after his quinoa feast. Feeling like a light lunch, I had the spinach salad with salmon and wasn't disappointed, though it seems the more adventurous choices were more rewarding for my family. Was able to sample the deviled eggs based on other yelp'd reviews and I would 2nd those recommenations! A unique twist on the old traditional snack. No trouble with service, in fact our waiter was quite helpful and accommodating, though there were only 3-4 other tables occupied... it was 3pm on a Saturday. Enjoyable lunch, hope to make it back.
(4)
Zhanna S.
The food is nothing to write home about and is overpriced. Nevertheless, we've gone there quite a few times to support local business. However, our last visit was the last time we've gone there. It took forever for us to get our food. Our appetizers arrived almost 35 minutes after we have ordered them. The entre was another long and excruciating wait. We were ready to take our dinner "to go." It was definitely a slowest kitchen in town that night (week night) and they were not even busy!
(2)
Taylor W.
Love this place! Great atmosphere, local beers, and delish food! Will definitely be back upon my next visit!
(4)
Holly L.
Great atmosphere, OK food, ridiculous prices. My son and I are always on a quest for the best grilled cheese sandwich and had heard about how amazing theirs is, so we stopped by to give it a try. We were both disappointed. To start, the slices of bread are ENORMOUS -- almost too big to get your chompers around, and the cheese had absolutely no flavor whatsoever. The fries, however, were crazy-good. My husband got the cheeseburger and loved it. An over $50 price tag for lunch without alcohol is a little excessive. Won't be going back.
(1)
Kackie C.
Really love. Moving to Kansas City from a gastro-heaven like Austin I had a self-inflicted chip on my shoulder about the eats in KC. Westside Local was the first place my boyfriend took me to that really started to turn me. Not only is the food delicious (anything with the garlic fries. Dip them in the jus.), but the wine and cocktails are unique and delicious, and THE SERVICE IS GREAT. A+ from me.
(5)
Stephen H.
This review can't attest to the quality of the food...my family came to visit from the East Coast and we brought them to this local food joint to try humanely raised KC steak. Unfortunately they were out of steak since they only buy local meat when it's available. The waiter was apologetic and extremely understanding when we said we'd have to find another option. I think it speaks to the quality of the restaurant that this situation was handled so well and that they stick to their core values.
(5)
June K.
The tapas, especially the pecans were absolutely fabulous! A definite, don't miss. Also, they had one of the best grilled cheese sandwiches I've ever had, great cheese combo on buttered sourdough, though the tomato soup was a bit too sweet and not as flavorful as I would've hoped for. Can't remember the names but had the chorizo and some sort of pate that seemed like bologna and another sausage like dish. The sausage was pretty good and my friends really liked the dates. They are famous for their deviled egg and homemade ketchup, neither of which I thought were out of this world. However, their service was good and the manager was especially accommodating and catering to a small group event we had upstairs. A definite return location to try everything else on their tapas menu!
(4)
Lindsey S.
Quinoa, Quinoa, Quinoa. The most amazing meal ever. Thanks yelpers for the recommendation.
(4)
E S.
Excellent! My party of three had the pint of fries to start, then for entrees, the quinoa, the seared salmon, and the burger. All were fantastic. I was a little disappointed with their draft beer selection, but luckily ended up loving the one I ordered, Abita Turbodog. The laid-back mood and cool, minimal setting were perfect for a hungover Sunday afternoon. Our server was both cute and professional. I'd definitely go back!
(5)
Kim N.
Jason was a great waiter. Super food. Will go back for sure. Very eclectic menu. Deviled Eggs, Olives, Prosciutto, Cheese all on the app menu. Grilled Cheese sandwiches, Hamburgers, Salads, some of the best salmon I have ever had. Over 100 beers. They have a great Russian Stout. Loved it.
(4)
Nicole W.
Great food and excellent service, would highly recommend for in towners and out of towner!
(5)
Richard R.
What a gem! Westside Local looks cool, sounds cool, and is has the vibe that my favorite places in my home Portland (or anywhere) have. I automatically felt comfortable here as the waitress brings me a Boulevard Single Wide IPA that is at a perfect temperature and goes down smoothly. I ordered the garlic hummis appetizer and pan seared Colorado Striped Bass - both specials for the night and not generally on the menu. First off, hummus was perfection and the slight grilling of the pita bread was a great touch. It had just a kiss of grill "juice" and scent to it too - nice. The bass with leaks, shitaki mushrooms, and tempura sweet potatoes - well, unbelieveable. Not even going to try to explain it, just get it if you see It on the menu. I'm generally a man of few words and to the point! Get the point? Thanks for the recommendation KC yeeps.
(5)
Joe C.
First off, I love the neighborhood that Westside Local sits in. It has an energy different than any other part of town. Secondly, the food is amazing! Deviled eggs, oh yeah! The olives, mmm hh. The beer selection, amazing. The grilled cheese, oh so comforting. The garlic fries, again, the garlic fries and house made ketchup!!! The decor is cool. I'm in love with Westside Local.
(5)
Scott D.
A sophomore visit to the Local, -results: Friday at lunchtime the place was bustling. I ordered the Carbonara-something, my wife the vegetable stir-fry with chicken added to it, -they were both very well done and pretty tasty. Service was pretty good considering they were slammed. The interior is very chic. However, the place was SO LOUD I was tense from the get-go. After we gave the waiter our order, I dashed to the car for a pair of foam earplugs, then I was able to sit with a bit more serenity. I know, I know, -I'm a little crazy about noise, and wearing earplugs in a nice restaurant is downright eccentric. But the acoustics at the Local are all hard surfaces, almost solely brick, wood, and glass, and conversation requires a distinct and concerted effort. If I ever go back, it will be during off-peak hours.
(3)
Danielle W.
This place is great! I love the patio and selection of beers. The food was very good, I had the chicken sandwich and could not finish it. It is a little pricey, but a wonderful little find in Kansas City, especially on a nice afternoon!!
(4)
Luke N.
My review from a few months ago was only four stars--but this time it was a rock solid 5 starts. Mainly because of the mussels which were so delicious and in such a unique broth--not wine and garlic heavy like many--but still packed with fresh flavor. And then, there was the steak frites, which was absolutely amazing. This place is definitely on the top of my list now...
(5)
Jack O.
white wine and grilled cheese= the best meal i've had in a while my girlfriend shared some bratwurst with me another time and it wasn't as good. served cold. the only reason i am 4-starring this place. just have some riesling's order a grilled cheese. trust me
(4)
Margaret D.
I have never had service this bad. Restaurants can be awfully busy which can slow service. Slow service is one thing, slow service with a bad attitude is another. Dirty table, cold food, no service; what can I say? Remember: don't say anything or you'll be told: "I don't want to hear it." Why is no one watching to see that food goes out while its hot or at least warm? I don't want to judge the food because it wasn't served hot and I didn't eat much of it. On the positive side, the restaurant with its exposed brick walls is inviting and the beer list has something for everyone.
(1)
Jenny M.
This really is one of the best places in Kansas City. The food is always fantastic, fresh and local. I love the snack options, cheese, fruit, deviled eggs, olives. Oh the olives, how I love the olives. Each visit I have had to the Westside Local has always been better than the last. The mussels were to die for as was the black & tan quinoa which was cooked to perfection. My husband seems to always order the roast beef sandwich with the molasses au jus, I myself do not eat a lot of meat but the bites I have had of that sandwich dipped in the au jus, boy that molasses au jus is something else.
(5)
Chris J.
This place is awesome. We went on a saturday night. The patio was open. Let me begin with parking...there is a small parking lot behind the building otherwise there is street parking. The servers are attentive and don't rush you nor do they care if you are there for dinner, snacks, or just drinks. They take the time to explain the menu and offer drink suggestions if you can't decide. The food is fantastic because it is fresh with local ingredients and though small has excellent variety. There was nothing wrong with this place other than more people need to know about it. So everybody tell your friends to meet you at the westside local!
(5)
Brian C.
I will save my breath on this one, there is not much to add that the previous +40 reviews have not covered. Good, local, worth the trip. Stop by and enjoy.
(5)
Kerry K.
Found this place on Yelp while I was in town and it was great. The space is gorgeous with a lovely back patio with communal tables, a perfect place to get together with friends and have a drink. The menu was also full of really interesting choices. I got a beet salad with soup and my friend for small dishes of different meats and cheeses. The owner sat down with us later and chat with us. They apparently just moved back to Kansas City to open the place. Great place to hang out with friends after work. I was really impressed.
(5)
Matthew L.
Great brunch selections. Deceptively filling portions that leave you wanting more but ok with not. The banana bread was a top choice. Great beer list. Would certainly come back for dinner. You should too.
(5)
Kay L.
Gotta knock off a star... the food is still very good (although overpriced) but the patio has gone downhill. Last time we were there, it just looked dingy & dirty, with some raggedy curtains draped in a swag over the gate, and spiderwebs in the corners. Plus, I know everyone loves a dog-friendly patio, but the woman at the table next to us decided to spend an extensive amount of time petting her Husky on a hot, hot day. The resulting combo of epic shedding & huge fans meant a perfect storm of dog hair blowing around our heads & into our food. It was quite disgusting. If we go back, we'll request indoor seating.
(3)
Kathy M.
We have been fans of this establishment; however, on our last visit hubby ordered a BLT and thought the bread,tomato and lettuce were excellent, but they lost MAJOR points on the bacon. It was one piece of bacon for a good size sandwich. A $14 BLT should definitely have several pieces of bacon on it! I had the salmon which was really good and the cubano at the table was also enjoyed. My daughter had the 1/2 chicken and wished she had ordered the mac and cheese instead. She thought the chicken had a spicy kick, but there wasn't much else going for the dish. We may return; however, we will be more careful about what we order.
(3)
Emily M.
This is one of my all-time favorite restaurants in KC MO. I love that they support all natural and local companies. When we were pulling up, Shatto Milk company was making their morning delivery. I mean, how can you get it any fresher? Went with the daily special of BLT on Sasha's bakery bread with avocado spread and a light jalapeño cream sauce. It was delicious! Also, upgraded side to kale salad - which is a must have! And you can't go wrong with a side of mac & cheese. Thanks for a great lunch, Westside!
(5)
Adam S.
This is a place that embraces Kansas City and Kansas City embraces it. It's higher end, farm-to-table, urban and delicious 90% of the time. It's even climbed my list of places to recommend to people visiting out of town. I've never seen this place slow, including lunch and dinners. It's a great, charming older building that is easy to feel at home at year round. You also get the added benefit of a beer garden on the side for the warmer days. As for the food, there are many good meals that I've tried (grilled cheese with tomato fennel soup, the burger and fries, mac n cheese, and some salads) but there have been a few meals that are a bit underwhelming. Not bad by any stretch, just more of a "this is $16 and tastes like it should be $9" type of feeling. It's a great early First Fridays dinner spot, but it's best to make a reservation because it's always packed.
(4)
Tim C.
We were in town for a conference and decided to venture outside the convention area for a less touristy place to eat. We walked a mile to get to this little spot, and it didn't disappoint. It has a very hipster vibe to it, which normally isn't my thing, but it wasn't to bad. The cocktails were fresh, and well made. The food was fantastic. We sat on the patio, which was a little hot. Maybe some fans that worked a little better may have helped. Our server was very good. I definitely recommend WL for a nice place to grabs cocktail and/or grab a bite to eat with some good conversation.
(4)
Eric S.
Great spot with an incredible menu. It's not every day you find a place that makes it hard to choose. I finally decided on the Summit Burger 1/2 pound ground hormone-free rib-eye, arugula, emmentaler, dijon vinaigrette, on farm-to-market brioche bun and the parmesan & parsley fries (which you'll eat them all, trust me.) It was so good, the beer menu was lengthy and the ambiance was upscale and hip. Look forward to trying the same burger with the jalapeño options next time.
(4)
Tammie H.
So amazing! Kale salad for sure. Comfort food grilled cheese and crispy fries so amazing!
(5)
Sidney M.
Everything we ordered was delicious it did need salt. A lot of business. Very relaxed, warm, inviting, laid back atmosphere. Jeremy was out server and he was awesome!!!
(4)
Kent Jacob S.
I cannot believe I have never reviewed The Westside Local. Shame on me because if anyone ever asks for my opinion on breakfast/brunch places, The Westside Local always pops up in my head first. The food is delicious and the service is top notch! What comes to mind when I think of Westside Local are the parmesan fries and grilled cheese. I swear by it, their fries are probably my favorite anywhere. It beats Oklahoma Joes, In-N-Out, and any other place I've said where fries were amazing. For the life of me, I don't understand why but eating their fries with house-made ketchup and garlic aioli sauces will always stick with me. Therefore, this place must be that good. So, if I haven't raved about it enough, their fries are a must order I tell you! The grilled cheese was just as delicious. The bread is toasty yet moist and that white cheddar cheese is very tasty. The tomato fennel soup is really a good pairing for their grilled cheese, so kudos to the chef here. The people are friendly and they really know the food well. I love putting waiters on the spot and asking them for their favorite dish. I can still remember our waiter telling me about the fennel soup and grilled cheese. The place does get busy but am very pleased that they take reservations. The Westside Local is a great place to go. It's no wonder that Finding KC rates this place as one of the top breakfast joints in all of Kansas City.
(5)
Micah B.
By far the best meal I have had since visiting KC! The lamb chorizo tacos are amazingly on point!!!!
(5)
Frank L.
I had the privilege to check out Westside local for lunch while visiting Kansas City. I came in for lunch on a Friday around 11:20 and 15 minutes later, the place was packed. I decided to sit in the bar area on a high top so was helped by the bartender. He was awesome, and helped decide on my meal. I went with the Veggie Quinoa sweet potato burger with a side of kale hummus. Everythin on the menu looked great. The burger came out pretty quickly and was huge. There was a bi to much bread, so I just ate the yummy insides sans bun. It was my first time trying kale hummus and I was pleaseantly surprised. The craft beer selection was also pretty impressive, albeit a bit pricey for some. All in all a great place.
(4)
Kaitlyn M.
A lovely quiet restaurant with brick walls and high ceilings. Doesn't get over crowded (not to say that the tables weren't full- every table was sat, it just wasn't noisy and uncomfortable like a lot of restaurants tend to get). The food was decent. They have a list of their cocktails, which our table tried a few different kinds, but the cocktails were all pretty unique I guess is a nice way to put it, no one ordered the same drink twice because they didn't love any single one... It's a little pricey, but not terrible, we ended up paying $125 for two people (we had three drinks each)... I just wasn't wowed with what I had, so I don't know if I will go back but I'm glad I went and I had a nice experience.
(4)
A H.
I booked a table for 12 for my birthday. It was a really tight fight - uncomfortable. When 2 more people showed up, we asked if we could put two tables together. A smug guy said, "not a chance." Then when food starts arriving, I wait for mine. And I wait. Five minutes later the server appears to tell me that "they ran out of chicken - but mine is coming." When it does arrive (everyone else is halfway done) it is not correct. (Wrap instead of on a bed of greens). I wait again. By the time I get my food, my friends are mostly done. Very disappointed in the experience. The food is good, but organization and timing matter, as well as manners.
(2)
Joe G.
I'm not sure what happened... But I ordered what I felt was going to be one of the better dishes. It came highly recommended. I had ordered the trout with quinoa, and roasted cauliflower. The portions were rather small and left me hungry later. That was disappointing as it was one of the pricier items listed, and the menu isn't that big. The waitress seemed very indifferent to being there. That's the other factor that turned me off. I will add, that 3 years ago- I had far superior service and better entree as well. I do like this place but had an off night.
(2)
Cindy F.
Wonderful beer selection. Had a bourbon hard cider I fell in love with. Hubby liked Torn Label stout. Had sampling of baguette, venison sausage, & Shatto cheese to start. Deviled eggs are killer. I insist you order some. For main had spring quinoa with trout. Very fresh - had asparagus and chèvre. Very tasty. Hubby had the burger, it was unbelievable. Had ham on it with toasted cheese on the bun. Perfection. Fries were top notch. Patio and restaurant are beyond cute. Had wonderful meal, service was wonderful and attentive. Will be back for sure.
(4)
Thorsten F.
My favorite burger of all time, my favorite fries of all time, AND they have really syrupy Coke. This place is probably my favorite restaurant in KC.
(5)
Shanley C.
Tucked away in a quiet Kansas City neighborhood, Chef Nina Gann at The Westside Local serves up one of the best breakfasts in town. I'm a huge fan of their Veggie Hash made with sweet potatoes, one sunny-side up egg, oyster mushrooms, roasted poblano, breakfast potatoes, kale, Brussels sprouts, fresh herbs and hollandaise. In an area well known for its beef, you might expect hash that contains some of what the Midwest is famous for. But this hash is so delicious you won't miss the meat. From first bite you'll taste the fresh herbs mingled with rich homemade hollandaise sauce that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the dish. Get a forkful of salty Brussels sprouts, snag a mushroom and swipe them both through egg yolk/sauce mix. That's your roadmap to hash euphoria. The restaurant stays true to its name by keeping all of its products and ingredients local - from bacon to brews - just flip over the menu and you'll see a list of all the farmers and local businesses that went into making your meal. If you have room, the Apple Bread French Toast is Westside Local's signature sweet breakfast dish. The homemade apple bread contains loads of vanilla, cinnamon, chunks of walnuts and then battered and topped with chunky apple butter. From its hashtastic start to the satisfyingly sweet finish, Westside Local is your stop for phenomenal food.
(5)
Catherine K.
My friend and I came here while visiting Kansas City, and I can't wait to go back! We ordered the cheese plate, (which had an amazing roasted garlic spread), the charcuterie board (you get to choose three kinds of meat, which come with sides of pickled vegetables, apricot jam, and whole grain mustard-- all delicious), and the fries (which also have three amazing sauces). We spent the evening savoring all of the different flavors, which were also really fun to mix and match. The people were very nice, everything came out in a timely manner, and the servings were generous. A great experience!
(5)
Neeca B.
This is such a trendy little spot almost borderline pretentious but the food is honestly good. I would be totally proud to bring any foodie here. even for a regular joe the burgers would work, and they probably wouldn't balk to much at the price, well maybe a little. Service was a little slow but in all fairness i excepted it since it was a Friday night. decent portion size, ate half, the other even tasted better as next days lunch.
(4)
Abby J.
Stopped in this weekend for the first time and definitely enjoyed my visit. Ordered the Woodhaven Burger with parmesan/parsley fries. The burger was one of the juiciest/freshest burgers that I've eaten to date. Topped with a thick slice of country ham and copious amounts of cheese, it doesn't get much better. Being so fresh, it comes at a little more expensive of a price- a $15 burger. Also, the fries were very flavorful and crisped just right. Usually I have to douse mine in ketchup, but not these! This place has many fresh and healthy options to choose from. Definitely worth a try.
(5)
Anita O.
Doesn't get day better. Food good. Beer good. Ambience good. Attitude toward local food superb. What else is there?
(5)
C. W.
Great atmosphere for a weekend lunch with friends. We were excited about having brunch, but beware, BRUNCH IS ONLY ON SUNDAYS starting at 11AM! Our server was a real sweetie, who consoled us and gave us great suggestions. I had the Chicken wrap (gluten-free--served on a bed of greens instead of the flour wrap) and roasted veggies. The flavor of the chicken and greens was sumptuous matching a very creamy dressing. And the roasted veggies offered variety and flavor, though slightly too salty for my taste and I like my roasted garlic chopped up rather than whole. Also, know that the coffee is tasty but strong! I'd come back if I had the chance.
Since I work in the West Bottoms, I consider Westside Local. . .well, local. (mapquest drive time: 3 minutes!) Of course what it means is that all the food is sourced locally, and it is wonderful! Hubby and I made reservations for 6:00 PM on a Friday. I called at noon that Friday, and just skidded into the reservation, so I would consider noon probably a cut-off for a reservation of choice. So nice to sit down, look around, and feel at home. The vibe at Westside is definitely low-key, relaxing, and organic, with the wood floors, brick walls and candles. The service was excellent. A very attentive waiter disappeared at the right times and arrived at the right times to pour water. He was knowledgeable about the menu, and recommended the hummus to top my quinoa/sweet potato burger. So, so good, this vegetarian burger is. I have had it twice now, and it was delicious both times, with a homemade roll and aioli. And the fries. Westside's fries are delicious and unique: crispy like McDonalds, but real. I longed for some salt, and I brought out a packet from my stash. Our waiter saw the packet, and kidded me about the packet just being "a cry for help." He immediately brought a shaker of salt. Hubby was no dummy and ordered the Westside Local mac 'n cheese. Of course I had a bite, and it was cooked al dente with a mild, but pleasantly biting, yet creamy, white sauce. If you haven't tried the charcuterie board yet, do so, you won't be disappointed. I've been to Local several times now, and it is always good, and the service is great. Westside Local is where I bring people I really like: I don't want anyone else to know!
(5)
Rachel W.
I truly enjoy the atmosphere at Westside Local...as much as I enjoy the entire neighborhood really. It is small, cozy and optimal for conversation. Parking is easy, even on a busy night. Highly recommend for a dinner or drinks date. I've frequented the restaurant a few times over the years both for drinks and for dinner. On my latest visit, I ordered the summer quinoa which is vegan-friendly but also includes the option to add chicken or salmon if you so desire. I stuck with the vegan version and it was yummy. I also had a tasty gin & tonic before my meal came and it was made well. Not too heavy on the gin, not too heavy on the tonic. On previous visits I've enjoyed the mac & cheese (delicious, but I had to take some home bc of the large quantity), the grilled cheese and tomato fennel soup (I love this combo, but to be honest..I've had better grilled cheese), the pint of fries (finger-licking good, not to be compared to KFC of course), as well as the kale salad (I love it when restaurants do salads well). I can't wait to try the sweet potato burger and long list of appetizers someday. Overall, I'm a fan.
(4)
Joey P.
This is a solid restaurant that we may try again sometime. We enjoyed Saturday lunch there. My hubs had the lamb chorizo tacos and I had the chicken kale wrap. We both enjoyed our selections but not memorable. The service was great and love the local vibe and atmosphere.
(3)
Tali Z.
We stumbled upon this restaurant after scanning yelp for options in the area, and we were thrilled with the find! The ambiance is lovely - cozy, yet open with a dark wood-planked ceiling and brick walls. We started by ordering drinks; I ordered Bob's Beer Coctail and my friend ordered The Josie. Both were delicious, but I especially loved the combination of beer, juic eand liquor in mine. I would never think to make a mixed drink out of a beer, but it was outstanding. For food we orders the Mac and Cheese and the Summit (heirloom option) Burger. Again, both were mouth watering. The meat in the burger was so flavorful, probably one of the best burger patties I have ever had. It was cooked perfectly to order and the cheese and add-ons added a great burst of flavor. We opted for the veggies on the side, which were again delicious though they did have a kick. If you like spicy, the hot peppers in there are for you. The Mac and Cheese was hearty, cheesy, hot, crispy... just the way it should be! I even found myself scraping the remaining cheese off the side of the bowl. Delicious. We then got the desert; key lime pie with a cookie (not sure what type of cookie - maybe shortbread?). Both were subtle flavors and weren't too sweet or tart, and together they were prefect! We were so thrilled with our food that we even ordered a side of fries (not on the menu as a side, but they'll let you get it) to take home with us. They were even good an hour later :) The only reason I rated at 4 stars as opposed to 5 was because there was a drip from the ac near our table, so they turned us sideways and it was a bit awkward. But it really was not a big deal. Also, our waitress originally told us a different dessert (banana bread) which we ordered and then waited a while thinking it would be brought out, but when she returned she told us they were out of that desert. Again, not a big deal and we happily switched to key lime pie, but it was a bit of a wait for her to let us know... All in all, I think I've found my favorite KC restaurant!
(4)
Andrea G.
This place is nestled in a quiet and snug manner in this old Kansas City neighborhood with a rich history as diverse and changing as the menu. I am glad this place is in my old neighborhood where I grew up, my mom was born and where my grandparents grew up. When I go home to visit my childhood home it is nice to walk up the street to this quaint little restaurant and bar. I embrace diversity especially when it comes with craft beers and happy hour wine prices. I am also glad to see that Kansas City is becoming more integrated I hope. It is not a noisy loud chain restaurant from the suburbs nor did it bring obnoxious new construction to this neighborhood with houses that are more than a 100 years old. The food is decent but what I like it even more is that it is all locally derived. They will also give you a cold glass of almond milk with a chocolate chip cookie if you are are a lactard like me. So I give it a lactose friendly stamp of approval. Cheers to the Westside Local. This is where I meet up with all my friends/family when I am home for a visit.
(4)
Matt E.
Update time! The good: I frickin love their food. I eat here somewhat on the regular, and everything has been fantastic. Their mac and cheese and their grilled cheese are both on point. IN regards to the latter, I vote that you upgrade to include the ham, but still request the tomato and fennel soup rather than the lingonberry jam. I find the jam too sweet for a non-dessert. But still, it's a fabulous meal. Also recommended are the fish tacos. They're saucy and delicious and the kale adds a great texture. Yum yum. Their staff is consistently friendly and helpful. They have great personalities that shine through while they work, which I definitely appreciate as opposed to waitress-bots. I like these people! The bad: one thing. The flies! Sitting inside this isn't a problem, but their patio seems to have an overabundance of the pesty little insects. I hate having to constantly defend my food from dive-bombing bugs. Still, that's not enough to turn me away from the place. I am a big fan of Westside Local!
(4)
Jeremy C.
Been here twice now. The first time, my friend and I came on a Sunday night for dinner and they were out of fries, so we were a bit disappointed. The service at the biergarden that night was subpar, not to mention we were served by two different waiters who kept asking us the same questions. The Deviled Eggs were nothing special, but the Apple Bread was phenomenal. We got the Summit burger and the Windhaven burger. Although I preferred the Shatto cheese on the Windhaven, the ground ribeye used for the Summit burger definitely made it the clear winner. Not to mention the brioche bun (Summit) is much better than the pretzel bun (Windhaven). Came back on a Friday night with a group of 6. There was a last minute cancellation when I called so they had the back table reserved for us. It was perfect and they were incredibly nice and accommodating. Our server this time was a significant upgrade and provided the perfect waiting experience. The local cheese and charcuterie plates were good, but the standout was definitely the kale hummus. The P.E.I. Mussels were served in a type of creamy bisque which was super rich and super delicious. (Pro tip: dip the parmesan fries in the mussels sauce). The baked Mac n Cheese is one of the best in KC (it has Brie in it!). Overall, this is one of my favorite restaurants in KC. Could use some improvement in the waitstaff department, but the food, drinks, and atmosphere make it hard to beat.
(4)
S G.
We've eaten here several times and enjoy the food. The food has never been a disappointment. I gave 4 stars due to service. The waitress didn't really seem enthused to be there. She didn't mention any specials or dive into the menu. I actually felt like she was annoyed to have us there. She perked up a bit at the end. The times we've come before the service has been great. Usually the staff really talk about the menu but oh well. I still recommend this restaurant. It's still is a favorite for us.
(4)
Doug K.
Awesome place to eat/drink. Highly recommend!!! Had the burger special with grilled veggies, amazing. Going to be a usual here.
(5)
Jimmi H.
My husband and I have begun our tour-de-KC food as we wind down our final weeks. Being Westsiders, Westside Local is an obvious stop and last night made for a great meal. First the setting, specifically the patio. One of the best in KC! The space is wonderful for an early autumn dinner al fresco, and perfect for midday meals most of the year. The service is consistent and friendly. The highlight though is the food! Get the hummus. I love hummus and usually only really go for a traditional take on it, but WL just does it right, and I found it went best with the carrots. The tomato fennel soup was like an autumnal holiday in my mouth, just delicious. The only thing that could have improved that cup of soup was crisp autumn air, but I suppose the chef has zero control over the weather. For my dinner I chose the kale salad with a salmon add on. The salmon was light and rich with a delicate crispness that made it the star of the dish. I did find though that the kale, Brussels sprout mix with dressing ratio was way off. I finished my meal with a half of a plate full of dry kale. The best thing on the table though was my husbands meal, buffalo chorizo Mac and cheese! Decadent, rich and unlike any Mac and cheese I've had before, but in a very positive way. It was almost like chili but with everything I love about Mac and cheese; rich creamy sauce, full plump noodles and then mixed with a hearty, full flavor chorizo. Wow! This is a dish to share though. Great experience!
(4)
B. L.
Completely rude staff. Left for Harry's country club.
(1)
Sarah G.
Surprisingly I'm visiting KCMO for the first time- I've lived in St Louis my entire life (it's only about 4 hours away). My friend and I are big foodies and appreciate local foods and neighborhood establishments. I found The Westside Local on a blog as being one of the best Farm to Table restaurants in KCMO. We decided to try it on our first night here and it did not disappoint. The place was full when we arrived but it was worth the wait. We each ordered a cocktail- I had the Pleasant Peasant which is made up of Strongbow, gin, and a house made honey basil tea concentrate. It's a little sweet and very refreshing! We decided to split a few appetizers for dinner- we had the Cheese Plate (the roasted garlic spread is to die for!), the Charcuterie Board (we chose the prosciutto spread, country ham, and Broadway pate), and the Pint o Fries with a trio of sauces. Overall our experience was great and I will definitely be recommending this place to my friends! My one tip if you get the pate on the charcuterie board- try it with the apricot jam- it's delicious
(5)
Nilav R.
This place uses local ingredients from local vendors. All menu items are accompanied with local beer suggestions, which I found to be very unique and creative. The actual food is delicious, I highly recommend trying one of their burgers, they are cooked to perfection!
(5)
Baron A.
If we could have sent everything back, we would have. The mac & cheese had clearly been left in the oven or heat lamps for about 10 minutes too long, and all of the cheese broke-down into oil, so the result was twisting noodles soaking in 1 inch of clear hot oil. To their credit, when I showed it to them, they admitted it was a mistake and took it back; however, how can such a dish even make it to the table. Then, the chicken and polenta is an ill conceived dish. The dish is a chichen thigh and drumstick, polenta cakes, green beans, and a sauce. The problem is that the drumstick is literally sitting in the sauce; so, it is not crispy, and too messy to handle--therefore, you have to eat the drumstick with a fork and knife. But, the same grease problem that plagued the mac & cheese, killed this dish. The polenta was fried and shiny from grease and soaking in the greasy sauce. You could literally see the pools and trails of grease in the sauce. The green beans were cooked, and then oiled, and then cooked, and then oiled, and then cooked, and then oiled and then.... If they truly start with good local ingredients, then it is even a greater sin to coat it in oil and overcook it, because then you might as well be using Safeway ingredients. So, we used a fork and knife and separated the chicken meat off of the bones and then left everything else on the plate. The small amount of chicken that we separated from the small thigh and the drumstick was overcooked and rubbery. As a server, this is a major RED flag: a person done with their meal that didn't eat 9/10's of the plate's food. However, instead of asking "Was there a problem" or "seems like it didn't work out," or anything to acknowledge the uneaten meal, the staff simply said "are you done with that?" and took the plate full of food. Also, we ordered a glass of wine and the taste was horrible--it had the taste of wine that was in the box that your parents would drink. As with the chicken dish, we didn't drink any of it, and the wait staff never asked if there was a problem, and instead simply took the full plate of food, and ignored the completely untouched glass of wine. Lastly, they need to check their water filter. The water smells like an aquarium. I asked if they sold bottled water, and they said no. I would rather have unfiltered tap water, than water that is processed through an aquarium. Worst meal ever . . ..
(1)
Ferzeen P.
Love the atmosphere, esp the back patio. I love the picnic table idea which is great for big groups or meeting new people. Pretty decent happy hour esp for wine. Ordered a make your own meat/cheese board and it was delicious. The Buffalo bison and cheddar were my fave. Everything is farm to table meaning you'll always have fresh food! Def coming back
(4)
Kevin T.
I am on a roll for finding great eats lately and the Westside Local continues my good fortune! This is by far one of the best casual farm-to-table type restaurants I have ever been too. The grass-fed beef burgers are prepared to a pleasing medium and it was topped with pepper-jack cheese, fresh jalapenos, sliced onions, baby arugula and ripe tomatoes. The bun matched the freshness of the other ingredients. Served up with crisp Parmesan french fries and homemade ketchup which was amazing. I really like that they have a lot of local beers available too. I believe the prices to be pretty standard for a farm-to-table place. I am happy to say that I will be starting a new job that is only 1 mile away from here. You can bet I will be a lunch regular!
(5)
Dina B.
Had reservations, seated with the setting sun glaring in our faces. Our request for a move seemed challenging to the staff, we did get moved to a great table, though. Place was empty on Saturday night. Bad sigh. Cheeses were served cold, too bad-great cheese. Pate had a rough texture and raw herbaceous flavor...ugh. Famous tomato and fennel soup was raw tasting and watery, didn't eat it. Service was okay. Kale and shaved Brussels sprouts salad was all kale, and not as good as in the past, sad. Finally, kale humus was flavorless. Won't return.
(2)
Deva J.
Farm to table concept. Food never disappoints. Loved the grilled cheese sandwich! Seriously yummy! This restaurant also is supporting a good cause.....they are donating 10% of all who ate here today to the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society. How wonderful are they to do that? Amazing!!
(5)
Gina M.
What can I say that's not completely scathing? This place was meh. On a night that wasn't crowded, it took us an hour and a half to be seated. This was after the host assured us it would be 10 minutes. Well every 10 minutes, it was another 10 minute wait. Not cool. When seated, we had a very apathetic waiter who could barely pay attention for the full minute it took for us to order. It took another 30-45 minutes for our food to come out. My grilled cheese and soup were hardly worth the wait and my husband's burger was nothing to be excited about. If we weren't treated so poorly and didn't have to wait so long for our food, maybe our experience would have been a little better. I'm sorry our business was a big inconvenience for you, Westside Local, we won't be back to bother you.
(1)
Jennifer J.
Investing in an otherwise blighted, if emerging, area of Kanas City takes fearless leadership and an appetite for risk. The Westside Local graciously accepts the challenge with a fresh, innovative menu. Come for Blunch and enjoy deviled eggs and fresh beignets alongside sharp, local cheese and crispy crackers. The Apple Bread French Toast is a perfect if you're waking up with a sweet tooth; my boyfriend dove face first into a burrito and we shared strong coffee and mimosas. Rustic and elegant, the restaurant would be a perfect location for any special event and the seasonal outdoor seating is lush and accomodating. Adding this restaurant to my list of Kansas City crave-able food... can't wait to come back!
(5)
JC A.
Grilled Cheese Worth Its Weight in Gold Went to lunch twice there recently and the grilled cheese was so good I got it both times. Not very imaginative of me, but The Westside Local did all the dream work for me with the rocking combo of "brie, emmentaler and shatto white cheddar on toasted sasha's baking co. sourdough, and tomato fennel soup for dipping". Note: Second time I was there, tried the Roasted Red Pepper soup with and loved it even more than the tomato fennel(and the tom fennel is wonderful!) If you have not tried their delicious deviled eggs, you must. They'rr the kind of dish you'd give as a housewarming gift if your deviled eggs sold on the black market for high dollar. Lunch partners got Westside Mac and Cheese( he proposed to it), Pork Belly sandwich(smelled so good we had sandwich envy). Fabulous food, great service and happy place to be all-around.
(5)
Zane W.
Great, local food at a great price. Had a killer 750 ml bottle of beer without breaking the bank. Good service, too.
(5)
Tricia H.
Okay I seriously seriously wanted to LOVE this place...but I didn't at all :(... I LOVED the neat ambiance and the oldness of this building.. It really reminded me of a big city artsy restaurant. Okay to the food ...The Bratwurst Trio was just okay nothing to write home about to be frank they were almost over cooked rubbery :(...I was so excited to taste the spicy pickle's seeing I LOVE pickle's especially spicy ones..another disappoint :( not spicy at all they tasted like garlic pickles outta a jar. The roasted beets were just OK too, nothing special....I really wanted to love this place but nothing really struck me with flavor or that YUMMMM factor for the price. I can say the Fries were bountiful and yummy.. I do plan on going back and trying many other items that are in the reviews...Maybe next time it will be better!!! Wish me luck
(2)
Scott T.
Five stars, solid. What a delightful venue. We were checking several restaurants in the area for lunch but when we saw the menu here the deal was sealed. Why? Anyone using products from The Local Pig on their menu (one of our next stops for the day) is *really* serious about the food they're putting on the table. It shows here. A restaurant can get their products elsewhere easily enough, so why go with a small independent local butcher? Quality. The Local Pig is head and shoulders above the crowd in quality. Now, for the food... best french fries in town, hands down--a real surprise--insane. Someone message me where they're better because I want to go there. We split the cheese and charcuterie platter going for Gorgonzola, Manchego and Rosemary Goat for the cheeses and Rabbit Pate, Prosciutto and Andouille for the meats. Along with that came a marvelous Kale salad (picture included with review) and a couple of great beer selections. We spoke to a few other diners and everyone was raving about the food, and for good reason. The entire beer selection is exceptional, and the wine selection appears to be well thought out as well. The service very pleasant and was ahead of the game (more crackers with the cheese?), another beer? All OK? Appropriate, but not pushy, shared her experiences with some of the dishes. I'm in the area this coming Friday for the opera--no high brow dining for us beforehand. We'll be at The Westside. Keep up the great work!
(5)
Gina M.
Great atmosphere with excellent food choices. Met a friend here for "Blunch" and loved the creative choices on the menu. The ingredients were very fresh, which is always nice. The grilled salmon benedict was a.mazing! My friend had the veggie hash, which also looked (and smelled) delicious ~ must've tasted delicious too, judging by my friend's face and the clean plate at the end of the meal.
(4)
Stephanie G.
Disappointed. I've been told by many to go here. The hummus was way too acidic too eat and was served along with Parmesan crackers that were chewy and tasted like cardboard. The grilled cheese was average, not worth 11 dollars by any means. Way too much bread for grilled cheese, too. I especially liked it when our waitress asked me over my shoulder if I wanted to box that up as I was eating it. Will not go back.
(2)
Rayni K.
Every now and then we are giant cheeseballs and crave cheesy meals. We had one of those days in Kansas City while we were at the Convention Center for a conference. So we took a little walk during the break and got ourselves the Westside Mac & Cheese and the Grilled Cheese. We were in cheese heaven. The tomato fennel soup that came with the Grilled Cheese was actually brilliantly tasty, and I normally dislike tomato soup. The side of fries was also cooked just the way I like it - crispy! We opted for the addition of bacon & shallots on the Mac & Cheese and they did not skimp on the bacon whatsoever. It was a cheesy bacon festival in a bowl. Highly recommended place to eat at. Service may be a tad slow, though.
(4)
Madeline S.
I'd like to update my past review and share a recent dining experience. i had dinner with my brother and dad who were visiting, after taking them to Room 39 and Jack Stack the nights before. They decided that Westside Local was their favorite meal. They both ordered burgers, which were delicious. I tried the fries too and they were great. We chose several items to add to an appetizer plate - salami, spicy pickles, baguette, kale hummus and deviled eggs. Then I had the crispy skin trout. We shared a unique and scrumptious dessert, the strawberry shortcake, that was not anything like your average shortcake, it was more like a buckle.
(4)
Dave L.
An ounce of pretension is worth a pound of manure. The food took an hour to come out and was not worth the $15 it cost.
(2)
Jacy R.
Quiet enough to bring a client in for a handcrafted cocktail. Try the Black Lodge. House infused hibiscus flower tequila, dry curaçao, fresh grapefruit juice, & agave. They menu features many locally sourced options. It's a tad pricey for the area but it won't disappoint.
(5)
Jacques C.
I've been here a good number of times. The good is always seasonal, always fresh, and always well prepared. I can't find anything to complain about except for an occasionally dippy server...and only very occasionally. I just had lunch there today and it was stellar. Granted the prices are a little higher than the normal lunch fare, but the quality is if a sufficiently higher quality to merit the price. Dinner is also superb.
(5)
Arturo H.
Great hipster restaurant on the west side of Kansas City... Just minutes from downtown. The overall ambiance and interior was a pleasant surprise but the wait staff could be more attentive when guests are seated as it took about 15 minutes for a waitress to acknowledge us. That was the only downside. Otherwise the menu is unique and had various fresh, and eclectic options. Three people at the table couldn't resist the grilled Cheese and they all loved it. Gourmet white cheese, that oozed from the sandwich with a side of Parmesan fries. I got the chicken mole tacos which were average but a great attempt at a twist on the bland chicken tacos. Overall, we all said we would love to come back and made this a must for lunch on our next trip.
(4)
Robert H.
We went between the lunch and dinner times 3-5pm so we got in with no wait. Ate off of the appetizer menu and was blown away with the pint of fries and various dips. (see photo) My wife got the hummus plate with half beet dip. The beet dip was better than the hummus. Just loved it all! I also had a tasty bowl (size of a cup) of chicken tortilla soup. Our waitress was Erin and she knew how to take care of us. Can't wait to go back and try more stuff! Super cool place off the beaten path.
(5)
Amy L.
This is one of my favorite areas and restaurants in Kansas City and I always try to go at least once when I'm in town. My go-to is the warm quinoa dish with a dollop of goat cheese. You can add salmon or chicken for an extra 5 dollars, but the main dish usually fills me up on its own. My one complaint would be the price tag. 15 dollars is a bit pricey for quinoa! Also, be sure to make reservations in the evenings - this place fills up fast!
(4)
ashley v.
I came here with a few friends for an early dinner about a week ago. Luckily, we had no wait and a pretty empty restaurant. Our waitress was nice, but unfamiliar with the menu. She couldn't remember what they served for dessert, so she had to leave and come back to tell us what the other half of the dessert items were. She also couldn't remember the specials, either. They should probably just hand you menus with those items printed on them. Our meals were good, but nothing to write home about. I ordered the grilled cheese with tomato "soup" for dipping, along with some fries. The house made ketchup was kind of impressive, and the fries were tasty, but maybe just a little limp. I prefer my fries to be crispy. My grilled cheese was nothing special, despite the fancy cheese blend and homemade bread. The slices of bread were much too thick for the small amount of cheese they sandwiched between them. So a pretty dry sandwich. The soup was just kind of weird. It was less of a soup and more of a cup of slightly warmed chunks of tomatoes, like stewed tomatoes. I don't mind a chunky soup, but this was pretty hard for "dipping" since there wasn't much liquid involved at all. For dessert I ordered the lemon creme brulee. I was really disappointed with this. The lemon flavor was good, if maybe a bit too sweet. I prefer more of a tart, fresh lemon taste. What was really unappetizing about the creme brulee, though is that it was runny and underdone. It definitely should have been thicker. It was less of a custard and more of a pudding. I couldn't taste the egg at all. The crust wasn't as crisp as I like, either. I think they could have cooked the sugar on top more. It wasn't as much of a dark, caramel color on top as a light golden color. Overall, I had a nice time here, but I feel that it is overpriced even with the "farm to table" ingredients. It is great that the food is fresh, but the items could have been better prepared.
(3)
K G.
We visited this restaurant on the recommendation of a couple of friends, as we are from out of town. This place is really cute! We sat outside in the back patio area & it was perfect. I had the smoked salmon egg salad sandwich with fries. Those fries...omg!! They are amazing. & the homemade ketchup was great, too. I loved the brioche bun that my sandwich came on. The filling was good, but it could've definitely benefited from some salt. The fries could've been salted more as well. Overall, though, it was a great meal! I had a bite of my boyfriend's burger, & it was perfectly cooked & delicious. Our waiter was quirky & nice.
(4)
Jeanette B.
The food was wonderful and the staff was just lovely. I had the quinoa, my family had the pork chop, pot pie, veggie burger and mac and cheese. We all were so pleased! I can't say enough positive things about this restaurant.
(5)
eva G.
Have been here 3 times haven't been disappointed so far. The food is really good very fresh, good selection of beers. If it's warm sit in the patio perfect place for lunch. Love this place wish we lived closer so i could go more often.
(5)
Elizabeth G.
We went to this place for dinner. It was very cute and cozy with a great atmosphere. Their menu seemed very fresh and creative. We ordered the kale salad and a build your own cheese plate. When the kale salad arrived, it was more the toppings (shaved brussel sprouts, almonds, etc.) on a bed of kale. It was still pretty good, but just not what I expected and a whole lot of kale. The cheese plate was decent too. We tried 3 cheeses we've never had before. The Rosemary goat cheese was phenomenal. Then of course we had dessert and the pumpkin cheesecake was awesome. It wasn't a normal creamy cheesecake it came in a souffle type of dish with a homemade crust. I would definitely come here again. Also, just to keep in mind their ticketing time is a little slower if you're in a rush.
(4)
Ian J.
Great locally-sourced food with a menu that changes seasonally. I had the summit burger with the spicy addon for a couple bucks more. Jalapeños provided just enough of a kick to give it that something extra without overpowering the perfectly cooked medium rare beef. Microgreens and a bit of sweet jelly to balance it out and this was one of the best burgers I've had in KC. The parmesan and parsley fries were also top notch. Wash it all down with a cold KC Pils. Perfect lunch. Highly recommended!
(5)
Barrie L.
1 hour and 15 minutes to get our food and the place wasn't busy, over cooked steak and asparagus. Not really pleased with the service. Had really high hopes because of the referral that was given to try this place. Gave it 2 stars because the ambiance was nice.
(2)
Acprose A.
The place for wine and cheese on a super relaxing patio. creative wine list and a fun cheese and accoutrements menu. crispy trout is a treat. friendly staff, and doggies!
(4)
Emma B.
Westside Local is one of my favorite restaurants in KC. It's farm to table, so the food is always fresh and delicious, and the the decor is really pretty. They even have a beer garden style patio, which is great when the weather is nice. Service can sometimes be a bit slow, but the food and ambiance more than makes up for it. Last week my boyfriend and I took his parents there for dinner and everyone loved it. I got my absolute favorite - the grilled cheese sandwich. I've tried tastes from different meals every time I've been there, and everything is always great, but 90% of the time I get their grilled cheese and am obsessed with it. Delicious melty cheese, amazing tomato fennel for dipping and super tasty french fries. You can't go wrong with it! Or then again, with anything on the menu. Other favorites are their burgers, quinoa main dish and honestly pretty much anything I've tried. When my parents come up for visits, it's our go to. They always say it's their favorite place to go when they're here! P.S. Their cocktails are great, too. I love the Laura Palmer!
(5)
Natalie R.
Excellent Service. Clean restaurant. Fresh ingredients. Amazing menu items. Great assortment of beers. Love it!
(5)
Rhiannon B.
I loved this place! The location and the ambience are awesome. We went around 8pm on a Saturday night with no reservation and were seated immediately. They have a great cocktail/beer selection. Now for the food..... I had the fall quinoa. Sweet potato, brussels sprouts (my fave), mushrooms and onions topped with pesto and a nice sized dollop of chevre. It was delicious. My brother opted for the veggie burger which was also good. (I love that they make it with cannellini beans). It's definitely worth trying out!
(4)
Carrie M.
Love the food here but wait staff is a hit or miss. I've had some of the best servers here and some of the worst. Some dishes are way overpriced, but for the most part, I enjoy this restaurant. The atmosphere is always great and everything I've tried is delicious - you HAVE to get the apple bread as part of this. You won't be disappointed.
Been here a few times but just recently came here w/ my 2 yr old. We had a great time & the food was great as usual! We split a patty melt & was great! My son, obviously loved the fries, as did I! Great casual feel to the place & service was great. I've also had the mussels here & it was good! Will definitely come back again.
(4)
Stella M.
Consistently good. What more could you ask for in a restaurant? The menu changes regularly, but as cheesy as it sounds, I have yet to have a bad meal here. I feel like a weirdo going there as frequently as I do, but man, I'm 99% certain they put some sort of addictive substance in their french fries. This is the place that got me into the habit of ordering fries as an appetizer - and now I'm that person eating kale salads for my entree after hogging down a bucket of fries to start. Ugh.
(5)
Shruti N.
This was a great farm to table, organic restaurant in Kansas City. The ambiance was great and the service was quick and friendly. I came here with a large group of coworkers (19 people total) and we were all very pleased with both the food and the service. Some of the highlights included the burgers, quinoa, mac n cheese and pulled pork. This is also a great restaurant for vegetarians and healthy eaters, but also satisfies the more indulgent!
(4)
H C.
Great food. And how can you beat the patio? (You can't). Before or after your meal, take a stroll through the neighborhood. Beautiful homes and a great view of the city.
(5)
Marla H.
I had lunch today and this was my first time here. I had the broccoli quinoa burger with the Parmesan fries. Everything was delicious. There must be something that can be put in the burger to keep it intact as it totally fell apart. It might even work better as an open faced sandwich on one piece of vegan bread. The fries were delicious and you could tell the ketchup was made in house, it was very fresh. The sandwich was a nice size, flavorful, kind of a light sweet taste which I wasn't sure if it was the sauce or something on the bun as the top of the bun was a little sticky. The service was good and the atmosphere was nice. I live that they use only local ingredients. Very small menu but I have a feeling they would be flexible. My friend ordered the hamburger and she said the meat had a weird taste to it and she only could eat half of it. I'm looking forward to going back and taking my daughter who is in culinary school. We are always trying to find locally-owned establishments to support. We are tired of the chain restaurants around our house.
(4)
Jessica E.
Delish! Grabbed a bite to eat last night, namely the grilled cheese sammy with the side tomato soup (when I dip, you dip I dip) and french fries. Holy crap that sandwich is huge. Come hungry and the menu will satisfy you for sure. They have a small and simple menu, though it provides a lot of vegan and vegetarian options as well as catering to the fellow carnivores. Drink menu was extensive and they have daily specials; can't vouch for any of their specialty stuff, I just rolled with a PBR yesterday. The space is small and intimate and our server was SO nice and genuinely made us feel welcome. Can't say enough nice things about this joint. See you soon!
(4)
An L.
the Margarita was pretty good and hamburger was great. cook just like I like it.. did I mention that the margarita was good.. would love to sit outside next time.
(4)
Jeremiah L.
An amazing dinner with my lovely wife. Usually there is something that isn't quite right when we go out to eat. Probably cause I'm a bit critical being a chef myself. Everything we ordered was cooked perfectly and tasted exquisite, this never happens to me. The heirloom quinoa with crispy skinned trout was phenomenal, the bison chorizo tacos were from planet Too Good, and the chocolate zucchini bread was straight from chocolate heaven. New favorite restaurant!
(5)
Michele N.
Wow, why did we wait so long to get to this stop on our list? This off the beaten path restaurant offers a great venue to enjoy good food and good beer. They have a beer garden that has large picnic style tables which are community style, as well as smaller tables. I had read a review suggesting that they put speakers outside to enjoy the live music from inside, or just pipe in some pandora...I concur! Other than that the beer garden is awesome. The restaurant interior is nice as well, with exposed brick walls etc. Although the menu is not huge, we had a hard time deciding what to order; everything sounded appealing. We started with a "pick your own" charcuterie and cheese plate. The portions were much larger than we expected (especially compared to the reasonable price), so we ended up just sharing a salad and splitting a burger for our meal after the appetizer. The kale and shaved Brussels sprout salad was a fresh, crisp diversion from the usual. The burger was awesome and accompanied by crispy, delectable fries. They offer a great option for sharing plates that I really appreciated; you can split at no charge or you can pay a modest $2 charge and they split the main dish in the kitchen and give you two full portions of the side (no having to share the fries, woohoo)!
(4)
Mark S.
Past experiences here have been excellent. I recommend then when they do their groupons or for Taste of Kansas City. Their steak and chips are awesome, and they have a huge selection of beers. I enjoyed their unique salads and desserts in the past as well. I'm noticing an increasing lack of service each time I go, however. This past weekend was one example: 1. I fell through a chair on a rotted-out back patio that they have, immediately when sitting down. The owner and waitstaff were mildly apologetic, but asking me if I'm going to sue them BEFORE asking me if I'm ok was pretty rude. They didn't even do anything to try to make my experience better (maybe a beer or an appetizer or dessert for the table would have been nice!). Learn some courtesy instead of mocking your guests, please. 2. When we asked what we should eat, the waitstaff told us about their specials and recommended items that they liked, and then told us that they were out of these! Why tease us with your "best dishes" if you don't have them to serve us! Rude! 3. Some dog of the owners was jumping on the tables and stretching out all over the peoples' food; then it got into a dogfight outside, then came to our table begging. I'm sorry, but at the prices we pay at this place, I'd rather not have some scrappy mutt disturbing my dinner. I'm a dog-lover, but please let me enjoy my dinner, thanks. 4. It got dark; it took them about 25 min and us asking TWICE to get a few candles to our table. Seriously, The Westside Local, you need to improve your customer service and courtesy to your patrons. Shame on you! (Also, PotPie's mussels blow yours out of the water!)
(2)
Tyson S.
Wife and I split the special: Jerk chicken BLT with parmesan fries. In-credible. We will be back...soon! Back patio is perfect in nice weather.
(5)
Amy R.
Gosh I love this place! We had our belated holiday dinner here last week and it was phenomenal! The service was outstanding. We arrived one at a time and he had no problem getting each person a drink as they sat down. Food was great: rosemary hummus and french fries were divine! My salad was lovely. Such a fun funky atmosphere. Love it.
(5)
Daniel H.
I thought my GPS was sending me to the wrong location but remembered somebody took a picture of the restaurants sign. I saw that as I slowly drove by and found parking. I don't think you will have problems finding street parking because there was plenty; in addition, walking almost never hurt anybody. lol I was here for a CMYE (Community Manager Yelp Event) outside in the patio area and our waiter was nice and helpful. He helped me decide on the kind of beer that would be good since I've never been here. I ordered the Boulevard Dry Stout (normally $5 but it was $3 for happy hour) and the Summit Burger ($11). The Boulevard Dry Stout was good and I wouldn't mind ordering it again but there were other drinks on the menu that I want to try because it sounded good. I didn't pay attention as to how long it took our food to come out because I was chatting/listening to everybody at the table. I know that everything came at once so that's good. My Summit Burger was pretty good and the only thing that was kinda ehh for me was the dijon vinaigrette sauce. It had an interesting taste especially on a burger like this. I still added it to my burger even though it was kinda ehh for me. lol The fries were pretty tasty and they gave me the right amount. I saw a couple of us order the Deviled Eggs ($6) and I didn't try those but they looked good! I stayed after all except one Yelper (Lilian O.) left and I sat while Lilian and her fiance (also a Yelper) ate their dinner inside. The inside had fewer tables and seats and it was busy! I think it was around 9pm? or something. I guess everybody was off from work and came here to eat dinner. Good place to eat and drink!
(4)
Kirin A.
This is probably my favorite restaurant in the city. It's tucked away in the cute Westside neighborhood, definitely a hidden gem. The food is delicious and the drinks are great too. I'm a big fan of the grilled cheese. The service can be a little so-so if it's too busy, but that doesn't keep me away. The patio is great during the nice weather as well.
(5)
Dan J.
I have now been many times and may soon call myself a regular. Now that spring is finally here I'm looking forward to the patio dining. Never disappointed here. Even taking my customers here for dinner.
(5)
Samantha L.
I guess I get the appeal, but I am just not as into it as so many of my peers. The food is pretty good but pretty expensive. Cool neighborhood, great house-made ketchup. The outdoor area is pretty good if you don't mind picnic benches and smokers. I guess I just think it's a bit over-rated, but I find myself there pretty often because it makes my friends happy.
(3)
meli l.
This is a go-to restaurant for us; the food is consistently good and the staff is friendly and competent. Usually we go for dinner, and this weekend we decided to stop in for brunch. While the night staff is excellent and the food consistently some of the best in Kansas City, our brunch experience was mediocre. We were seated outside, in spite of the fact that it was raining; there's a slight shelter over part of the patio, but several in our party got soaked before we were able to readjust, and there was still a lot of dripping throughout the meal (including onto our food). Our waiter took a long time to show up to take drink our orders, then disappeared for over 15 minutes before taking our food order. The food quality in our party varied wildly. Folks who ordered half-orders of biscuits and gravy got plates of food the same size as those who ordered the full meal; the biscuits were fluffy and flaky and the gravy was delicious. The grilled cheese plate was generous and the Belgian waffles perfectly cooked. On the other hand, those who ordered the vegetable hash with Hollandaise were given less than a cup of the hash with a tablespoon or so of sauce. Absolutely outrageous for $12, and on top of that, it was lukewarm and the potatoes in the hash were undercooked. We all agreed that Westside Local is on hiatus for us, brunch-wise, until they get the staff and food situations under control.
(3)
Sara D.
I never realized this place was so popular and I'm thrilled I got the chance to try Westside Local at the latest CMYE. There is nothing better than sipping wine at a picnic table surrounded by vines, on a beautiful evening, while chatting with your favorite people. Our server extended Happy Hour for our group. I got some kind of white wine for $4. I ordered the grilled cheese for $10 which I consider far too expensive, but found the grilled cheese much tastier than Eden Alley's. Westside Local's dish also came with a side of tomato soup and a choice of either potato salad or french fries. Katie was kind enough to share one of her deviled eggs with me, and it was absolutely delicious! I enjoyed chatting with Katie and Rhonda and watching David and Susan's dog sniff around for any wayward crumbs he could find. Westside Local's Beer Garden is a lovely area. Our service was excellent. I found the food to be too expensive and wished the menu was a bit more extensive, but overall I had a fabulous time!
(4)
Ben S.
Terrible service. Water wasn't refilled the entire night, became the running joke of the evening. How many times could we ask for water and be ignored. At dessert time one of our party was in the restroom so we asked if the waitress could wait to share the dessert options till everyone was there, especially the expectant mother. Waitress says I will just tell you the options and you can remember and tell her. The drinks were tiny. Margaritas were literally about 2/3 full in the cup. We asked for a full drink and the manager came out and offered to fill them up with fruit juice. Dinner was mediocre, not bad, but nothing special. For dessert we got an apple tart. It came out like a soup. I really think they might have forgot to cook it. Will not be going back.
(1)
Stephen H.
It was the end of the academic year, and for my teaching company, that meant an end-of-the-year celebration. Brandon was nice enough to accommodate our group of 15 and we had come up with a special menu beforehand for 3 courses and two beers/wines/well drinks for $30. Our waitstaff was excellent, the food was well done, and the dessert was AMAZING (a granola-chocolate concoction with some creme fraiche): Thanks Nina!!!
(5)
Boris Y.
Came for a quiet birthday dinner with a dear friend on a Thursday night. Perfect atmosphere for what we needed! Made a reservation online - fairly easy. The wait-staff wasn't overly attentive - SO refreshing! - they refilled our drinks when necessary, gave great recommendations, and weren't too overly or underly perky. JUST right for a quiet night out. The drinks were good, but nothing spectacular. We ordered the "Fernet Me Not" and "Black Lodge." Parmesan fries with different sauces as an appetizer: BRILLIANT. Presentation was clever, taste was everything you'd ever want in a French fry. Curry Quinoa - spectacular. Windhaven Burger - spectacular. Chicken Tortilla Soup: not the best, more like chili. But each item we ordered was so cleverly original, it really didn't matter. Lemon custard almond cake for dessert - to die for! All in all a GREAT experience! More expensive than I usually go for... But was NOT disappointed in the slightest.
(5)
Jen D.
I felt compelled to update my Westside Local review after eating there again last night. This time around, our server, Phillip, was quick and attentive. He was fantastic, actually, as last night was one of those sought after nights of drinking, eating and conversing at a relaxed, leisurely pace. Phillip didn't rush us at all, and made a great recommendation for an appetizer (ask him about building a cheese plate, you won't be disappointed!). The appetizers and entrees were great. I stuck with comfort food by ordering the grilled cheese sandwich (the stuff dreams are made of), and the bf had a burger. Sorry, not just a burger, but the "best burger he has had since he can remember". We both really enjoyed our experience this time and will definitely put the Westport Local in our rotation. Per Joi's recommendation, I look forward to relaxing in the beer garden when the weather decides to be consistent.
(4)
Amanda R.
My friend and I went here for happy hour one weeknight and I was thoroughly impressed with the cheese plate and the beer/wine/drink selection. I thought I had found my new favorite place! I brought my boyfriend in that Friday for date night and was excited to try the dinner menu. I got my nice glass of white wine and he got to try their bourbon selection - which he found a couple new ones he might buy. We ordered the Trout and a Burger. It was just ok. The burger was just a burger on a nice bun with some good fries on the side. The curry alioli was a welcome change from ketchup or ranch. But again, nothing to squeal about. The Trout was pretty good, but the bed of additives it was on did not complement the trout at all and made the entire dish bland. Oh well, perhaps I'll just stick to happy hour!
(3)
Zach K.
I'm on a trek to find the best burger in KC. The Westside Local's was a contender, and it truly is one of the best in the city. My recommendation is to NOT do the "uptown" version (adding the glaze + mushrooms) -- It's fine as it is! Everything is locally sourced and fresh. Perfect weekend dinner spot or weeknight dinner after a long day at work.
(5)
Wayne F.
Our first time at WL and it was really good. No reservation but were seated right away. Our waiter was attentive and knew the menu well. Lime and Lemon non-alc drinks were good. I ordered the angus beef burger, which was very tasty (albeit a little too much dijon), and great fries. Portion (the burger) could definitely be a larger. My gf had a veggie burger which turned out to be also very good. Loved the place and location. 4 out of 5 because although our food was very good and I would recommend it to others, it simply wasn't amazing.
(4)
Randy D.
This is one of the few gems for dining and hanging out. Try it you will love it! Great menu and libation choices.
(5)
Jessi B.
A cluster. Snooty hostess started off our evening, someone needs to teach her to smile. We sat at the bar while waiting for our table. We each had a nice cocktail, we were seated quite quickly and I asked if our tab would be transferred, a different hostess said yes. As we were having our appetizers the bartender came and asked us to settle up with her. Ok, that's why I asked in the first place. We had the cheese plate which was pretty but no wow pairings of cheese and accompaniments. I had the trout, it was cooked well but over salted. The beet root risotto was a flavorless mush. My co diner had a burger that was very good. We never had our empty water glasses refilled. I was never asked if I wanted another cocktail. Plates weren't cleared until I put my napkin on my plate and walked out. I definitely won't be returning. I love the atmosphere and space but the service we received turned us off for good. Edited to add, the waiter decided we didn't tip well enough so added an extra $10 to his tip on his own. The restaurant did refund the money, but nothing else to compensate for their employee committing a felony. I'll be letting everyone I know about this one.
(1)
Mad C.
I love this place and I've only had an appetizer thus far. The sardines were tasty, but I'm giving this place 5 stars for the space alone. I didn't notice any service issues, but I was sitting at the bar and the bartender was someone whom I know to be a professional. I looked at the rest of the menu and it was right up my alley with the grass fed beef. I'm going back on Sunday to check it out some more. I wish this place had been open when I lived in da hood.
An old college friend of mine visiting from Chicago, my husband, and I dined here on a Saturday evening. We were lucky to grab a table even though initially we were told they were all reserved. The atmosphere was calm, intimate, and artsy. I liked the charcuterie plate - having never had Braunchweiger before, it is a delicious meat treat! And gotta love those crackers. My friend ordered a Manhattan, which I sipped a bit of and thought it was quite nice. I ordered a cocktail on the menu - Rosemary Regatta - but was not impressed. It was a bit too sweet, and just about zero rosemary taste shined through. No matter - dinner was soon served. I left thinking I should have gotten the grassfed burger or the grilled cheese sandwich like my dining mates did. But, wanting to stay at least slightly Paleo, I got the mussels. They were good, but I wasn't dazzled. And one of them I had to spit out since it tasted too much like the sea. Those fries that came with my husband's burger = AMAZING. We ordered coffee at the end of our meal, which was presented very nicely, and kept quite full by the staff. Our server was lovely, too bad I don't remember her name! :( And our water glasses were never left wanting. You should try it! Depending on what you order I think you'll probably have a great time. My friend from out of town said he wants to go back. That's all a restaurant can ever ask for.
(3)
Charley B.
I finally made it out and gave The Westside Local a try and while I think it's a solid restaurant it just didn't live up to its hype. I stopped in for brunch and what really stood out were the biscuits. Amazing. I ordered the biscuits and gravy and another in our party had a bacon egg and cheese biscuit. Both of us couldn't stop talking about them. The mushroom gravy over my biscuits held a good flavor and was nice and thick. Another party ordered the french toast, which were seasoned well, but fell apart way too easy. I was a little disappointed in the service. Our server scoffed a little when all of us decided to stay with water as a beverage. I also ordered a egg to go with my meal. The server asked if I wanted scrambled, I told her over easy, but she still brought me scrambled. I didn't send it back, but I was disappointed she didn't write my order down. I'd like to give dinner a try sometime because I've heard some of those dishes can put you in a coma but I'm not sure if that will be any time soon.
(3)
Sam C.
Only had drinks here, but enjoyed the atmosphere and look forward to trying the food out.
(4)
TL M.
Snottiest staff EVER. Not sure I will go back. Tried to sit outside and order a bottle of wine. The server asked if we were having food. After hearing "no" he told us to go get our own drinks. Horrid. We left.
(1)
Rich S.
Had a fantastic dinner here. Very good atmosphere when you walk in the door. We were seated promptly. The menu was fantastic. The spinach salad with blueberries, peaches and salmon was outstanding. Make sure you try the deviled eggs. We will definitely be back.
(5)
Christyn K.
I only heard of this place because someone had given me a gift certificate, stating, "It's a foodie place - and you seem like a foodie." Not knowing what to expect, I made a reservation for two for a Saturday night. When we arrived the hip little place was no where near full, though the hostess was turning those without a reservation away. We sat down near the back of the old store-front turned restaurant layout and admired the local art on the walls while watching the place fill up at an enormous speed. Though the atmosphere at first seemed snoody, our server was personable and very patient with us as we read over the menu at length. The options were awesome - appetizers are create-it-yourself cheese plates with humus or bread or olives :) I ordered a bunch of cheese and bread and an entree of mac and cheese with sweet potato (I can start my diet tomorrow). We enjoyed a few drinks with our food and left perfectly full but not stuffed. As we were leaving we noticed a huge line waiting to get in. Sure glad we made online reservations through Yelp earlier that day (a super easy step which made the whole evening possible). I can't wait to show this place off to my out-of-town friends here.
(5)
Shannon S.
No matter how many times I go its always an exceptional experience. Saturday night I ordered the beef entree. Everything was cooked to perfection, especially for a take out order. They didn't fuss about items being in a to go box, which suited my recovery from Friday night perfectly. Love this place!!
(5)
Carol A.
I'm a happy camper after having lunch at The Westside Local today. It is always fun to find a "new-to-me" place where I know I'll want to make a return trip because there were so many good choices on the menu that I couldn't try them all. Today I chose A Vegetable Sammy that was wonderful with portabella mushrooms and lots of other sliced veggie goodness and picked a wonderful spicy bean soup which was the daily selection as my side. Even the whole grain, hearty bread (from Farm to Market) was exceptional. Hubby got a Summit Burger and fries and Sis ordered a phenomenal looking Grilled Cheese with a cup of tomato fennel soup for dipping and some yummy looking spiced roasted potatoes as a side. Both got compliments from the diners and had me plotting a return trip. Everyone was too full to order dessert but I'd like to save room next time, as there were a couple, including a bread pudding, that sounded intriguing. The restaurant space is all exposed brick and has a soaring ceiling and there were a series of beautiful urban paintings on the walls that just popped and seemed to complete the feel of the place. It was a good lunch and I was very happy to find another good place to eat on Summit. (Which is becoming one of my favorite destination spots in the city.)
(4)
David A.
This place has been on a downward spiral for me. I've been here 5 times. 4 out of 5 times food were misses. However, here is what is going for it: Great service, great ambience in the beergarden and the patio dog friendly. I've really enjoyed their drinks and they have quite a good bartender who knows how to mix them up well. Would I come back? Yes, to hang out with friends and my dog at the beergarden and enjoy some drinks. Food? I really have given up.
Westside Local. Where to begin? Locally sourced, yes. Fresh flavors, no doubt. Original, definitely. Seasonal menus ensure there's always something new to try. Take their Winter Quino. Packed with flavor and fresh earthy veggies. Top that with your favorite protein and it's heaven on earth. Bottom line, if you're in KC and looking to branch out of the ordinary, this is your spot.
(4)
krysztof n.
Flavor. It's why we eat. Let me rephrase that: It's why we ENJOY eating. I'm no foodie. Call me a "Flavor Savant", perhaps? I know that when it goes in my mouth, it better fire synapses of delight in my brain and satisfy that pit in my gut that needs sated. And what have I found over the years? It's no surprise: food grown locally, fresh to table, served with love in an environment of warmth usually tastes the best. Especially if I'm not the one cooking. I ended up here the other night after the KC Crossroads Artwalk with Local Diners and Appreciators The Fellow Gentleman and his gal The Fashion Plate while The Dame was out of town (and sorely missed by us all), and we weren't disappointed. Each of our plates (and drinks) was amazing, and what made it even more so was that our server took the time to field our many questions about WHY it was so amazing. Our time there was too short, however; I would have loved to stayed longer after the meal, maybe enjoyed some desert or another drink, but alas it wasn't in the cards. I can't wait to take The Dame back for another round, and to see how she reacts when that same quality of flavors hits her tongue.
(4)
Jason C.
This is my first visit to this little gem. Really nothing to complain about here. Very quaint, comfortable spot. My server was very friendly, and gave just the right amount of attention. I started with the deviled eggs (very nice). I then had the quinoa burger, with the house tomato fennel soup as my side. Both were very fresh and delicious. They boast a farm-to-table menu here and they definitely seem legit. I will return.
(4)
Jocelyn R.
I've had drinks at the Westside Local before but this past weekend I finally got to eat dinner there and wow - such a home run decision that was! I will definitely be back soon. Drinks and appetizers were perfect - I love roasted garlic so was excited to see that on the menu along with a lovely cheese plate. I ordered the grilled cheese and fries which was an upscale version with several kinds of cheeses and a little cup of tomato soup for dipping. My husband ordered the pork belly which he said was delicious. The service was great and the prices were reasonable. Go there.
(4)
Bailey W.
Unfortunately, after having been wanting to try The Westside Local out for many months, we checked it out and had a pretty disappointing experience. I'll start with the good. My boyfriend ordered a burger and said it was good. The deviled eggs weren't bad either, but Beer Kitchens are exponentially better. The limeade was good though. Now for the bad. The grilled cheese was just average. There's so much bread that I ended up taking off one slice. I noticed that there was something in it that looked like a piece of paper or something. Eventually the waitress came back and informed me it was the rind of the cheese and that it was edible. Then she took away my meal without asking if I was done or would have liked a box for the deviled egg and tomato soup I had left. Also the ketchup(?) was a bit runny. The service was what was really disappointing. Besides the fact that she took my food away, she also never brought my boyfriend the lemonade he ordered. After bringing our food, she never checked on us until we had already finished, despite there being only four occupied tables and her checking on the table right next to us twice. It's a shame since I'd been looking forward to trying it. Had the service been better, I would be willing to give it another shot and try something different on the menu.
(2)
Renee H.
If it is a warm day, sit outside. Seriously. This a great restaurant to discover and enjoy Paleo food.
(4)
Tracy K.
Totally awesome place! The food is amazingly good, everything we've had has been so full of flavor. It's a can't miss! Call for a reservation is a best bet to eating quicker. Bar is small so not much in the way of eating in there although we have done it before.
(5)
Callie E.
Here's why I love West Side Local: Strong focus on local brands and/or produce Hip, urban atmosphere Consistently delicious food - vegetarian and vegan friendly (yeah!) Service hasn't disappointed thus far West Side Local is the one place in town (ok, I kid, there are maybe four) that I can recommend to my friends and confidently know they will enjoy. A few of my favorite dishes include: Quinoa Broccoli Burger, Roasted Carrot Soup (holy Sh*t - I hate soup, but love this), Tomato - Fennel Soup (again, read note above) and Kale Salad (minus bacon). It's places like this, that make moving back from The Bay, an excellent decision!
(5)
Lindsay P.
Okay, so this is a bit random...but I LOVED their ketchup. It has a cidery taste that goes perfectly with their amazing french fries. I'm hoping to come back on a future trip to KC to scope out more of their menu, but the beer and wine list are pretty rocking, and they have some great small dishes if you're just looking for a tapa-esque experience. Our server was also great with suggestions as to what to drink/try.
(4)
Reed N.
I was so damn close to giving 5-stars. So close. Just the texture of the burger was the difference. Let me explain... but first know that it you want a good burger you can pull the trigger on this place without hesitation. You see, I am a burger guy. It is a last rights food for me. Beef, fat all ground into a juicy patty of goodness. On a bun, Farm-to-Market brioche no less. Chopped jalpenos. Aioli. Arugula. Out. Of. Control. The only thing not perfect about my southwestern burger was that it was a little too "tight" or patted together too long. Other than that... this place nailed it. The fries were a crispy treat, and were flour dredged or something. The coating was light and they stayed crisp in my take out box for 10 minutes. I know treated fries may be blasphemy to OCD spud lovers out there, but get over yourselves long enough to taste something purely on its own merit. There are no rules in cooking these days unless you profess them as part of your business model. Which Westside Local does do on a different plain... in their name. Much of the ingredients are local sourced. : )
(4)
Daniela G.
Ladies night was just kicked up a notch! The drink were amazing, our server was super helpful with the menu and suggestions and the food delicious. I can't wait to bring my boyfriend here! I gave on less star because of the snooty little hostess who not only spent the entire time we were there playing on her phone but dismissed us when we asked for a table away from the door because we were really cold. Other that her this place is one of my new favorites in Kansas City!
(4)
Carly F.
One of my favorites in KC. The service can be slow sometimes and the wait staff a little snooty, but the food and drinks make up for it.
(4)
Adrn H.
I read the reviews prior to going, and I really resonate with those put-off by the service. Local is by no means a new fad, but that doesn't mean you need to half-ass it. I mean you don't need to go all Portlandia on us and offer a dossier on our meals, but please gratify me and explain how my sub-par BLT was locally sourced. (Or my husband's mussels, for that matter.) As a bleeding heart, I can concede a little quality if I know a little bit of the story. But from Westside Local? Nothing. No stories, mention of local farms, just a hastily printed (and soggy) menu. Additionally, the critiques of service are dead-on. I found the waitstaff detached and unconcerned with our experience. The host took us to a booth where I immediately sat in a HUGE water puddle and soaked my dress. When I asked the server for an explanation, he gestured up and mumbled "uh, yeah, that happens a lot." Evidently they're okay with the AC dripping condensation on patrons during their meal. The food? Mostly uninspired nu-comfort food. Drinks were expensive and watery. If you go, I'd stick to the pint o' fries and a table not under the AC ducts.
(2)
Kathleen M.
Many grateful thanks to fellow Yelper Ken B for steering me here. I owe you a recommendation! We came here for lunch after a great visit at the National World War I museum and it was the perfect place. We were still chewing our experience at the museum,the horror of war, etc. and needed a calm oasis of good vibes and better food. Faster than you can sing Over There we were exactly at that oasis. Our waiter was super friendly and answered all my questions about the area, the neighborhood, etc. I had the chicken sandwich which I would have cheerfully saluted. I also adored the potato salad. We split the mini candy bar dessert, too much for one but perfect for two. Such fun to come eat at a fresh, healthy place and it was a great contrast to other places we had visited. My only complaint about Kansas City is that we have to go home tomorrow and haven't seen, done and eaten everything we wanted to. Thanks for such a great time!
(5)
Clifford S.
This was a darn good meal - great burger and the best fries I have ever tasted. The waiter promised they were and he was right. We liked the whole package - the neighborhood, the ease of street parking and the good food. It was friendly; like the whole city of Kansas City. I hope the Cubs play here again so we can come back to the city and this restaurant.
(5)
Christine H.
Food was awesome! Service was great. One of the best veggie burgers in town. Creative food, great atmosphere and quality food.
(5)
Ken B.
My partner called and made reservations at Westside Local to take Granny out for Mothers Day. We arrived, stated our name and got the look of Who What Where are you sir!!! Well, he had made it for the following Saturday. Not what you want to hear when you have a hungry grandparent with you. Without missing a beat, they made us feel welcome and found us a table to be seated at. So nice. The waitress (which I regret I don't have her name.....though she is the one pregnant with twins) was more than fantastic. Personable, funny, knowledgeable, attentive and professional. Really, the best kind of waitress you could ever hope to have. The attentiveness and slowness of the waitstaff had always been the problem for me at Westside Local, but as of my last handful of visits, that is a thing of the past. The food was still amazing. Fresh and flavorful. The menu has gone through some downsizing but all of the favorites still remain except for my favorite beer that I had discovered here, but there are many more options for me to happily try til I discover my new favorite. The atmosphere is still one of my favorites in the city and I look forward to some great spring/summer nights out in the beer garden. I think my partners mistake of making the reservation for a week later than what we were planning will not be wasted......we kept it in place and will happily return in a week to have another great night out. Thanks Westside Local!
(5)
Derek T.
Easily in my top 3 favorite restaurants in KC. Must go!
(5)
Rhonda S.
I feel as if I'm one Yelper behind the rest, as I had never visited Westside Local till last night. I attended a Yelp event, but I am reviewing the restaurant. Being a bit budgeted for food money last night, I can't see spending 13.00 for a sandwich, period. 11.00 for grill cheeses? Well, it looked good. I'm trying to decide between 3 or 4 stars, and the prices bought the review down, not the atmosphere or service. One person can easily spend above $20.00 on a meal, and to me, $20.00 can buy alot of other things. Their food is produced locally, which might account for higher prices. We sat outside, under a wooden roof, I think this was a beer garden. I love places that have outside areas like this. We sat at a picnic table, with vines around us, with bamboo plants, and vines on the roof of the garden area. We were presented with menus, which didn't surprise me of the prices. They extended happy hour for us, making the cheapest beer $2.00. It was PBR, and I happen to like PBR. The next cheapest thing ont he menu was French fries, with house ketchup and aioli sauce, which I ordered. Katie D. raved on the deviled eggs, I was surprised of the price being $6.00. (I don't eat chicken embryos), but was expecting them to bring a plate of several deviled eggs, yet, it was only one egg, in half. Later I was told, it was $2.00 for an egg, which is sitll expensive to me. Sara, Katie and Treesha, around me, all had the grilled cheese. The grilled cheese, which I considered, but was very budgeted, were 11.00, and were presented with salad I'd never eat, and something else. The menu increased in price, and the cheeseburger that Daniel had, (he was sitting next to me) though it looked good, was $13.00. The grill cheese looked really good, but not the salad with it, or the other offering. And I might want to go back for it. But i'm sure I'd be paying for the salad, which, though I lean vegetarian, cold vegetables aren't on the top of my list to order. They offer Quinoa, which Joi says is really good. I wanted to order it, but couldn't. I mean, how does WSL price their food? Too high. I cannot ever fathom a sandwich over $8.00. Especially a hamburger, which I doubt I'd ever order. At this point, I need to mention it was Lilian O's last Yelp event here in Kansas City, and she is the one who introduced me to Donna's Dress Shop. But the place is cute, has charm, and good service. It is dog friendly, as can be verified by Colt, the cocker Spaniel who owns David and Susan. Colt had a joyous time when the waiter accidently dropped some food. I certainly enjoyed the company, and my fellow Yelp friends. I like the location of WSL, but the prices might turn me away. .
(3)
Andria N.
As I realized that I frequent this place about once a week, I realized I need to update my review. I love Westside Local. Their food is ALWAYS spot on... You cannot go wrong with their ever changing specials or my old faithfuls of grilled cheese, french dip, or burger. Their snacks or Appetizers are a great way to start especially when you get their olives (They also have a great selection of cheese and crackers). And to top things off, their beer and wine selection is up to par!
(5)
E H.
We landed at the Westside after falling in love with the neighborhood earlier in the day. Had great food, good drinks, and decent service the first night. The quinoa was subtle and surprisingly delicious, my $10 cocktail strong but tasty, and the olives were truly amazing. So buttery! The second visit was a little less thrilling, but still worthy of four stars.
(4)
Joi B.
This place just hits all the right spots. It's been a year since my last review and because the star rating doesn't get any higher than five, so my rating remains. But! There have been some changes here, subtle, but great. And yes, I do realize some of the small plates are no longer on the menu, but maybe when in season, they'll reappear (sun chokes... anyone?) Regardless, I like what they have on there now and we tend to get the same thing, parmesan and the aforementioned Castelvetrano olives (the K gets his beloved prosciutto and being that I grew up with the stuff being on many a Sunday dinner's antipasto, WL's is the bomb). The quinoa is better than ever. I swear it has improved and I'm not even sure how that's possible, but I'm craving it right now. All those delightful textures and flavors. It's the ultimate. The real reason for this update, though, is to note that I love sitting in the bar area the most. Because I suck at planning ahead and rarely make reservations (it's true), the last several times they asked if we'd mind sitting in the bar. Now, I normally *loathe* sitting at those high tables and chairs. I can't put my finger on why exactly, but let's just say I feel like I'm sitting in a highchair and I don't recall ever liking being in a damn highchair even as a child (I was born sophisticated, what can I say?). At Westside Local, however, if I'm not sitting out on that divine patio, the bar area is where I want to be sitting! That bartender is one of the best servers in the city, I've found. Not only can he whip you up any drink you desire, but he also is "on it" all the time: manning the bar, serving the three or four tables in his section and generally just being awesome. So, there you have it. My updated review for one of my favorite places in town. I'm especially excited just thinking of sitting out on the patio in the upcoming months. Bring it on!
(5)
Kelsy M.
I am already looking forward to coming back to The Westside Local. The ambiance is great and the food was delicious. I definitely recommend the kale salad. I have never had a salad so delicious in my life, I need to get the recipe! The reason I gave it 4 stars was because I also ordered the mac and cheese with my kale salad. I wish I didn't order the mac and just got a bigger salad, that's how delicious it was. The mac was pretty good, it wasn't the most amazing mac I have ever had. I think it lacked some salt and I think they should have used a stronger cheese, it was very mild tasting. Perhaps it's just a personal opinion, but I like a little more pizzazz to my mac.
(4)
Nicole B.
Since I love restaurants where the food is locally sourced, I'm not sure how I haven't dined here sooner. The decor is simplistic and not over done. Local art is displayed on the walls. Service was attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly. Good beer selection as well. To start, my dining mates and I shared a cheese plate and charcuterie plate. We let our server decide on the meats and cheeses. He did an awesome job at doing that! The Beemster cheese and Rabbit Pate were outrageously good. I also loved the roasted garlic on the cheese plate. For my meal, I went with the Crispy Pork Belly. I was expecting a larger portion, but it was still delicious. The polenta was creamy and tasty. The pork belly was crispy on the outside and tender in the middle. Everyone else was very happy with their meals as well. I'm looking forward to dining again so that I can try more of the menu options.
(4)
Mary M.
Great! A lazy post st paddys day evening found blondie and I looking for some interesting eats. Westside local was exactly what the doctor ordered. Based on reviews, I was expecting uninterested and slow service. Nothing could be farther from the truth! On a busy Friday night, we bellied up to the bar rather than wait for a table. The bartender was great and gave lots of information about the menu items and food preparation.... I love that! In summary....Everything said of the deviled eggs is true. The tomato fennel soup is good, but Id whir it up a bit and kick in some additional. The arugula salad is amazing with the matag bleu bits, roasted grapes and pumpkin seed brittle. However...... The quinoa is the closet rockstar on the menu!! It's a rollercoaster of flavor! Roasted squash, cherries, haricot verde, Brussels sprouts, shaved Parmesan! Forget rollercoaster, this is a pinball game going on with your tastebuds! Add a perfectly cooked piece of salmon (yes, perfectly medium!) and your tastebuds are doing the dance of joy! Next time, I'm trying ...umm... Everything. This is a place I will return to till I've tried it all. P.S. Because we were at the bar, several of the servers talked with us while waiting for drink orders and they were all very friendly pleasant engaging folks. I can't imagine getting poor service here.
(4)
Lee R.
This is the perfect "Go To" place. The menu is small, but I still have a hard time deciding what I want every time I go. The inside atmosphere is pretty cool - nothing amazing, but unique. The outside space is what really gets me though - it's awesome. Huge picnic tables and a fenced in, covered area. I'd recommend this place for happy hours, business lunches, or dinner and drinks. Probably not the best venue for any more than 4 people.
(5)
Mel h.
Initially seated by window, blazing hot. Manager asked us to stay and moved us to a much better spot. Saved our night.
(5)
William R.
I took my girls (3 and 6) out for a fancy dinner, for them, and we were treated very nicely by the staff at Westside Local. Our host was cordial and seated us quickly, with crayons and paper. The room is somewhat noisy, so some kid noise wasn't overly disruptive. Our waiter offered to split the mac and cheese (which is a large portion) for them, in fact he suggested it. I had the crispy pork belly which is one of the tastiest things I've had at a restaurant all year. I'd love to learn the secret of the crispy outside and decadent inside. Wow. Great selection of draft beers, and craft bottles. I've been here many times, and it seldom disappoints. The inside bar is very cozy, great place for a grownup drink. The outside beer garden can not be beat in warmer weather in Kansas City, in my opinion. I can't say enough how nice they were to this (for the night) single slightly overwhelmed dad and small girls.
(5)
Mnason M.
So how the hell did I not know about this place sooner! My older brother, Jachin M., told me about this gastropub because I tend to like gastropubs a lot. My wife and I went there on a Sunday afternoon. The place was pretty quiet. In fact, the bartender was our waitress in the main dining area. I believe her name was Jenna. I must say she was excellent! I think she could tell my fancy for beer. Therefore she answered my questions in detail along with giving suggestions and provided samples basically without even asking... They had some good beers on tap, so if you combine that with their bottled list then you have quite a selection! We started off with a strange, but fitting, appetizer of bacon and scrambled eggs. Good start. Then we ordered a couple of Summit Burgers. My wife did customize hers a little bit but mine was OEM. What I have to say... what an awesome burger! Perfectly cooked rib-eye burger at medium, juicy, and the arugula with melted cheese on top was a great addition. The Garlic Fries were great too! I was disappointed they were out of Deviled Eggs which is one of the items they are known for so I'm not sure how that works... I do plan on making a second trip in my future so hopefully they have them next time. Summary: - Great food! The Summit Burger was awesome! - Great beer selection when you combine taps and bottles - Great, and helpful, service! - Out of Deviled Eggs during my visit which made me sad - The location is a little on the rough side. So stay in a group or don't wander around aimlessly. And lock your car (-; - Highly recommended so far. I hope my next visit is as good if not better
(4)
Lisa K.
I've been told by numerous farm to table foodies that I MUST try Westside Local so I attempted to dine there on a Sunday night at 6pm.. no reservations. Walked in with my group of three and was told they didn't have any available tables until 8:30 pm for dining inside or the patio. I looked around and noticed five open tables, rolled my eyes and moved on down the road to La Bodega for sangria ( LOVE their sangria so the night wasn't a complete loss!) Attempted to go again (glutton for punishment I guess) but went on a Saturday afternoon at 1pm.. Once again plenty of indoor seats and outdoor seats available and was granted a table. Maybe they noticed the snarl on my face and decided not to mess with my twice. We dined on the patio and sat on a picnic table. Our hippy waitress who wore her sunglasses over her glasses (is that now in style?) took her sweet time coming around to take our order (the water filler was ON TOP of making sure our glasses were full at all times. Yeah!) We ordered two deviled eggs ($2), rosemary hummus and crackers as appetizers ($4). All were delish and devine. Our Entrees of choice included a magnificient large kale salad $11 (walnut tahini dressing, shaved cauliflower and sauteed shallots) and we added chicken $6. The salad was amazing however the chicken was bland, blah, boring, dry.. etc. but I needed some protein so.. oh well. Hippy chick took her sweet time bringing our bill and we were ready to bail since our bottoms were hurting from being camped on a picnic table for over an hour.. Go for the kale... bring a cushion for the patio. all is good.
(3)
Zack Y.
I had been wanting to give the Westside Local a try for awhile so when my dad came to visit me here in KC I figured it was the perfect opportunity to impress him with some of the cool and interesting restaurant options we have here in KC. It ended up being, well, just okay. It was a very busy Thursday night but we were able to get seats on the (totally beautiful) patio with literally no wait at around 7:15. Our server was able to take drink orders but the manager came by to make sure because apparently she was taking care of a large party inside. The manager dropped off our drinks and took our food order. Apparently there were no specials or anything, which I was surprised about, and the chicken was unavailable. Cocktails ended up being fine. Nothing special or super-impressive, but at least when you order something there you know what to expect. Our salads came out super-quick despite how busy it was. A few bites in, though, the manager came out with our entrees. He apologized and told us that it was his mistake, not our servers. That apology was as far as any attempt to make sure we were cool with this mistake went. He didn't really wait for a response from us. No discount or anything. I'm usually pretty laid back eating out and so I didn't make a big deal out of it, but as I was sitting there eating two courses at once I realized it was pretty detrimental to the experience I had. I had to eat quicker so my trout wouldn't get cold, the flavors of my salad didn't work well with anything else, it pretty much changed the dish, and not for the better. I didn't want to make a big fuss about it but looking back I sort of wish that I had. That said, if not for this mistake the food would have been excellent. I'm pretty sure, anyway. I can at least say that the trout was cooked well. We stayed for dessert--some brownies baked with local figs. They came out on a single plate with a single mug full of milk, which would have been fine if not for the fact that we were sharing dessert and that I'm lactose-sensitive and the server forgot to mention that they came with milk. The brownies themselves were delicious, though. Our server was friendly and attentive and the food was great, but silly mistakes sort of kept us from having the five-star meal I was hoping for. I might try going back before the rush instead of after it next time.
(3)
Roger D.
The Westside Local will keep you on the Right Side of good health! They serve gourmet Local Fruits, Vegetables, Meats, Fish, Breads, Beers, Wines and Desserts. The Service is phenomenal, friendly, personable and professional. Their Sunday Brunch will make your Day. You will want to return with your Family & Friends for many memorable meals.
(5)
Rachel B.
I want to give this restaurant more stars, but I just can't. The food has been really hit or miss for us the past few times we have been. The "hits" we have had In the past were the chicken sandwich, mac and cheese, and their burger. all were fantastic. However, we went on Saturday, and had a horribly disappointing meal. I tried the Halcyon mussels, the broth had a weird bitter after taste. I didn't even use the bread to soak up any of the broth, that's how bad it tasted. Husband had the pork sandwich, which was nothing special, just a bland, boring sandwich. Our friend had the quinoa dish, which was also completely bland. What an over-priced, disappointing meal. My advice: If you are a risk-taker go for it, you may happen to have a great meal! But if you don't want to risk spending good money on a mediocre meal, there are so many better restaurants in the area.
(3)
Jillian C.
Out for a ladies night, we hit up this joint for some upscale food and fun. I had the kale salad and the andouille sausage soup. Both were good, though I was expecting greatness. I liked the sausage but only got one piece in my whole little tiny bowl. The kale salad was yummy too but a bit dry. It came out looking like I wasn't expecting. The kale leaves were torn into rather large pieces and then it was topped with a combo of shaved brussels, almonds, parm, fried shallots, brown sugar bacon, and a maple-tahini dressing. So it felt more like brussel sprout salad (in the style of a deli chicken salad) on top of some dry kale leaves. In retrospect, I could have done without the kale and just had the brussel sprout part. Still though, I think the flavors were there. The saving grace of dinner was a nice glass of red wine, generously poured, and the bread pudding with cranberries, oranges, and chocolate chips. I could...and actually mostly did...eat the whole thing myself. I was worried it would be much too fruity but it wasn't. The orange and cran flavors were assertive but you got enough of the chocolate to make it feel dessert-like enough. Well balanced dessert.
(4)
Sofie C.
The food was delicious. We had a party of 6 and we all ordered a variety of things. Everyone was pleased with their choice. Our server was great. She brought my girlfriend dessert for her birthday and when I received the bill, she comped it! She didn't have to do that, but she did. Great quality food, nice atmosphere. You can have a nice date night with yummy food and a bottle of wine for under $60.
(5)
Jangs J.
Local: We've loved you for two years, but you're slipping. Last night stunk to the tune of my having to wake up early on a Saturday and write a yelp review. Damnit, Local. So, there's the stuff that some people get bent out of shape about--like the waiting 20 minutes past the reservation time for a table and the being seated without a drink menu and the bad live music and the general cacophony of it all--but not me. (Except maybe the music. Holy crap. What was that 20-minute repetition of the same scale thing about?) It's the food. It actually stunk last night. The giardiniera was crap--like cauliflower sitting in Wishbone Italian salad dressing. My grocery store makes a better giardiniera. The deviled eggs were good, as usual, but did they have to show up literally french kissing the dish of gross giardiniera? And the barbecued chicken sandwish you served my wife, that was so gross. The pretzel bun seemed to have come from a wet t-shirt contest just before serving as the soggy, pasty base of a mound of bland shredded chicken. We'll be back, but not before you think about what you're doing. You enjoy a good rep and can probably survive a few bad reviews from people who still come to you for food and not just for social capital. But do you really want to be that restaurant?
(3)
Kyle G.
Went in for lunch after reading previous reviews and was lucky to have a get a table on a Wednesday afternoon. Great concept of simple, clean, local foods. Ordered the Cuban sandwich with sauteed greens for a side. The pork in the Cuban was perfectly cooked and was nice and moist alluding me to believe it was cooked today and not re-heated. A little pricier for a lunch, but you definitely get the quality you pay for.
(5)
Dana C.
I've been wanting to try this place for awhile. Thanks to Groupon, I was finally able to try it last Sunday! It was a dark and cloudy night...no seriously, it was a perfect, intimate evening to spend at Westside Local. My date and I arrived around 6:45PM. We were seated promptly. The decor and atmosphere were right on. I sat on the booth side of the table, not the most comfortable, but it was clean. I enjoy clean restaurants! My boyfriend and I had looked over the menu before leaving for our destination so we knew what we wanted. I ordered the grilled cheese on a friend's recommendation, and he ordered the BLT. I had a feeling there would be a bit of a wait, but we weren't in a rush. We each also ordered a beer. I forget which beer we ordered, but it was quite tasty. We waited almost an hour for our food, no joke. It didn't feel like an hour, so I'm not complaining. My grilled cheese tasted just as amazing as it had been described to me, and the garlic fries complimented it well. Super silly, but I need to mention it. My sandwich didn't come with a pickle on the side. I love pickles. The customers seated to to the left and right of me both ordered the same dish as me, and they got pickles. Yeah, I took note - don't judge me. All in all, it was everything I expected it to be. The restaurant is a little higher in price than I can normally afford (understandably, it's local and delicious). I will definitely be back once I have some extra $$.
(4)
Jessi H.
I hate to write a bad review because of one horrible experience, but i'm going to. this restaurant used to be one of my favorites. so much so that we had our wedding night dinner there. last friday, we showed up at about 6:30 without a reservation. the hostess couldn't even look us in the eye to tell us how long of a wait we would have (even though we were willing to wait over an hour or more). instead, she said things like "well, it's going to be very long" and "um, yeah, you don't have a reservation?" (they had at least 7 empty tables at the time. ) Lucky for us, a couple was just leaving a table in the bar where we were told we could eat dinner. We sat. We waited. The service has always been slow, but this was ridiculous. We finally ordered a couple glasses of wine, which were nice pours and good wine. Then, I chose to order the kale salad described as kale with shaved parm and crispy prosciutto. to add chicken or fish was $6, but i did. And then, I waited for my $16 salad. You guys, SIXTEEN DOLLARS. My salad and my husband's sandwich were delivered to our table by a server from the dining room. She was so rude to me and gave me the bitchiest look I'd ever received that I actually had to ask my husband if she was a former girlfriend of his. When I asked for salt and pepper, she brought it out, threw it down on the table, turned her back and stomped off. Now let's talk about the $16 salad. It had one 1-inch size piece of crispy prosciutto. ONE. I paid $16 for a handful of kale, 3 shaves of parm, 1 inch of prosciutto and a 2-ounce portion of chicken. I'm sad because I've had so many other experiences there that have been good, but this was horrible. You know what they say about first impressions. Well, it's also true for sixth impressions.
(2)
Brandi C.
I want to give The Westside Local 4 stars, I really do, but so far they're really only a 3 1/2 star place in my book. Not because of the food, which is really, really good, but more because of the service. Allow me to explain... We've been in here twice now. Once for dinner, and once for lunch. Both times the atmosphere has been great, the food has been great, and I have absolutely nothing to complain about there. The servers, though, have been apathetic, forgetful, and somewhat inept. I've also felt somewhat rushed both times. Maybe it's the super tight skinny jeans they all seem to wear? Maybe I'm just more discerning now that I'm Yelping about my experiences? I don't know. The first time around we had to ask about any specials, but then things went pretty well until dessert. (I had salmon, and it was cooked perfectly. My husband had the Roast Beef sandwich, and he loved it.) When it came time for dessert we were game to split something, so our server told us what was on offer for the evening but neglected to mention that what we ordered included a large amount of strawberries. (Don't know how you forget to include that in the description of the dessert? It was a pretty major ingredient.) This would've been a deal breaker for me, since I'm allergic. Instead, I think I got one bite of non-strawberry contaminated dessert and had to watch my husband enjoy the rest on his own. Sad, I know. But apparently it was good! On our most recent (lunch) visit, we were handed menus, given some time to look over them, and then asked what we would like (pretty standard, really). Of course, I ordered the one item (Chicken Salad) that they were out of...apparently the server was just hoping neither of us would want that. (Really. He actually said that.) *SIGH* Might have been helpful info to tell us they were out of that option when handing us the menus, huh? So, instead I opted for the Grilled Cheese with tomato-fennel dipping sauce, and my husband got the Roast Beef sandwich (again), both with fries. I also ordered an iced tea...which came with sweetener or sugar as needed, but nothing to stir the tea with, not even a straw. I ended up just using my knife, as the server was nowhere to be found. The sandwiches were great, the fries were garlicky little bites of potato heaven (you do need to like garlic, though!), and the tomato-fennel dipping sauce made the grilled cheese excellent. All in all, it was a perfect lunch...if only the service would've been a little more clued in. Will we be back? Yes. Will I continue to hope for better service? Yes. Would I still recommend Westside Local to other people? Yes.
(3)
Leland M.
Food: Tasty burgers, Diverse beer selection Atmosphere: The vibe in Westside Local is relaxing. The interior is full of dark tones and simple yet beautiful shapes through contemporary design with a slight eastern flair. great atmosphere!
(4)
Layla R.
Best restaurant in KCMO hands down. Great food. Organic, healthy, fresh food. The ambiance is just right with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick walls, it's inviting and warm while still keeping an upscale vibe. Also, the food is delicious and the service is fantastic. Best spot in KC without a doubt.
(5)
Robert L.
We went to lunch on a lovely late spring day and got right in at one of the shared tables in their courtyard. There was so much sun I went back to the car to get our hats and sunscreen. When some guests left we moved over a bit into the shade under the grape leaves. Our service was quick and pleasant. The food was perhaps the best we've had in KC. We shared the arugula salad with the restaurant's buttermilk dressing, and their grilled cheese sandwich, probably the best I've ever had. This was served with amazing French fries what were seasoned to perfection including some Parmesan cheese and the restaurant's own ketchup for dipping. It was all finished off with a horchata coconut granita and chocolate truffle dessert. This was perfect. It made for a great lunch and we'll certainly be going back.
(5)
Kelly S.
My favorite lunch date friend and I decided to try a new place last week and we landed on Westside Local! Everything we had was awesome. I ordered the veggie burger, which I was told was new on the menu, along with the soup of the day- chicken tortilla. The burger didn't have a normal burger consistency but the taste was awesome. The soup was more brothy than creamy and had crunchy tortilla strips in it. We both loved it! My friend got the pulled pork sandwich that comes with cole slaw on top and the flavor made me feel like we were in an actual barbecue restaurant. All in all- great food, cute place, not too expensive. Two thumbs up!
(5)
Logan Locke B.
If you follow my reviews, you know I evaluate the service just as equally as I do the food. The qualities of both are very important to me as a customer. Not often do restaurants match up to 100% in both categories. Lucky for you, me and Kansas City---WESTSIDE LOCAL is the place for outstanding service (ask for Jason) and incredible food! I was at a table of 5 & everyone enjoyed their meals immensely (several times throughout the meal it was verbalized how delicious the food was), the wide variety of beers, wine & cocktails, and the delicious biscuit bread pudding (that was more like the very best strawberry short cake I have ever had). Might I recommend any of the salads with salmon (perfectly cooked), quinoa (with so many flavors), grilled chicken sandwich, "Best Burger In Town", and DEFINETLY, MOST DEFINETLY if you love tomato soup, you must not walk out the door without trying the TOMATO FENNEL SOUP!
(5)
James H.
Pretty good. I really liked the bar and the outdoor seating. The fries were amazing with the garlic aioli and habanero sauce. My fish tacos were pretty good but I've had better for cheaper. My whiskey sour was not what I think of when ordering a whiskey sour. It was more of a whiskey lemonade/iced tea. Pretty good selection of specialty beers as well.
(4)
Monica A.
I went for brunch with four girlfriends about a month ago. I was excited as I'd heard and read great things about The Westside Local. The restaurant only had a few other tables sat when I got there, and we went to a cute picnic table on their back patio. Here's where things start going wrong. I'm not going to get in to the specifics with how poor the service was because even now, weeks later, it still annoys me to think about. Our server was incredibly inattentive and inappropriate. Do we want to know that you went on a bender last night and that's why you've been so MIA? No. Now I can't stop wondering if you've been puking in the bathroom in your hungover, sweaty state, and you're touching my plate, which makes me feel ill. Never mind that the food, once it did come out 35 minutes after ordering (I wish I was exaggerating), was delicious. I had the egg & bacon biscuit and wish somewhere I enjoy going to would duplicate it. I also couldn't believe that the manager didn't notice (with so few patrons in the restaurant) that our service was beyond poor and we were clearly distressed sitting there, waiting.... and waiting for our food. I do think I'll try it again and hope for a better experience, because I do like supporting local restaurants and food providers. But if I see that server in the restaurant, I'm out of there and never looking back.
(2)
Nicole K.
What this place gets right, it gets really, really right. The deviled eggs have a devilish kick, and the mac and cheese is worth every single calorie. The service is always friendly and personal. The appetizers and localities are tasty and fresh. The quinoa is delicious. The bar is cozy and inviting for hanging out with your friends. The patio is perfect for a warm spring night. The ambience is warm and comfortable. Just a few quibbles. The bathroom door was too small for my buddy to get into in his wheelchair (not cool), and both times I've had sandwiches here, the bread was greasy but not flavorful. So as long as you're not bringing a good friend with a disability here or wanting the grilled cheese, this is the place to be.
(4)
otto h.
I really enjoyed my kale salad without bacon and cheese. Had a nice vegan lentil soup, too. Glad there are a decent number of vegan options on the menu, but wish there were some vegan dessert choices!
(4)
Jon N.
We had an excellent meal. They had a nice selection of food. The menu online was a little different than the one that they were using when we were there. Overall it was great though. We had a nice bottle of local wine and some amazing food.
(4)
Brandy C.
I have been here to dine on two different occasions. The restaurant is nice but nothing unique. The food is okay but definitely not worth the price. The mac and cheese was fine...but $15 for mediocre mac and cheese is a bit crazy. Service left a lot to be desired as our waitress was quite rude, in my opinion. My friend and I both sat with empty water glasses for some time. There are definitely better options in the same part of town.
(2)
Amanda G.
I generally tend to think of Westside Local as more of a place to drink than eat, but that may just be because of my more recent visits and the fact that the beer garden is incredible on a warm summer night. However, it is one of the great places around town that offers delicious, thoughtful options for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. For brunch, the veggie hash is a tasty combination of veggies, potatoes and hollandaise sauce that makes you forget it doesn't have any kind of breakfast meat involved. The grilled cheese sandwich on the lunch/dinner menu is a must try, with an amazing dipping sauce that is reminiscent of tomato soup. The garlic french fries are some of the best fries I've ever had, and the deviled eggs are spicy and fresh-tasting. The impressive beer menu is what keeps me coming back, and the happy hour prices are competitive to other, less cozy and sophisticated settings. I love the tiny bar area (off to the left when you walk in) probably more than the main dining area. It gets crowded, but it feels friendly. As I said above, the beer garden is one of the best outdoor restaurant spaces in town, but when it gets crowded be prepared to be patient when ordering food or drinks.
(4)
Katie C.
Alright, this is probably my favorite restaurant I have discovered in Kansas City!! My husband and I have gone numerous times alone and brought family and friends. All the dishes I have ever had here is fantastic - Burger, Grilled Cheese, Spicy Chicken. Definitely get the mashed potatoes!! Good selection of hand crafted cocktails. Great ambiance in a terrific neighborhood. Great place for a date or to celebrate a special occasion. The only reason I am choosing 4 stars over 5, is the price. Make reservations :)
(4)
Bill B.
I went there expecting to be unhappy --- very unhappy. I am a pesco vegetarian, and the online menu looked like a turnoff. Also I usually prefer wine to beer, while Westside Local emphasizes its unusual beer selections. To make things worse: when I walked in, the hostess immediately informed me that the blackened tuna on the menu was not available that evening. Groan. Well, I was already there, so I figured I should give it a try anyway, and maybe go somewhere else afterwards for food I might like. Was I ever wrong. This place blew me away. I had four courses: peanut soup, a beets salad, garlic fried potatoes, and sliced pears. I had a glass of each of three different interesting wines, and a double espresso. The server, Jason, was exceptionally considerate of my somewhat unusual preferences, and everything was first rate. The decor is Greenwich Village/Montmartre, and they evidently have live entertainment many evenings starting at about 6 pm. If I were in the market for art, I'd be more inclined to buy what is on the walls here at reasonable prices than what I often see on the walls three blocks to the east in the Crossroads Art District at less credible prices. There is a parking lot directly across the street and another one behind the restaurant. It's because of places like this that I like KC so much. Otherwise I'd spend more time in Lawrence.
(5)
Kimberly V.
The grilled cheese sandwich was the best I've ever had! I also would highly recommend the potato salad!
(5)
Layne R.
Delicious. Stopped in for a late lunch and was not disappointed. Had the Summit Burger. 1/2 lb of meat, wilted arugula, Emmethaler (sp?) Cheese, a tasty vinaigrette and a side of garlic fries. All of it was great. Atmosphere is laid back and service is friendly. If you are near the Westside, I highly recommend stopping in. Updated: I've since been back a couple times and the Summit Burger continues to deliver and the fries are excellent. The first time I went the vinagrette/aioli whatever it is that came with the meal and I dipped my fries in was amazing. AMAZING. the last two times it hasn't been quite as spectacular which makes me a little sad. Still all good, but I really want that amazing taste again. It was SO good.
(4)
Tj P.
This place is A ok. The deviled eggs are ok but not outstanding, they did not invent them you know. The hostess had a stick up her butt. The waiter was great. All in all a yes.
I stopped in for a cocktail while I was waiting for a friend in the area to get home so I could visit him. There's a separate bar and outdoor area slightly off the main dining room that's cozy and sweet. Received friendly service and an okay cocktail (not the best mixology but not the worst). Intrigued by the food menu, and lo and behold, two hours later my friend and I went back and ate dinner. Again, super-awesome/friendly service and great grub. I just really like the atmosphere here. Can't wait to return on my next visit to KC!
(4)
Guillermo V.
Their brunch is the best in KC. Best french toast i have ever had. They have real homemade ketchup to go with great fries!
(5)
Jessica C.
Westside Local fills the "restaurant for out of town coworker business meeting that is deliciously enjoyable, locally pertinent, classy but not stuffy, hip but not pretentious, quite enough for a meeting but pleasantly buzzing" niche. Yes, yes I know this is a ridiculously specific niche, but somehow I end up pulling the Westside Local card at least every other month. Not only does it's artsy vibe and location impress, but the food is consistently satisfying and interesting. The beer garden on pleasant nights is a fantastic place to spend time socializing, enjoying a fancy beer, and scarfing down plate after plate of deviled eggs... OK, so I generally stop at one plate, but good lord they are delicious with their lemony kick and their micro arugula. The long tables force you to get to know your neighbor, which for a painfully social individual like me is worth some bonus points. The grilled cheese is great, the quinoa is darn good, and the servers are always friendly and prompt. Maybe it's the good vibes of the joint, perhaps it's the stiff drinks, but every meeting I've ever had at Westside has ended with great results.
(4)
MARY N.
I was recently introduced to The Westside Local by one of my foodie friend and fell in love with it. They have a great atmosphere and the staff are very friendly, not to mention the food is delicious. My favorite there is the summit burger and their fries, both are done perfectly here. My friend always order a side of zucchini bread, which I tried some and OMG they are delicious. In addition to the great food, you can opt to sit outside and enjoy some of the grapes they have growing on the vines. They let you pick the grapes and eat them all for free! Makes the atmosphere seem fun and relaxed like you're in your backyard. This is def one of my favorite places now in KC.
(4)
Nancy F.
The food was really good, but lately I've had better. Tried their mac n cheese...good. Burger...very tasty...deviled eggs...ok. Spinach salad...ok. Sorry, not sure why it wasn't over the top for me. I look forward to coming back again when the weather is nicer and we can sit out on the patio. This is definitely a place I'd like to try a few times and improve upon my overall review!
(3)
Jeremy G.
Such a great neighborhood spot. The outdoor area is awesome on a sunny day.
(4)
Zach F.
The bottom line : Their hamburger was one of the best I have ever eaten. Ever. Get their green beans on the side if you can. Fries: For me, they were awesome, just a bit too salty though. My wife didn't care much for them though. Skip the mashed potatoes. The atmosphere was a bit rustic, and the volume in the place was just right. The waiters were nice but not intrusive. The reason it gets 4 instead of 5 is the price and a small kitchen snafu. It's a bit high for either the hamburger or the beer. I highly recommend this place.
(4)
Christine B.
Went for lunch and enjoyed it! I love the farm to table aspect of the place--it delivered in most areas! We went early and avoided the crowd for the most part. We both had the grilled cheese and it was very good! The tomato soup was flavorful, homemade ketchup had a nice flavor, and our server recommended accompanying the garlic fries with their homemade ranch dressing as well. I chose the fries because of the raves I'd seen, and really these were a little disappointing. I think I was expecting more "farm" and less "Sysco" taste. I will be back, and order a salad with the sandwich next time. The food was good--simple and tasty. Which brings me to the service. Attentive, helpful, friendly but not bothersome. The person I was with and I were pretty deep in conversation and he read us perfectly! Thanks for a nice lunch.
(3)
Jeffrey S.
Came here during a business trip with a small group of local notables. Staff were attentive, pleasant and kind of strange in a strange way; not a bad way, not a good way -just a strange way. Maybe it's a KC thing. Here's what I experienced: * Braised Rabbit in Winter veggies, herbs and broth. Not terrible, but there are several different ways I'd prefer to have rabbit executed, and this is towards the bottom of my list. Maybe rabbit & dumplings? That'd be interesting. I'd also love to see someone do roast rabbit with a mustard-herb-apricot glaze. Maybe a rabbit pot pie, with fennel-spiced apples in a puff pastry shell? Or, rabbit slow-roasted under maplewood smoked bacon accompanied by a Russian mustard aioli -atop a heap of braised leeks? Me thinks even Elmer Fudd could have concocted a more pleasing dish with this particular sacrificed lagomorph. As it stands I give this dish a 5 out of 10 for its bland matzoh-ball soup flavor. * Deviled eggs - 9/10. Yum. * Garlic fries OMG, 10/10, * Beer selection (though I didn't order any) 8/10. Note, I'm from the land of microbrews, so I'm (too) picky. * Beet salad 10/10. Excellent. * Desserts, of which all were sampled (by all), were absolutely magnificent. 9/10. * Cheese, olive, Italian peasant bread plate was satisfying, but not spectacular. 6/10 One thing that did sort of tweak me a bit, was that it took forever for the food to arrive, and when it did, it came all at once. It was fairly busy so I suppose I should cut them some slack, but I won't. Not being from KC, thus not privy to the variety of what KC has to offer overall, I was still somewhat impressed by this little gem. It's clean, makes good use of its historic brick interior, and has a vibe which reminds me of a cozy, hip, minimalist designed college area restaurant of the neo-Bohemian ilk. Our hosts made a good decision in choosing this place to exemplify what KC can do if/when left with apparent regional ingredients. 7/10 overall.
(4)
cathy m.
We ordered three fish tacos, and they were delicious. Why then, did I only give it one star. The fish was almost non-existent. A veggie taco should not taste or cost the same as a fish taco. We ordered a beer off the menu, and our server returned to tell us that it was not available. Then, we were asked if we wanted another beer around the "same price". He did not ask what kind of beer we like - just the price range. When we left, three employees were standing by the door. None of them asked how we enjoyed that meal. None of them said "Good night." We will not go back.
(1)
Sovana L.
I absolutely love this place. I've always wanted to dine here but a friend of mine gave it a terrible review. Fortunately, I decided to check it out myself the other night and I regret nothing! Moral of the story: Follow your own desires. ;] My party and I walked in to a full house with live music. I was rather impressed considering where it's located. Nonetheless, its live entertainment provided a great atmosphere. I ordered their P.E.I. Mussels. It's pretty much a stew with "spanish chorizo, cilantro, tomato, jalapeños, and lime with a side of grilled baguette slices". One word...AMAZING. I very rarely finish an entire plate because I have a small stomach but this dish was so good I finished everything! I also had their summer shandy cocktail which was quite tasty! I tasted my brother's Quinoa dish which has "haricot verts, corn, tomato, zucchini, red onion, golden raisins, shaved parmesan, & crisp garden ruby chard". I totally loved that dish! We shared everything and nothing disappointed us...including our server. ;] This place is a nice weekend dinner spot. I totally recommend it.
(5)
Brenna P.
I've heard the name "The Westside Local" several times in the year I've lived in Kansas City. Why I haven't been there before now is beyond me. A friend invited me to dinner there on a Friday night. All I can say is YUMMMMMMMM! I have been missing out! To start off, I looked at the drink menu. It's filled with all kinds of imports and microbrews... Oh, and my favorite local, Boulevard's Tank 7. Most places that serve this particular brew have good food, I have noticed. While sipping on my delightfully strong beverage, I glanced over the menu. So many delicious sounding options! I'm used to having slim pickings when it comes to salads, but The Westside Local has some of the best sounding salads. However, I decided to go with a heartier entree and I chose the quinoa ($14). I love that the standard version of this dish does not include meat (although you can add salmon or chicken). The quinoa dish consisted of zucchini, corn, tomato, onion, raisins, parmesan, green beans, and ruby chard. I'm pretty sure I had a mouthgasm with my first bite of this delight. The vegetables were crisp and their flavors paired perfectly between the parmesan and sweet raisins. Parmesan and raisins? Yes, not something I would think to put together, but amazing! I'm definitely returning here in the near future. There are a lot of vegetarian options I look forward to trying.
(5)
Katie W.
This is our favorite place to eat! My favorites are the biscuits and gravy or the almond French toast for breakfast. For lunch nor dinner- you have to try the ham and jam. It is amazing! Their mixed drinks are pricy, but so good!
(5)
Joe K.
Excellent local urban restaurant. Food is great. Great service. Nice beer and wine selections. We sat outside on this nice summer night. The inside was nice too, but the crowd voices made it a little loud. The only drawback was it was a little expensive otherwise it is a 5-star all the way.
(4)
Caleb L.
Simply scrumtralescent! This place is the emobodiment of hipster, and I loved it. The service was friendly and attentive. There was a great selection of beers and liquors to choose from. The food options were unique, and a cut above other restaurants of this caliber. When I see things like "Grass Fed Beef" as an option on the menu, I know I'm at a place that pays attention to details. There were other great options on the menu and it seemed like a place you could close your eyes and point at the menu and be very happy with whatever they brought out. They also had several vegetarian entres (shocker for hipster place, right?). They have excellent french fries cooked with truffle oil and sprinkled with parmesan. To complete my mountainous grass fed burger (which already came with ham), I added bacon which was probably someof the best bacon I have had from any restaurant. I will definitely be back here anytime I'm in the area, although this place merits special trips even if you aren't in the area.
(5)
Ali A.
After a disappointing attempt at another restaurant for dinner my girlfriend and I decided to stop in here and split something. We got the mac and cheese, split, don't do that though just ask for an extra plate because I believe they charge $2 to split something. It was yummy and definitely hit the spot. I enjoyed some good canned beer and for dessert we had a stout chocolate cake also very delicious! Oh and I tried their bloody mary, they make their own mix, it was awesome. I think this place would be great to go on a date to. I will be back Westside!
(4)
jennifer j.
This much anticipated spot is a shot in the arm for the Westside. Trailblazers like Bluebird, Lil's and Fervere have known the charms of this neighborhood for quite some time. Now, there's a place where you can just hang out and have a few beers or a glass of wine on an outdoor patio shaded by old trees. The atmosphere is great. This place has unique charm and quirkiness that just doesn't exist in many other spots. Outside tables are communal. The inside is well done, but tends to feel more like restaurant then a drinking establishment. The thing is, Westside Local is working hard to offer both. The service has some serious kinks. Although there seem to be a good number of servers, the impression was that they were overwhelmed. With the patio only 1/2 full, this should not be the case. The wait for a greet, a drink and food was too extended. It wasn't just our experience, as a party of 3 women grumbled about crackers delivered to them after, rather then during their appetizers. We had dinner & drinks, yet our check was automatically closed & delivered to our table after our meal. So much for another drink. Is this a hint? When you sit down the waiter brings out a few olives sprinkled with olive oil and pepper....a nice touch. Appetizers are extremely straightforward. Deviled eggs, a small pile of ham, a few pickles. A minimalist wet dream. For the non birdlike eaters, there are a selection of sandwiches and larger plates. You can check out their menu online. I had the chicken sandwich and my partner has the roast beef. Both come with garlic fries. Although the fries has a garlic smell, there is no visible garlic, so I am not sure if they are using a powder or infused garlic oil. The bread used on each sandwich was the best part of the sandwich. Nothing really stood out, but nothing was bad either. In summary, I like this place...but to be more specific, I like this place for drinks. To be even more specific, I like this place for drinks on the patio on a beautiful summer night. Kudos to the trailblazers.
(3)
L B.
After not having been back here for a couple years, I've found a surprisingly renewed interest - 4 visits in 4 weeks! Either I just had bad luck when I'd been here before or they have really improved. One of the best mac and cheese dishes in the city - maybe tied with The Jacobsen. The burgers are so fresh and juicy and I love anyone who uses the local Farm to Market pretzel buns. French fries are very tasty and crispy - I tried my best to eat them all but it's a lot of food with the burger. One of my visits, a friend veered off the usual mac and cheese / burger and tried the pulled pork - not as good as the burger, but if I'm not in the mood for cow, will definitely go for the pig next time.
(5)
Kevin C.
I've been on a quinoa-craze for the past two weeks thanks to this place. We had dinner here before heading to the Kauffman Center for a Saturday night performance. (By the way, if the weather is agreeable, parking in the Westside area and walking over to the Kauffman Center is pretty convenient. Don't mind the creepy I-35 overpass on 17th St.) Anyways- we had the PEI mussels and Quinoa entrees. The mussels were pretty tasty but the quinoa really stood out to me. I guess I never really look for it on menus but I was super impressed with the flavors and textures. The crispy arugula was a noteworthy touch. I also like beer and there's a large beer list here. Nice!
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Accepts Bitcoin : No Good For : Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Hipster Noise Level : Average Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Dogs Allowed : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Arturo H.
Great hipster restaurant on the west side of Kansas City... Just minutes from downtown. The overall ambiance and interior was a pleasant surprise but the wait staff could be more attentive when guests are seated as it took about 15 minutes for a waitress to acknowledge us. That was the only downside. Otherwise the menu is unique and had various fresh, and eclectic options. Three people at the table couldn't resist the grilled Cheese and they all loved it. Gourmet white cheese, that oozed from the sandwich with a side of Parmesan fries. I got the chicken mole tacos which were average but a great attempt at a twist on the bland chicken tacos. Overall, we all said we would love to come back and made this a must for lunch on our next trip.
(4)Robert H.
We went between the lunch and dinner times 3-5pm so we got in with no wait. Ate off of the appetizer menu and was blown away with the pint of fries and various dips. (see photo) My wife got the hummus plate with half beet dip. The beet dip was better than the hummus. Just loved it all! I also had a tasty bowl (size of a cup) of chicken tortilla soup. Our waitress was Erin and she knew how to take care of us. Can't wait to go back and try more stuff! Super cool place off the beaten path.
(5)Amy L.
This is one of my favorite areas and restaurants in Kansas City and I always try to go at least once when I'm in town. My go-to is the warm quinoa dish with a dollop of goat cheese. You can add salmon or chicken for an extra 5 dollars, but the main dish usually fills me up on its own. My one complaint would be the price tag. 15 dollars is a bit pricey for quinoa! Also, be sure to make reservations in the evenings - this place fills up fast!
(4)Rhiannon B.
I loved this place! The location and the ambience are awesome. We went around 8pm on a Saturday night with no reservation and were seated immediately. They have a great cocktail/beer selection. Now for the food..... I had the fall quinoa. Sweet potato, brussels sprouts (my fave), mushrooms and onions topped with pesto and a nice sized dollop of chevre. It was delicious. My brother opted for the veggie burger which was also good. (I love that they make it with cannellini beans). It's definitely worth trying out!
(4)Carrie M.
Love the food here but wait staff is a hit or miss. I've had some of the best servers here and some of the worst. Some dishes are way overpriced, but for the most part, I enjoy this restaurant. The atmosphere is always great and everything I've tried is delicious - you HAVE to get the apple bread as part of this. You won't be disappointed.
(4)Logan P.
Pretty cool ambience although we sat by the door and it was freezing. Went on a Friday night and there was a guy playing guitar which was pretty chill and added to the ambience. I ordered the burger and sautéed brussel sprouts, my date ordered a burger and the Parmesan garlic fries. Really liked the fries, the burger was good but not worth going back for. Pretty good beer selection and a long wine list. For dessert we ordered the bread pudding and the apple cinnamon cobbler. Cobbler was pretty soupy and bread pudding was tasteless and dry. Don't think I'd go back to this place again.
(3)ashley v.
I came here with a few friends for an early dinner about a week ago. Luckily, we had no wait and a pretty empty restaurant. Our waitress was nice, but unfamiliar with the menu. She couldn't remember what they served for dessert, so she had to leave and come back to tell us what the other half of the dessert items were. She also couldn't remember the specials, either. They should probably just hand you menus with those items printed on them. Our meals were good, but nothing to write home about. I ordered the grilled cheese with tomato "soup" for dipping, along with some fries. The house made ketchup was kind of impressive, and the fries were tasty, but maybe just a little limp. I prefer my fries to be crispy. My grilled cheese was nothing special, despite the fancy cheese blend and homemade bread. The slices of bread were much too thick for the small amount of cheese they sandwiched between them. So a pretty dry sandwich. The soup was just kind of weird. It was less of a soup and more of a cup of slightly warmed chunks of tomatoes, like stewed tomatoes. I don't mind a chunky soup, but this was pretty hard for "dipping" since there wasn't much liquid involved at all. For dessert I ordered the lemon creme brulee. I was really disappointed with this. The lemon flavor was good, if maybe a bit too sweet. I prefer more of a tart, fresh lemon taste. What was really unappetizing about the creme brulee, though is that it was runny and underdone. It definitely should have been thicker. It was less of a custard and more of a pudding. I couldn't taste the egg at all. The crust wasn't as crisp as I like, either. I think they could have cooked the sugar on top more. It wasn't as much of a dark, caramel color on top as a light golden color. Overall, I had a nice time here, but I feel that it is overpriced even with the "farm to table" ingredients. It is great that the food is fresh, but the items could have been better prepared.
(3)K G.
We visited this restaurant on the recommendation of a couple of friends, as we are from out of town. This place is really cute! We sat outside in the back patio area & it was perfect. I had the smoked salmon egg salad sandwich with fries. Those fries...omg!! They are amazing. & the homemade ketchup was great, too. I loved the brioche bun that my sandwich came on. The filling was good, but it could've definitely benefited from some salt. The fries could've been salted more as well. Overall, though, it was a great meal! I had a bite of my boyfriend's burger, & it was perfectly cooked & delicious. Our waiter was quirky & nice.
(4)Jeanette B.
The food was wonderful and the staff was just lovely. I had the quinoa, my family had the pork chop, pot pie, veggie burger and mac and cheese. We all were so pleased! I can't say enough positive things about this restaurant.
(5)eva G.
Have been here 3 times haven't been disappointed so far. The food is really good very fresh, good selection of beers. If it's warm sit in the patio perfect place for lunch. Love this place wish we lived closer so i could go more often.
(5)Elizabeth G.
We went to this place for dinner. It was very cute and cozy with a great atmosphere. Their menu seemed very fresh and creative. We ordered the kale salad and a build your own cheese plate. When the kale salad arrived, it was more the toppings (shaved brussel sprouts, almonds, etc.) on a bed of kale. It was still pretty good, but just not what I expected and a whole lot of kale. The cheese plate was decent too. We tried 3 cheeses we've never had before. The Rosemary goat cheese was phenomenal. Then of course we had dessert and the pumpkin cheesecake was awesome. It wasn't a normal creamy cheesecake it came in a souffle type of dish with a homemade crust. I would definitely come here again. Also, just to keep in mind their ticketing time is a little slower if you're in a rush.
(4)Ian J.
Great locally-sourced food with a menu that changes seasonally. I had the summit burger with the spicy addon for a couple bucks more. Jalapeños provided just enough of a kick to give it that something extra without overpowering the perfectly cooked medium rare beef. Microgreens and a bit of sweet jelly to balance it out and this was one of the best burgers I've had in KC. The parmesan and parsley fries were also top notch. Wash it all down with a cold KC Pils. Perfect lunch. Highly recommended!
(5)Barrie L.
1 hour and 15 minutes to get our food and the place wasn't busy, over cooked steak and asparagus. Not really pleased with the service. Had really high hopes because of the referral that was given to try this place. Gave it 2 stars because the ambiance was nice.
(2)Acprose A.
The place for wine and cheese on a super relaxing patio. creative wine list and a fun cheese and accoutrements menu. crispy trout is a treat. friendly staff, and doggies!
(4)Emma B.
Westside Local is one of my favorite restaurants in KC. It's farm to table, so the food is always fresh and delicious, and the the decor is really pretty. They even have a beer garden style patio, which is great when the weather is nice. Service can sometimes be a bit slow, but the food and ambiance more than makes up for it. Last week my boyfriend and I took his parents there for dinner and everyone loved it. I got my absolute favorite - the grilled cheese sandwich. I've tried tastes from different meals every time I've been there, and everything is always great, but 90% of the time I get their grilled cheese and am obsessed with it. Delicious melty cheese, amazing tomato fennel for dipping and super tasty french fries. You can't go wrong with it! Or then again, with anything on the menu. Other favorites are their burgers, quinoa main dish and honestly pretty much anything I've tried. When my parents come up for visits, it's our go to. They always say it's their favorite place to go when they're here! P.S. Their cocktails are great, too. I love the Laura Palmer!
(5)Natalie R.
Excellent Service. Clean restaurant. Fresh ingredients. Amazing menu items. Great assortment of beers. Love it!
(5)Jin K.
Been here a few times but just recently came here w/ my 2 yr old. We had a great time & the food was great as usual! We split a patty melt & was great! My son, obviously loved the fries, as did I! Great casual feel to the place & service was great. I've also had the mussels here & it was good! Will definitely come back again.
(4)Stella M.
Consistently good. What more could you ask for in a restaurant? The menu changes regularly, but as cheesy as it sounds, I have yet to have a bad meal here. I feel like a weirdo going there as frequently as I do, but man, I'm 99% certain they put some sort of addictive substance in their french fries. This is the place that got me into the habit of ordering fries as an appetizer - and now I'm that person eating kale salads for my entree after hogging down a bucket of fries to start. Ugh.
(5)Shruti N.
This was a great farm to table, organic restaurant in Kansas City. The ambiance was great and the service was quick and friendly. I came here with a large group of coworkers (19 people total) and we were all very pleased with both the food and the service. Some of the highlights included the burgers, quinoa, mac n cheese and pulled pork. This is also a great restaurant for vegetarians and healthy eaters, but also satisfies the more indulgent!
(4)H C.
Great food. And how can you beat the patio? (You can't). Before or after your meal, take a stroll through the neighborhood. Beautiful homes and a great view of the city.
(5)Marla H.
I had lunch today and this was my first time here. I had the broccoli quinoa burger with the Parmesan fries. Everything was delicious. There must be something that can be put in the burger to keep it intact as it totally fell apart. It might even work better as an open faced sandwich on one piece of vegan bread. The fries were delicious and you could tell the ketchup was made in house, it was very fresh. The sandwich was a nice size, flavorful, kind of a light sweet taste which I wasn't sure if it was the sauce or something on the bun as the top of the bun was a little sticky. The service was good and the atmosphere was nice. I live that they use only local ingredients. Very small menu but I have a feeling they would be flexible. My friend ordered the hamburger and she said the meat had a weird taste to it and she only could eat half of it. I'm looking forward to going back and taking my daughter who is in culinary school. We are always trying to find locally-owned establishments to support. We are tired of the chain restaurants around our house.
(4)Jessica E.
Delish! Grabbed a bite to eat last night, namely the grilled cheese sammy with the side tomato soup (when I dip, you dip I dip) and french fries. Holy crap that sandwich is huge. Come hungry and the menu will satisfy you for sure. They have a small and simple menu, though it provides a lot of vegan and vegetarian options as well as catering to the fellow carnivores. Drink menu was extensive and they have daily specials; can't vouch for any of their specialty stuff, I just rolled with a PBR yesterday. The space is small and intimate and our server was SO nice and genuinely made us feel welcome. Can't say enough nice things about this joint. See you soon!
(4)An L.
the Margarita was pretty good and hamburger was great. cook just like I like it.. did I mention that the margarita was good.. would love to sit outside next time.
(4)Jeremiah L.
An amazing dinner with my lovely wife. Usually there is something that isn't quite right when we go out to eat. Probably cause I'm a bit critical being a chef myself. Everything we ordered was cooked perfectly and tasted exquisite, this never happens to me. The heirloom quinoa with crispy skinned trout was phenomenal, the bison chorizo tacos were from planet Too Good, and the chocolate zucchini bread was straight from chocolate heaven. New favorite restaurant!
(5)Michele N.
Wow, why did we wait so long to get to this stop on our list? This off the beaten path restaurant offers a great venue to enjoy good food and good beer. They have a beer garden that has large picnic style tables which are community style, as well as smaller tables. I had read a review suggesting that they put speakers outside to enjoy the live music from inside, or just pipe in some pandora...I concur! Other than that the beer garden is awesome. The restaurant interior is nice as well, with exposed brick walls etc. Although the menu is not huge, we had a hard time deciding what to order; everything sounded appealing. We started with a "pick your own" charcuterie and cheese plate. The portions were much larger than we expected (especially compared to the reasonable price), so we ended up just sharing a salad and splitting a burger for our meal after the appetizer. The kale and shaved Brussels sprout salad was a fresh, crisp diversion from the usual. The burger was awesome and accompanied by crispy, delectable fries. They offer a great option for sharing plates that I really appreciated; you can split at no charge or you can pay a modest $2 charge and they split the main dish in the kitchen and give you two full portions of the side (no having to share the fries, woohoo)!
(4)Diane S.
This place has been on my "to try" list for a while and several people have mentioned how much they really enjoyed the food so I really wanted to like it. The good: The décor and feel of the place is very comforting and open. The layout is welcoming and easy to walk around. They accommodate large groups with no problems and the drink menu is great. I had The blunch menu is pretty good with a good selection of brunch and lunch items. I had the breakfast burrito and it was good and filling. The not so good: air conditioner not working. It was 90 degrees outside and not much cooler indoors. I'm not sure why but people in my party were fanning themselves with menus to cool down. The service was meh. Our server looked like she felt completely put out and she had better things to do than to serve us. I wanted to tell her to fix her face and pretend like she wanted a tip. Overall, it's not a bad place and I wouldn't be opposed to trying it again.
(3)Stephanie P.
I stopped in for a cocktail while I was waiting for a friend in the area to get home so I could visit him. There's a separate bar and outdoor area slightly off the main dining room that's cozy and sweet. Received friendly service and an okay cocktail (not the best mixology but not the worst). Intrigued by the food menu, and lo and behold, two hours later my friend and I went back and ate dinner. Again, super-awesome/friendly service and great grub. I just really like the atmosphere here. Can't wait to return on my next visit to KC!
(4)Guillermo V.
Their brunch is the best in KC. Best french toast i have ever had. They have real homemade ketchup to go with great fries!
(5)Jessica C.
Westside Local fills the "restaurant for out of town coworker business meeting that is deliciously enjoyable, locally pertinent, classy but not stuffy, hip but not pretentious, quite enough for a meeting but pleasantly buzzing" niche. Yes, yes I know this is a ridiculously specific niche, but somehow I end up pulling the Westside Local card at least every other month. Not only does it's artsy vibe and location impress, but the food is consistently satisfying and interesting. The beer garden on pleasant nights is a fantastic place to spend time socializing, enjoying a fancy beer, and scarfing down plate after plate of deviled eggs... OK, so I generally stop at one plate, but good lord they are delicious with their lemony kick and their micro arugula. The long tables force you to get to know your neighbor, which for a painfully social individual like me is worth some bonus points. The grilled cheese is great, the quinoa is darn good, and the servers are always friendly and prompt. Maybe it's the good vibes of the joint, perhaps it's the stiff drinks, but every meeting I've ever had at Westside has ended with great results.
(4)MARY N.
I was recently introduced to The Westside Local by one of my foodie friend and fell in love with it. They have a great atmosphere and the staff are very friendly, not to mention the food is delicious. My favorite there is the summit burger and their fries, both are done perfectly here. My friend always order a side of zucchini bread, which I tried some and OMG they are delicious. In addition to the great food, you can opt to sit outside and enjoy some of the grapes they have growing on the vines. They let you pick the grapes and eat them all for free! Makes the atmosphere seem fun and relaxed like you're in your backyard. This is def one of my favorite places now in KC.
(4)Nancy F.
The food was really good, but lately I've had better. Tried their mac n cheese...good. Burger...very tasty...deviled eggs...ok. Spinach salad...ok. Sorry, not sure why it wasn't over the top for me. I look forward to coming back again when the weather is nicer and we can sit out on the patio. This is definitely a place I'd like to try a few times and improve upon my overall review!
(3)Jeremy G.
Such a great neighborhood spot. The outdoor area is awesome on a sunny day.
(4)Zach F.
The bottom line : Their hamburger was one of the best I have ever eaten. Ever. Get their green beans on the side if you can. Fries: For me, they were awesome, just a bit too salty though. My wife didn't care much for them though. Skip the mashed potatoes. The atmosphere was a bit rustic, and the volume in the place was just right. The waiters were nice but not intrusive. The reason it gets 4 instead of 5 is the price and a small kitchen snafu. It's a bit high for either the hamburger or the beer. I highly recommend this place.
(4)Christine B.
Went for lunch and enjoyed it! I love the farm to table aspect of the place--it delivered in most areas! We went early and avoided the crowd for the most part. We both had the grilled cheese and it was very good! The tomato soup was flavorful, homemade ketchup had a nice flavor, and our server recommended accompanying the garlic fries with their homemade ranch dressing as well. I chose the fries because of the raves I'd seen, and really these were a little disappointing. I think I was expecting more "farm" and less "Sysco" taste. I will be back, and order a salad with the sandwich next time. The food was good--simple and tasty. Which brings me to the service. Attentive, helpful, friendly but not bothersome. The person I was with and I were pretty deep in conversation and he read us perfectly! Thanks for a nice lunch.
(3)Jeffrey S.
Came here during a business trip with a small group of local notables. Staff were attentive, pleasant and kind of strange in a strange way; not a bad way, not a good way -just a strange way. Maybe it's a KC thing. Here's what I experienced: * Braised Rabbit in Winter veggies, herbs and broth. Not terrible, but there are several different ways I'd prefer to have rabbit executed, and this is towards the bottom of my list. Maybe rabbit & dumplings? That'd be interesting. I'd also love to see someone do roast rabbit with a mustard-herb-apricot glaze. Maybe a rabbit pot pie, with fennel-spiced apples in a puff pastry shell? Or, rabbit slow-roasted under maplewood smoked bacon accompanied by a Russian mustard aioli -atop a heap of braised leeks? Me thinks even Elmer Fudd could have concocted a more pleasing dish with this particular sacrificed lagomorph. As it stands I give this dish a 5 out of 10 for its bland matzoh-ball soup flavor. * Deviled eggs - 9/10. Yum. * Garlic fries OMG, 10/10, * Beer selection (though I didn't order any) 8/10. Note, I'm from the land of microbrews, so I'm (too) picky. * Beet salad 10/10. Excellent. * Desserts, of which all were sampled (by all), were absolutely magnificent. 9/10. * Cheese, olive, Italian peasant bread plate was satisfying, but not spectacular. 6/10 One thing that did sort of tweak me a bit, was that it took forever for the food to arrive, and when it did, it came all at once. It was fairly busy so I suppose I should cut them some slack, but I won't. Not being from KC, thus not privy to the variety of what KC has to offer overall, I was still somewhat impressed by this little gem. It's clean, makes good use of its historic brick interior, and has a vibe which reminds me of a cozy, hip, minimalist designed college area restaurant of the neo-Bohemian ilk. Our hosts made a good decision in choosing this place to exemplify what KC can do if/when left with apparent regional ingredients. 7/10 overall.
(4)Sovana L.
I absolutely love this place. I've always wanted to dine here but a friend of mine gave it a terrible review. Fortunately, I decided to check it out myself the other night and I regret nothing! Moral of the story: Follow your own desires. ;] My party and I walked in to a full house with live music. I was rather impressed considering where it's located. Nonetheless, its live entertainment provided a great atmosphere. I ordered their P.E.I. Mussels. It's pretty much a stew with "spanish chorizo, cilantro, tomato, jalapeños, and lime with a side of grilled baguette slices". One word...AMAZING. I very rarely finish an entire plate because I have a small stomach but this dish was so good I finished everything! I also had their summer shandy cocktail which was quite tasty! I tasted my brother's Quinoa dish which has "haricot verts, corn, tomato, zucchini, red onion, golden raisins, shaved parmesan, & crisp garden ruby chard". I totally loved that dish! We shared everything and nothing disappointed us...including our server. ;] This place is a nice weekend dinner spot. I totally recommend it.
(5)Brenna P.
I've heard the name "The Westside Local" several times in the year I've lived in Kansas City. Why I haven't been there before now is beyond me. A friend invited me to dinner there on a Friday night. All I can say is YUMMMMMMMM! I have been missing out! To start off, I looked at the drink menu. It's filled with all kinds of imports and microbrews... Oh, and my favorite local, Boulevard's Tank 7. Most places that serve this particular brew have good food, I have noticed. While sipping on my delightfully strong beverage, I glanced over the menu. So many delicious sounding options! I'm used to having slim pickings when it comes to salads, but The Westside Local has some of the best sounding salads. However, I decided to go with a heartier entree and I chose the quinoa ($14). I love that the standard version of this dish does not include meat (although you can add salmon or chicken). The quinoa dish consisted of zucchini, corn, tomato, onion, raisins, parmesan, green beans, and ruby chard. I'm pretty sure I had a mouthgasm with my first bite of this delight. The vegetables were crisp and their flavors paired perfectly between the parmesan and sweet raisins. Parmesan and raisins? Yes, not something I would think to put together, but amazing! I'm definitely returning here in the near future. There are a lot of vegetarian options I look forward to trying.
(5)Katie W.
This is our favorite place to eat! My favorites are the biscuits and gravy or the almond French toast for breakfast. For lunch nor dinner- you have to try the ham and jam. It is amazing! Their mixed drinks are pricy, but so good!
(5)Joe K.
Excellent local urban restaurant. Food is great. Great service. Nice beer and wine selections. We sat outside on this nice summer night. The inside was nice too, but the crowd voices made it a little loud. The only drawback was it was a little expensive otherwise it is a 5-star all the way.
(4)Caleb L.
Simply scrumtralescent! This place is the emobodiment of hipster, and I loved it. The service was friendly and attentive. There was a great selection of beers and liquors to choose from. The food options were unique, and a cut above other restaurants of this caliber. When I see things like "Grass Fed Beef" as an option on the menu, I know I'm at a place that pays attention to details. There were other great options on the menu and it seemed like a place you could close your eyes and point at the menu and be very happy with whatever they brought out. They also had several vegetarian entres (shocker for hipster place, right?). They have excellent french fries cooked with truffle oil and sprinkled with parmesan. To complete my mountainous grass fed burger (which already came with ham), I added bacon which was probably someof the best bacon I have had from any restaurant. I will definitely be back here anytime I'm in the area, although this place merits special trips even if you aren't in the area.
(5)Ali A.
After a disappointing attempt at another restaurant for dinner my girlfriend and I decided to stop in here and split something. We got the mac and cheese, split, don't do that though just ask for an extra plate because I believe they charge $2 to split something. It was yummy and definitely hit the spot. I enjoyed some good canned beer and for dessert we had a stout chocolate cake also very delicious! Oh and I tried their bloody mary, they make their own mix, it was awesome. I think this place would be great to go on a date to. I will be back Westside!
(4)jennifer j.
This much anticipated spot is a shot in the arm for the Westside. Trailblazers like Bluebird, Lil's and Fervere have known the charms of this neighborhood for quite some time. Now, there's a place where you can just hang out and have a few beers or a glass of wine on an outdoor patio shaded by old trees. The atmosphere is great. This place has unique charm and quirkiness that just doesn't exist in many other spots. Outside tables are communal. The inside is well done, but tends to feel more like restaurant then a drinking establishment. The thing is, Westside Local is working hard to offer both. The service has some serious kinks. Although there seem to be a good number of servers, the impression was that they were overwhelmed. With the patio only 1/2 full, this should not be the case. The wait for a greet, a drink and food was too extended. It wasn't just our experience, as a party of 3 women grumbled about crackers delivered to them after, rather then during their appetizers. We had dinner & drinks, yet our check was automatically closed & delivered to our table after our meal. So much for another drink. Is this a hint? When you sit down the waiter brings out a few olives sprinkled with olive oil and pepper....a nice touch. Appetizers are extremely straightforward. Deviled eggs, a small pile of ham, a few pickles. A minimalist wet dream. For the non birdlike eaters, there are a selection of sandwiches and larger plates. You can check out their menu online. I had the chicken sandwich and my partner has the roast beef. Both come with garlic fries. Although the fries has a garlic smell, there is no visible garlic, so I am not sure if they are using a powder or infused garlic oil. The bread used on each sandwich was the best part of the sandwich. Nothing really stood out, but nothing was bad either. In summary, I like this place...but to be more specific, I like this place for drinks. To be even more specific, I like this place for drinks on the patio on a beautiful summer night. Kudos to the trailblazers.
(3)L B.
After not having been back here for a couple years, I've found a surprisingly renewed interest - 4 visits in 4 weeks! Either I just had bad luck when I'd been here before or they have really improved. One of the best mac and cheese dishes in the city - maybe tied with The Jacobsen. The burgers are so fresh and juicy and I love anyone who uses the local Farm to Market pretzel buns. French fries are very tasty and crispy - I tried my best to eat them all but it's a lot of food with the burger. One of my visits, a friend veered off the usual mac and cheese / burger and tried the pulled pork - not as good as the burger, but if I'm not in the mood for cow, will definitely go for the pig next time.
(5)Kevin C.
I've been on a quinoa-craze for the past two weeks thanks to this place. We had dinner here before heading to the Kauffman Center for a Saturday night performance. (By the way, if the weather is agreeable, parking in the Westside area and walking over to the Kauffman Center is pretty convenient. Don't mind the creepy I-35 overpass on 17th St.) Anyways- we had the PEI mussels and Quinoa entrees. The mussels were pretty tasty but the quinoa really stood out to me. I guess I never really look for it on menus but I was super impressed with the flavors and textures. The crispy arugula was a noteworthy touch. I also like beer and there's a large beer list here. Nice!
(5)Jennifer C.
My husband and I love coming to this place. But we know that we should try to go before we get hungry, because there is always a wait to get in as it is a smaller restaurant. I think it usually is about a half hour wait or more every time I have come during the dinner hours, which is the only downside of this restaurant to me. I keep coming back for the hamburgers and beer. I think they do a great burger. I love that they try to use fresh and local ingredients in their cooking. It does have a pretty fun, trendy kinda vibe.
(4)Brenda D.
I absolutely love this place!! Had no idea it was here and so glad we went. Very relaxing, wait service was excellent. It was quiet (for a long time) so we could talk. It did get busier at the night went on. The best Blueberry basil martini I've ever had. Actually the only one but it was so good I ended up drinking 3 of them. We gals got hungry and ordered the Pesto Chicken, The Summit Burger, The Grilled Cheese and the Baked Mac and Cheese - shared all of them. They food is fantastic! I can't enough good things about this place. Wished I had one in my back yard. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Chad B.
Best grilled cheese sandwich I have EVER had! I'll drive 30 miles just for one. Fun place to have a couple of beers with friends (Hitachino white ale).
(5)Greg N.
Go for the grilled cheese...just like everyone else says. It doesn't get much simpler or better than that!
(5)Lilian O.
I am extremely happy to report that The Westside Local has worked out the kinks from the change in ownership and chefs. The food and service are both back on track! The last time I came here, I intended to catch up with a friend over some good food and booze in their covered beer garden. The plan was foiled because of the strong winds. Darn you bipolar Midwest weather! We chose to sit indoors and started off with a plate of the deviled eggs and my current favorite beer of Hitachino Nest Red Rice Ale. While the eggs were good, I don't understand why so many people rave about them. I enjoyed the arugula salad that the eggs were garnished with better than the deviled eggs themselves. 6 egg halves (3 whole eggs) is too much to split between two people as I get tired of the taste rather quickly. The quinoa dish is back on the menu and as good as I remember. My friend enjoyed his burger and I enjoyed stealing the Parmesan fries off his plate. It was his first time at The Westside Local and he was impressed by the food and beer selection. I felt cooler for introducing him to the place as it's been on his to-try list for awhile. My next visit there will definitely include plans of sitting in the beer garden. Now if only I had the power to control the weather...
(4)Marian L.
The food is very good. The servers are pleasant and knowledgeable. The maitre d' is rude and off-putting. This is the second time in two weeks I've dined at Westside Local and been treated snottily by this staff member. The first time, I'll admit, I should have made a reservation for the six people I brought with me to the restaurant. Because of the way the server treated us, I made a reservation for the following weekend using Open Table. We were no more than ten minutes late and arrived to a three-quarters EMPTY restaurant and the maitre d' was snotty again and seated us at a table in the glaring sunlight. There were plenty of other tables in shadier spaces where the hostess seated people who had NOT made reservations (after gently berating them for not doing so). I won't be back. During our dinner, my husband and I listened to the maitre d' and the young hostess take turns gently admonishing any customer who walked in without reservations. This is not how I wish to be treated first thing in a restaurant. And Westside Local? I didn't want to share my concerns on a local forum. I searched your website and Facebook page for a way to send a private email. There isn't one. Please consider adding an email address to your website.
(2)cathy m.
We ordered three fish tacos, and they were delicious. Why then, did I only give it one star. The fish was almost non-existent. A veggie taco should not taste or cost the same as a fish taco. We ordered a beer off the menu, and our server returned to tell us that it was not available. Then, we were asked if we wanted another beer around the "same price". He did not ask what kind of beer we like - just the price range. When we left, three employees were standing by the door. None of them asked how we enjoyed that meal. None of them said "Good night." We will not go back.
(1)Erika D.
Reviewing the Westside Local makes me a little nervous. I don't want to appear in a Hipster Attack video with my enthusiastic praise set to strains of flute music. Trust me, if the food were mediocre, I would not hesitate to say so - trendy locale and minimalist design be damned. The truth is that the food is fantastic and should be the main draw at this Summit Street hangout. The locally sourced menu is short, sweet and full of inspired comfort food. The Quinoa is a tangy, crispy, hearty revelation with thyme roasted butternut squash, dried cherries, brussels sprouts, shaved parmesan and crunchy bits of arugula. The Chicken Pot Pie is contentment in a ramekin. Breaking into the fluffy buttermilk biscuit is a satisfying act, and the creamy goodness underneath is bursting with tender chicken and vegetables. The mix and match Localities ($2 each) are meant to be adult appetizers, but make a great kids meal. On our Saturday afternoon visit, Elliott ordered a plate with apples, sweet & spicy pecans, and house made pickles. It came with slices of wonderful, crusty french bread. The bread was a hit with baby Emma as well (even though she was perfectly happy just gnawing on the wood slab tables). Do not leave The Westside Local without trying dessert. I recommend their take on a trio of beloved candy bars: Snickers, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, and Peppermint Patties. These gourmet creations are a far cry from store bought candies; each one is rich, delicious decadence. The moral of my story: don't let the hipster appeal of this sensational restaurant scare you away. You can have your cool and eat it too!
(5)Michelle F.
My husband and I dined with 3 other couples in January. Jason was our server and he was perfect. He explained the menu repeatedly when we were not paying attention to him and smiled and joked with us as he kept the glasses full and the food coming the whole time. We had the deviled eggs, I really enjoyed the vinegar punch to them but a couple of others thought it was too much, and a build-your-own combination of cheese, olives and prosciutto - it was terrific as well. The guys enjoyed the large variety of beers, including several cans of Stag. "In a glass? No one's ever asked for that before!" Among us we had salmon (raves I tell you, raves!), burgers, the roast beef sandwich and grilled cheese. We passed and nibbled until most people had tried everything, it was all great. The roasted fennel and tomato soup went perfectly with my grilled cheese. We tried each of the three desserts offered, this might have been the only time our table was not the loudest in the house, we were all very busy making sure those desserts were finished down to the last bite! My only complaint about the entire evening is that the old building, while full of charm and character, is incredibly drafty. I kept my coat on the entire evening and a couple of the other girls were putting gloves on in between courses. I'm looking forward to going back, my husband and I really enjoyed the Valentine's Day menu and the beer garden will be a fun place to hang out this summer.
(5)Carrie B.
It's probably a 4.5. For at least the past two years, my coworkers have been telling me that I absolutely MUST try the Westside Local. Turns out my coworkers know me pretty well! Went for restaurant week lunch--3 courses for 15 dollars. Got a miniscule salad (but again, it was Restaurant Week, but still enough to dock just a bit.) For a main dish I got the quinoa--OH. MY. GOODNESS. The ultimate test of a successful meal (or recipe) is that I crave it despite the inclusion of an ingredient that I typically dislike. The quinoa was so delicious, flavorful, textured, that I gobbled up the brussels sprouts that were part of it, even though I typically loathe them. Yum. Got the panna cotta dessert and discovered I really don't like panna cotta, but not the fault of the restaurant. Service was a touch slow but not overly so, and was quite friendly. Went back again for drinks and to split a beautiful choose-your-own cheese plate. We picked the three best-looking cheeses on the small plates menu, and they came arranged with onion jam, fruits, bread, etc. Not quite up to the level of JP's (RIP) cheese plate (which serves as the standard to which I judge all cheese plates), but a great complement to glasses of organic sauvingnon blanc. Another very viable option on my favorite corner in the city. And this is all before trying the beer garden! (Service note: I didn't go at crowded times on either occasion.)
(4)Tabitha M.
I have heard so many great things about Westside Local, so I was honestly thrilled to finally go. I went this past Saturday for lunch with two of my friends. There was a decent crowd for 1 o'clock on a Saturday. Everything I tasted was wonderful, but especially the french fries. I don't know, but i am a sucker for french Fries. I have heard that Westside Local used to have garlic french fries, which sounds even more amazing... but i guess that wasn't everyone's cup of tea, so they changed to "normal" french fries. *sigh* Oh well, still yummy. The mac and cheese was good. The guy eating a grilled cheese at the table next to us said it was delicious, and man oh man, did it look delicious. Good service. Reasonably priced food. Nice, clean decor. interesting artwork (i guess it changes out every so often though).
(4)Dev V.
I have always enjoyed this place, now I finally get to write a review. The other times I've been here, my food has always been good, but the service was always so so. This changed with my visit this past Friday. We sat in the bar area and John was our server, he's also the bartender. He was very pleasant and knew a lot about the wine list since he put it together. Food was great, service was great, atmosphere was great. Patio was hopping as well because of the warmer weather. Keep it local and get your asses to Westside Local!
(4)Martin H.
I really wanted to like this place more than I did. I gave it a second chance after a so-so first visit because i thought it had potential. The interior looks good, the patio is a great space, and the fries are very good. BUT... the beer is not the right temperature, the burgers are bland, the menu is quite limited, the staff is very hit and miss. If I go again, it will ONLY be for beer and appetizers on the patio.
(2)Annie A.
LOVED this place!! I went here for the 1st time on Friday for Happy Hour and while it wasn't much of a "scene" it was a great time! The bartender Mick was awesome and being the only 2 ladies at the 8 seat bar.. we got lots of attentive service from him! He had great recommendations for the build your own plate - we opted for the Pears, Baguette, Goat Cheese, Kalamata Olives, Proscuitto and the Irish Porter Cheddar... all were awesome!! They also have Fernet Brianca - the only other place in KC besides Czar Bar to carry my beloved favorite drink that I discovered while living in San Francisco! So VERY excited to return! The wines were delicious too! I'll definitely be back to this quaint little local place!
(5)Lisa R.
I will preface by saying that I went for the first time at 8:30 on a Sunday night, so my experience may or may not be representative of what going to Westside Local is like another night of the week. The menu was good, and the food, while nothing special, hit the spot, and I really liked the option to get the small plates of things like pear slices and pickles. The decor and set-up had a nice feel. But the music was loud, inconsistent and a bit annoying, and my waiter seemed less than thrilled to be there. I understand what it's like to be a server, and go into restaurants with a lot of empathy, but the empathy can fade when a waiter has a bad attitude that doesn't have anything to do with me. One of three tables in the place, being a bit more attentive would not have been a struggle for him. And I very much wanted to order dessert, but was immediately presented with my check as my plates were rushed away. Maybe it was just an off night. I'd try it again if I were a local, but as an out-of-towner who has just this one experience to rely on, 3 stars is the best I can do.
(3)Suzanne G.
I love this place. I've been several times and it's a great go-to when I have a friend in town. Most recently, a prego friend was visiting from Ark. The food was excellent and they didn't look down at her for ordering a shirley temple or asking for a salad without feta. In fact, the server anticipated another issue with her entree and made sure to notify the chef. The quinoa and veggie dish I had was excellent. I'm not a vegetarian, but I'm not afraid to eliminate meat in favor of a flavorful dish. It was fantastic. I'm looking forward to good weather - the beer garden is a great way place for happy hour. It's communal so you never know who you'll end up next to!
(5)Cory K.
I have been to The West Side Local several times and I can say it is always a great place if you want to show someone something different. The food has been a hit or miss a few times but still pretty good compared to other places. The patio is great and they have a great beer selection.
(4)Shea C.
I wanted to love The Westside Local. The farm-to-table concept, the quirky location, the shared tables on the patio and sleek but earthy interior are all appealing. The food? Not as appealing. I came for lunch with my mom who was visiting from California (where I'm from and whose cuisine I adore). I knew The Westside Local would be right up her alley. I'd been once before for drinks with friends and enjoyed the variety of the wine list, but hadn't ordered food. It was a gorgeous day, so we chose to sit outside, sharing a table with a few other women also out to lunch. We ordered ice teas and enjoyed the sunshine while perusing the menu. Several items were calling to me, but I ended up choosing the chicken salad sandwich with fries and a side of pears. Mom had the local arugula salad with chicken. Unable to resist a pint of Boulevard Single Wide IPA, I ordered that too. My sandwich, which seemed like it would be full of flavor with its chipotle aoil and bacon, was bland beyond belief. I also have a slight pet peeve when a menu states the sandwich will come on a certain type of bread (challah in this case, which I love) and it comes on something else (grilled multigrain). I ended up adding pear slices to the sandwich to try to add some complexity of flavor. The chipotle aoli was barely noticable and the bacon was overpowering. The garlic fries, however, were awesome and didn't even need the homemade ketchup. Mom seemed pleased enough with her salad. She initially wanted the roasted beet salad, but was told she couldn't have it without the cilantro because it was already mixed (disappointing). Service was sllooooowwww, but friendly enough. Had I not been content to sit in the sun and catch up with mom, I would have quickly grown impatient. I still think the charm of The Westside Local is worth experiencing and I'd like to go back and give it another go.
(3)Joe W.
Great food and fun decor. Try the 1/2 lb (local) beef burger- comes with proscuitto and melted white ched, microgreens and crispy fries. My server was really kind and quick. Great service.
(5)Jennifer H.
I just don't think the food lives up to the hype. I didn't think it was particularly good at all. The mac & cheese was some of the worst I've had at any restaurant. I spent an extra $6 on about 4oz of bland chicken. The burger was pretty good, but nothing special. The atmosphere and the neighborhood are great. My recommendation for someone who wants to go to patronize this quaint, local restaurant is to order some wine or beer and stick with the $2 localities, but skip the unimpressive food.
(2)Emilie S.
Probably the best burger I will ever eat. Brioche bun, watercress, perfect mustard. Had tomato fennel soup as app. Also perfect. We had a party of 7 for a late dinner- waiter was friendly, patient and knowledgeable. Nice wine selection. Husband had the mussels and loved them- he hardly talked once the were put in front of him. FIL's salmon quinoa was a hit as well. Mac and Cheese looked crazy good. A highlight of my 6000 mile food tour through Western/Central US of A.
(5)Betts C.
I definitely needed to update this review. I've been slacking. Because I've been back to Westside Local several more times, and every time I go, I'm really, really convinced that it's one of the best places in KC. It absolutely serves all of my wants. First off, there's the beer list, which is pretty amazing. Secondly, there's the beer recommendations with each of the items on the menu. And I've found that, if you are shy of those and want something a little different, the servers are quite knowledgeable and can pull some secret bit of fantasticness out from behind the bar, and voila, you have some perfect flavor combination. And that combination involved the food. Because really, it is pretty great. It's not the longest menu, but they know what they can handle. And now that the salmon burger is back on the menu, I am one happy,happy lady. It's a phenomenal experience (it counts as an experience) especially when paired with the beet salad. I'm pretty obsessed with beets, and I make a good beet salad myself. But this blows me out of the water. And back to the burger: it's actually salmon. It's not mostly bready or filling of any sort, it's salmon. And it's served on a really great, entirely too caloric roll that probably ruins any healthiness I'd be going for by ordering a salmon burger and salad. But it's ok, it's so very worth it. I've also tried both their winter and springy quinoa dishes, and they're excellent. Fresh, filling, and very healthy. They're not the most exciting thing on the menu, but they are very, very good. And the boy tried their special pulled pork sandwich on one of our visits, and it was, in fact, mighty fine. This was in the middle of the barbecue tour, and even though Westside Local is a far cry from Arthur Bryant's or OkJoe's, that was some excellent, very grown up pulled pork. I will admit that I still haven't had the full Westside Local experience, as I haven't tried dessert. But after spending a lazy afternoon sipping really good beer under vines, eating our sandwiches and basking in the still pleasant sunlight, I'm pretty convinced that Westside Local is fantastic and one of those rare but lovely, non-KC in KC places where I'd like to spend a whole, whole lot more of my time.
(5)James W.
This place is awesome!!! The only negative was the service was slow at times. They use all local produce and ingredients and have a great local and not so local beer selection. I especially liked they Veggy Sammy and Potato Salad!! Eat or drink out in their beer garden if you can. Truly a great spot in KC!
(5)Ethan S.
I've been here about 3 times and every time I go it's always a great experience. The ambiance is perfect. I like getting several of the "localities" (their version of a mini appetizer). The deviled eggs are amazing. And I really don't eat deviled eggs that often. And the cheese plate is always delicious. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Lauren K.
Went back for dinner recently and had an amazing meal! We ordered some of the a la carte items, some meats, cheese and 2 perfect litle deviled eggs. I tried the carbonara pasta w. duck egg. I'd never tried this dish before and was thrilled with it.. It was creamy, rich and flavorful. My boyfriend got the steak frites and it was honestly the best steak I've ever tried. We were so satisfied I was on a food high for the rest of the night. This place is just perfect!
(5)Mike K.
It was a beautiful spring day and our destination was a patio for lunch and libations. We decided to check out The Westside Local since it was close to the office and fit the need for sunshine. The Westside Local is located on the NE corner of 17th & Summit. Parking is a little tight since its mainly street parking, but we were able to find a spot on Summit just a 1/2 block down the street. The inside dining space is a mixture of rustic exposed brick and modern furniture, probably would seat 30-40 people. But our destination was the Patio! We were seating on of 5-6 large picnic tables where it had somewhat of a communal vibe where you could be seated next to another group on the large picnic tables. The server handed us two menus, the food menu and the large beer & wine menu. On one side of the food menu it had a large selection of al a carte 'Localities' - an interesting mix of meats, cheeses, and vegetables, 'Snacks' (a limited appetizer selection), and Soups/Salads. Prices were mixed - individual Localities were $2 each, Snacks were $6-$9, and Soups/Salads $4-12. On the back side of the menu were the Large Plates (main course) which ranged from $15-$22, and Sandwiches $8-11. Now if you're looking for large selection - this isn't the place. If you're looking for a limited menu done well - this is your place!!! The beer & wine menu was extensive, approx 20 wines (didn't look at much), and 30-40 beers which were mainly bottles. I opted for the Summit burger with garlic fries and a nice 22 ounce Avery Salvation to wash it down. Our meals arrived fairly quickly - and WOW we were all impressed with our meals. I could quickly tell this wasn't the standard burger. To start, the burger meat is ground fresh, served on a fresh baked roll from Fervere, arugula, Swiss cheese and a mustard sauce. The garlic fries were served with in-house made ketchup and a lemony aioli. The house made ketchup was a little odd, it tasted more like marinara sauce vs. ketchup - but that's a minor detail. The food was excellent - staff was friendly - and I loved the attention to ingredients. I will certainly go back, now all we need is another sunny spring day!
(5)steve w.
We made our first visit to the Westside this weekend and were pleased. They have a short, but nicely curated wine list; our Spanish wine was spicy, nicely balanced and an excellent value. We enjoyed their "localities," a way for the customer to economically compose their own appetizers, charcuterie, and such. One minor complaint on that score: some of the localities are attributed, others are not. It would be great if the customer knew where each came from. The braunschwiger was fine, but tasted like Boar's Head - not bad, but not unique. The missus' lamb special was very good, although she could have done without the lamb sausage in favor of an extra chop - the polenta complemented the dish nicely, however. I had mussels in an orange fennel broth. The mussels were gigantic, very flavorful and the broth balanced the sweet and savory perfectly. The garlic fries ... quite good, too. Another small kvetch, though: I initially ordered the trout special, but requested fries instead of mashed only to have the chef decline my request. Wait a minute ... I like your restaurant and I'll be back, but it seemed a little pretentious to decline a modest alteration in starch upon a customer's preference. Just saying. The bread pudding was great. The after dinner drink menu could use some white dessert wines, later harvest Rieslings and such; those were noticeably absent from the after dinner drink offerings. So, three minor reservations, but overall an most enjoyable meal from the Westside.
(4)Emily s.
So I finally made it back here last night without the kids for a pre-Kauffman dinner. When I made the reservations he let me know that they had a bunch of people coming in at 7pm and would I be done by then - which was nice because I knew the service would be fast and I wouldn't be late for the concert. Emily took care of us and was amazing and friendly. When I indicated that I really wanted a salad but was afraid it would be too much with a full dinner - she said there is actually a side salad size available, which is not on the menu and was perfect! About the size of a large saucer or dessert plate. Yummy arugula! I got the quinoa (Based on the many reviews- thanks Joi) and was very impressed. I would never have ordered it on my own but it was so tasty and unlike anything I've ever had, I'm glad I did. In the spirit of adventure I also got the gin pickle. If you like pickles and gin this is the drink for you! They make their own pickles and use them and the juice for the mixer. It had a night light butter/dill pickle flavor (more dillish but didn't kick you in the teeth). My SO had the pork loin which had a nice light flavor and was medium rare - very large portion of pork in a ham/bean soup. He liked it but I thought the pork could have used a little more flavor. The cornbread would have been good if it hadn't been dry :( I like their fries, very crispy, but the ketchup is too sweet and I don't even understand what that aioli is supposed to be - seemed like homemade mayo and pretty flavorless. I ate the fries plain because they are super tasty and didn't need anything. I can't wait to go back for the deviled eggs and check out the beer garden. The only drawback was the price - just over $100 with tax and tip, but $40 of that was liquor so it could be done much cheaper. Overall I think it was worth what we paid. This was a very unique, fresh, locally produced meal in a great atmosphere. I was stuffed at the end with no room for dessert, even if I had wanted it. Oh, we left at 6:57pm and never felt rushed at all, in fact we even had one more round of drinks after dinner at our servers suggestion (price there vs price at the Kauffman!)
(4)Bryan E.
The Westside Local is one of my standbys. I truly enjoy the menu and find just enough variety to satisfy most anyone. Extra props for the grilled cheese with tomato soup. Sometimes it is hard to get in or there is a small wait, but overall, I have no complaints. I keep it in my back pocket for out of town guests and nights when we can't agree where to go. Definitely a crowd pleaser.
(4)D W.
Super atmosphere and food! Locally grown and the freshest I have had in a long time. The outside is not much to look at and it even looked closed but this is a true example of why you should not judge a book by the cover!
(5)John S.
Really actually like this place and you should go. Good fries, tasty duck, nice decor, thought seemingly put into the food, and the first time I was there our waiter was amazing. Last night, however, we had a bum. You're on the clock, not me pal, SEPARATE CHECKS, SEPARATE CHECKS, SEPARATE CHECKS, oh the gratuity is already include so you don't give a flip, and even after 45min you still can't parse out the bill correctly, sheesh. Sweet hat bro.
(4)Hannah L.
Headed here on Easter Sunday for a nice, local meal at a new spot, well new to us at least. We opted to sit outside in the beer garden with the nice Spring weather which felt much more relaxed then the stiff dining room that had no one in it. Started with beers off their excellent beer list and while they were all out of the one I chose, the waiter brought over his suggestion which was a nice touch. Their menu is limited or "special" on Sundays, but sometimes with my indecisiveness that's even better. We started with the beet salad - no dressing (not sure if they forgot or if they were trying to let the beets shine and do their thing) - either way, the beets were spot on, fresh, juicy and delicious! I got the Vegetable Shepard's Pie which was YUMMY! Awesome comfort food, which as a pescatarian can be hard to find. The potatoes in the stew were under done, but that's my only complaint. The mushrooms, green onions, carrots, quinoa and crunchy onions on top of the cheesy mashed potatoes more than made up for it. I ate it all...and it was a large portion! My date got the Fried Chicken & Waffles. A Sunday classic. He ate the whole plate and seemed quite pleased, except for the seasoning. Great crunchy breading, but lacked some spice and kick. Seemed like a good dose of cayenne should have been added to the flour. When we asked if the chicken was local, the waiter shared that it was from Lathrop, MO. I was glad he was informative as the waitstaff at other "local" restaurants in KC don't seem to be very knowledgeable. No room for dessert here...I thought about getting something to go, but they all involved ice cream which I suspected wouldn't keep very well. I also asked if they had smoothies since they boasted fresh, local juices for all their cocktails, but nope, no smoothies. There's definitely room for improvement, but I'd go back in a heartbeat to try a new dish, listen to the live music, enjoy a drink in the garden and support restaurants using fresh, local ingredients.
(4)Farah A.
Hey, Westside Local. You are yummy. So I know other people have raved about the quinoa, but I have to reiterate it. I almost ordered a box of it to go. I like the natural, simple atmosphere inside the restauant and the cozy family-style picnic tables on the patio. My friends and I shared a picnic table with some friendly hipsters who occasionally dabbled in and out of our conversations. One even asked for a bite of my quinoa which I, of course, obliged with a friendly "what's mine is yours attitude" having returned the day before from my post-communist experience in Cuba. He greatly appreciated it and lamented having not ordered it himself. Otherwise the drinks selection was good, the server put up with my 804 questions about the bread pudding [it is possible to ask that many questions about bread pudding, believe it or not], and I enjoyed the two genderless restrooms [where I accidentally walked in on a guy who forgot to lock the door... woops!]. The only thing to note is beware (just in general) of ordering midwestern favorites "your mom makes" like deviled eggs because at these types of trendy, urban establishments they will always have a twist that you may or may not enjoy. All in all... all local, all lovely. Coming back for quinoa. You should too.
(5)Molly A.
Though I've never found an entree that I absolutely adore, this place is pretty good. Their small plates/appetizers are my favorite - deviled eggs with a twist and the Castelvetrano Olives ... well, I could probably make a whole meal of those. They're like olive oil in solid form. Mmmm. (Almost zero of the salty brine of typical olives. And I'm a girl who loves her salt.) The beer list is always decent, and the service can be hit or miss. The option of a beer garden is always an added bonus. I hope to find an entree that bumps my review up to four stars but until then, it stays at three. I'd definitely recommend it to friends or take out-of-town guests there for some KC-flavor but I don't go there often personally. (Caveat: their "special" braised short ribs were delish ... But I think it's more fair to judge a restaurant off its every-day menu. I prefer to order off it, as well, as special dishes tend to be on the pricier side here.)
(3)Joe H.
I'm very middle-of-the-road with my feelings on the Westside Local. I love the idea of a communal beer garden, but the two days I've been have been too cold to consider it. The first time we went involved my 18-month old daughter, which was interesting. My initial impression was that it wouldn't be very kid-friendly, and the hipster, d-bag patrons around us confirmed that, but the staff was absolutely great. They dug a high chair out of the closet, multiple wait staff stopped by our table with crayons or to say something. It was some of the best service I have ever received. The second time was sans child, and the service wasn't as welcoming or responsive as before. Still, my beer was cold, my food was hot, and I got out in reasonable time. The food here isn't quite my bag, but it's good. A friend recommended the grilled cheese, which I wasn't a big fan of. My wife got the roast beef sandwich and starting freaking out about the au jus. Seriously. She talked about it for weeks afterward. I got her to switch me a grilled cheese half for the roast beef, and that au jus is the truth. If I was on the State, I'd probably dip my balls in it. I don't care for garlic fries, but I like these. I want to say it's more garlic salt than cloves of garlic, which I approve of. And the ketchup....oh, the ketchup. They should send some over to the Farmhouse to let them know what good, homemade ketchup tastes like. The beer selection is decent. I'm not a big fan or the beer list advertising Boulevard drafts for $4 and them ringing up as $5. Hopefully that extra dollar is funding a future re-printing of the beer menu. I'll probably go back in the Spring when the weather is nice to experience the beer garden. That might bump it to a 4-star, but it's just OK for now.
(3)Steve M.
I'll give 3.5 stars. My wife's dish was AWESOME, my friend's soup was very good. Her pot pie, however, was 1 star. My dish and my other friend's dish was probably 4 stars. We used Groupons, so the meal was also very reasonable! We all liked that they use locally grown, fresh ingredients. Service was so-so. Tough neighborhood 'shoes' to fit into, with the Blue Bird right across the street!!!!
(4)Dana A.
Ok, I had a lot of problems with this place so rather than write a long drawn out thing I am going to give you the basics and then write a list. The one really good thing I can say is that this place is beautiful inside -- it was too cold to sit outside but I am sure the other reviewers cover the beer garden. Their fries were good. I was dining for dinner on a Sunday night with 3 other people. Here are the problems I had, in no particular order: * No appetizer plates brought to use with our cheese plate appetizer. I dropped half my Maytag blue on the floor. * No cider on the beer menu. I don't like regular beer, and most places with a good list, e.g. Blanc, or Harry's Country Club, have a cider. I will come back to the alcohol offerings again in a moment. * Boulevard Pilsner was $5 for a bottle, Schlitz was $3. Other places, these beers are the same price point. The premium beers were also a little higher. La Fin du Monde is $2 more than at The Drop. * My grilled vegetable sandwich was COLD grilled vegetables, but the menu doesn't say that they are cold. They were kinda slimy and gross, not grilled and succulent. The focaccia bread was pretty awful too -- like worse than Panera bad. I had them sub the tomatillo salsa for Dijon vinaigrette (because I thought I was getting a hot sandwich), which was actually straight up Dijon mustard when they brought it to me in a ramekin. * The grits in the shrimp and grits my friend ordered were more like cornbread dough. Really thick and doughy tasting. The dish could have used a roux, and maybe some collard greens or something else green on the plate other than green onion. * I had to ask for the dessert menu. The server was just kind of clueless. Oh, and only 1 of the 7 desserts was available. * When we were leaving, only THEN did I notice that there's a room off the main dining room, and if you go INTO that room there's a BAR. Had I KNOWN there was a bar, I would have had drinks with my friends, but the server never mentioned that there was liquor in addition to the beer list, nor is there a sign above that doorway saying there's a bar. There was no cocktail menu, nothing. When they opened it was known they didn't have liquor, so it's the kind of thing they really should be telling people. * The server didn't ask how to split the check, and split everyone's, which was fine, but he ran mine and my boyfriend's tickets as separate transactions on my card even when we explained we were together -- which seemed really odd. Again he was just clueless. In summary, I think I'd give it another try but only go to the bar area for one drink, and order the fries again. Then I'd go somewhere that the prices are what they should be, and the servers are a little more with it. I feel bad because I want to support local places, but I have 3 other choices on that block alone if I want to spend money on the Westside.
(1)blythe c.
We need more restaurants like this! Locally owned and supporting local farmers and foods is the way to go. The atmosphere and location are also wonderful. I like enjoy a quick lunch or a sit down dinner with friends on the patio. There are usually flavorful vegetarian options for me and other great choices for my friends and family.
(5)Caroline K.
I really want to like this place. It's great for the west side neighborhood, but unfortunately, they have focused way too much on image and appearance and have tossed service and quality to the side. It's a great place for enjoying a hard to find beer. The bartenders seem untrained when it comes to making a cocktail or martini, but they can recommend the perfect beer for your tastes. The prices are quite high for standard beers, but the rare beers seem worth the cost. As for the food, I cannot recommend any of it. Let me outline what your dining experience will be like if you are suckered into the allure of the food menu. The menu is extremely limited and focuses on locally grown and raised foods, however, they are frequently out of key items, whittling the selection down to a grilled cheese sandwich or a burger. The selection of appetizers and snacks are plentiful and delicious and are your best option. If you order a hot item, it will, without fail, come out ice cold and inedible. The enticing smell will tickle your nostrils, but the waxed-over cheese or tepid meat will beg you not to eat it. You realize that the sandwich isn't on the delicious sounding local bread listed on the menu, but a standard store-bought roll. When you try to flag down your server, they will ignore you completely. You will pick at the delicious but helplessly cold garlic fries, and eventually, give up on the meal completely. Half hour later, after you have lost you appetite, your hipster server will slink over. She won't really care about your pathetic sandwich and will whisk it away in a fury of huffs and eye rolls. The owner will come over to your table and offer you a complimentary dessert, of which, there are only two options remaining from a list of seven. When you decline, he will berate you, swear and touch your arm. The service is poor, the menu is promising but limited by undermining demand, and without prompt service, the food suffers. Stop in for a beer, but visit a different gastropub for food.
(1)David S.
Not sure what all the negative reviews are about. This is definitely not a five star place, but the food here is of the highest quality, the beer selection is good and the decor is refreshing (probably even better in the spring/summer months when we can sit outside and enjoy the weather at the same time) The food can be hit or miss with greatness. The grilled cheese sandwhich and burger are both delicious. The grilled cheese has a buttery toasted exterier with a delicious melted interior perfectly contrasted and accentuated with a bowl of tomato soup or dipped into the marinara on the side. The burger is locally sourced grassfed beef, cooked perfectly and a delicious experience from start to finish. That being said, when I ordered the polenta with braised rabbit, the polenta cake was seared beatifully and creamy on the inside, the rabbit lacked flavor and did not have any of the rich gaminess I would associate with it. They could have been using any high quality chicken and I would not have known the difference. I really do enjoy the place, even if it is a tad pricy for the inconsistency of the menu.
(4)Jani D.
Fresh*Fresh*Fresh and soooo tasty! I am a huge fan of the appetizers- ALL of them. The Westside Local is also the home of the PERFECT french fry. The waitstaff has been very knowledgeable during each visit. Some of the drinks are unique and very tasty as well.
(4)Kevin M.
I love this place. It is what a great neighborhood eatery should be and more. The staff is friendly, the atmosphere is relaxing but has a nice energy to it. They have a nice outdoor patio and an excellent beer list. Of course the focus is on the food and it is wonderful. The menu isn't a book ala Cheesecake Factory (remember that stuff is all made out of a bunch of pre-packaged, vacuum sealed ingredients that are thrown together and in many instances microwaved) but I think there are enough choices to satisfy most people's tastes. What you will find are fresh, local ingredients prepared in innovative ways by people who really know about and care about food. The short rib stroganoff is amazing as is the braised rabbit. They have an excellent roast beef sandwich and they typically have specials based on available ingredients. Also, because the food is local, it is dependent on the season, so this Spring's menu will be exciting. Another great feature is the $2 per item tasting menu that includes great local cheeses, sausage, lovely deviled eggs and some really tasty beets.
(5)Emily H.
Absolutely love the people, love the neighborhood, enjoy the ambiance, and always make new friends and run into old acquaintances (surprising, as the place is tiny). Their bartenders are fantastic, the liquor selection is delectable and the place is cozy and inviting. The olives and fries are yummy, but oh my, the vegetarian options range from absolutely dismal to nonexistent. It's hard to imagine the meat-based dishes having any decent flavor, seasoning, or accompaniment when created by someone who can't come up with a single vegetarian dish worth adding to the menu. I definitely expect more from the chef --who I have known to create many wonderful and flavorful vegetarian dishes-- and from this particular establishment. The kitchen has the experience, the attention to detail, and the ingenuity to knock anyone's socks off. All said, I love the Westside Local and stopping in for a drink is always a lovely experience, whether it is Sunday afternoon or Friday night. I look forward to the menu being refined as they establish themselves in the neighborhood.
(3)Matthew L.
Great brunch selections. Deceptively filling portions that leave you wanting more but ok with not. The banana bread was a top choice. Great beer list. Would certainly come back for dinner. You should too.
(5)Kay L.
Gotta knock off a star... the food is still very good (although overpriced) but the patio has gone downhill. Last time we were there, it just looked dingy & dirty, with some raggedy curtains draped in a swag over the gate, and spiderwebs in the corners. Plus, I know everyone loves a dog-friendly patio, but the woman at the table next to us decided to spend an extensive amount of time petting her Husky on a hot, hot day. The resulting combo of epic shedding & huge fans meant a perfect storm of dog hair blowing around our heads & into our food. It was quite disgusting. If we go back, we'll request indoor seating.
(3)Kathy M.
We have been fans of this establishment; however, on our last visit hubby ordered a BLT and thought the bread,tomato and lettuce were excellent, but they lost MAJOR points on the bacon. It was one piece of bacon for a good size sandwich. A $14 BLT should definitely have several pieces of bacon on it! I had the salmon which was really good and the cubano at the table was also enjoyed. My daughter had the 1/2 chicken and wished she had ordered the mac and cheese instead. She thought the chicken had a spicy kick, but there wasn't much else going for the dish. We may return; however, we will be more careful about what we order.
(3)Emily M.
This is one of my all-time favorite restaurants in KC MO. I love that they support all natural and local companies. When we were pulling up, Shatto Milk company was making their morning delivery. I mean, how can you get it any fresher? Went with the daily special of BLT on Sasha's bakery bread with avocado spread and a light jalapeño cream sauce. It was delicious! Also, upgraded side to kale salad - which is a must have! And you can't go wrong with a side of mac & cheese. Thanks for a great lunch, Westside!
(5)Adam S.
This is a place that embraces Kansas City and Kansas City embraces it. It's higher end, farm-to-table, urban and delicious 90% of the time. It's even climbed my list of places to recommend to people visiting out of town. I've never seen this place slow, including lunch and dinners. It's a great, charming older building that is easy to feel at home at year round. You also get the added benefit of a beer garden on the side for the warmer days. As for the food, there are many good meals that I've tried (grilled cheese with tomato fennel soup, the burger and fries, mac n cheese, and some salads) but there have been a few meals that are a bit underwhelming. Not bad by any stretch, just more of a "this is $16 and tastes like it should be $9" type of feeling. It's a great early First Fridays dinner spot, but it's best to make a reservation because it's always packed.
(4)Tim C.
We were in town for a conference and decided to venture outside the convention area for a less touristy place to eat. We walked a mile to get to this little spot, and it didn't disappoint. It has a very hipster vibe to it, which normally isn't my thing, but it wasn't to bad. The cocktails were fresh, and well made. The food was fantastic. We sat on the patio, which was a little hot. Maybe some fans that worked a little better may have helped. Our server was very good. I definitely recommend WL for a nice place to grabs cocktail and/or grab a bite to eat with some good conversation.
(4)Eric S.
Great spot with an incredible menu. It's not every day you find a place that makes it hard to choose. I finally decided on the Summit Burger 1/2 pound ground hormone-free rib-eye, arugula, emmentaler, dijon vinaigrette, on farm-to-market brioche bun and the parmesan & parsley fries (which you'll eat them all, trust me.) It was so good, the beer menu was lengthy and the ambiance was upscale and hip. Look forward to trying the same burger with the jalapeño options next time.
(4)Tammie H.
So amazing! Kale salad for sure. Comfort food grilled cheese and crispy fries so amazing!
(5)Sidney M.
Everything we ordered was delicious it did need salt. A lot of business. Very relaxed, warm, inviting, laid back atmosphere. Jeremy was out server and he was awesome!!!
(4)Kent Jacob S.
I cannot believe I have never reviewed The Westside Local. Shame on me because if anyone ever asks for my opinion on breakfast/brunch places, The Westside Local always pops up in my head first. The food is delicious and the service is top notch! What comes to mind when I think of Westside Local are the parmesan fries and grilled cheese. I swear by it, their fries are probably my favorite anywhere. It beats Oklahoma Joes, In-N-Out, and any other place I've said where fries were amazing. For the life of me, I don't understand why but eating their fries with house-made ketchup and garlic aioli sauces will always stick with me. Therefore, this place must be that good. So, if I haven't raved about it enough, their fries are a must order I tell you! The grilled cheese was just as delicious. The bread is toasty yet moist and that white cheddar cheese is very tasty. The tomato fennel soup is really a good pairing for their grilled cheese, so kudos to the chef here. The people are friendly and they really know the food well. I love putting waiters on the spot and asking them for their favorite dish. I can still remember our waiter telling me about the fennel soup and grilled cheese. The place does get busy but am very pleased that they take reservations. The Westside Local is a great place to go. It's no wonder that Finding KC rates this place as one of the top breakfast joints in all of Kansas City.
(5)Micah B.
By far the best meal I have had since visiting KC! The lamb chorizo tacos are amazingly on point!!!!
(5)Frank L.
I had the privilege to check out Westside local for lunch while visiting Kansas City. I came in for lunch on a Friday around 11:20 and 15 minutes later, the place was packed. I decided to sit in the bar area on a high top so was helped by the bartender. He was awesome, and helped decide on my meal. I went with the Veggie Quinoa sweet potato burger with a side of kale hummus. Everythin on the menu looked great. The burger came out pretty quickly and was huge. There was a bi to much bread, so I just ate the yummy insides sans bun. It was my first time trying kale hummus and I was pleaseantly surprised. The craft beer selection was also pretty impressive, albeit a bit pricey for some. All in all a great place.
(4)Kaitlyn M.
A lovely quiet restaurant with brick walls and high ceilings. Doesn't get over crowded (not to say that the tables weren't full- every table was sat, it just wasn't noisy and uncomfortable like a lot of restaurants tend to get). The food was decent. They have a list of their cocktails, which our table tried a few different kinds, but the cocktails were all pretty unique I guess is a nice way to put it, no one ordered the same drink twice because they didn't love any single one... It's a little pricey, but not terrible, we ended up paying $125 for two people (we had three drinks each)... I just wasn't wowed with what I had, so I don't know if I will go back but I'm glad I went and I had a nice experience.
(4)A H.
I booked a table for 12 for my birthday. It was a really tight fight - uncomfortable. When 2 more people showed up, we asked if we could put two tables together. A smug guy said, "not a chance." Then when food starts arriving, I wait for mine. And I wait. Five minutes later the server appears to tell me that "they ran out of chicken - but mine is coming." When it does arrive (everyone else is halfway done) it is not correct. (Wrap instead of on a bed of greens). I wait again. By the time I get my food, my friends are mostly done. Very disappointed in the experience. The food is good, but organization and timing matter, as well as manners.
(2)Joe G.
I'm not sure what happened... But I ordered what I felt was going to be one of the better dishes. It came highly recommended. I had ordered the trout with quinoa, and roasted cauliflower. The portions were rather small and left me hungry later. That was disappointing as it was one of the pricier items listed, and the menu isn't that big. The waitress seemed very indifferent to being there. That's the other factor that turned me off. I will add, that 3 years ago- I had far superior service and better entree as well. I do like this place but had an off night.
(2)Cindy F.
Wonderful beer selection. Had a bourbon hard cider I fell in love with. Hubby liked Torn Label stout. Had sampling of baguette, venison sausage, & Shatto cheese to start. Deviled eggs are killer. I insist you order some. For main had spring quinoa with trout. Very fresh - had asparagus and chèvre. Very tasty. Hubby had the burger, it was unbelievable. Had ham on it with toasted cheese on the bun. Perfection. Fries were top notch. Patio and restaurant are beyond cute. Had wonderful meal, service was wonderful and attentive. Will be back for sure.
(4)Thorsten F.
My favorite burger of all time, my favorite fries of all time, AND they have really syrupy Coke. This place is probably my favorite restaurant in KC.
(5)Shanley C.
Tucked away in a quiet Kansas City neighborhood, Chef Nina Gann at The Westside Local serves up one of the best breakfasts in town. I'm a huge fan of their Veggie Hash made with sweet potatoes, one sunny-side up egg, oyster mushrooms, roasted poblano, breakfast potatoes, kale, Brussels sprouts, fresh herbs and hollandaise. In an area well known for its beef, you might expect hash that contains some of what the Midwest is famous for. But this hash is so delicious you won't miss the meat. From first bite you'll taste the fresh herbs mingled with rich homemade hollandaise sauce that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the dish. Get a forkful of salty Brussels sprouts, snag a mushroom and swipe them both through egg yolk/sauce mix. That's your roadmap to hash euphoria. The restaurant stays true to its name by keeping all of its products and ingredients local - from bacon to brews - just flip over the menu and you'll see a list of all the farmers and local businesses that went into making your meal. If you have room, the Apple Bread French Toast is Westside Local's signature sweet breakfast dish. The homemade apple bread contains loads of vanilla, cinnamon, chunks of walnuts and then battered and topped with chunky apple butter. From its hashtastic start to the satisfyingly sweet finish, Westside Local is your stop for phenomenal food.
(5)Catherine K.
My friend and I came here while visiting Kansas City, and I can't wait to go back! We ordered the cheese plate, (which had an amazing roasted garlic spread), the charcuterie board (you get to choose three kinds of meat, which come with sides of pickled vegetables, apricot jam, and whole grain mustard-- all delicious), and the fries (which also have three amazing sauces). We spent the evening savoring all of the different flavors, which were also really fun to mix and match. The people were very nice, everything came out in a timely manner, and the servings were generous. A great experience!
(5)Neeca B.
This is such a trendy little spot almost borderline pretentious but the food is honestly good. I would be totally proud to bring any foodie here. even for a regular joe the burgers would work, and they probably wouldn't balk to much at the price, well maybe a little. Service was a little slow but in all fairness i excepted it since it was a Friday night. decent portion size, ate half, the other even tasted better as next days lunch.
(4)Abby J.
Stopped in this weekend for the first time and definitely enjoyed my visit. Ordered the Woodhaven Burger with parmesan/parsley fries. The burger was one of the juiciest/freshest burgers that I've eaten to date. Topped with a thick slice of country ham and copious amounts of cheese, it doesn't get much better. Being so fresh, it comes at a little more expensive of a price- a $15 burger. Also, the fries were very flavorful and crisped just right. Usually I have to douse mine in ketchup, but not these! This place has many fresh and healthy options to choose from. Definitely worth a try.
(5)Anita O.
Doesn't get day better. Food good. Beer good. Ambience good. Attitude toward local food superb. What else is there?
(5)Geri W.
Since I work in the West Bottoms, I consider Westside Local. . .well, local. (mapquest drive time: 3 minutes!) Of course what it means is that all the food is sourced locally, and it is wonderful! Hubby and I made reservations for 6:00 PM on a Friday. I called at noon that Friday, and just skidded into the reservation, so I would consider noon probably a cut-off for a reservation of choice. So nice to sit down, look around, and feel at home. The vibe at Westside is definitely low-key, relaxing, and organic, with the wood floors, brick walls and candles. The service was excellent. A very attentive waiter disappeared at the right times and arrived at the right times to pour water. He was knowledgeable about the menu, and recommended the hummus to top my quinoa/sweet potato burger. So, so good, this vegetarian burger is. I have had it twice now, and it was delicious both times, with a homemade roll and aioli. And the fries. Westside's fries are delicious and unique: crispy like McDonalds, but real. I longed for some salt, and I brought out a packet from my stash. Our waiter saw the packet, and kidded me about the packet just being "a cry for help." He immediately brought a shaker of salt. Hubby was no dummy and ordered the Westside Local mac 'n cheese. Of course I had a bite, and it was cooked al dente with a mild, but pleasantly biting, yet creamy, white sauce. If you haven't tried the charcuterie board yet, do so, you won't be disappointed. I've been to Local several times now, and it is always good, and the service is great. Westside Local is where I bring people I really like: I don't want anyone else to know!
(5)Rachel W.
I truly enjoy the atmosphere at Westside Local...as much as I enjoy the entire neighborhood really. It is small, cozy and optimal for conversation. Parking is easy, even on a busy night. Highly recommend for a dinner or drinks date. I've frequented the restaurant a few times over the years both for drinks and for dinner. On my latest visit, I ordered the summer quinoa which is vegan-friendly but also includes the option to add chicken or salmon if you so desire. I stuck with the vegan version and it was yummy. I also had a tasty gin & tonic before my meal came and it was made well. Not too heavy on the gin, not too heavy on the tonic. On previous visits I've enjoyed the mac & cheese (delicious, but I had to take some home bc of the large quantity), the grilled cheese and tomato fennel soup (I love this combo, but to be honest..I've had better grilled cheese), the pint of fries (finger-licking good, not to be compared to KFC of course), as well as the kale salad (I love it when restaurants do salads well). I can't wait to try the sweet potato burger and long list of appetizers someday. Overall, I'm a fan.
(4)C. W.
Great atmosphere for a weekend lunch with friends. We were excited about having brunch, but beware, BRUNCH IS ONLY ON SUNDAYS starting at 11AM! Our server was a real sweetie, who consoled us and gave us great suggestions. I had the Chicken wrap (gluten-free--served on a bed of greens instead of the flour wrap) and roasted veggies. The flavor of the chicken and greens was sumptuous matching a very creamy dressing. And the roasted veggies offered variety and flavor, though slightly too salty for my taste and I like my roasted garlic chopped up rather than whole. Also, know that the coffee is tasty but strong! I'd come back if I had the chance.
(4)Tali Z.
We stumbled upon this restaurant after scanning yelp for options in the area, and we were thrilled with the find! The ambiance is lovely - cozy, yet open with a dark wood-planked ceiling and brick walls. We started by ordering drinks; I ordered Bob's Beer Coctail and my friend ordered The Josie. Both were delicious, but I especially loved the combination of beer, juic eand liquor in mine. I would never think to make a mixed drink out of a beer, but it was outstanding. For food we orders the Mac and Cheese and the Summit (heirloom option) Burger. Again, both were mouth watering. The meat in the burger was so flavorful, probably one of the best burger patties I have ever had. It was cooked perfectly to order and the cheese and add-ons added a great burst of flavor. We opted for the veggies on the side, which were again delicious though they did have a kick. If you like spicy, the hot peppers in there are for you. The Mac and Cheese was hearty, cheesy, hot, crispy... just the way it should be! I even found myself scraping the remaining cheese off the side of the bowl. Delicious. We then got the desert; key lime pie with a cookie (not sure what type of cookie - maybe shortbread?). Both were subtle flavors and weren't too sweet or tart, and together they were prefect! We were so thrilled with our food that we even ordered a side of fries (not on the menu as a side, but they'll let you get it) to take home with us. They were even good an hour later :) The only reason I rated at 4 stars as opposed to 5 was because there was a drip from the ac near our table, so they turned us sideways and it was a bit awkward. But it really was not a big deal. Also, our waitress originally told us a different dessert (banana bread) which we ordered and then waited a while thinking it would be brought out, but when she returned she told us they were out of that desert. Again, not a big deal and we happily switched to key lime pie, but it was a bit of a wait for her to let us know... All in all, I think I've found my favorite KC restaurant!
(4)Andrea G.
This place is nestled in a quiet and snug manner in this old Kansas City neighborhood with a rich history as diverse and changing as the menu. I am glad this place is in my old neighborhood where I grew up, my mom was born and where my grandparents grew up. When I go home to visit my childhood home it is nice to walk up the street to this quaint little restaurant and bar. I embrace diversity especially when it comes with craft beers and happy hour wine prices. I am also glad to see that Kansas City is becoming more integrated I hope. It is not a noisy loud chain restaurant from the suburbs nor did it bring obnoxious new construction to this neighborhood with houses that are more than a 100 years old. The food is decent but what I like it even more is that it is all locally derived. They will also give you a cold glass of almond milk with a chocolate chip cookie if you are are a lactard like me. So I give it a lactose friendly stamp of approval. Cheers to the Westside Local. This is where I meet up with all my friends/family when I am home for a visit.
(4)Matt E.
Update time! The good: I frickin love their food. I eat here somewhat on the regular, and everything has been fantastic. Their mac and cheese and their grilled cheese are both on point. IN regards to the latter, I vote that you upgrade to include the ham, but still request the tomato and fennel soup rather than the lingonberry jam. I find the jam too sweet for a non-dessert. But still, it's a fabulous meal. Also recommended are the fish tacos. They're saucy and delicious and the kale adds a great texture. Yum yum. Their staff is consistently friendly and helpful. They have great personalities that shine through while they work, which I definitely appreciate as opposed to waitress-bots. I like these people! The bad: one thing. The flies! Sitting inside this isn't a problem, but their patio seems to have an overabundance of the pesty little insects. I hate having to constantly defend my food from dive-bombing bugs. Still, that's not enough to turn me away from the place. I am a big fan of Westside Local!
(4)Jeremy C.
Been here twice now. The first time, my friend and I came on a Sunday night for dinner and they were out of fries, so we were a bit disappointed. The service at the biergarden that night was subpar, not to mention we were served by two different waiters who kept asking us the same questions. The Deviled Eggs were nothing special, but the Apple Bread was phenomenal. We got the Summit burger and the Windhaven burger. Although I preferred the Shatto cheese on the Windhaven, the ground ribeye used for the Summit burger definitely made it the clear winner. Not to mention the brioche bun (Summit) is much better than the pretzel bun (Windhaven). Came back on a Friday night with a group of 6. There was a last minute cancellation when I called so they had the back table reserved for us. It was perfect and they were incredibly nice and accommodating. Our server this time was a significant upgrade and provided the perfect waiting experience. The local cheese and charcuterie plates were good, but the standout was definitely the kale hummus. The P.E.I. Mussels were served in a type of creamy bisque which was super rich and super delicious. (Pro tip: dip the parmesan fries in the mussels sauce). The baked Mac n Cheese is one of the best in KC (it has Brie in it!). Overall, this is one of my favorite restaurants in KC. Could use some improvement in the waitstaff department, but the food, drinks, and atmosphere make it hard to beat.
(4)S G.
We've eaten here several times and enjoy the food. The food has never been a disappointment. I gave 4 stars due to service. The waitress didn't really seem enthused to be there. She didn't mention any specials or dive into the menu. I actually felt like she was annoyed to have us there. She perked up a bit at the end. The times we've come before the service has been great. Usually the staff really talk about the menu but oh well. I still recommend this restaurant. It's still is a favorite for us.
(4)Doug K.
Awesome place to eat/drink. Highly recommend!!! Had the burger special with grilled veggies, amazing. Going to be a usual here.
(5)Jimmi H.
My husband and I have begun our tour-de-KC food as we wind down our final weeks. Being Westsiders, Westside Local is an obvious stop and last night made for a great meal. First the setting, specifically the patio. One of the best in KC! The space is wonderful for an early autumn dinner al fresco, and perfect for midday meals most of the year. The service is consistent and friendly. The highlight though is the food! Get the hummus. I love hummus and usually only really go for a traditional take on it, but WL just does it right, and I found it went best with the carrots. The tomato fennel soup was like an autumnal holiday in my mouth, just delicious. The only thing that could have improved that cup of soup was crisp autumn air, but I suppose the chef has zero control over the weather. For my dinner I chose the kale salad with a salmon add on. The salmon was light and rich with a delicate crispness that made it the star of the dish. I did find though that the kale, Brussels sprout mix with dressing ratio was way off. I finished my meal with a half of a plate full of dry kale. The best thing on the table though was my husbands meal, buffalo chorizo Mac and cheese! Decadent, rich and unlike any Mac and cheese I've had before, but in a very positive way. It was almost like chili but with everything I love about Mac and cheese; rich creamy sauce, full plump noodles and then mixed with a hearty, full flavor chorizo. Wow! This is a dish to share though. Great experience!
(4)B. L.
Completely rude staff. Left for Harry's country club.
(1)Sarah G.
Surprisingly I'm visiting KCMO for the first time- I've lived in St Louis my entire life (it's only about 4 hours away). My friend and I are big foodies and appreciate local foods and neighborhood establishments. I found The Westside Local on a blog as being one of the best Farm to Table restaurants in KCMO. We decided to try it on our first night here and it did not disappoint. The place was full when we arrived but it was worth the wait. We each ordered a cocktail- I had the Pleasant Peasant which is made up of Strongbow, gin, and a house made honey basil tea concentrate. It's a little sweet and very refreshing! We decided to split a few appetizers for dinner- we had the Cheese Plate (the roasted garlic spread is to die for!), the Charcuterie Board (we chose the prosciutto spread, country ham, and Broadway pate), and the Pint o Fries with a trio of sauces. Overall our experience was great and I will definitely be recommending this place to my friends! My one tip if you get the pate on the charcuterie board- try it with the apricot jam- it's delicious
(5)Nilav R.
This place uses local ingredients from local vendors. All menu items are accompanied with local beer suggestions, which I found to be very unique and creative. The actual food is delicious, I highly recommend trying one of their burgers, they are cooked to perfection!
(5)Baron A.
If we could have sent everything back, we would have. The mac & cheese had clearly been left in the oven or heat lamps for about 10 minutes too long, and all of the cheese broke-down into oil, so the result was twisting noodles soaking in 1 inch of clear hot oil. To their credit, when I showed it to them, they admitted it was a mistake and took it back; however, how can such a dish even make it to the table. Then, the chicken and polenta is an ill conceived dish. The dish is a chichen thigh and drumstick, polenta cakes, green beans, and a sauce. The problem is that the drumstick is literally sitting in the sauce; so, it is not crispy, and too messy to handle--therefore, you have to eat the drumstick with a fork and knife. But, the same grease problem that plagued the mac & cheese, killed this dish. The polenta was fried and shiny from grease and soaking in the greasy sauce. You could literally see the pools and trails of grease in the sauce. The green beans were cooked, and then oiled, and then cooked, and then oiled, and then cooked, and then oiled and then.... If they truly start with good local ingredients, then it is even a greater sin to coat it in oil and overcook it, because then you might as well be using Safeway ingredients. So, we used a fork and knife and separated the chicken meat off of the bones and then left everything else on the plate. The small amount of chicken that we separated from the small thigh and the drumstick was overcooked and rubbery. As a server, this is a major RED flag: a person done with their meal that didn't eat 9/10's of the plate's food. However, instead of asking "Was there a problem" or "seems like it didn't work out," or anything to acknowledge the uneaten meal, the staff simply said "are you done with that?" and took the plate full of food. Also, we ordered a glass of wine and the taste was horrible--it had the taste of wine that was in the box that your parents would drink. As with the chicken dish, we didn't drink any of it, and the wait staff never asked if there was a problem, and instead simply took the full plate of food, and ignored the completely untouched glass of wine. Lastly, they need to check their water filter. The water smells like an aquarium. I asked if they sold bottled water, and they said no. I would rather have unfiltered tap water, than water that is processed through an aquarium. Worst meal ever . . ..
(1)Ferzeen P.
Love the atmosphere, esp the back patio. I love the picnic table idea which is great for big groups or meeting new people. Pretty decent happy hour esp for wine. Ordered a make your own meat/cheese board and it was delicious. The Buffalo bison and cheddar were my fave. Everything is farm to table meaning you'll always have fresh food! Def coming back
(4)Kevin T.
I am on a roll for finding great eats lately and the Westside Local continues my good fortune! This is by far one of the best casual farm-to-table type restaurants I have ever been too. The grass-fed beef burgers are prepared to a pleasing medium and it was topped with pepper-jack cheese, fresh jalapenos, sliced onions, baby arugula and ripe tomatoes. The bun matched the freshness of the other ingredients. Served up with crisp Parmesan french fries and homemade ketchup which was amazing. I really like that they have a lot of local beers available too. I believe the prices to be pretty standard for a farm-to-table place. I am happy to say that I will be starting a new job that is only 1 mile away from here. You can bet I will be a lunch regular!
(5)Mykl R.
I Lovveeeeee this place! Found it on a whim after a day of thrifting at the West bottoms. And I am so glad I did! It is a cute, quaint place that has such delicious food. I sat at the bar (which is equally as inviting and cute) and enjoyed a late lunch with my fiancé. We both loved the homey ambiance and the service. We both had the buffalo chorizo tacos (which are now discontinued... Please bring them back) and the Mac and cheese! They were both heavenly. We can't wait to come back.
(5)Joey P.
This is a solid restaurant that we may try again sometime. We enjoyed Saturday lunch there. My hubs had the lamb chorizo tacos and I had the chicken kale wrap. We both enjoyed our selections but not memorable. The service was great and love the local vibe and atmosphere.
(3)Dina B.
Had reservations, seated with the setting sun glaring in our faces. Our request for a move seemed challenging to the staff, we did get moved to a great table, though. Place was empty on Saturday night. Bad sigh. Cheeses were served cold, too bad-great cheese. Pate had a rough texture and raw herbaceous flavor...ugh. Famous tomato and fennel soup was raw tasting and watery, didn't eat it. Service was okay. Kale and shaved Brussels sprouts salad was all kale, and not as good as in the past, sad. Finally, kale humus was flavorless. Won't return.
(2)Deva J.
Farm to table concept. Food never disappoints. Loved the grilled cheese sandwich! Seriously yummy! This restaurant also is supporting a good cause.....they are donating 10% of all who ate here today to the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society. How wonderful are they to do that? Amazing!!
(5)Gina M.
What can I say that's not completely scathing? This place was meh. On a night that wasn't crowded, it took us an hour and a half to be seated. This was after the host assured us it would be 10 minutes. Well every 10 minutes, it was another 10 minute wait. Not cool. When seated, we had a very apathetic waiter who could barely pay attention for the full minute it took for us to order. It took another 30-45 minutes for our food to come out. My grilled cheese and soup were hardly worth the wait and my husband's burger was nothing to be excited about. If we weren't treated so poorly and didn't have to wait so long for our food, maybe our experience would have been a little better. I'm sorry our business was a big inconvenience for you, Westside Local, we won't be back to bother you.
(1)Jennifer J.
Investing in an otherwise blighted, if emerging, area of Kanas City takes fearless leadership and an appetite for risk. The Westside Local graciously accepts the challenge with a fresh, innovative menu. Come for Blunch and enjoy deviled eggs and fresh beignets alongside sharp, local cheese and crispy crackers. The Apple Bread French Toast is a perfect if you're waking up with a sweet tooth; my boyfriend dove face first into a burrito and we shared strong coffee and mimosas. Rustic and elegant, the restaurant would be a perfect location for any special event and the seasonal outdoor seating is lush and accomodating. Adding this restaurant to my list of Kansas City crave-able food... can't wait to come back!
(5)JC A.
Grilled Cheese Worth Its Weight in Gold Went to lunch twice there recently and the grilled cheese was so good I got it both times. Not very imaginative of me, but The Westside Local did all the dream work for me with the rocking combo of "brie, emmentaler and shatto white cheddar on toasted sasha's baking co. sourdough, and tomato fennel soup for dipping". Note: Second time I was there, tried the Roasted Red Pepper soup with and loved it even more than the tomato fennel(and the tom fennel is wonderful!) If you have not tried their delicious deviled eggs, you must. They'rr the kind of dish you'd give as a housewarming gift if your deviled eggs sold on the black market for high dollar. Lunch partners got Westside Mac and Cheese( he proposed to it), Pork Belly sandwich(smelled so good we had sandwich envy). Fabulous food, great service and happy place to be all-around.
(5)Zane W.
Great, local food at a great price. Had a killer 750 ml bottle of beer without breaking the bank. Good service, too.
(5)Tricia H.
Okay I seriously seriously wanted to LOVE this place...but I didn't at all :(... I LOVED the neat ambiance and the oldness of this building.. It really reminded me of a big city artsy restaurant. Okay to the food ...The Bratwurst Trio was just okay nothing to write home about to be frank they were almost over cooked rubbery :(...I was so excited to taste the spicy pickle's seeing I LOVE pickle's especially spicy ones..another disappoint :( not spicy at all they tasted like garlic pickles outta a jar. The roasted beets were just OK too, nothing special....I really wanted to love this place but nothing really struck me with flavor or that YUMMMM factor for the price. I can say the Fries were bountiful and yummy.. I do plan on going back and trying many other items that are in the reviews...Maybe next time it will be better!!! Wish me luck
(2)Scott T.
Five stars, solid. What a delightful venue. We were checking several restaurants in the area for lunch but when we saw the menu here the deal was sealed. Why? Anyone using products from The Local Pig on their menu (one of our next stops for the day) is *really* serious about the food they're putting on the table. It shows here. A restaurant can get their products elsewhere easily enough, so why go with a small independent local butcher? Quality. The Local Pig is head and shoulders above the crowd in quality. Now, for the food... best french fries in town, hands down--a real surprise--insane. Someone message me where they're better because I want to go there. We split the cheese and charcuterie platter going for Gorgonzola, Manchego and Rosemary Goat for the cheeses and Rabbit Pate, Prosciutto and Andouille for the meats. Along with that came a marvelous Kale salad (picture included with review) and a couple of great beer selections. We spoke to a few other diners and everyone was raving about the food, and for good reason. The entire beer selection is exceptional, and the wine selection appears to be well thought out as well. The service very pleasant and was ahead of the game (more crackers with the cheese?), another beer? All OK? Appropriate, but not pushy, shared her experiences with some of the dishes. I'm in the area this coming Friday for the opera--no high brow dining for us beforehand. We'll be at The Westside. Keep up the great work!
(5)Gina M.
Great atmosphere with excellent food choices. Met a friend here for "Blunch" and loved the creative choices on the menu. The ingredients were very fresh, which is always nice. The grilled salmon benedict was a.mazing! My friend had the veggie hash, which also looked (and smelled) delicious ~ must've tasted delicious too, judging by my friend's face and the clean plate at the end of the meal.
(4)Stephanie G.
Disappointed. I've been told by many to go here. The hummus was way too acidic too eat and was served along with Parmesan crackers that were chewy and tasted like cardboard. The grilled cheese was average, not worth 11 dollars by any means. Way too much bread for grilled cheese, too. I especially liked it when our waitress asked me over my shoulder if I wanted to box that up as I was eating it. Will not go back.
(2)Rayni K.
Every now and then we are giant cheeseballs and crave cheesy meals. We had one of those days in Kansas City while we were at the Convention Center for a conference. So we took a little walk during the break and got ourselves the Westside Mac & Cheese and the Grilled Cheese. We were in cheese heaven. The tomato fennel soup that came with the Grilled Cheese was actually brilliantly tasty, and I normally dislike tomato soup. The side of fries was also cooked just the way I like it - crispy! We opted for the addition of bacon & shallots on the Mac & Cheese and they did not skimp on the bacon whatsoever. It was a cheesy bacon festival in a bowl. Highly recommended place to eat at. Service may be a tad slow, though.
(4)Madeline S.
I'd like to update my past review and share a recent dining experience. i had dinner with my brother and dad who were visiting, after taking them to Room 39 and Jack Stack the nights before. They decided that Westside Local was their favorite meal. They both ordered burgers, which were delicious. I tried the fries too and they were great. We chose several items to add to an appetizer plate - salami, spicy pickles, baguette, kale hummus and deviled eggs. Then I had the crispy skin trout. We shared a unique and scrumptious dessert, the strawberry shortcake, that was not anything like your average shortcake, it was more like a buckle.
(4)Dave L.
An ounce of pretension is worth a pound of manure. The food took an hour to come out and was not worth the $15 it cost.
(2)Jacy R.
Quiet enough to bring a client in for a handcrafted cocktail. Try the Black Lodge. House infused hibiscus flower tequila, dry curaçao, fresh grapefruit juice, & agave. They menu features many locally sourced options. It's a tad pricey for the area but it won't disappoint.
(5)Jacques C.
I've been here a good number of times. The good is always seasonal, always fresh, and always well prepared. I can't find anything to complain about except for an occasionally dippy server...and only very occasionally. I just had lunch there today and it was stellar. Granted the prices are a little higher than the normal lunch fare, but the quality is if a sufficiently higher quality to merit the price. Dinner is also superb.
(5)Stans S.
Being both vegetarian and a foodie can be challenging! I tried their winter quinoa, with Brussels sprouts, winter squash, kale, parsnips, walnuts, goat cheese and more and it was PERFECT! I had fresh fruit (pear, grapes & blueberries) for desert. What a fabulous meal! There is nothing more to say; I was so happy to find this meal!!
(5)Andria N.
As I realized that I frequent this place about once a week, I realized I need to update my review. I love Westside Local. Their food is ALWAYS spot on... You cannot go wrong with their ever changing specials or my old faithfuls of grilled cheese, french dip, or burger. Their snacks or Appetizers are a great way to start especially when you get their olives (They also have a great selection of cheese and crackers). And to top things off, their beer and wine selection is up to par!
(5)E H.
We landed at the Westside after falling in love with the neighborhood earlier in the day. Had great food, good drinks, and decent service the first night. The quinoa was subtle and surprisingly delicious, my $10 cocktail strong but tasty, and the olives were truly amazing. So buttery! The second visit was a little less thrilling, but still worthy of four stars.
(4)Susan N.
Decent beer list. Pretty good food. Awesome atmosphere and service. Met up with fellow yelpers, Lauren O and Tiger W, and hopefully future yelper Amy. We had hoped that this would be a good place to meet up with a group and it was. Whether you choose indoors or outdoors, you'll be absolutely delighted with the atmosphere of Westside Local. The inside gives off a classy bar atmosphere and reminds me of one of my favorite beer bars in Brooklyn. The outside has several communal tables and feels like you could be chowing down in a vineyard. Service was very helpful. We always had someone making sure we're ok and clearing away everything to make room for our endless samples. Garlic fries - Terrific fries. Really flavorful without the pungent taste garlic can sometimes have but without lacking that garlic flavor. Cheese plate - Like a little piece of heaven. I think I near devoured the cheese. A bit of brie, blue cheese and a semi-hard cheese, all with lots of flavor, served with a fig sliced in half, champagne grapes and three slices of bread. Beef ritte - I liked it but I could see how a lot of people wouldn't. If you like liver pate, you'd enjoy it. If you hate pate, don't order this. Deviled eggs - Personally I like mine a heck of a lot better. No relish mixed it and it had a very strong sharp mustard taste. Mexican chocolate cake - Personally wasn't crazy about it. I like the texture the pumpkin seeds gave it and the prickly pear sauce on which it lay but something was just off about the cake itself. Having had Mexican chocolate before, it was not really right. All in all, good, though, and I'd go back.
(4)Wylee S.
I had the grilled cheese and arugula salad and it was AMAZING. Best grilled cheese I have probably ever had. The restaurant is also very cool inside and it's in a part of town that I wouldn't normally think to go. I'm very excited to go back and try other things!
(5)Bob R.
It took me longer to make it in here than I had hoped, but it was worth the wait. This review should actually be 3.5 stars, because I definitely will be looking forward to my next visit. I loved the bar area, a very small, quaint bar with a great feel. It felt like an authentic Irish pub. The dining room, however, was a little too big, or spaced out, or something. I really can't put my finger on it. The flourescent lighting shining into the dining room from the kitchen should be covered up. For some reason the room just felt too large or too sterile. It doesn't have the warmth of the rest of the joint. The service was perfect, bordering on pleasant. Our server told us it was his first serving job, and I told him I thought he was a natural. He was relaxed, but attentive. The food was the real winner. The attention to detail really comes across. The salmon club was cooked perfectly and had fantastic flavor. My date's burger was also outstanding. We both loved the deviled eggs appetizer. While I don't know if I'll be back to have dinner in the dining room, I do intend to hit the beer garden for a Three Philosophers Ale, or to just hang at the bar and enjoy some outstanding food at a very reasonable price.
(3)H L S.
Excellent food, very nice rooms, we'll have to try the beer garden when it isn't so damp outside. Our server was properly attentive, but not in the way. He was extremely easy on the eyes too. Previous posters mentioned some service issues, but I encourage them to return now that The Local has been open for a few weeks. Everything we tried, the frites, the charcuterie, the salmon burger and the luscious grilled cheese sandwich tasted great and had good eye appeal. The frites were seasoned well, needing nothing else. Even so, sample the fresh catsup, it's first rate. To top everything off, the prices make it a great dining value for Kansas City. We'll be back often and will be telling all our friends about The Local. (Loved the tables in the main room, the table tops are made from uneven lengths of re-milled salvaged wood.)
(4)Dan D.
What is wonderful about this place is the ambiance and the quality of the food. I highly recommend the braised rabbit saison and I will be sure to try the grass feed steak and frites next visit. The outside area is wonderful and as the weather gets a little cooler it will be wonderful to sit out and enjoy beer and wine. I give this place a lot of credit the atmosphere inside is wonderful and the layout makes it wonderful for small or larger parties. Only thing I wish was reservations for groups smaller than 6.
(5)Josh C.
The food was excellent and fresh. The indoor and outdoor seating was unique and enjoyable. And the service was good. It's a very casual hang out type place.
(4)Mat E.
This is fairly new and right next to the very popular Blue Bird Bistro so we were excited to check it out. Good: - Burgers are amazing - Very different beer menu with many beers on tap (would be nice to have a few weaker beers for that lunchtime tipple) - Lovely outdoor 'beer garden' for when the weather is appropriate - Nice atmosphere inside - Decent menu - Friendly staff - Reasonably priced Bad: - NO RESERVATIONS FOR GROUPS LESS THAN SIX. So you have a choice of places to go on a date, or a special dinner. Do you want to hang around for maybe 30 minutes waiting for a table on a busy night? Not us, so we only go here for lunch - Friendly staff are pretty slow and not very knowledgeable, they don't have many recommendations or opinions on the food, drink, etc. - Pretty popular so be prepared to wait - Unusual area, never had any problems but looks like you might - Parking can be tricky We've been three times and will probably go one more time this year. Just a shame they don't take reservations for smaller groups.
(3)Anna S.
This is a delightful place in my dad's neighborhood. I've had some serious deviled eggs, intriguing cocktails, and lovely service. I feel this place does not get the attention it deserves, and I'm really okay with that. Let's keep it neighborhood-y.
(5)Eilene S.
We were here on mother's day for brunch and it was borderline poor. First our waitress was on slow motion- really slow motion. The restaurant was not very busy and yet it took forever to get refills on coffee. Often we had to flag down another waiter to get refills. They were out of 2 menu items, the french toast and a chicken dish, so I ordered the waffle. It came out luke warm and soggy. The "strawberry compote" was truly frozen strawberries that had been thawed. For a restaurant that bases their menu off "freshest ingredients and dining experience possible" that was very disappointing. My friends ordered the veggie hash and grilled cheese, both these dishes were tasty but also served luke warm. It took forever to get the bill and at this point (despite being mothers day) the restaurant only had a few patrons in it. Overall, very disappointing.
(2)Bridget K.
I'm all for supporting local business while divulging in great food, but when I went here I only felt like I satisfied half of that objective. The beer list was splendid as one would hope, and I went with my old girlie yet standalone favorite Ephemere because frankly I had a hard time choosing! I look forward to going back for more than just one drink as this is definitely a place for sitting back & drinking, but not for me in the way of eating. I had the grilled cheese which was good by all measures, just not great, as much as I wanted it to be from what I had heard about this place. Also, the fries are just so profoundly overrated I almost wonder if we got them on a bad night. I'm almost positive they use garlic powder because some of our fries tasted like garlic & others tasted unseasoned, which to me somehow feels cheap for the level of innovation in cuisine today. Also, they were cold & dry which could mean a couple of things: 1) our server was slow to deliver them, or 2) they're not made to order or at the very least not kept under a heat lamp, which the thought of isn't appetizing but preferable to just sitting in a well in the kitchen. The patio was lovely in it's simplicity and we went on a perfect day, so kudos to them for snagging a killer plot! I would've lingered there for hours but alas we had to be elsewhere. We were quite impressed with the interior of the bar area and the host desk, but that's all I saw of the inside. The crowd at the bar looked like they were regulars, quite comfortable & gregarious in their hipster-chic attire, yet eyed us as "new meat" carefully. I've heard through the grapevine that although the owners are cool and have the best intentions, I was a little disappointed to hear that they barely support local farms in their food buying, as I thought that would be a given with not only their name, but that that's the newest trend in KC non-corporate eateries, for example, The Farmhouse. I hope that changes, and I look forward to going back for the beer alone if nothing else.
(3)Josh S.
Don de Dieu - Gift of God. This BSPA made my visit to Westside Local even better. This is a great space to enjoy the approaching fall weather and have a drink with some friends, new and old. The setup with the picnic tables is a fun one and promotes good conversation and meeting some new faces. I did not have a chance to try out any of the food, but did eye a few plates that definitely will have me coming back to try. We had to move inside at 10:30p due to some sort of law? I'm not sure how long this will be in effect or if it's only temporary. Make sure you check this place out before it gets too cold outside and you can't enjoy the patio. PS - The Gift of God doesn't seem so heavenly the next morning.
(4)Jes S.
I can't say enough great things about The Westside Local. This is one of my favorite places to eat in Kansas City. I love that it is somewhat casual however the food is fresh and local. When visiting the Westside Local you can always count on your favorite staple menu items or seasonal favorites..no matter what you choose you cannot go wrong. Everything including the sauces are made in house and the ingredients are extremely fresh and local. One of my favorites is starting off with numerous items from the small plates. At $2 each you can't go wrong with the devil eggs, fresh cheeses, fruit, chorizo, bread,etc. Another favorite menu item is the basic hamburger and my go to order, the grilled cheese served with a side of tomato soup and fries. If you are looking for more savory, the mac and cheese is delicious. They also have a great selection of craft beers and worldy wines. With weather permitting, they have a great outdoor 'beer garden'/patio that is a great place to spend time with friends enjoying a drink. The Westside Local is a must!
(5)Jennifer C.
We had a large group (7 adults plus a toddler), and they accommodated well. The atmosphere is casual but cozy; I'm looking forward to coming back when I can try out the patio area. My boyfriend and I ordered two burgers and shared, and both were delicious! The fries were also awesome. My only complaint when it came to the food is that it seemed like they were out of several items, which limited their menu.
(4)Liz H.
Love, love, love their burger! One of the best around. And the fries with aioli made in heaven by angels. Great looking building and good service. If you want to feel urban and hip, iron your jeans and head to WL.
(4)D H.
My wife and I had the burger and were both very satisfied. I really enjoyed the French fries and the beer selection is pretty good. A couple of the wait staff were using a long table as a ping pong table....needless to say, it's a fun atmosphere.
(4)Lindsay S.
So I went back with my GF the other day and our experience was a complete 180 from the glorious experience we had last time inspiring me to write a Yelp review novel on their brunch. We went for brunch again to find out that they had changed chefs and the menus have completely changed (both brunch and dinner) The little things like farm to market bread is no more and the menu has been dramatically reduced. What upsets me also is the prices, for 12 dollars you can get a veggie succotash- but if you want a egg on that add another $4.... A $16 dollar brunch dish? No thanks. Both of us felt our dishes contained a ridiculous amount of oil. Or previously fabulous potatoes were now swimming in grease and both of us decided the Westside Local dream had died and we will not be back for lunch. What a bummer. I do not know what they messed with a good thing. Cause it ain't good anymore.
(1)Shalia S.
I attempted to give Westside Local another try after a horrible first experience. We arrived to our dinner reservations to meet up with friends. The hostess did not walk us to the table but did a vague flailing motion and returned to her work. We searched the dining room and found our friends. A few minutes into chatter, the waiter announced himself to the table and fixed the unbalanced table. The condensation from the AC unit was still dripping on our party and the table but we decided to ignore it. Light bulbs were burnt out above tables and some of the tables needed additional attention. It seemed a precursor as to what was to come. After reviewing the menu, we opted for some appetizers and quickly ordered them to get the dining experience off to a start. A member of our party requested from the waiter a sparkling non-alcoholic beverage. The answer was more of an unprofessional response. Our waiter, Chris, promptly informed us he did not know if it was an option and proceeded to explain his personal life of having too many jobs and not knowing the offerings of each restaurant. A better response would have been to check into it and return with a few options. After a few minutes, the party had decided on entrees for the evening and awaited the return of the waiter. Each of us had decided on unique plates so we were able to critique the food. A summit burger, braised short ribs and baked mac and cheese were decided upon. However, once our waiter returned to the table, we were informed that as of 6:45 pm, only a few orders remained of the tenderloin, braised short ribs, and mussels. Whether it was an attempt at upselling or the truth, it was quite disappointing to be forced to reserve their dinners and hope for the best. The appetizers arrived to the table- a selection of beets, baguette, house pickles, and gruyere. The plate presentation was appealing and the food quality was acceptable. If only the level of food quality carried over to the main dinner. It was challenging during the course of the dinner to get anyone to refill water glasses or tend to the ordering of additional drinks. Only a handful of tables were occupied during our dining time. We were all quite baffled as to the level of service we received. The main entrees were quite interesting. The braised short ribs were delivered to the table and the food plating was appealing. However, the cheddar mashed potatoes were cold and the kale was overcooked. The short ribs themselves were tender but did not offer much flavor. The baked mac and cheese was the most unappealing entrée. The meal did not have any flavor and tasted more like a box mix than anything. Upon informing our waiter about the dismal food quality, no apology was offered, nor was a suggestion of trying another food entrée. Overall, the lack of customer service was appalling. Not only were we open about our food concerns but the waiter was aloof to the desire to fix the situation. The plates were still full of food as they were being cleared off the table and it was evident that the dining experience was a disappointment to the group. The lack of customer service continued on to the presentation of the check. The check presentation was the final closing chapter of the decision to not return to the restaurant again. It was obvious that our party was made up of two couples yet the waiter brought one check. As we started to divide the bill up ourselves, the waiter reappeared and we had to convince him to split the bill. I would definitely recommend a quick lesson regarding customer service, attention to detail and anticipating guests' needs. The food quality was poor and lacked any evident flavor. The dining room had more empty tables than occupied and we fought for getting drinks and the customer service and attention to the table was subpar. I would definitely recommend others to not waste the time or money to experience a restaurant that obviously needs some tweaking. The improvement of food quality as well as customer service would help this location out greatly!
(1)Stacey P.
Loved the simplistic yet warm restored warehouse atmosphere. Eclectic beer and wine list for a small joint. My 9 yr old loved the grilled cheese and my husband nearly licked the bowl after his quinoa feast. Feeling like a light lunch, I had the spinach salad with salmon and wasn't disappointed, though it seems the more adventurous choices were more rewarding for my family. Was able to sample the deviled eggs based on other yelp'd reviews and I would 2nd those recommenations! A unique twist on the old traditional snack. No trouble with service, in fact our waiter was quite helpful and accommodating, though there were only 3-4 other tables occupied... it was 3pm on a Saturday. Enjoyable lunch, hope to make it back.
(4)Zhanna S.
The food is nothing to write home about and is overpriced. Nevertheless, we've gone there quite a few times to support local business. However, our last visit was the last time we've gone there. It took forever for us to get our food. Our appetizers arrived almost 35 minutes after we have ordered them. The entre was another long and excruciating wait. We were ready to take our dinner "to go." It was definitely a slowest kitchen in town that night (week night) and they were not even busy!
(2)Taylor W.
Love this place! Great atmosphere, local beers, and delish food! Will definitely be back upon my next visit!
(4)Holly L.
Great atmosphere, OK food, ridiculous prices. My son and I are always on a quest for the best grilled cheese sandwich and had heard about how amazing theirs is, so we stopped by to give it a try. We were both disappointed. To start, the slices of bread are ENORMOUS -- almost too big to get your chompers around, and the cheese had absolutely no flavor whatsoever. The fries, however, were crazy-good. My husband got the cheeseburger and loved it. An over $50 price tag for lunch without alcohol is a little excessive. Won't be going back.
(1)Kackie C.
Really love. Moving to Kansas City from a gastro-heaven like Austin I had a self-inflicted chip on my shoulder about the eats in KC. Westside Local was the first place my boyfriend took me to that really started to turn me. Not only is the food delicious (anything with the garlic fries. Dip them in the jus.), but the wine and cocktails are unique and delicious, and THE SERVICE IS GREAT. A+ from me.
(5)Stephen H.
This review can't attest to the quality of the food...my family came to visit from the East Coast and we brought them to this local food joint to try humanely raised KC steak. Unfortunately they were out of steak since they only buy local meat when it's available. The waiter was apologetic and extremely understanding when we said we'd have to find another option. I think it speaks to the quality of the restaurant that this situation was handled so well and that they stick to their core values.
(5)June K.
The tapas, especially the pecans were absolutely fabulous! A definite, don't miss. Also, they had one of the best grilled cheese sandwiches I've ever had, great cheese combo on buttered sourdough, though the tomato soup was a bit too sweet and not as flavorful as I would've hoped for. Can't remember the names but had the chorizo and some sort of pate that seemed like bologna and another sausage like dish. The sausage was pretty good and my friends really liked the dates. They are famous for their deviled egg and homemade ketchup, neither of which I thought were out of this world. However, their service was good and the manager was especially accommodating and catering to a small group event we had upstairs. A definite return location to try everything else on their tapas menu!
(4)Lindsey S.
Quinoa, Quinoa, Quinoa. The most amazing meal ever. Thanks yelpers for the recommendation.
(4)E S.
Excellent! My party of three had the pint of fries to start, then for entrees, the quinoa, the seared salmon, and the burger. All were fantastic. I was a little disappointed with their draft beer selection, but luckily ended up loving the one I ordered, Abita Turbodog. The laid-back mood and cool, minimal setting were perfect for a hungover Sunday afternoon. Our server was both cute and professional. I'd definitely go back!
(5)Kim N.
Jason was a great waiter. Super food. Will go back for sure. Very eclectic menu. Deviled Eggs, Olives, Prosciutto, Cheese all on the app menu. Grilled Cheese sandwiches, Hamburgers, Salads, some of the best salmon I have ever had. Over 100 beers. They have a great Russian Stout. Loved it.
(4)Nicole W.
Great food and excellent service, would highly recommend for in towners and out of towner!
(5)Richard R.
What a gem! Westside Local looks cool, sounds cool, and is has the vibe that my favorite places in my home Portland (or anywhere) have. I automatically felt comfortable here as the waitress brings me a Boulevard Single Wide IPA that is at a perfect temperature and goes down smoothly. I ordered the garlic hummis appetizer and pan seared Colorado Striped Bass - both specials for the night and not generally on the menu. First off, hummus was perfection and the slight grilling of the pita bread was a great touch. It had just a kiss of grill "juice" and scent to it too - nice. The bass with leaks, shitaki mushrooms, and tempura sweet potatoes - well, unbelieveable. Not even going to try to explain it, just get it if you see It on the menu. I'm generally a man of few words and to the point! Get the point? Thanks for the recommendation KC yeeps.
(5)Joe C.
First off, I love the neighborhood that Westside Local sits in. It has an energy different than any other part of town. Secondly, the food is amazing! Deviled eggs, oh yeah! The olives, mmm hh. The beer selection, amazing. The grilled cheese, oh so comforting. The garlic fries, again, the garlic fries and house made ketchup!!! The decor is cool. I'm in love with Westside Local.
(5)Scott D.
A sophomore visit to the Local, -results: Friday at lunchtime the place was bustling. I ordered the Carbonara-something, my wife the vegetable stir-fry with chicken added to it, -they were both very well done and pretty tasty. Service was pretty good considering they were slammed. The interior is very chic. However, the place was SO LOUD I was tense from the get-go. After we gave the waiter our order, I dashed to the car for a pair of foam earplugs, then I was able to sit with a bit more serenity. I know, I know, -I'm a little crazy about noise, and wearing earplugs in a nice restaurant is downright eccentric. But the acoustics at the Local are all hard surfaces, almost solely brick, wood, and glass, and conversation requires a distinct and concerted effort. If I ever go back, it will be during off-peak hours.
(3)Danielle W.
This place is great! I love the patio and selection of beers. The food was very good, I had the chicken sandwich and could not finish it. It is a little pricey, but a wonderful little find in Kansas City, especially on a nice afternoon!!
(4)Luke N.
My review from a few months ago was only four stars--but this time it was a rock solid 5 starts. Mainly because of the mussels which were so delicious and in such a unique broth--not wine and garlic heavy like many--but still packed with fresh flavor. And then, there was the steak frites, which was absolutely amazing. This place is definitely on the top of my list now...
(5)Jack O.
white wine and grilled cheese= the best meal i've had in a while my girlfriend shared some bratwurst with me another time and it wasn't as good. served cold. the only reason i am 4-starring this place. just have some riesling's order a grilled cheese. trust me
(4)Margaret D.
I have never had service this bad. Restaurants can be awfully busy which can slow service. Slow service is one thing, slow service with a bad attitude is another. Dirty table, cold food, no service; what can I say? Remember: don't say anything or you'll be told: "I don't want to hear it." Why is no one watching to see that food goes out while its hot or at least warm? I don't want to judge the food because it wasn't served hot and I didn't eat much of it. On the positive side, the restaurant with its exposed brick walls is inviting and the beer list has something for everyone.
(1)Jenny M.
This really is one of the best places in Kansas City. The food is always fantastic, fresh and local. I love the snack options, cheese, fruit, deviled eggs, olives. Oh the olives, how I love the olives. Each visit I have had to the Westside Local has always been better than the last. The mussels were to die for as was the black & tan quinoa which was cooked to perfection. My husband seems to always order the roast beef sandwich with the molasses au jus, I myself do not eat a lot of meat but the bites I have had of that sandwich dipped in the au jus, boy that molasses au jus is something else.
(5)Sam C.
Only had drinks here, but enjoyed the atmosphere and look forward to trying the food out.
(4)TL M.
Snottiest staff EVER. Not sure I will go back. Tried to sit outside and order a bottle of wine. The server asked if we were having food. After hearing "no" he told us to go get our own drinks. Horrid. We left.
(1)Rich S.
Had a fantastic dinner here. Very good atmosphere when you walk in the door. We were seated promptly. The menu was fantastic. The spinach salad with blueberries, peaches and salmon was outstanding. Make sure you try the deviled eggs. We will definitely be back.
(5)Mad C.
I love this place and I've only had an appetizer thus far. The sardines were tasty, but I'm giving this place 5 stars for the space alone. I didn't notice any service issues, but I was sitting at the bar and the bartender was someone whom I know to be a professional. I looked at the rest of the menu and it was right up my alley with the grass fed beef. I'm going back on Sunday to check it out some more. I wish this place had been open when I lived in da hood.
(4)Chris J.
This place is awesome. We went on a saturday night. The patio was open. Let me begin with parking...there is a small parking lot behind the building otherwise there is street parking. The servers are attentive and don't rush you nor do they care if you are there for dinner, snacks, or just drinks. They take the time to explain the menu and offer drink suggestions if you can't decide. The food is fantastic because it is fresh with local ingredients and though small has excellent variety. There was nothing wrong with this place other than more people need to know about it. So everybody tell your friends to meet you at the westside local!
(5)Brian C.
I will save my breath on this one, there is not much to add that the previous +40 reviews have not covered. Good, local, worth the trip. Stop by and enjoy.
(5)Kerry K.
Found this place on Yelp while I was in town and it was great. The space is gorgeous with a lovely back patio with communal tables, a perfect place to get together with friends and have a drink. The menu was also full of really interesting choices. I got a beet salad with soup and my friend for small dishes of different meats and cheeses. The owner sat down with us later and chat with us. They apparently just moved back to Kansas City to open the place. Great place to hang out with friends after work. I was really impressed.
(5)Mark S.
Past experiences here have been excellent. I recommend then when they do their groupons or for Taste of Kansas City. Their steak and chips are awesome, and they have a huge selection of beers. I enjoyed their unique salads and desserts in the past as well. I'm noticing an increasing lack of service each time I go, however. This past weekend was one example: 1. I fell through a chair on a rotted-out back patio that they have, immediately when sitting down. The owner and waitstaff were mildly apologetic, but asking me if I'm going to sue them BEFORE asking me if I'm ok was pretty rude. They didn't even do anything to try to make my experience better (maybe a beer or an appetizer or dessert for the table would have been nice!). Learn some courtesy instead of mocking your guests, please. 2. When we asked what we should eat, the waitstaff told us about their specials and recommended items that they liked, and then told us that they were out of these! Why tease us with your "best dishes" if you don't have them to serve us! Rude! 3. Some dog of the owners was jumping on the tables and stretching out all over the peoples' food; then it got into a dogfight outside, then came to our table begging. I'm sorry, but at the prices we pay at this place, I'd rather not have some scrappy mutt disturbing my dinner. I'm a dog-lover, but please let me enjoy my dinner, thanks. 4. It got dark; it took them about 25 min and us asking TWICE to get a few candles to our table. Seriously, The Westside Local, you need to improve your customer service and courtesy to your patrons. Shame on you! (Also, PotPie's mussels blow yours out of the water!)
(2)Tyson S.
Wife and I split the special: Jerk chicken BLT with parmesan fries. In-credible. We will be back...soon! Back patio is perfect in nice weather.
(5)Amy R.
Gosh I love this place! We had our belated holiday dinner here last week and it was phenomenal! The service was outstanding. We arrived one at a time and he had no problem getting each person a drink as they sat down. Food was great: rosemary hummus and french fries were divine! My salad was lovely. Such a fun funky atmosphere. Love it.
(5)Wayne F.
Our first time at WL and it was really good. No reservation but were seated right away. Our waiter was attentive and knew the menu well. Lime and Lemon non-alc drinks were good. I ordered the angus beef burger, which was very tasty (albeit a little too much dijon), and great fries. Portion (the burger) could definitely be a larger. My gf had a veggie burger which turned out to be also very good. Loved the place and location. 4 out of 5 because although our food was very good and I would recommend it to others, it simply wasn't amazing.
(4)Randy D.
This is one of the few gems for dining and hanging out. Try it you will love it! Great menu and libation choices.
(5)Daniel H.
I thought my GPS was sending me to the wrong location but remembered somebody took a picture of the restaurants sign. I saw that as I slowly drove by and found parking. I don't think you will have problems finding street parking because there was plenty; in addition, walking almost never hurt anybody. lol I was here for a CMYE (Community Manager Yelp Event) outside in the patio area and our waiter was nice and helpful. He helped me decide on the kind of beer that would be good since I've never been here. I ordered the Boulevard Dry Stout (normally $5 but it was $3 for happy hour) and the Summit Burger ($11). The Boulevard Dry Stout was good and I wouldn't mind ordering it again but there were other drinks on the menu that I want to try because it sounded good. I didn't pay attention as to how long it took our food to come out because I was chatting/listening to everybody at the table. I know that everything came at once so that's good. My Summit Burger was pretty good and the only thing that was kinda ehh for me was the dijon vinaigrette sauce. It had an interesting taste especially on a burger like this. I still added it to my burger even though it was kinda ehh for me. lol The fries were pretty tasty and they gave me the right amount. I saw a couple of us order the Deviled Eggs ($6) and I didn't try those but they looked good! I stayed after all except one Yelper (Lilian O.) left and I sat while Lilian and her fiance (also a Yelper) ate their dinner inside. The inside had fewer tables and seats and it was busy! I think it was around 9pm? or something. I guess everybody was off from work and came here to eat dinner. Good place to eat and drink!
(4)meli l.
This is a go-to restaurant for us; the food is consistently good and the staff is friendly and competent. Usually we go for dinner, and this weekend we decided to stop in for brunch. While the night staff is excellent and the food consistently some of the best in Kansas City, our brunch experience was mediocre. We were seated outside, in spite of the fact that it was raining; there's a slight shelter over part of the patio, but several in our party got soaked before we were able to readjust, and there was still a lot of dripping throughout the meal (including onto our food). Our waiter took a long time to show up to take drink our orders, then disappeared for over 15 minutes before taking our food order. The food quality in our party varied wildly. Folks who ordered half-orders of biscuits and gravy got plates of food the same size as those who ordered the full meal; the biscuits were fluffy and flaky and the gravy was delicious. The grilled cheese plate was generous and the Belgian waffles perfectly cooked. On the other hand, those who ordered the vegetable hash with Hollandaise were given less than a cup of the hash with a tablespoon or so of sauce. Absolutely outrageous for $12, and on top of that, it was lukewarm and the potatoes in the hash were undercooked. We all agreed that Westside Local is on hiatus for us, brunch-wise, until they get the staff and food situations under control.
(3)Sara D.
I never realized this place was so popular and I'm thrilled I got the chance to try Westside Local at the latest CMYE. There is nothing better than sipping wine at a picnic table surrounded by vines, on a beautiful evening, while chatting with your favorite people. Our server extended Happy Hour for our group. I got some kind of white wine for $4. I ordered the grilled cheese for $10 which I consider far too expensive, but found the grilled cheese much tastier than Eden Alley's. Westside Local's dish also came with a side of tomato soup and a choice of either potato salad or french fries. Katie was kind enough to share one of her deviled eggs with me, and it was absolutely delicious! I enjoyed chatting with Katie and Rhonda and watching David and Susan's dog sniff around for any wayward crumbs he could find. Westside Local's Beer Garden is a lovely area. Our service was excellent. I found the food to be too expensive and wished the menu was a bit more extensive, but overall I had a fabulous time!
(4)Ben S.
Terrible service. Water wasn't refilled the entire night, became the running joke of the evening. How many times could we ask for water and be ignored. At dessert time one of our party was in the restroom so we asked if the waitress could wait to share the dessert options till everyone was there, especially the expectant mother. Waitress says I will just tell you the options and you can remember and tell her. The drinks were tiny. Margaritas were literally about 2/3 full in the cup. We asked for a full drink and the manager came out and offered to fill them up with fruit juice. Dinner was mediocre, not bad, but nothing special. For dessert we got an apple tart. It came out like a soup. I really think they might have forgot to cook it. Will not be going back.
(1)Kirin A.
This is probably my favorite restaurant in the city. It's tucked away in the cute Westside neighborhood, definitely a hidden gem. The food is delicious and the drinks are great too. I'm a big fan of the grilled cheese. The service can be a little so-so if it's too busy, but that doesn't keep me away. The patio is great during the nice weather as well.
(5)Dan J.
I have now been many times and may soon call myself a regular. Now that spring is finally here I'm looking forward to the patio dining. Never disappointed here. Even taking my customers here for dinner.
(5)Samantha L.
I guess I get the appeal, but I am just not as into it as so many of my peers. The food is pretty good but pretty expensive. Cool neighborhood, great house-made ketchup. The outdoor area is pretty good if you don't mind picnic benches and smokers. I guess I just think it's a bit over-rated, but I find myself there pretty often because it makes my friends happy.
(3)Stephen H.
It was the end of the academic year, and for my teaching company, that meant an end-of-the-year celebration. Brandon was nice enough to accommodate our group of 15 and we had come up with a special menu beforehand for 3 courses and two beers/wines/well drinks for $30. Our waitstaff was excellent, the food was well done, and the dessert was AMAZING (a granola-chocolate concoction with some creme fraiche): Thanks Nina!!!
(5)Boris Y.
Came for a quiet birthday dinner with a dear friend on a Thursday night. Perfect atmosphere for what we needed! Made a reservation online - fairly easy. The wait-staff wasn't overly attentive - SO refreshing! - they refilled our drinks when necessary, gave great recommendations, and weren't too overly or underly perky. JUST right for a quiet night out. The drinks were good, but nothing spectacular. We ordered the "Fernet Me Not" and "Black Lodge." Parmesan fries with different sauces as an appetizer: BRILLIANT. Presentation was clever, taste was everything you'd ever want in a French fry. Curry Quinoa - spectacular. Windhaven Burger - spectacular. Chicken Tortilla Soup: not the best, more like chili. But each item we ordered was so cleverly original, it really didn't matter. Lemon custard almond cake for dessert - to die for! All in all a GREAT experience! More expensive than I usually go for... But was NOT disappointed in the slightest.
(5)Jen D.
I felt compelled to update my Westside Local review after eating there again last night. This time around, our server, Phillip, was quick and attentive. He was fantastic, actually, as last night was one of those sought after nights of drinking, eating and conversing at a relaxed, leisurely pace. Phillip didn't rush us at all, and made a great recommendation for an appetizer (ask him about building a cheese plate, you won't be disappointed!). The appetizers and entrees were great. I stuck with comfort food by ordering the grilled cheese sandwich (the stuff dreams are made of), and the bf had a burger. Sorry, not just a burger, but the "best burger he has had since he can remember". We both really enjoyed our experience this time and will definitely put the Westport Local in our rotation. Per Joi's recommendation, I look forward to relaxing in the beer garden when the weather decides to be consistent.
(4)Amanda R.
My friend and I went here for happy hour one weeknight and I was thoroughly impressed with the cheese plate and the beer/wine/drink selection. I thought I had found my new favorite place! I brought my boyfriend in that Friday for date night and was excited to try the dinner menu. I got my nice glass of white wine and he got to try their bourbon selection - which he found a couple new ones he might buy. We ordered the Trout and a Burger. It was just ok. The burger was just a burger on a nice bun with some good fries on the side. The curry alioli was a welcome change from ketchup or ranch. But again, nothing to squeal about. The Trout was pretty good, but the bed of additives it was on did not complement the trout at all and made the entire dish bland. Oh well, perhaps I'll just stick to happy hour!
(3)Zach K.
I'm on a trek to find the best burger in KC. The Westside Local's was a contender, and it truly is one of the best in the city. My recommendation is to NOT do the "uptown" version (adding the glaze + mushrooms) -- It's fine as it is! Everything is locally sourced and fresh. Perfect weekend dinner spot or weeknight dinner after a long day at work.
(5)Jessi B.
A cluster. Snooty hostess started off our evening, someone needs to teach her to smile. We sat at the bar while waiting for our table. We each had a nice cocktail, we were seated quite quickly and I asked if our tab would be transferred, a different hostess said yes. As we were having our appetizers the bartender came and asked us to settle up with her. Ok, that's why I asked in the first place. We had the cheese plate which was pretty but no wow pairings of cheese and accompaniments. I had the trout, it was cooked well but over salted. The beet root risotto was a flavorless mush. My co diner had a burger that was very good. We never had our empty water glasses refilled. I was never asked if I wanted another cocktail. Plates weren't cleared until I put my napkin on my plate and walked out. I definitely won't be returning. I love the atmosphere and space but the service we received turned us off for good. Edited to add, the waiter decided we didn't tip well enough so added an extra $10 to his tip on his own. The restaurant did refund the money, but nothing else to compensate for their employee committing a felony. I'll be letting everyone I know about this one.
(1)Angélica W.
An old college friend of mine visiting from Chicago, my husband, and I dined here on a Saturday evening. We were lucky to grab a table even though initially we were told they were all reserved. The atmosphere was calm, intimate, and artsy. I liked the charcuterie plate - having never had Braunchweiger before, it is a delicious meat treat! And gotta love those crackers. My friend ordered a Manhattan, which I sipped a bit of and thought it was quite nice. I ordered a cocktail on the menu - Rosemary Regatta - but was not impressed. It was a bit too sweet, and just about zero rosemary taste shined through. No matter - dinner was soon served. I left thinking I should have gotten the grassfed burger or the grilled cheese sandwich like my dining mates did. But, wanting to stay at least slightly Paleo, I got the mussels. They were good, but I wasn't dazzled. And one of them I had to spit out since it tasted too much like the sea. Those fries that came with my husband's burger = AMAZING. We ordered coffee at the end of our meal, which was presented very nicely, and kept quite full by the staff. Our server was lovely, too bad I don't remember her name! :( And our water glasses were never left wanting. You should try it! Depending on what you order I think you'll probably have a great time. My friend from out of town said he wants to go back. That's all a restaurant can ever ask for.
(3)Charley B.
I finally made it out and gave The Westside Local a try and while I think it's a solid restaurant it just didn't live up to its hype. I stopped in for brunch and what really stood out were the biscuits. Amazing. I ordered the biscuits and gravy and another in our party had a bacon egg and cheese biscuit. Both of us couldn't stop talking about them. The mushroom gravy over my biscuits held a good flavor and was nice and thick. Another party ordered the french toast, which were seasoned well, but fell apart way too easy. I was a little disappointed in the service. Our server scoffed a little when all of us decided to stay with water as a beverage. I also ordered a egg to go with my meal. The server asked if I wanted scrambled, I told her over easy, but she still brought me scrambled. I didn't send it back, but I was disappointed she didn't write my order down. I'd like to give dinner a try sometime because I've heard some of those dishes can put you in a coma but I'm not sure if that will be any time soon.
(3)Christyn K.
I only heard of this place because someone had given me a gift certificate, stating, "It's a foodie place - and you seem like a foodie." Not knowing what to expect, I made a reservation for two for a Saturday night. When we arrived the hip little place was no where near full, though the hostess was turning those without a reservation away. We sat down near the back of the old store-front turned restaurant layout and admired the local art on the walls while watching the place fill up at an enormous speed. Though the atmosphere at first seemed snoody, our server was personable and very patient with us as we read over the menu at length. The options were awesome - appetizers are create-it-yourself cheese plates with humus or bread or olives :) I ordered a bunch of cheese and bread and an entree of mac and cheese with sweet potato (I can start my diet tomorrow). We enjoyed a few drinks with our food and left perfectly full but not stuffed. As we were leaving we noticed a huge line waiting to get in. Sure glad we made online reservations through Yelp earlier that day (a super easy step which made the whole evening possible). I can't wait to show this place off to my out-of-town friends here.
(5)Shannon S.
No matter how many times I go its always an exceptional experience. Saturday night I ordered the beef entree. Everything was cooked to perfection, especially for a take out order. They didn't fuss about items being in a to go box, which suited my recovery from Friday night perfectly. Love this place!!
(5)Carol A.
I'm a happy camper after having lunch at The Westside Local today. It is always fun to find a "new-to-me" place where I know I'll want to make a return trip because there were so many good choices on the menu that I couldn't try them all. Today I chose A Vegetable Sammy that was wonderful with portabella mushrooms and lots of other sliced veggie goodness and picked a wonderful spicy bean soup which was the daily selection as my side. Even the whole grain, hearty bread (from Farm to Market) was exceptional. Hubby got a Summit Burger and fries and Sis ordered a phenomenal looking Grilled Cheese with a cup of tomato fennel soup for dipping and some yummy looking spiced roasted potatoes as a side. Both got compliments from the diners and had me plotting a return trip. Everyone was too full to order dessert but I'd like to save room next time, as there were a couple, including a bread pudding, that sounded intriguing. The restaurant space is all exposed brick and has a soaring ceiling and there were a series of beautiful urban paintings on the walls that just popped and seemed to complete the feel of the place. It was a good lunch and I was very happy to find another good place to eat on Summit. (Which is becoming one of my favorite destination spots in the city.)
(4)David A.
This place has been on a downward spiral for me. I've been here 5 times. 4 out of 5 times food were misses. However, here is what is going for it: Great service, great ambience in the beergarden and the patio dog friendly. I've really enjoyed their drinks and they have quite a good bartender who knows how to mix them up well. Would I come back? Yes, to hang out with friends and my dog at the beergarden and enjoy some drinks. Food? I really have given up.
(2)Samantha N.
Oh. My. Goodness. My husband and I ate dinner here the last day of our KC stay and we ended up very full and very pleased after our meal. The restaurant has a wonderful atmosphere for a low key date. I had the Lay, Lady, Lillet (orangy/basily) and a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon to drink and I ate the mac 'n' cheese with bacon and shallots with wild abandon. It was so amazing, I nearly stuffed myself sick. I helped myself to a few bites of my husband's Grass Fed Burger, which we agreed was one of the most flavorful, delicious burgers I've ever tasted. My only complaint is that they had run out of almost all their desserts. They said we'd have to come back for some creme brûlée next time, but, seeing as we live in Denver, it will only be in our dreams.
(5)Mary M.
Great! A lazy post st paddys day evening found blondie and I looking for some interesting eats. Westside local was exactly what the doctor ordered. Based on reviews, I was expecting uninterested and slow service. Nothing could be farther from the truth! On a busy Friday night, we bellied up to the bar rather than wait for a table. The bartender was great and gave lots of information about the menu items and food preparation.... I love that! In summary....Everything said of the deviled eggs is true. The tomato fennel soup is good, but Id whir it up a bit and kick in some additional. The arugula salad is amazing with the matag bleu bits, roasted grapes and pumpkin seed brittle. However...... The quinoa is the closet rockstar on the menu!! It's a rollercoaster of flavor! Roasted squash, cherries, haricot verde, Brussels sprouts, shaved Parmesan! Forget rollercoaster, this is a pinball game going on with your tastebuds! Add a perfectly cooked piece of salmon (yes, perfectly medium!) and your tastebuds are doing the dance of joy! Next time, I'm trying ...umm... Everything. This is a place I will return to till I've tried it all. P.S. Because we were at the bar, several of the servers talked with us while waiting for drink orders and they were all very friendly pleasant engaging folks. I can't imagine getting poor service here.
(4)Lee R.
This is the perfect "Go To" place. The menu is small, but I still have a hard time deciding what I want every time I go. The inside atmosphere is pretty cool - nothing amazing, but unique. The outside space is what really gets me though - it's awesome. Huge picnic tables and a fenced in, covered area. I'd recommend this place for happy hours, business lunches, or dinner and drinks. Probably not the best venue for any more than 4 people.
(5)Mel h.
Initially seated by window, blazing hot. Manager asked us to stay and moved us to a much better spot. Saved our night.
(5)William R.
I took my girls (3 and 6) out for a fancy dinner, for them, and we were treated very nicely by the staff at Westside Local. Our host was cordial and seated us quickly, with crayons and paper. The room is somewhat noisy, so some kid noise wasn't overly disruptive. Our waiter offered to split the mac and cheese (which is a large portion) for them, in fact he suggested it. I had the crispy pork belly which is one of the tastiest things I've had at a restaurant all year. I'd love to learn the secret of the crispy outside and decadent inside. Wow. Great selection of draft beers, and craft bottles. I've been here many times, and it seldom disappoints. The inside bar is very cozy, great place for a grownup drink. The outside beer garden can not be beat in warmer weather in Kansas City, in my opinion. I can't say enough how nice they were to this (for the night) single slightly overwhelmed dad and small girls.
(5)Mnason M.
So how the hell did I not know about this place sooner! My older brother, Jachin M., told me about this gastropub because I tend to like gastropubs a lot. My wife and I went there on a Sunday afternoon. The place was pretty quiet. In fact, the bartender was our waitress in the main dining area. I believe her name was Jenna. I must say she was excellent! I think she could tell my fancy for beer. Therefore she answered my questions in detail along with giving suggestions and provided samples basically without even asking... They had some good beers on tap, so if you combine that with their bottled list then you have quite a selection! We started off with a strange, but fitting, appetizer of bacon and scrambled eggs. Good start. Then we ordered a couple of Summit Burgers. My wife did customize hers a little bit but mine was OEM. What I have to say... what an awesome burger! Perfectly cooked rib-eye burger at medium, juicy, and the arugula with melted cheese on top was a great addition. The Garlic Fries were great too! I was disappointed they were out of Deviled Eggs which is one of the items they are known for so I'm not sure how that works... I do plan on making a second trip in my future so hopefully they have them next time. Summary: - Great food! The Summit Burger was awesome! - Great beer selection when you combine taps and bottles - Great, and helpful, service! - Out of Deviled Eggs during my visit which made me sad - The location is a little on the rough side. So stay in a group or don't wander around aimlessly. And lock your car (-; - Highly recommended so far. I hope my next visit is as good if not better
(4)Lisa K.
I've been told by numerous farm to table foodies that I MUST try Westside Local so I attempted to dine there on a Sunday night at 6pm.. no reservations. Walked in with my group of three and was told they didn't have any available tables until 8:30 pm for dining inside or the patio. I looked around and noticed five open tables, rolled my eyes and moved on down the road to La Bodega for sangria ( LOVE their sangria so the night wasn't a complete loss!) Attempted to go again (glutton for punishment I guess) but went on a Saturday afternoon at 1pm.. Once again plenty of indoor seats and outdoor seats available and was granted a table. Maybe they noticed the snarl on my face and decided not to mess with my twice. We dined on the patio and sat on a picnic table. Our hippy waitress who wore her sunglasses over her glasses (is that now in style?) took her sweet time coming around to take our order (the water filler was ON TOP of making sure our glasses were full at all times. Yeah!) We ordered two deviled eggs ($2), rosemary hummus and crackers as appetizers ($4). All were delish and devine. Our Entrees of choice included a magnificient large kale salad $11 (walnut tahini dressing, shaved cauliflower and sauteed shallots) and we added chicken $6. The salad was amazing however the chicken was bland, blah, boring, dry.. etc. but I needed some protein so.. oh well. Hippy chick took her sweet time bringing our bill and we were ready to bail since our bottoms were hurting from being camped on a picnic table for over an hour.. Go for the kale... bring a cushion for the patio. all is good.
(3)Zack Y.
I had been wanting to give the Westside Local a try for awhile so when my dad came to visit me here in KC I figured it was the perfect opportunity to impress him with some of the cool and interesting restaurant options we have here in KC. It ended up being, well, just okay. It was a very busy Thursday night but we were able to get seats on the (totally beautiful) patio with literally no wait at around 7:15. Our server was able to take drink orders but the manager came by to make sure because apparently she was taking care of a large party inside. The manager dropped off our drinks and took our food order. Apparently there were no specials or anything, which I was surprised about, and the chicken was unavailable. Cocktails ended up being fine. Nothing special or super-impressive, but at least when you order something there you know what to expect. Our salads came out super-quick despite how busy it was. A few bites in, though, the manager came out with our entrees. He apologized and told us that it was his mistake, not our servers. That apology was as far as any attempt to make sure we were cool with this mistake went. He didn't really wait for a response from us. No discount or anything. I'm usually pretty laid back eating out and so I didn't make a big deal out of it, but as I was sitting there eating two courses at once I realized it was pretty detrimental to the experience I had. I had to eat quicker so my trout wouldn't get cold, the flavors of my salad didn't work well with anything else, it pretty much changed the dish, and not for the better. I didn't want to make a big fuss about it but looking back I sort of wish that I had. That said, if not for this mistake the food would have been excellent. I'm pretty sure, anyway. I can at least say that the trout was cooked well. We stayed for dessert--some brownies baked with local figs. They came out on a single plate with a single mug full of milk, which would have been fine if not for the fact that we were sharing dessert and that I'm lactose-sensitive and the server forgot to mention that they came with milk. The brownies themselves were delicious, though. Our server was friendly and attentive and the food was great, but silly mistakes sort of kept us from having the five-star meal I was hoping for. I might try going back before the rush instead of after it next time.
(3)Roger D.
The Westside Local will keep you on the Right Side of good health! They serve gourmet Local Fruits, Vegetables, Meats, Fish, Breads, Beers, Wines and Desserts. The Service is phenomenal, friendly, personable and professional. Their Sunday Brunch will make your Day. You will want to return with your Family & Friends for many memorable meals.
(5)Rachel B.
I want to give this restaurant more stars, but I just can't. The food has been really hit or miss for us the past few times we have been. The "hits" we have had In the past were the chicken sandwich, mac and cheese, and their burger. all were fantastic. However, we went on Saturday, and had a horribly disappointing meal. I tried the Halcyon mussels, the broth had a weird bitter after taste. I didn't even use the bread to soak up any of the broth, that's how bad it tasted. Husband had the pork sandwich, which was nothing special, just a bland, boring sandwich. Our friend had the quinoa dish, which was also completely bland. What an over-priced, disappointing meal. My advice: If you are a risk-taker go for it, you may happen to have a great meal! But if you don't want to risk spending good money on a mediocre meal, there are so many better restaurants in the area.
(3)Jillian C.
Out for a ladies night, we hit up this joint for some upscale food and fun. I had the kale salad and the andouille sausage soup. Both were good, though I was expecting greatness. I liked the sausage but only got one piece in my whole little tiny bowl. The kale salad was yummy too but a bit dry. It came out looking like I wasn't expecting. The kale leaves were torn into rather large pieces and then it was topped with a combo of shaved brussels, almonds, parm, fried shallots, brown sugar bacon, and a maple-tahini dressing. So it felt more like brussel sprout salad (in the style of a deli chicken salad) on top of some dry kale leaves. In retrospect, I could have done without the kale and just had the brussel sprout part. Still though, I think the flavors were there. The saving grace of dinner was a nice glass of red wine, generously poured, and the bread pudding with cranberries, oranges, and chocolate chips. I could...and actually mostly did...eat the whole thing myself. I was worried it would be much too fruity but it wasn't. The orange and cran flavors were assertive but you got enough of the chocolate to make it feel dessert-like enough. Well balanced dessert.
(4)Sofie C.
The food was delicious. We had a party of 6 and we all ordered a variety of things. Everyone was pleased with their choice. Our server was great. She brought my girlfriend dessert for her birthday and when I received the bill, she comped it! She didn't have to do that, but she did. Great quality food, nice atmosphere. You can have a nice date night with yummy food and a bottle of wine for under $60.
(5)Jangs J.
Local: We've loved you for two years, but you're slipping. Last night stunk to the tune of my having to wake up early on a Saturday and write a yelp review. Damnit, Local. So, there's the stuff that some people get bent out of shape about--like the waiting 20 minutes past the reservation time for a table and the being seated without a drink menu and the bad live music and the general cacophony of it all--but not me. (Except maybe the music. Holy crap. What was that 20-minute repetition of the same scale thing about?) It's the food. It actually stunk last night. The giardiniera was crap--like cauliflower sitting in Wishbone Italian salad dressing. My grocery store makes a better giardiniera. The deviled eggs were good, as usual, but did they have to show up literally french kissing the dish of gross giardiniera? And the barbecued chicken sandwish you served my wife, that was so gross. The pretzel bun seemed to have come from a wet t-shirt contest just before serving as the soggy, pasty base of a mound of bland shredded chicken. We'll be back, but not before you think about what you're doing. You enjoy a good rep and can probably survive a few bad reviews from people who still come to you for food and not just for social capital. But do you really want to be that restaurant?
(3)Kyle G.
Went in for lunch after reading previous reviews and was lucky to have a get a table on a Wednesday afternoon. Great concept of simple, clean, local foods. Ordered the Cuban sandwich with sauteed greens for a side. The pork in the Cuban was perfectly cooked and was nice and moist alluding me to believe it was cooked today and not re-heated. A little pricier for a lunch, but you definitely get the quality you pay for.
(5)Dana C.
I've been wanting to try this place for awhile. Thanks to Groupon, I was finally able to try it last Sunday! It was a dark and cloudy night...no seriously, it was a perfect, intimate evening to spend at Westside Local. My date and I arrived around 6:45PM. We were seated promptly. The decor and atmosphere were right on. I sat on the booth side of the table, not the most comfortable, but it was clean. I enjoy clean restaurants! My boyfriend and I had looked over the menu before leaving for our destination so we knew what we wanted. I ordered the grilled cheese on a friend's recommendation, and he ordered the BLT. I had a feeling there would be a bit of a wait, but we weren't in a rush. We each also ordered a beer. I forget which beer we ordered, but it was quite tasty. We waited almost an hour for our food, no joke. It didn't feel like an hour, so I'm not complaining. My grilled cheese tasted just as amazing as it had been described to me, and the garlic fries complimented it well. Super silly, but I need to mention it. My sandwich didn't come with a pickle on the side. I love pickles. The customers seated to to the left and right of me both ordered the same dish as me, and they got pickles. Yeah, I took note - don't judge me. All in all, it was everything I expected it to be. The restaurant is a little higher in price than I can normally afford (understandably, it's local and delicious). I will definitely be back once I have some extra $$.
(4)Jessi H.
I hate to write a bad review because of one horrible experience, but i'm going to. this restaurant used to be one of my favorites. so much so that we had our wedding night dinner there. last friday, we showed up at about 6:30 without a reservation. the hostess couldn't even look us in the eye to tell us how long of a wait we would have (even though we were willing to wait over an hour or more). instead, she said things like "well, it's going to be very long" and "um, yeah, you don't have a reservation?" (they had at least 7 empty tables at the time. ) Lucky for us, a couple was just leaving a table in the bar where we were told we could eat dinner. We sat. We waited. The service has always been slow, but this was ridiculous. We finally ordered a couple glasses of wine, which were nice pours and good wine. Then, I chose to order the kale salad described as kale with shaved parm and crispy prosciutto. to add chicken or fish was $6, but i did. And then, I waited for my $16 salad. You guys, SIXTEEN DOLLARS. My salad and my husband's sandwich were delivered to our table by a server from the dining room. She was so rude to me and gave me the bitchiest look I'd ever received that I actually had to ask my husband if she was a former girlfriend of his. When I asked for salt and pepper, she brought it out, threw it down on the table, turned her back and stomped off. Now let's talk about the $16 salad. It had one 1-inch size piece of crispy prosciutto. ONE. I paid $16 for a handful of kale, 3 shaves of parm, 1 inch of prosciutto and a 2-ounce portion of chicken. I'm sad because I've had so many other experiences there that have been good, but this was horrible. You know what they say about first impressions. Well, it's also true for sixth impressions.
(2)Brandi C.
I want to give The Westside Local 4 stars, I really do, but so far they're really only a 3 1/2 star place in my book. Not because of the food, which is really, really good, but more because of the service. Allow me to explain... We've been in here twice now. Once for dinner, and once for lunch. Both times the atmosphere has been great, the food has been great, and I have absolutely nothing to complain about there. The servers, though, have been apathetic, forgetful, and somewhat inept. I've also felt somewhat rushed both times. Maybe it's the super tight skinny jeans they all seem to wear? Maybe I'm just more discerning now that I'm Yelping about my experiences? I don't know. The first time around we had to ask about any specials, but then things went pretty well until dessert. (I had salmon, and it was cooked perfectly. My husband had the Roast Beef sandwich, and he loved it.) When it came time for dessert we were game to split something, so our server told us what was on offer for the evening but neglected to mention that what we ordered included a large amount of strawberries. (Don't know how you forget to include that in the description of the dessert? It was a pretty major ingredient.) This would've been a deal breaker for me, since I'm allergic. Instead, I think I got one bite of non-strawberry contaminated dessert and had to watch my husband enjoy the rest on his own. Sad, I know. But apparently it was good! On our most recent (lunch) visit, we were handed menus, given some time to look over them, and then asked what we would like (pretty standard, really). Of course, I ordered the one item (Chicken Salad) that they were out of...apparently the server was just hoping neither of us would want that. (Really. He actually said that.) *SIGH* Might have been helpful info to tell us they were out of that option when handing us the menus, huh? So, instead I opted for the Grilled Cheese with tomato-fennel dipping sauce, and my husband got the Roast Beef sandwich (again), both with fries. I also ordered an iced tea...which came with sweetener or sugar as needed, but nothing to stir the tea with, not even a straw. I ended up just using my knife, as the server was nowhere to be found. The sandwiches were great, the fries were garlicky little bites of potato heaven (you do need to like garlic, though!), and the tomato-fennel dipping sauce made the grilled cheese excellent. All in all, it was a perfect lunch...if only the service would've been a little more clued in. Will we be back? Yes. Will I continue to hope for better service? Yes. Would I still recommend Westside Local to other people? Yes.
(3)Leland M.
Food: Tasty burgers, Diverse beer selection Atmosphere: The vibe in Westside Local is relaxing. The interior is full of dark tones and simple yet beautiful shapes through contemporary design with a slight eastern flair. great atmosphere!
(4)Layla R.
Best restaurant in KCMO hands down. Great food. Organic, healthy, fresh food. The ambiance is just right with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick walls, it's inviting and warm while still keeping an upscale vibe. Also, the food is delicious and the service is fantastic. Best spot in KC without a doubt.
(5)Robert L.
We went to lunch on a lovely late spring day and got right in at one of the shared tables in their courtyard. There was so much sun I went back to the car to get our hats and sunscreen. When some guests left we moved over a bit into the shade under the grape leaves. Our service was quick and pleasant. The food was perhaps the best we've had in KC. We shared the arugula salad with the restaurant's buttermilk dressing, and their grilled cheese sandwich, probably the best I've ever had. This was served with amazing French fries what were seasoned to perfection including some Parmesan cheese and the restaurant's own ketchup for dipping. It was all finished off with a horchata coconut granita and chocolate truffle dessert. This was perfect. It made for a great lunch and we'll certainly be going back.
(5)Kelly S.
My favorite lunch date friend and I decided to try a new place last week and we landed on Westside Local! Everything we had was awesome. I ordered the veggie burger, which I was told was new on the menu, along with the soup of the day- chicken tortilla. The burger didn't have a normal burger consistency but the taste was awesome. The soup was more brothy than creamy and had crunchy tortilla strips in it. We both loved it! My friend got the pulled pork sandwich that comes with cole slaw on top and the flavor made me feel like we were in an actual barbecue restaurant. All in all- great food, cute place, not too expensive. Two thumbs up!
(5)Logan Locke B.
If you follow my reviews, you know I evaluate the service just as equally as I do the food. The qualities of both are very important to me as a customer. Not often do restaurants match up to 100% in both categories. Lucky for you, me and Kansas City---WESTSIDE LOCAL is the place for outstanding service (ask for Jason) and incredible food! I was at a table of 5 & everyone enjoyed their meals immensely (several times throughout the meal it was verbalized how delicious the food was), the wide variety of beers, wine & cocktails, and the delicious biscuit bread pudding (that was more like the very best strawberry short cake I have ever had). Might I recommend any of the salads with salmon (perfectly cooked), quinoa (with so many flavors), grilled chicken sandwich, "Best Burger In Town", and DEFINETLY, MOST DEFINETLY if you love tomato soup, you must not walk out the door without trying the TOMATO FENNEL SOUP!
(5)Monica A.
I went for brunch with four girlfriends about a month ago. I was excited as I'd heard and read great things about The Westside Local. The restaurant only had a few other tables sat when I got there, and we went to a cute picnic table on their back patio. Here's where things start going wrong. I'm not going to get in to the specifics with how poor the service was because even now, weeks later, it still annoys me to think about. Our server was incredibly inattentive and inappropriate. Do we want to know that you went on a bender last night and that's why you've been so MIA? No. Now I can't stop wondering if you've been puking in the bathroom in your hungover, sweaty state, and you're touching my plate, which makes me feel ill. Never mind that the food, once it did come out 35 minutes after ordering (I wish I was exaggerating), was delicious. I had the egg & bacon biscuit and wish somewhere I enjoy going to would duplicate it. I also couldn't believe that the manager didn't notice (with so few patrons in the restaurant) that our service was beyond poor and we were clearly distressed sitting there, waiting.... and waiting for our food. I do think I'll try it again and hope for a better experience, because I do like supporting local restaurants and food providers. But if I see that server in the restaurant, I'm out of there and never looking back.
(2)Nicole K.
What this place gets right, it gets really, really right. The deviled eggs have a devilish kick, and the mac and cheese is worth every single calorie. The service is always friendly and personal. The appetizers and localities are tasty and fresh. The quinoa is delicious. The bar is cozy and inviting for hanging out with your friends. The patio is perfect for a warm spring night. The ambience is warm and comfortable. Just a few quibbles. The bathroom door was too small for my buddy to get into in his wheelchair (not cool), and both times I've had sandwiches here, the bread was greasy but not flavorful. So as long as you're not bringing a good friend with a disability here or wanting the grilled cheese, this is the place to be.
(4)otto h.
I really enjoyed my kale salad without bacon and cheese. Had a nice vegan lentil soup, too. Glad there are a decent number of vegan options on the menu, but wish there were some vegan dessert choices!
(4)Jon N.
We had an excellent meal. They had a nice selection of food. The menu online was a little different than the one that they were using when we were there. Overall it was great though. We had a nice bottle of local wine and some amazing food.
(4)Brandy C.
I have been here to dine on two different occasions. The restaurant is nice but nothing unique. The food is okay but definitely not worth the price. The mac and cheese was fine...but $15 for mediocre mac and cheese is a bit crazy. Service left a lot to be desired as our waitress was quite rude, in my opinion. My friend and I both sat with empty water glasses for some time. There are definitely better options in the same part of town.
(2)Amanda G.
I generally tend to think of Westside Local as more of a place to drink than eat, but that may just be because of my more recent visits and the fact that the beer garden is incredible on a warm summer night. However, it is one of the great places around town that offers delicious, thoughtful options for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. For brunch, the veggie hash is a tasty combination of veggies, potatoes and hollandaise sauce that makes you forget it doesn't have any kind of breakfast meat involved. The grilled cheese sandwich on the lunch/dinner menu is a must try, with an amazing dipping sauce that is reminiscent of tomato soup. The garlic french fries are some of the best fries I've ever had, and the deviled eggs are spicy and fresh-tasting. The impressive beer menu is what keeps me coming back, and the happy hour prices are competitive to other, less cozy and sophisticated settings. I love the tiny bar area (off to the left when you walk in) probably more than the main dining area. It gets crowded, but it feels friendly. As I said above, the beer garden is one of the best outdoor restaurant spaces in town, but when it gets crowded be prepared to be patient when ordering food or drinks.
(4)Katie C.
Alright, this is probably my favorite restaurant I have discovered in Kansas City!! My husband and I have gone numerous times alone and brought family and friends. All the dishes I have ever had here is fantastic - Burger, Grilled Cheese, Spicy Chicken. Definitely get the mashed potatoes!! Good selection of hand crafted cocktails. Great ambiance in a terrific neighborhood. Great place for a date or to celebrate a special occasion. The only reason I am choosing 4 stars over 5, is the price. Make reservations :)
(4)Bill B.
I went there expecting to be unhappy --- very unhappy. I am a pesco vegetarian, and the online menu looked like a turnoff. Also I usually prefer wine to beer, while Westside Local emphasizes its unusual beer selections. To make things worse: when I walked in, the hostess immediately informed me that the blackened tuna on the menu was not available that evening. Groan. Well, I was already there, so I figured I should give it a try anyway, and maybe go somewhere else afterwards for food I might like. Was I ever wrong. This place blew me away. I had four courses: peanut soup, a beets salad, garlic fried potatoes, and sliced pears. I had a glass of each of three different interesting wines, and a double espresso. The server, Jason, was exceptionally considerate of my somewhat unusual preferences, and everything was first rate. The decor is Greenwich Village/Montmartre, and they evidently have live entertainment many evenings starting at about 6 pm. If I were in the market for art, I'd be more inclined to buy what is on the walls here at reasonable prices than what I often see on the walls three blocks to the east in the Crossroads Art District at less credible prices. There is a parking lot directly across the street and another one behind the restaurant. It's because of places like this that I like KC so much. Otherwise I'd spend more time in Lawrence.
(5)Kimberly V.
The grilled cheese sandwich was the best I've ever had! I also would highly recommend the potato salad!
(5)Layne R.
Delicious. Stopped in for a late lunch and was not disappointed. Had the Summit Burger. 1/2 lb of meat, wilted arugula, Emmethaler (sp?) Cheese, a tasty vinaigrette and a side of garlic fries. All of it was great. Atmosphere is laid back and service is friendly. If you are near the Westside, I highly recommend stopping in. Updated: I've since been back a couple times and the Summit Burger continues to deliver and the fries are excellent. The first time I went the vinagrette/aioli whatever it is that came with the meal and I dipped my fries in was amazing. AMAZING. the last two times it hasn't been quite as spectacular which makes me a little sad. Still all good, but I really want that amazing taste again. It was SO good.
(4)Tj P.
This place is A ok. The deviled eggs are ok but not outstanding, they did not invent them you know. The hostess had a stick up her butt. The waiter was great. All in all a yes.
(3)Jim X.
Westside Local. Where to begin? Locally sourced, yes. Fresh flavors, no doubt. Original, definitely. Seasonal menus ensure there's always something new to try. Take their Winter Quino. Packed with flavor and fresh earthy veggies. Top that with your favorite protein and it's heaven on earth. Bottom line, if you're in KC and looking to branch out of the ordinary, this is your spot.
(4)krysztof n.
Flavor. It's why we eat. Let me rephrase that: It's why we ENJOY eating. I'm no foodie. Call me a "Flavor Savant", perhaps? I know that when it goes in my mouth, it better fire synapses of delight in my brain and satisfy that pit in my gut that needs sated. And what have I found over the years? It's no surprise: food grown locally, fresh to table, served with love in an environment of warmth usually tastes the best. Especially if I'm not the one cooking. I ended up here the other night after the KC Crossroads Artwalk with Local Diners and Appreciators The Fellow Gentleman and his gal The Fashion Plate while The Dame was out of town (and sorely missed by us all), and we weren't disappointed. Each of our plates (and drinks) was amazing, and what made it even more so was that our server took the time to field our many questions about WHY it was so amazing. Our time there was too short, however; I would have loved to stayed longer after the meal, maybe enjoyed some desert or another drink, but alas it wasn't in the cards. I can't wait to take The Dame back for another round, and to see how she reacts when that same quality of flavors hits her tongue.
(4)Jason C.
This is my first visit to this little gem. Really nothing to complain about here. Very quaint, comfortable spot. My server was very friendly, and gave just the right amount of attention. I started with the deviled eggs (very nice). I then had the quinoa burger, with the house tomato fennel soup as my side. Both were very fresh and delicious. They boast a farm-to-table menu here and they definitely seem legit. I will return.
(4)Jocelyn R.
I've had drinks at the Westside Local before but this past weekend I finally got to eat dinner there and wow - such a home run decision that was! I will definitely be back soon. Drinks and appetizers were perfect - I love roasted garlic so was excited to see that on the menu along with a lovely cheese plate. I ordered the grilled cheese and fries which was an upscale version with several kinds of cheeses and a little cup of tomato soup for dipping. My husband ordered the pork belly which he said was delicious. The service was great and the prices were reasonable. Go there.
(4)Bailey W.
Unfortunately, after having been wanting to try The Westside Local out for many months, we checked it out and had a pretty disappointing experience. I'll start with the good. My boyfriend ordered a burger and said it was good. The deviled eggs weren't bad either, but Beer Kitchens are exponentially better. The limeade was good though. Now for the bad. The grilled cheese was just average. There's so much bread that I ended up taking off one slice. I noticed that there was something in it that looked like a piece of paper or something. Eventually the waitress came back and informed me it was the rind of the cheese and that it was edible. Then she took away my meal without asking if I was done or would have liked a box for the deviled egg and tomato soup I had left. Also the ketchup(?) was a bit runny. The service was what was really disappointing. Besides the fact that she took my food away, she also never brought my boyfriend the lemonade he ordered. After bringing our food, she never checked on us until we had already finished, despite there being only four occupied tables and her checking on the table right next to us twice. It's a shame since I'd been looking forward to trying it. Had the service been better, I would be willing to give it another shot and try something different on the menu.
(2)Renee H.
If it is a warm day, sit outside. Seriously. This a great restaurant to discover and enjoy Paleo food.
(4)Tracy K.
Totally awesome place! The food is amazingly good, everything we've had has been so full of flavor. It's a can't miss! Call for a reservation is a best bet to eating quicker. Bar is small so not much in the way of eating in there although we have done it before.
(5)Callie E.
Here's why I love West Side Local: Strong focus on local brands and/or produce Hip, urban atmosphere Consistently delicious food - vegetarian and vegan friendly (yeah!) Service hasn't disappointed thus far West Side Local is the one place in town (ok, I kid, there are maybe four) that I can recommend to my friends and confidently know they will enjoy. A few of my favorite dishes include: Quinoa Broccoli Burger, Roasted Carrot Soup (holy Sh*t - I hate soup, but love this), Tomato - Fennel Soup (again, read note above) and Kale Salad (minus bacon). It's places like this, that make moving back from The Bay, an excellent decision!
(5)James H.
Pretty good. I really liked the bar and the outdoor seating. The fries were amazing with the garlic aioli and habanero sauce. My fish tacos were pretty good but I've had better for cheaper. My whiskey sour was not what I think of when ordering a whiskey sour. It was more of a whiskey lemonade/iced tea. Pretty good selection of specialty beers as well.
(4)Reed N.
I was so damn close to giving 5-stars. So close. Just the texture of the burger was the difference. Let me explain... but first know that it you want a good burger you can pull the trigger on this place without hesitation. You see, I am a burger guy. It is a last rights food for me. Beef, fat all ground into a juicy patty of goodness. On a bun, Farm-to-Market brioche no less. Chopped jalpenos. Aioli. Arugula. Out. Of. Control. The only thing not perfect about my southwestern burger was that it was a little too "tight" or patted together too long. Other than that... this place nailed it. The fries were a crispy treat, and were flour dredged or something. The coating was light and they stayed crisp in my take out box for 10 minutes. I know treated fries may be blasphemy to OCD spud lovers out there, but get over yourselves long enough to taste something purely on its own merit. There are no rules in cooking these days unless you profess them as part of your business model. Which Westside Local does do on a different plain... in their name. Much of the ingredients are local sourced. : )
(4)Daniela G.
Ladies night was just kicked up a notch! The drink were amazing, our server was super helpful with the menu and suggestions and the food delicious. I can't wait to bring my boyfriend here! I gave on less star because of the snooty little hostess who not only spent the entire time we were there playing on her phone but dismissed us when we asked for a table away from the door because we were really cold. Other that her this place is one of my new favorites in Kansas City!
(4)Carly F.
One of my favorites in KC. The service can be slow sometimes and the wait staff a little snooty, but the food and drinks make up for it.
(4)Adrn H.
I read the reviews prior to going, and I really resonate with those put-off by the service. Local is by no means a new fad, but that doesn't mean you need to half-ass it. I mean you don't need to go all Portlandia on us and offer a dossier on our meals, but please gratify me and explain how my sub-par BLT was locally sourced. (Or my husband's mussels, for that matter.) As a bleeding heart, I can concede a little quality if I know a little bit of the story. But from Westside Local? Nothing. No stories, mention of local farms, just a hastily printed (and soggy) menu. Additionally, the critiques of service are dead-on. I found the waitstaff detached and unconcerned with our experience. The host took us to a booth where I immediately sat in a HUGE water puddle and soaked my dress. When I asked the server for an explanation, he gestured up and mumbled "uh, yeah, that happens a lot." Evidently they're okay with the AC dripping condensation on patrons during their meal. The food? Mostly uninspired nu-comfort food. Drinks were expensive and watery. If you go, I'd stick to the pint o' fries and a table not under the AC ducts.
(2)Kathleen M.
Many grateful thanks to fellow Yelper Ken B for steering me here. I owe you a recommendation! We came here for lunch after a great visit at the National World War I museum and it was the perfect place. We were still chewing our experience at the museum,the horror of war, etc. and needed a calm oasis of good vibes and better food. Faster than you can sing Over There we were exactly at that oasis. Our waiter was super friendly and answered all my questions about the area, the neighborhood, etc. I had the chicken sandwich which I would have cheerfully saluted. I also adored the potato salad. We split the mini candy bar dessert, too much for one but perfect for two. Such fun to come eat at a fresh, healthy place and it was a great contrast to other places we had visited. My only complaint about Kansas City is that we have to go home tomorrow and haven't seen, done and eaten everything we wanted to. Thanks for such a great time!
(5)Clifford S.
This was a darn good meal - great burger and the best fries I have ever tasted. The waiter promised they were and he was right. We liked the whole package - the neighborhood, the ease of street parking and the good food. It was friendly; like the whole city of Kansas City. I hope the Cubs play here again so we can come back to the city and this restaurant.
(5)Christine H.
Food was awesome! Service was great. One of the best veggie burgers in town. Creative food, great atmosphere and quality food.
(5)Ken B.
My partner called and made reservations at Westside Local to take Granny out for Mothers Day. We arrived, stated our name and got the look of Who What Where are you sir!!! Well, he had made it for the following Saturday. Not what you want to hear when you have a hungry grandparent with you. Without missing a beat, they made us feel welcome and found us a table to be seated at. So nice. The waitress (which I regret I don't have her name.....though she is the one pregnant with twins) was more than fantastic. Personable, funny, knowledgeable, attentive and professional. Really, the best kind of waitress you could ever hope to have. The attentiveness and slowness of the waitstaff had always been the problem for me at Westside Local, but as of my last handful of visits, that is a thing of the past. The food was still amazing. Fresh and flavorful. The menu has gone through some downsizing but all of the favorites still remain except for my favorite beer that I had discovered here, but there are many more options for me to happily try til I discover my new favorite. The atmosphere is still one of my favorites in the city and I look forward to some great spring/summer nights out in the beer garden. I think my partners mistake of making the reservation for a week later than what we were planning will not be wasted......we kept it in place and will happily return in a week to have another great night out. Thanks Westside Local!
(5)Derek T.
Easily in my top 3 favorite restaurants in KC. Must go!
(5)Rhonda S.
I feel as if I'm one Yelper behind the rest, as I had never visited Westside Local till last night. I attended a Yelp event, but I am reviewing the restaurant. Being a bit budgeted for food money last night, I can't see spending 13.00 for a sandwich, period. 11.00 for grill cheeses? Well, it looked good. I'm trying to decide between 3 or 4 stars, and the prices bought the review down, not the atmosphere or service. One person can easily spend above $20.00 on a meal, and to me, $20.00 can buy alot of other things. Their food is produced locally, which might account for higher prices. We sat outside, under a wooden roof, I think this was a beer garden. I love places that have outside areas like this. We sat at a picnic table, with vines around us, with bamboo plants, and vines on the roof of the garden area. We were presented with menus, which didn't surprise me of the prices. They extended happy hour for us, making the cheapest beer $2.00. It was PBR, and I happen to like PBR. The next cheapest thing ont he menu was French fries, with house ketchup and aioli sauce, which I ordered. Katie D. raved on the deviled eggs, I was surprised of the price being $6.00. (I don't eat chicken embryos), but was expecting them to bring a plate of several deviled eggs, yet, it was only one egg, in half. Later I was told, it was $2.00 for an egg, which is sitll expensive to me. Sara, Katie and Treesha, around me, all had the grilled cheese. The grilled cheese, which I considered, but was very budgeted, were 11.00, and were presented with salad I'd never eat, and something else. The menu increased in price, and the cheeseburger that Daniel had, (he was sitting next to me) though it looked good, was $13.00. The grill cheese looked really good, but not the salad with it, or the other offering. And I might want to go back for it. But i'm sure I'd be paying for the salad, which, though I lean vegetarian, cold vegetables aren't on the top of my list to order. They offer Quinoa, which Joi says is really good. I wanted to order it, but couldn't. I mean, how does WSL price their food? Too high. I cannot ever fathom a sandwich over $8.00. Especially a hamburger, which I doubt I'd ever order. At this point, I need to mention it was Lilian O's last Yelp event here in Kansas City, and she is the one who introduced me to Donna's Dress Shop. But the place is cute, has charm, and good service. It is dog friendly, as can be verified by Colt, the cocker Spaniel who owns David and Susan. Colt had a joyous time when the waiter accidently dropped some food. I certainly enjoyed the company, and my fellow Yelp friends. I like the location of WSL, but the prices might turn me away. .
(3)Lindsay P.
Okay, so this is a bit random...but I LOVED their ketchup. It has a cidery taste that goes perfectly with their amazing french fries. I'm hoping to come back on a future trip to KC to scope out more of their menu, but the beer and wine list are pretty rocking, and they have some great small dishes if you're just looking for a tapa-esque experience. Our server was also great with suggestions as to what to drink/try.
(4)Joi B.
This place just hits all the right spots. It's been a year since my last review and because the star rating doesn't get any higher than five, so my rating remains. But! There have been some changes here, subtle, but great. And yes, I do realize some of the small plates are no longer on the menu, but maybe when in season, they'll reappear (sun chokes... anyone?) Regardless, I like what they have on there now and we tend to get the same thing, parmesan and the aforementioned Castelvetrano olives (the K gets his beloved prosciutto and being that I grew up with the stuff being on many a Sunday dinner's antipasto, WL's is the bomb). The quinoa is better than ever. I swear it has improved and I'm not even sure how that's possible, but I'm craving it right now. All those delightful textures and flavors. It's the ultimate. The real reason for this update, though, is to note that I love sitting in the bar area the most. Because I suck at planning ahead and rarely make reservations (it's true), the last several times they asked if we'd mind sitting in the bar. Now, I normally *loathe* sitting at those high tables and chairs. I can't put my finger on why exactly, but let's just say I feel like I'm sitting in a highchair and I don't recall ever liking being in a damn highchair even as a child (I was born sophisticated, what can I say?). At Westside Local, however, if I'm not sitting out on that divine patio, the bar area is where I want to be sitting! That bartender is one of the best servers in the city, I've found. Not only can he whip you up any drink you desire, but he also is "on it" all the time: manning the bar, serving the three or four tables in his section and generally just being awesome. So, there you have it. My updated review for one of my favorite places in town. I'm especially excited just thinking of sitting out on the patio in the upcoming months. Bring it on!
(5)Kelsy M.
I am already looking forward to coming back to The Westside Local. The ambiance is great and the food was delicious. I definitely recommend the kale salad. I have never had a salad so delicious in my life, I need to get the recipe! The reason I gave it 4 stars was because I also ordered the mac and cheese with my kale salad. I wish I didn't order the mac and just got a bigger salad, that's how delicious it was. The mac was pretty good, it wasn't the most amazing mac I have ever had. I think it lacked some salt and I think they should have used a stronger cheese, it was very mild tasting. Perhaps it's just a personal opinion, but I like a little more pizzazz to my mac.
(4)Nicole B.
Since I love restaurants where the food is locally sourced, I'm not sure how I haven't dined here sooner. The decor is simplistic and not over done. Local art is displayed on the walls. Service was attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly. Good beer selection as well. To start, my dining mates and I shared a cheese plate and charcuterie plate. We let our server decide on the meats and cheeses. He did an awesome job at doing that! The Beemster cheese and Rabbit Pate were outrageously good. I also loved the roasted garlic on the cheese plate. For my meal, I went with the Crispy Pork Belly. I was expecting a larger portion, but it was still delicious. The polenta was creamy and tasty. The pork belly was crispy on the outside and tender in the middle. Everyone else was very happy with their meals as well. I'm looking forward to dining again so that I can try more of the menu options.
(4)Jennifer C.
My husband and I love coming to this place. But we know that we should try to go before we get hungry, because there is always a wait to get in as it is a smaller restaurant. I think it usually is about a half hour wait or more every time I have come during the dinner hours, which is the only downside of this restaurant to me. I keep coming back for the hamburgers and beer. I think they do a great burger. I love that they try to use fresh and local ingredients in their cooking. It does have a pretty fun, trendy kinda vibe.
(4)Brenda D.
I absolutely love this place!! Had no idea it was here and so glad we went. Very relaxing, wait service was excellent. It was quiet (for a long time) so we could talk. It did get busier at the night went on. The best Blueberry basil martini I've ever had. Actually the only one but it was so good I ended up drinking 3 of them. We gals got hungry and ordered the Pesto Chicken, The Summit Burger, The Grilled Cheese and the Baked Mac and Cheese - shared all of them. They food is fantastic! I can't enough good things about this place. Wished I had one in my back yard. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Chad B.
Best grilled cheese sandwich I have EVER had! I'll drive 30 miles just for one. Fun place to have a couple of beers with friends (Hitachino white ale).
(5)Greg N.
Go for the grilled cheese...just like everyone else says. It doesn't get much simpler or better than that!
(5)Lilian O.
I am extremely happy to report that The Westside Local has worked out the kinks from the change in ownership and chefs. The food and service are both back on track! The last time I came here, I intended to catch up with a friend over some good food and booze in their covered beer garden. The plan was foiled because of the strong winds. Darn you bipolar Midwest weather! We chose to sit indoors and started off with a plate of the deviled eggs and my current favorite beer of Hitachino Nest Red Rice Ale. While the eggs were good, I don't understand why so many people rave about them. I enjoyed the arugula salad that the eggs were garnished with better than the deviled eggs themselves. 6 egg halves (3 whole eggs) is too much to split between two people as I get tired of the taste rather quickly. The quinoa dish is back on the menu and as good as I remember. My friend enjoyed his burger and I enjoyed stealing the Parmesan fries off his plate. It was his first time at The Westside Local and he was impressed by the food and beer selection. I felt cooler for introducing him to the place as it's been on his to-try list for awhile. My next visit there will definitely include plans of sitting in the beer garden. Now if only I had the power to control the weather...
(4)Marian L.
The food is very good. The servers are pleasant and knowledgeable. The maitre d' is rude and off-putting. This is the second time in two weeks I've dined at Westside Local and been treated snottily by this staff member. The first time, I'll admit, I should have made a reservation for the six people I brought with me to the restaurant. Because of the way the server treated us, I made a reservation for the following weekend using Open Table. We were no more than ten minutes late and arrived to a three-quarters EMPTY restaurant and the maitre d' was snotty again and seated us at a table in the glaring sunlight. There were plenty of other tables in shadier spaces where the hostess seated people who had NOT made reservations (after gently berating them for not doing so). I won't be back. During our dinner, my husband and I listened to the maitre d' and the young hostess take turns gently admonishing any customer who walked in without reservations. This is not how I wish to be treated first thing in a restaurant. And Westside Local? I didn't want to share my concerns on a local forum. I searched your website and Facebook page for a way to send a private email. There isn't one. Please consider adding an email address to your website.
(2)Lauren K.
Went back for dinner recently and had an amazing meal! We ordered some of the a la carte items, some meats, cheese and 2 perfect litle deviled eggs. I tried the carbonara pasta w. duck egg. I'd never tried this dish before and was thrilled with it.. It was creamy, rich and flavorful. My boyfriend got the steak frites and it was honestly the best steak I've ever tried. We were so satisfied I was on a food high for the rest of the night. This place is just perfect!
(5)Erika D.
Reviewing the Westside Local makes me a little nervous. I don't want to appear in a Hipster Attack video with my enthusiastic praise set to strains of flute music. Trust me, if the food were mediocre, I would not hesitate to say so - trendy locale and minimalist design be damned. The truth is that the food is fantastic and should be the main draw at this Summit Street hangout. The locally sourced menu is short, sweet and full of inspired comfort food. The Quinoa is a tangy, crispy, hearty revelation with thyme roasted butternut squash, dried cherries, brussels sprouts, shaved parmesan and crunchy bits of arugula. The Chicken Pot Pie is contentment in a ramekin. Breaking into the fluffy buttermilk biscuit is a satisfying act, and the creamy goodness underneath is bursting with tender chicken and vegetables. The mix and match Localities ($2 each) are meant to be adult appetizers, but make a great kids meal. On our Saturday afternoon visit, Elliott ordered a plate with apples, sweet & spicy pecans, and house made pickles. It came with slices of wonderful, crusty french bread. The bread was a hit with baby Emma as well (even though she was perfectly happy just gnawing on the wood slab tables). Do not leave The Westside Local without trying dessert. I recommend their take on a trio of beloved candy bars: Snickers, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, and Peppermint Patties. These gourmet creations are a far cry from store bought candies; each one is rich, delicious decadence. The moral of my story: don't let the hipster appeal of this sensational restaurant scare you away. You can have your cool and eat it too!
(5)Michelle F.
My husband and I dined with 3 other couples in January. Jason was our server and he was perfect. He explained the menu repeatedly when we were not paying attention to him and smiled and joked with us as he kept the glasses full and the food coming the whole time. We had the deviled eggs, I really enjoyed the vinegar punch to them but a couple of others thought it was too much, and a build-your-own combination of cheese, olives and prosciutto - it was terrific as well. The guys enjoyed the large variety of beers, including several cans of Stag. "In a glass? No one's ever asked for that before!" Among us we had salmon (raves I tell you, raves!), burgers, the roast beef sandwich and grilled cheese. We passed and nibbled until most people had tried everything, it was all great. The roasted fennel and tomato soup went perfectly with my grilled cheese. We tried each of the three desserts offered, this might have been the only time our table was not the loudest in the house, we were all very busy making sure those desserts were finished down to the last bite! My only complaint about the entire evening is that the old building, while full of charm and character, is incredibly drafty. I kept my coat on the entire evening and a couple of the other girls were putting gloves on in between courses. I'm looking forward to going back, my husband and I really enjoyed the Valentine's Day menu and the beer garden will be a fun place to hang out this summer.
(5)Carrie B.
It's probably a 4.5. For at least the past two years, my coworkers have been telling me that I absolutely MUST try the Westside Local. Turns out my coworkers know me pretty well! Went for restaurant week lunch--3 courses for 15 dollars. Got a miniscule salad (but again, it was Restaurant Week, but still enough to dock just a bit.) For a main dish I got the quinoa--OH. MY. GOODNESS. The ultimate test of a successful meal (or recipe) is that I crave it despite the inclusion of an ingredient that I typically dislike. The quinoa was so delicious, flavorful, textured, that I gobbled up the brussels sprouts that were part of it, even though I typically loathe them. Yum. Got the panna cotta dessert and discovered I really don't like panna cotta, but not the fault of the restaurant. Service was a touch slow but not overly so, and was quite friendly. Went back again for drinks and to split a beautiful choose-your-own cheese plate. We picked the three best-looking cheeses on the small plates menu, and they came arranged with onion jam, fruits, bread, etc. Not quite up to the level of JP's (RIP) cheese plate (which serves as the standard to which I judge all cheese plates), but a great complement to glasses of organic sauvingnon blanc. Another very viable option on my favorite corner in the city. And this is all before trying the beer garden! (Service note: I didn't go at crowded times on either occasion.)
(4)Tabitha M.
I have heard so many great things about Westside Local, so I was honestly thrilled to finally go. I went this past Saturday for lunch with two of my friends. There was a decent crowd for 1 o'clock on a Saturday. Everything I tasted was wonderful, but especially the french fries. I don't know, but i am a sucker for french Fries. I have heard that Westside Local used to have garlic french fries, which sounds even more amazing... but i guess that wasn't everyone's cup of tea, so they changed to "normal" french fries. *sigh* Oh well, still yummy. The mac and cheese was good. The guy eating a grilled cheese at the table next to us said it was delicious, and man oh man, did it look delicious. Good service. Reasonably priced food. Nice, clean decor. interesting artwork (i guess it changes out every so often though).
(4)Dev V.
I have always enjoyed this place, now I finally get to write a review. The other times I've been here, my food has always been good, but the service was always so so. This changed with my visit this past Friday. We sat in the bar area and John was our server, he's also the bartender. He was very pleasant and knew a lot about the wine list since he put it together. Food was great, service was great, atmosphere was great. Patio was hopping as well because of the warmer weather. Keep it local and get your asses to Westside Local!
(4)Martin H.
I really wanted to like this place more than I did. I gave it a second chance after a so-so first visit because i thought it had potential. The interior looks good, the patio is a great space, and the fries are very good. BUT... the beer is not the right temperature, the burgers are bland, the menu is quite limited, the staff is very hit and miss. If I go again, it will ONLY be for beer and appetizers on the patio.
(2)Annie A.
LOVED this place!! I went here for the 1st time on Friday for Happy Hour and while it wasn't much of a "scene" it was a great time! The bartender Mick was awesome and being the only 2 ladies at the 8 seat bar.. we got lots of attentive service from him! He had great recommendations for the build your own plate - we opted for the Pears, Baguette, Goat Cheese, Kalamata Olives, Proscuitto and the Irish Porter Cheddar... all were awesome!! They also have Fernet Brianca - the only other place in KC besides Czar Bar to carry my beloved favorite drink that I discovered while living in San Francisco! So VERY excited to return! The wines were delicious too! I'll definitely be back to this quaint little local place!
(5)Lisa R.
I will preface by saying that I went for the first time at 8:30 on a Sunday night, so my experience may or may not be representative of what going to Westside Local is like another night of the week. The menu was good, and the food, while nothing special, hit the spot, and I really liked the option to get the small plates of things like pear slices and pickles. The decor and set-up had a nice feel. But the music was loud, inconsistent and a bit annoying, and my waiter seemed less than thrilled to be there. I understand what it's like to be a server, and go into restaurants with a lot of empathy, but the empathy can fade when a waiter has a bad attitude that doesn't have anything to do with me. One of three tables in the place, being a bit more attentive would not have been a struggle for him. And I very much wanted to order dessert, but was immediately presented with my check as my plates were rushed away. Maybe it was just an off night. I'd try it again if I were a local, but as an out-of-towner who has just this one experience to rely on, 3 stars is the best I can do.
(3)Suzanne G.
I love this place. I've been several times and it's a great go-to when I have a friend in town. Most recently, a prego friend was visiting from Ark. The food was excellent and they didn't look down at her for ordering a shirley temple or asking for a salad without feta. In fact, the server anticipated another issue with her entree and made sure to notify the chef. The quinoa and veggie dish I had was excellent. I'm not a vegetarian, but I'm not afraid to eliminate meat in favor of a flavorful dish. It was fantastic. I'm looking forward to good weather - the beer garden is a great way place for happy hour. It's communal so you never know who you'll end up next to!
(5)Cory K.
I have been to The West Side Local several times and I can say it is always a great place if you want to show someone something different. The food has been a hit or miss a few times but still pretty good compared to other places. The patio is great and they have a great beer selection.
(4)Shea C.
I wanted to love The Westside Local. The farm-to-table concept, the quirky location, the shared tables on the patio and sleek but earthy interior are all appealing. The food? Not as appealing. I came for lunch with my mom who was visiting from California (where I'm from and whose cuisine I adore). I knew The Westside Local would be right up her alley. I'd been once before for drinks with friends and enjoyed the variety of the wine list, but hadn't ordered food. It was a gorgeous day, so we chose to sit outside, sharing a table with a few other women also out to lunch. We ordered ice teas and enjoyed the sunshine while perusing the menu. Several items were calling to me, but I ended up choosing the chicken salad sandwich with fries and a side of pears. Mom had the local arugula salad with chicken. Unable to resist a pint of Boulevard Single Wide IPA, I ordered that too. My sandwich, which seemed like it would be full of flavor with its chipotle aoil and bacon, was bland beyond belief. I also have a slight pet peeve when a menu states the sandwich will come on a certain type of bread (challah in this case, which I love) and it comes on something else (grilled multigrain). I ended up adding pear slices to the sandwich to try to add some complexity of flavor. The chipotle aoli was barely noticable and the bacon was overpowering. The garlic fries, however, were awesome and didn't even need the homemade ketchup. Mom seemed pleased enough with her salad. She initially wanted the roasted beet salad, but was told she couldn't have it without the cilantro because it was already mixed (disappointing). Service was sllooooowwww, but friendly enough. Had I not been content to sit in the sun and catch up with mom, I would have quickly grown impatient. I still think the charm of The Westside Local is worth experiencing and I'd like to go back and give it another go.
(3)Joe W.
Great food and fun decor. Try the 1/2 lb (local) beef burger- comes with proscuitto and melted white ched, microgreens and crispy fries. My server was really kind and quick. Great service.
(5)Jennifer H.
I just don't think the food lives up to the hype. I didn't think it was particularly good at all. The mac & cheese was some of the worst I've had at any restaurant. I spent an extra $6 on about 4oz of bland chicken. The burger was pretty good, but nothing special. The atmosphere and the neighborhood are great. My recommendation for someone who wants to go to patronize this quaint, local restaurant is to order some wine or beer and stick with the $2 localities, but skip the unimpressive food.
(2)Emilie S.
Probably the best burger I will ever eat. Brioche bun, watercress, perfect mustard. Had tomato fennel soup as app. Also perfect. We had a party of 7 for a late dinner- waiter was friendly, patient and knowledgeable. Nice wine selection. Husband had the mussels and loved them- he hardly talked once the were put in front of him. FIL's salmon quinoa was a hit as well. Mac and Cheese looked crazy good. A highlight of my 6000 mile food tour through Western/Central US of A.
(5)Betts C.
I definitely needed to update this review. I've been slacking. Because I've been back to Westside Local several more times, and every time I go, I'm really, really convinced that it's one of the best places in KC. It absolutely serves all of my wants. First off, there's the beer list, which is pretty amazing. Secondly, there's the beer recommendations with each of the items on the menu. And I've found that, if you are shy of those and want something a little different, the servers are quite knowledgeable and can pull some secret bit of fantasticness out from behind the bar, and voila, you have some perfect flavor combination. And that combination involved the food. Because really, it is pretty great. It's not the longest menu, but they know what they can handle. And now that the salmon burger is back on the menu, I am one happy,happy lady. It's a phenomenal experience (it counts as an experience) especially when paired with the beet salad. I'm pretty obsessed with beets, and I make a good beet salad myself. But this blows me out of the water. And back to the burger: it's actually salmon. It's not mostly bready or filling of any sort, it's salmon. And it's served on a really great, entirely too caloric roll that probably ruins any healthiness I'd be going for by ordering a salmon burger and salad. But it's ok, it's so very worth it. I've also tried both their winter and springy quinoa dishes, and they're excellent. Fresh, filling, and very healthy. They're not the most exciting thing on the menu, but they are very, very good. And the boy tried their special pulled pork sandwich on one of our visits, and it was, in fact, mighty fine. This was in the middle of the barbecue tour, and even though Westside Local is a far cry from Arthur Bryant's or OkJoe's, that was some excellent, very grown up pulled pork. I will admit that I still haven't had the full Westside Local experience, as I haven't tried dessert. But after spending a lazy afternoon sipping really good beer under vines, eating our sandwiches and basking in the still pleasant sunlight, I'm pretty convinced that Westside Local is fantastic and one of those rare but lovely, non-KC in KC places where I'd like to spend a whole, whole lot more of my time.
(5)Bryan E.
The Westside Local is one of my standbys. I truly enjoy the menu and find just enough variety to satisfy most anyone. Extra props for the grilled cheese with tomato soup. Sometimes it is hard to get in or there is a small wait, but overall, I have no complaints. I keep it in my back pocket for out of town guests and nights when we can't agree where to go. Definitely a crowd pleaser.
(4)D W.
Super atmosphere and food! Locally grown and the freshest I have had in a long time. The outside is not much to look at and it even looked closed but this is a true example of why you should not judge a book by the cover!
(5)Mike K.
It was a beautiful spring day and our destination was a patio for lunch and libations. We decided to check out The Westside Local since it was close to the office and fit the need for sunshine. The Westside Local is located on the NE corner of 17th & Summit. Parking is a little tight since its mainly street parking, but we were able to find a spot on Summit just a 1/2 block down the street. The inside dining space is a mixture of rustic exposed brick and modern furniture, probably would seat 30-40 people. But our destination was the Patio! We were seating on of 5-6 large picnic tables where it had somewhat of a communal vibe where you could be seated next to another group on the large picnic tables. The server handed us two menus, the food menu and the large beer & wine menu. On one side of the food menu it had a large selection of al a carte 'Localities' - an interesting mix of meats, cheeses, and vegetables, 'Snacks' (a limited appetizer selection), and Soups/Salads. Prices were mixed - individual Localities were $2 each, Snacks were $6-$9, and Soups/Salads $4-12. On the back side of the menu were the Large Plates (main course) which ranged from $15-$22, and Sandwiches $8-11. Now if you're looking for large selection - this isn't the place. If you're looking for a limited menu done well - this is your place!!! The beer & wine menu was extensive, approx 20 wines (didn't look at much), and 30-40 beers which were mainly bottles. I opted for the Summit burger with garlic fries and a nice 22 ounce Avery Salvation to wash it down. Our meals arrived fairly quickly - and WOW we were all impressed with our meals. I could quickly tell this wasn't the standard burger. To start, the burger meat is ground fresh, served on a fresh baked roll from Fervere, arugula, Swiss cheese and a mustard sauce. The garlic fries were served with in-house made ketchup and a lemony aioli. The house made ketchup was a little odd, it tasted more like marinara sauce vs. ketchup - but that's a minor detail. The food was excellent - staff was friendly - and I loved the attention to ingredients. I will certainly go back, now all we need is another sunny spring day!
(5)steve w.
We made our first visit to the Westside this weekend and were pleased. They have a short, but nicely curated wine list; our Spanish wine was spicy, nicely balanced and an excellent value. We enjoyed their "localities," a way for the customer to economically compose their own appetizers, charcuterie, and such. One minor complaint on that score: some of the localities are attributed, others are not. It would be great if the customer knew where each came from. The braunschwiger was fine, but tasted like Boar's Head - not bad, but not unique. The missus' lamb special was very good, although she could have done without the lamb sausage in favor of an extra chop - the polenta complemented the dish nicely, however. I had mussels in an orange fennel broth. The mussels were gigantic, very flavorful and the broth balanced the sweet and savory perfectly. The garlic fries ... quite good, too. Another small kvetch, though: I initially ordered the trout special, but requested fries instead of mashed only to have the chef decline my request. Wait a minute ... I like your restaurant and I'll be back, but it seemed a little pretentious to decline a modest alteration in starch upon a customer's preference. Just saying. The bread pudding was great. The after dinner drink menu could use some white dessert wines, later harvest Rieslings and such; those were noticeably absent from the after dinner drink offerings. So, three minor reservations, but overall an most enjoyable meal from the Westside.
(4)Emily s.
So I finally made it back here last night without the kids for a pre-Kauffman dinner. When I made the reservations he let me know that they had a bunch of people coming in at 7pm and would I be done by then - which was nice because I knew the service would be fast and I wouldn't be late for the concert. Emily took care of us and was amazing and friendly. When I indicated that I really wanted a salad but was afraid it would be too much with a full dinner - she said there is actually a side salad size available, which is not on the menu and was perfect! About the size of a large saucer or dessert plate. Yummy arugula! I got the quinoa (Based on the many reviews- thanks Joi) and was very impressed. I would never have ordered it on my own but it was so tasty and unlike anything I've ever had, I'm glad I did. In the spirit of adventure I also got the gin pickle. If you like pickles and gin this is the drink for you! They make their own pickles and use them and the juice for the mixer. It had a night light butter/dill pickle flavor (more dillish but didn't kick you in the teeth). My SO had the pork loin which had a nice light flavor and was medium rare - very large portion of pork in a ham/bean soup. He liked it but I thought the pork could have used a little more flavor. The cornbread would have been good if it hadn't been dry :( I like their fries, very crispy, but the ketchup is too sweet and I don't even understand what that aioli is supposed to be - seemed like homemade mayo and pretty flavorless. I ate the fries plain because they are super tasty and didn't need anything. I can't wait to go back for the deviled eggs and check out the beer garden. The only drawback was the price - just over $100 with tax and tip, but $40 of that was liquor so it could be done much cheaper. Overall I think it was worth what we paid. This was a very unique, fresh, locally produced meal in a great atmosphere. I was stuffed at the end with no room for dessert, even if I had wanted it. Oh, we left at 6:57pm and never felt rushed at all, in fact we even had one more round of drinks after dinner at our servers suggestion (price there vs price at the Kauffman!)
(4)John S.
Really actually like this place and you should go. Good fries, tasty duck, nice decor, thought seemingly put into the food, and the first time I was there our waiter was amazing. Last night, however, we had a bum. You're on the clock, not me pal, SEPARATE CHECKS, SEPARATE CHECKS, SEPARATE CHECKS, oh the gratuity is already include so you don't give a flip, and even after 45min you still can't parse out the bill correctly, sheesh. Sweet hat bro.
(4)James W.
This place is awesome!!! The only negative was the service was slow at times. They use all local produce and ingredients and have a great local and not so local beer selection. I especially liked they Veggy Sammy and Potato Salad!! Eat or drink out in their beer garden if you can. Truly a great spot in KC!
(5)Hannah L.
Headed here on Easter Sunday for a nice, local meal at a new spot, well new to us at least. We opted to sit outside in the beer garden with the nice Spring weather which felt much more relaxed then the stiff dining room that had no one in it. Started with beers off their excellent beer list and while they were all out of the one I chose, the waiter brought over his suggestion which was a nice touch. Their menu is limited or "special" on Sundays, but sometimes with my indecisiveness that's even better. We started with the beet salad - no dressing (not sure if they forgot or if they were trying to let the beets shine and do their thing) - either way, the beets were spot on, fresh, juicy and delicious! I got the Vegetable Shepard's Pie which was YUMMY! Awesome comfort food, which as a pescatarian can be hard to find. The potatoes in the stew were under done, but that's my only complaint. The mushrooms, green onions, carrots, quinoa and crunchy onions on top of the cheesy mashed potatoes more than made up for it. I ate it all...and it was a large portion! My date got the Fried Chicken & Waffles. A Sunday classic. He ate the whole plate and seemed quite pleased, except for the seasoning. Great crunchy breading, but lacked some spice and kick. Seemed like a good dose of cayenne should have been added to the flour. When we asked if the chicken was local, the waiter shared that it was from Lathrop, MO. I was glad he was informative as the waitstaff at other "local" restaurants in KC don't seem to be very knowledgeable. No room for dessert here...I thought about getting something to go, but they all involved ice cream which I suspected wouldn't keep very well. I also asked if they had smoothies since they boasted fresh, local juices for all their cocktails, but nope, no smoothies. There's definitely room for improvement, but I'd go back in a heartbeat to try a new dish, listen to the live music, enjoy a drink in the garden and support restaurants using fresh, local ingredients.
(4)Farah A.
Hey, Westside Local. You are yummy. So I know other people have raved about the quinoa, but I have to reiterate it. I almost ordered a box of it to go. I like the natural, simple atmosphere inside the restauant and the cozy family-style picnic tables on the patio. My friends and I shared a picnic table with some friendly hipsters who occasionally dabbled in and out of our conversations. One even asked for a bite of my quinoa which I, of course, obliged with a friendly "what's mine is yours attitude" having returned the day before from my post-communist experience in Cuba. He greatly appreciated it and lamented having not ordered it himself. Otherwise the drinks selection was good, the server put up with my 804 questions about the bread pudding [it is possible to ask that many questions about bread pudding, believe it or not], and I enjoyed the two genderless restrooms [where I accidentally walked in on a guy who forgot to lock the door... woops!]. The only thing to note is beware (just in general) of ordering midwestern favorites "your mom makes" like deviled eggs because at these types of trendy, urban establishments they will always have a twist that you may or may not enjoy. All in all... all local, all lovely. Coming back for quinoa. You should too.
(5)Molly A.
Though I've never found an entree that I absolutely adore, this place is pretty good. Their small plates/appetizers are my favorite - deviled eggs with a twist and the Castelvetrano Olives ... well, I could probably make a whole meal of those. They're like olive oil in solid form. Mmmm. (Almost zero of the salty brine of typical olives. And I'm a girl who loves her salt.) The beer list is always decent, and the service can be hit or miss. The option of a beer garden is always an added bonus. I hope to find an entree that bumps my review up to four stars but until then, it stays at three. I'd definitely recommend it to friends or take out-of-town guests there for some KC-flavor but I don't go there often personally. (Caveat: their "special" braised short ribs were delish ... But I think it's more fair to judge a restaurant off its every-day menu. I prefer to order off it, as well, as special dishes tend to be on the pricier side here.)
(3)Joe H.
I'm very middle-of-the-road with my feelings on the Westside Local. I love the idea of a communal beer garden, but the two days I've been have been too cold to consider it. The first time we went involved my 18-month old daughter, which was interesting. My initial impression was that it wouldn't be very kid-friendly, and the hipster, d-bag patrons around us confirmed that, but the staff was absolutely great. They dug a high chair out of the closet, multiple wait staff stopped by our table with crayons or to say something. It was some of the best service I have ever received. The second time was sans child, and the service wasn't as welcoming or responsive as before. Still, my beer was cold, my food was hot, and I got out in reasonable time. The food here isn't quite my bag, but it's good. A friend recommended the grilled cheese, which I wasn't a big fan of. My wife got the roast beef sandwich and starting freaking out about the au jus. Seriously. She talked about it for weeks afterward. I got her to switch me a grilled cheese half for the roast beef, and that au jus is the truth. If I was on the State, I'd probably dip my balls in it. I don't care for garlic fries, but I like these. I want to say it's more garlic salt than cloves of garlic, which I approve of. And the ketchup....oh, the ketchup. They should send some over to the Farmhouse to let them know what good, homemade ketchup tastes like. The beer selection is decent. I'm not a big fan or the beer list advertising Boulevard drafts for $4 and them ringing up as $5. Hopefully that extra dollar is funding a future re-printing of the beer menu. I'll probably go back in the Spring when the weather is nice to experience the beer garden. That might bump it to a 4-star, but it's just OK for now.
(3)Steve M.
I'll give 3.5 stars. My wife's dish was AWESOME, my friend's soup was very good. Her pot pie, however, was 1 star. My dish and my other friend's dish was probably 4 stars. We used Groupons, so the meal was also very reasonable! We all liked that they use locally grown, fresh ingredients. Service was so-so. Tough neighborhood 'shoes' to fit into, with the Blue Bird right across the street!!!!
(4)Dana A.
Ok, I had a lot of problems with this place so rather than write a long drawn out thing I am going to give you the basics and then write a list. The one really good thing I can say is that this place is beautiful inside -- it was too cold to sit outside but I am sure the other reviewers cover the beer garden. Their fries were good. I was dining for dinner on a Sunday night with 3 other people. Here are the problems I had, in no particular order: * No appetizer plates brought to use with our cheese plate appetizer. I dropped half my Maytag blue on the floor. * No cider on the beer menu. I don't like regular beer, and most places with a good list, e.g. Blanc, or Harry's Country Club, have a cider. I will come back to the alcohol offerings again in a moment. * Boulevard Pilsner was $5 for a bottle, Schlitz was $3. Other places, these beers are the same price point. The premium beers were also a little higher. La Fin du Monde is $2 more than at The Drop. * My grilled vegetable sandwich was COLD grilled vegetables, but the menu doesn't say that they are cold. They were kinda slimy and gross, not grilled and succulent. The focaccia bread was pretty awful too -- like worse than Panera bad. I had them sub the tomatillo salsa for Dijon vinaigrette (because I thought I was getting a hot sandwich), which was actually straight up Dijon mustard when they brought it to me in a ramekin. * The grits in the shrimp and grits my friend ordered were more like cornbread dough. Really thick and doughy tasting. The dish could have used a roux, and maybe some collard greens or something else green on the plate other than green onion. * I had to ask for the dessert menu. The server was just kind of clueless. Oh, and only 1 of the 7 desserts was available. * When we were leaving, only THEN did I notice that there's a room off the main dining room, and if you go INTO that room there's a BAR. Had I KNOWN there was a bar, I would have had drinks with my friends, but the server never mentioned that there was liquor in addition to the beer list, nor is there a sign above that doorway saying there's a bar. There was no cocktail menu, nothing. When they opened it was known they didn't have liquor, so it's the kind of thing they really should be telling people. * The server didn't ask how to split the check, and split everyone's, which was fine, but he ran mine and my boyfriend's tickets as separate transactions on my card even when we explained we were together -- which seemed really odd. Again he was just clueless. In summary, I think I'd give it another try but only go to the bar area for one drink, and order the fries again. Then I'd go somewhere that the prices are what they should be, and the servers are a little more with it. I feel bad because I want to support local places, but I have 3 other choices on that block alone if I want to spend money on the Westside.
(1)blythe c.
We need more restaurants like this! Locally owned and supporting local farmers and foods is the way to go. The atmosphere and location are also wonderful. I like enjoy a quick lunch or a sit down dinner with friends on the patio. There are usually flavorful vegetarian options for me and other great choices for my friends and family.
(5)Caroline K.
I really want to like this place. It's great for the west side neighborhood, but unfortunately, they have focused way too much on image and appearance and have tossed service and quality to the side. It's a great place for enjoying a hard to find beer. The bartenders seem untrained when it comes to making a cocktail or martini, but they can recommend the perfect beer for your tastes. The prices are quite high for standard beers, but the rare beers seem worth the cost. As for the food, I cannot recommend any of it. Let me outline what your dining experience will be like if you are suckered into the allure of the food menu. The menu is extremely limited and focuses on locally grown and raised foods, however, they are frequently out of key items, whittling the selection down to a grilled cheese sandwich or a burger. The selection of appetizers and snacks are plentiful and delicious and are your best option. If you order a hot item, it will, without fail, come out ice cold and inedible. The enticing smell will tickle your nostrils, but the waxed-over cheese or tepid meat will beg you not to eat it. You realize that the sandwich isn't on the delicious sounding local bread listed on the menu, but a standard store-bought roll. When you try to flag down your server, they will ignore you completely. You will pick at the delicious but helplessly cold garlic fries, and eventually, give up on the meal completely. Half hour later, after you have lost you appetite, your hipster server will slink over. She won't really care about your pathetic sandwich and will whisk it away in a fury of huffs and eye rolls. The owner will come over to your table and offer you a complimentary dessert, of which, there are only two options remaining from a list of seven. When you decline, he will berate you, swear and touch your arm. The service is poor, the menu is promising but limited by undermining demand, and without prompt service, the food suffers. Stop in for a beer, but visit a different gastropub for food.
(1)David S.
Not sure what all the negative reviews are about. This is definitely not a five star place, but the food here is of the highest quality, the beer selection is good and the decor is refreshing (probably even better in the spring/summer months when we can sit outside and enjoy the weather at the same time) The food can be hit or miss with greatness. The grilled cheese sandwhich and burger are both delicious. The grilled cheese has a buttery toasted exterier with a delicious melted interior perfectly contrasted and accentuated with a bowl of tomato soup or dipped into the marinara on the side. The burger is locally sourced grassfed beef, cooked perfectly and a delicious experience from start to finish. That being said, when I ordered the polenta with braised rabbit, the polenta cake was seared beatifully and creamy on the inside, the rabbit lacked flavor and did not have any of the rich gaminess I would associate with it. They could have been using any high quality chicken and I would not have known the difference. I really do enjoy the place, even if it is a tad pricy for the inconsistency of the menu.
(4)Jani D.
Fresh*Fresh*Fresh and soooo tasty! I am a huge fan of the appetizers- ALL of them. The Westside Local is also the home of the PERFECT french fry. The waitstaff has been very knowledgeable during each visit. Some of the drinks are unique and very tasty as well.
(4)Kevin M.
I love this place. It is what a great neighborhood eatery should be and more. The staff is friendly, the atmosphere is relaxing but has a nice energy to it. They have a nice outdoor patio and an excellent beer list. Of course the focus is on the food and it is wonderful. The menu isn't a book ala Cheesecake Factory (remember that stuff is all made out of a bunch of pre-packaged, vacuum sealed ingredients that are thrown together and in many instances microwaved) but I think there are enough choices to satisfy most people's tastes. What you will find are fresh, local ingredients prepared in innovative ways by people who really know about and care about food. The short rib stroganoff is amazing as is the braised rabbit. They have an excellent roast beef sandwich and they typically have specials based on available ingredients. Also, because the food is local, it is dependent on the season, so this Spring's menu will be exciting. Another great feature is the $2 per item tasting menu that includes great local cheeses, sausage, lovely deviled eggs and some really tasty beets.
(5)Emily H.
Absolutely love the people, love the neighborhood, enjoy the ambiance, and always make new friends and run into old acquaintances (surprising, as the place is tiny). Their bartenders are fantastic, the liquor selection is delectable and the place is cozy and inviting. The olives and fries are yummy, but oh my, the vegetarian options range from absolutely dismal to nonexistent. It's hard to imagine the meat-based dishes having any decent flavor, seasoning, or accompaniment when created by someone who can't come up with a single vegetarian dish worth adding to the menu. I definitely expect more from the chef --who I have known to create many wonderful and flavorful vegetarian dishes-- and from this particular establishment. The kitchen has the experience, the attention to detail, and the ingenuity to knock anyone's socks off. All said, I love the Westside Local and stopping in for a drink is always a lovely experience, whether it is Sunday afternoon or Friday night. I look forward to the menu being refined as they establish themselves in the neighborhood.
(3)Stans S.
Being both vegetarian and a foodie can be challenging! I tried their winter quinoa, with Brussels sprouts, winter squash, kale, parsnips, walnuts, goat cheese and more and it was PERFECT! I had fresh fruit (pear, grapes & blueberries) for desert. What a fabulous meal! There is nothing more to say; I was so happy to find this meal!!
(5)Anna S.
This is a delightful place in my dad's neighborhood. I've had some serious deviled eggs, intriguing cocktails, and lovely service. I feel this place does not get the attention it deserves, and I'm really okay with that. Let's keep it neighborhood-y.
(5)Susan N.
Decent beer list. Pretty good food. Awesome atmosphere and service. Met up with fellow yelpers, Lauren O and Tiger W, and hopefully future yelper Amy. We had hoped that this would be a good place to meet up with a group and it was. Whether you choose indoors or outdoors, you'll be absolutely delighted with the atmosphere of Westside Local. The inside gives off a classy bar atmosphere and reminds me of one of my favorite beer bars in Brooklyn. The outside has several communal tables and feels like you could be chowing down in a vineyard. Service was very helpful. We always had someone making sure we're ok and clearing away everything to make room for our endless samples. Garlic fries - Terrific fries. Really flavorful without the pungent taste garlic can sometimes have but without lacking that garlic flavor. Cheese plate - Like a little piece of heaven. I think I near devoured the cheese. A bit of brie, blue cheese and a semi-hard cheese, all with lots of flavor, served with a fig sliced in half, champagne grapes and three slices of bread. Beef ritte - I liked it but I could see how a lot of people wouldn't. If you like liver pate, you'd enjoy it. If you hate pate, don't order this. Deviled eggs - Personally I like mine a heck of a lot better. No relish mixed it and it had a very strong sharp mustard taste. Mexican chocolate cake - Personally wasn't crazy about it. I like the texture the pumpkin seeds gave it and the prickly pear sauce on which it lay but something was just off about the cake itself. Having had Mexican chocolate before, it was not really right. All in all, good, though, and I'd go back.
(4)Wylee S.
I had the grilled cheese and arugula salad and it was AMAZING. Best grilled cheese I have probably ever had. The restaurant is also very cool inside and it's in a part of town that I wouldn't normally think to go. I'm very excited to go back and try other things!
(5)Bob R.
It took me longer to make it in here than I had hoped, but it was worth the wait. This review should actually be 3.5 stars, because I definitely will be looking forward to my next visit. I loved the bar area, a very small, quaint bar with a great feel. It felt like an authentic Irish pub. The dining room, however, was a little too big, or spaced out, or something. I really can't put my finger on it. The flourescent lighting shining into the dining room from the kitchen should be covered up. For some reason the room just felt too large or too sterile. It doesn't have the warmth of the rest of the joint. The service was perfect, bordering on pleasant. Our server told us it was his first serving job, and I told him I thought he was a natural. He was relaxed, but attentive. The food was the real winner. The attention to detail really comes across. The salmon club was cooked perfectly and had fantastic flavor. My date's burger was also outstanding. We both loved the deviled eggs appetizer. While I don't know if I'll be back to have dinner in the dining room, I do intend to hit the beer garden for a Three Philosophers Ale, or to just hang at the bar and enjoy some outstanding food at a very reasonable price.
(3)H L S.
Excellent food, very nice rooms, we'll have to try the beer garden when it isn't so damp outside. Our server was properly attentive, but not in the way. He was extremely easy on the eyes too. Previous posters mentioned some service issues, but I encourage them to return now that The Local has been open for a few weeks. Everything we tried, the frites, the charcuterie, the salmon burger and the luscious grilled cheese sandwich tasted great and had good eye appeal. The frites were seasoned well, needing nothing else. Even so, sample the fresh catsup, it's first rate. To top everything off, the prices make it a great dining value for Kansas City. We'll be back often and will be telling all our friends about The Local. (Loved the tables in the main room, the table tops are made from uneven lengths of re-milled salvaged wood.)
(4)Dan D.
What is wonderful about this place is the ambiance and the quality of the food. I highly recommend the braised rabbit saison and I will be sure to try the grass feed steak and frites next visit. The outside area is wonderful and as the weather gets a little cooler it will be wonderful to sit out and enjoy beer and wine. I give this place a lot of credit the atmosphere inside is wonderful and the layout makes it wonderful for small or larger parties. Only thing I wish was reservations for groups smaller than 6.
(5)Josh C.
The food was excellent and fresh. The indoor and outdoor seating was unique and enjoyable. And the service was good. It's a very casual hang out type place.
(4)Mat E.
This is fairly new and right next to the very popular Blue Bird Bistro so we were excited to check it out. Good: - Burgers are amazing - Very different beer menu with many beers on tap (would be nice to have a few weaker beers for that lunchtime tipple) - Lovely outdoor 'beer garden' for when the weather is appropriate - Nice atmosphere inside - Decent menu - Friendly staff - Reasonably priced Bad: - NO RESERVATIONS FOR GROUPS LESS THAN SIX. So you have a choice of places to go on a date, or a special dinner. Do you want to hang around for maybe 30 minutes waiting for a table on a busy night? Not us, so we only go here for lunch - Friendly staff are pretty slow and not very knowledgeable, they don't have many recommendations or opinions on the food, drink, etc. - Pretty popular so be prepared to wait - Unusual area, never had any problems but looks like you might - Parking can be tricky We've been three times and will probably go one more time this year. Just a shame they don't take reservations for smaller groups.
(3)Ethan S.
I've been here about 3 times and every time I go it's always a great experience. The ambiance is perfect. I like getting several of the "localities" (their version of a mini appetizer). The deviled eggs are amazing. And I really don't eat deviled eggs that often. And the cheese plate is always delicious. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Eilene S.
We were here on mother's day for brunch and it was borderline poor. First our waitress was on slow motion- really slow motion. The restaurant was not very busy and yet it took forever to get refills on coffee. Often we had to flag down another waiter to get refills. They were out of 2 menu items, the french toast and a chicken dish, so I ordered the waffle. It came out luke warm and soggy. The "strawberry compote" was truly frozen strawberries that had been thawed. For a restaurant that bases their menu off "freshest ingredients and dining experience possible" that was very disappointing. My friends ordered the veggie hash and grilled cheese, both these dishes were tasty but also served luke warm. It took forever to get the bill and at this point (despite being mothers day) the restaurant only had a few patrons in it. Overall, very disappointing.
(2)Bridget K.
I'm all for supporting local business while divulging in great food, but when I went here I only felt like I satisfied half of that objective. The beer list was splendid as one would hope, and I went with my old girlie yet standalone favorite Ephemere because frankly I had a hard time choosing! I look forward to going back for more than just one drink as this is definitely a place for sitting back & drinking, but not for me in the way of eating. I had the grilled cheese which was good by all measures, just not great, as much as I wanted it to be from what I had heard about this place. Also, the fries are just so profoundly overrated I almost wonder if we got them on a bad night. I'm almost positive they use garlic powder because some of our fries tasted like garlic & others tasted unseasoned, which to me somehow feels cheap for the level of innovation in cuisine today. Also, they were cold & dry which could mean a couple of things: 1) our server was slow to deliver them, or 2) they're not made to order or at the very least not kept under a heat lamp, which the thought of isn't appetizing but preferable to just sitting in a well in the kitchen. The patio was lovely in it's simplicity and we went on a perfect day, so kudos to them for snagging a killer plot! I would've lingered there for hours but alas we had to be elsewhere. We were quite impressed with the interior of the bar area and the host desk, but that's all I saw of the inside. The crowd at the bar looked like they were regulars, quite comfortable & gregarious in their hipster-chic attire, yet eyed us as "new meat" carefully. I've heard through the grapevine that although the owners are cool and have the best intentions, I was a little disappointed to hear that they barely support local farms in their food buying, as I thought that would be a given with not only their name, but that that's the newest trend in KC non-corporate eateries, for example, The Farmhouse. I hope that changes, and I look forward to going back for the beer alone if nothing else.
(3)Josh S.
Don de Dieu - Gift of God. This BSPA made my visit to Westside Local even better. This is a great space to enjoy the approaching fall weather and have a drink with some friends, new and old. The setup with the picnic tables is a fun one and promotes good conversation and meeting some new faces. I did not have a chance to try out any of the food, but did eye a few plates that definitely will have me coming back to try. We had to move inside at 10:30p due to some sort of law? I'm not sure how long this will be in effect or if it's only temporary. Make sure you check this place out before it gets too cold outside and you can't enjoy the patio. PS - The Gift of God doesn't seem so heavenly the next morning.
(4)Jes S.
I can't say enough great things about The Westside Local. This is one of my favorite places to eat in Kansas City. I love that it is somewhat casual however the food is fresh and local. When visiting the Westside Local you can always count on your favorite staple menu items or seasonal favorites..no matter what you choose you cannot go wrong. Everything including the sauces are made in house and the ingredients are extremely fresh and local. One of my favorites is starting off with numerous items from the small plates. At $2 each you can't go wrong with the devil eggs, fresh cheeses, fruit, chorizo, bread,etc. Another favorite menu item is the basic hamburger and my go to order, the grilled cheese served with a side of tomato soup and fries. If you are looking for more savory, the mac and cheese is delicious. They also have a great selection of craft beers and worldy wines. With weather permitting, they have a great outdoor 'beer garden'/patio that is a great place to spend time with friends enjoying a drink. The Westside Local is a must!
(5)Jennifer C.
We had a large group (7 adults plus a toddler), and they accommodated well. The atmosphere is casual but cozy; I'm looking forward to coming back when I can try out the patio area. My boyfriend and I ordered two burgers and shared, and both were delicious! The fries were also awesome. My only complaint when it came to the food is that it seemed like they were out of several items, which limited their menu.
(4)Liz H.
Love, love, love their burger! One of the best around. And the fries with aioli made in heaven by angels. Great looking building and good service. If you want to feel urban and hip, iron your jeans and head to WL.
(4)D H.
My wife and I had the burger and were both very satisfied. I really enjoyed the French fries and the beer selection is pretty good. A couple of the wait staff were using a long table as a ping pong table....needless to say, it's a fun atmosphere.
(4)Lindsay S.
So I went back with my GF the other day and our experience was a complete 180 from the glorious experience we had last time inspiring me to write a Yelp review novel on their brunch. We went for brunch again to find out that they had changed chefs and the menus have completely changed (both brunch and dinner) The little things like farm to market bread is no more and the menu has been dramatically reduced. What upsets me also is the prices, for 12 dollars you can get a veggie succotash- but if you want a egg on that add another $4.... A $16 dollar brunch dish? No thanks. Both of us felt our dishes contained a ridiculous amount of oil. Or previously fabulous potatoes were now swimming in grease and both of us decided the Westside Local dream had died and we will not be back for lunch. What a bummer. I do not know what they messed with a good thing. Cause it ain't good anymore.
(1)Shalia S.
I attempted to give Westside Local another try after a horrible first experience. We arrived to our dinner reservations to meet up with friends. The hostess did not walk us to the table but did a vague flailing motion and returned to her work. We searched the dining room and found our friends. A few minutes into chatter, the waiter announced himself to the table and fixed the unbalanced table. The condensation from the AC unit was still dripping on our party and the table but we decided to ignore it. Light bulbs were burnt out above tables and some of the tables needed additional attention. It seemed a precursor as to what was to come. After reviewing the menu, we opted for some appetizers and quickly ordered them to get the dining experience off to a start. A member of our party requested from the waiter a sparkling non-alcoholic beverage. The answer was more of an unprofessional response. Our waiter, Chris, promptly informed us he did not know if it was an option and proceeded to explain his personal life of having too many jobs and not knowing the offerings of each restaurant. A better response would have been to check into it and return with a few options. After a few minutes, the party had decided on entrees for the evening and awaited the return of the waiter. Each of us had decided on unique plates so we were able to critique the food. A summit burger, braised short ribs and baked mac and cheese were decided upon. However, once our waiter returned to the table, we were informed that as of 6:45 pm, only a few orders remained of the tenderloin, braised short ribs, and mussels. Whether it was an attempt at upselling or the truth, it was quite disappointing to be forced to reserve their dinners and hope for the best. The appetizers arrived to the table- a selection of beets, baguette, house pickles, and gruyere. The plate presentation was appealing and the food quality was acceptable. If only the level of food quality carried over to the main dinner. It was challenging during the course of the dinner to get anyone to refill water glasses or tend to the ordering of additional drinks. Only a handful of tables were occupied during our dining time. We were all quite baffled as to the level of service we received. The main entrees were quite interesting. The braised short ribs were delivered to the table and the food plating was appealing. However, the cheddar mashed potatoes were cold and the kale was overcooked. The short ribs themselves were tender but did not offer much flavor. The baked mac and cheese was the most unappealing entrée. The meal did not have any flavor and tasted more like a box mix than anything. Upon informing our waiter about the dismal food quality, no apology was offered, nor was a suggestion of trying another food entrée. Overall, the lack of customer service was appalling. Not only were we open about our food concerns but the waiter was aloof to the desire to fix the situation. The plates were still full of food as they were being cleared off the table and it was evident that the dining experience was a disappointment to the group. The lack of customer service continued on to the presentation of the check. The check presentation was the final closing chapter of the decision to not return to the restaurant again. It was obvious that our party was made up of two couples yet the waiter brought one check. As we started to divide the bill up ourselves, the waiter reappeared and we had to convince him to split the bill. I would definitely recommend a quick lesson regarding customer service, attention to detail and anticipating guests' needs. The food quality was poor and lacked any evident flavor. The dining room had more empty tables than occupied and we fought for getting drinks and the customer service and attention to the table was subpar. I would definitely recommend others to not waste the time or money to experience a restaurant that obviously needs some tweaking. The improvement of food quality as well as customer service would help this location out greatly!
(1)Stacey P.
Loved the simplistic yet warm restored warehouse atmosphere. Eclectic beer and wine list for a small joint. My 9 yr old loved the grilled cheese and my husband nearly licked the bowl after his quinoa feast. Feeling like a light lunch, I had the spinach salad with salmon and wasn't disappointed, though it seems the more adventurous choices were more rewarding for my family. Was able to sample the deviled eggs based on other yelp'd reviews and I would 2nd those recommenations! A unique twist on the old traditional snack. No trouble with service, in fact our waiter was quite helpful and accommodating, though there were only 3-4 other tables occupied... it was 3pm on a Saturday. Enjoyable lunch, hope to make it back.
(4)Zhanna S.
The food is nothing to write home about and is overpriced. Nevertheless, we've gone there quite a few times to support local business. However, our last visit was the last time we've gone there. It took forever for us to get our food. Our appetizers arrived almost 35 minutes after we have ordered them. The entre was another long and excruciating wait. We were ready to take our dinner "to go." It was definitely a slowest kitchen in town that night (week night) and they were not even busy!
(2)Taylor W.
Love this place! Great atmosphere, local beers, and delish food! Will definitely be back upon my next visit!
(4)Holly L.
Great atmosphere, OK food, ridiculous prices. My son and I are always on a quest for the best grilled cheese sandwich and had heard about how amazing theirs is, so we stopped by to give it a try. We were both disappointed. To start, the slices of bread are ENORMOUS -- almost too big to get your chompers around, and the cheese had absolutely no flavor whatsoever. The fries, however, were crazy-good. My husband got the cheeseburger and loved it. An over $50 price tag for lunch without alcohol is a little excessive. Won't be going back.
(1)Kackie C.
Really love. Moving to Kansas City from a gastro-heaven like Austin I had a self-inflicted chip on my shoulder about the eats in KC. Westside Local was the first place my boyfriend took me to that really started to turn me. Not only is the food delicious (anything with the garlic fries. Dip them in the jus.), but the wine and cocktails are unique and delicious, and THE SERVICE IS GREAT. A+ from me.
(5)Stephen H.
This review can't attest to the quality of the food...my family came to visit from the East Coast and we brought them to this local food joint to try humanely raised KC steak. Unfortunately they were out of steak since they only buy local meat when it's available. The waiter was apologetic and extremely understanding when we said we'd have to find another option. I think it speaks to the quality of the restaurant that this situation was handled so well and that they stick to their core values.
(5)June K.
The tapas, especially the pecans were absolutely fabulous! A definite, don't miss. Also, they had one of the best grilled cheese sandwiches I've ever had, great cheese combo on buttered sourdough, though the tomato soup was a bit too sweet and not as flavorful as I would've hoped for. Can't remember the names but had the chorizo and some sort of pate that seemed like bologna and another sausage like dish. The sausage was pretty good and my friends really liked the dates. They are famous for their deviled egg and homemade ketchup, neither of which I thought were out of this world. However, their service was good and the manager was especially accommodating and catering to a small group event we had upstairs. A definite return location to try everything else on their tapas menu!
(4)Lindsey S.
Quinoa, Quinoa, Quinoa. The most amazing meal ever. Thanks yelpers for the recommendation.
(4)E S.
Excellent! My party of three had the pint of fries to start, then for entrees, the quinoa, the seared salmon, and the burger. All were fantastic. I was a little disappointed with their draft beer selection, but luckily ended up loving the one I ordered, Abita Turbodog. The laid-back mood and cool, minimal setting were perfect for a hungover Sunday afternoon. Our server was both cute and professional. I'd definitely go back!
(5)Kim N.
Jason was a great waiter. Super food. Will go back for sure. Very eclectic menu. Deviled Eggs, Olives, Prosciutto, Cheese all on the app menu. Grilled Cheese sandwiches, Hamburgers, Salads, some of the best salmon I have ever had. Over 100 beers. They have a great Russian Stout. Loved it.
(4)Nicole W.
Great food and excellent service, would highly recommend for in towners and out of towner!
(5)Richard R.
What a gem! Westside Local looks cool, sounds cool, and is has the vibe that my favorite places in my home Portland (or anywhere) have. I automatically felt comfortable here as the waitress brings me a Boulevard Single Wide IPA that is at a perfect temperature and goes down smoothly. I ordered the garlic hummis appetizer and pan seared Colorado Striped Bass - both specials for the night and not generally on the menu. First off, hummus was perfection and the slight grilling of the pita bread was a great touch. It had just a kiss of grill "juice" and scent to it too - nice. The bass with leaks, shitaki mushrooms, and tempura sweet potatoes - well, unbelieveable. Not even going to try to explain it, just get it if you see It on the menu. I'm generally a man of few words and to the point! Get the point? Thanks for the recommendation KC yeeps.
(5)Joe C.
First off, I love the neighborhood that Westside Local sits in. It has an energy different than any other part of town. Secondly, the food is amazing! Deviled eggs, oh yeah! The olives, mmm hh. The beer selection, amazing. The grilled cheese, oh so comforting. The garlic fries, again, the garlic fries and house made ketchup!!! The decor is cool. I'm in love with Westside Local.
(5)Scott D.
A sophomore visit to the Local, -results: Friday at lunchtime the place was bustling. I ordered the Carbonara-something, my wife the vegetable stir-fry with chicken added to it, -they were both very well done and pretty tasty. Service was pretty good considering they were slammed. The interior is very chic. However, the place was SO LOUD I was tense from the get-go. After we gave the waiter our order, I dashed to the car for a pair of foam earplugs, then I was able to sit with a bit more serenity. I know, I know, -I'm a little crazy about noise, and wearing earplugs in a nice restaurant is downright eccentric. But the acoustics at the Local are all hard surfaces, almost solely brick, wood, and glass, and conversation requires a distinct and concerted effort. If I ever go back, it will be during off-peak hours.
(3)Danielle W.
This place is great! I love the patio and selection of beers. The food was very good, I had the chicken sandwich and could not finish it. It is a little pricey, but a wonderful little find in Kansas City, especially on a nice afternoon!!
(4)Luke N.
My review from a few months ago was only four stars--but this time it was a rock solid 5 starts. Mainly because of the mussels which were so delicious and in such a unique broth--not wine and garlic heavy like many--but still packed with fresh flavor. And then, there was the steak frites, which was absolutely amazing. This place is definitely on the top of my list now...
(5)Jack O.
white wine and grilled cheese= the best meal i've had in a while my girlfriend shared some bratwurst with me another time and it wasn't as good. served cold. the only reason i am 4-starring this place. just have some riesling's order a grilled cheese. trust me
(4)Margaret D.
I have never had service this bad. Restaurants can be awfully busy which can slow service. Slow service is one thing, slow service with a bad attitude is another. Dirty table, cold food, no service; what can I say? Remember: don't say anything or you'll be told: "I don't want to hear it." Why is no one watching to see that food goes out while its hot or at least warm? I don't want to judge the food because it wasn't served hot and I didn't eat much of it. On the positive side, the restaurant with its exposed brick walls is inviting and the beer list has something for everyone.
(1)Jenny M.
This really is one of the best places in Kansas City. The food is always fantastic, fresh and local. I love the snack options, cheese, fruit, deviled eggs, olives. Oh the olives, how I love the olives. Each visit I have had to the Westside Local has always been better than the last. The mussels were to die for as was the black & tan quinoa which was cooked to perfection. My husband seems to always order the roast beef sandwich with the molasses au jus, I myself do not eat a lot of meat but the bites I have had of that sandwich dipped in the au jus, boy that molasses au jus is something else.
(5)Chris J.
This place is awesome. We went on a saturday night. The patio was open. Let me begin with parking...there is a small parking lot behind the building otherwise there is street parking. The servers are attentive and don't rush you nor do they care if you are there for dinner, snacks, or just drinks. They take the time to explain the menu and offer drink suggestions if you can't decide. The food is fantastic because it is fresh with local ingredients and though small has excellent variety. There was nothing wrong with this place other than more people need to know about it. So everybody tell your friends to meet you at the westside local!
(5)Brian C.
I will save my breath on this one, there is not much to add that the previous +40 reviews have not covered. Good, local, worth the trip. Stop by and enjoy.
(5)Kerry K.
Found this place on Yelp while I was in town and it was great. The space is gorgeous with a lovely back patio with communal tables, a perfect place to get together with friends and have a drink. The menu was also full of really interesting choices. I got a beet salad with soup and my friend for small dishes of different meats and cheeses. The owner sat down with us later and chat with us. They apparently just moved back to Kansas City to open the place. Great place to hang out with friends after work. I was really impressed.
(5)Matthew L.
Great brunch selections. Deceptively filling portions that leave you wanting more but ok with not. The banana bread was a top choice. Great beer list. Would certainly come back for dinner. You should too.
(5)Kay L.
Gotta knock off a star... the food is still very good (although overpriced) but the patio has gone downhill. Last time we were there, it just looked dingy & dirty, with some raggedy curtains draped in a swag over the gate, and spiderwebs in the corners. Plus, I know everyone loves a dog-friendly patio, but the woman at the table next to us decided to spend an extensive amount of time petting her Husky on a hot, hot day. The resulting combo of epic shedding & huge fans meant a perfect storm of dog hair blowing around our heads & into our food. It was quite disgusting. If we go back, we'll request indoor seating.
(3)Kathy M.
We have been fans of this establishment; however, on our last visit hubby ordered a BLT and thought the bread,tomato and lettuce were excellent, but they lost MAJOR points on the bacon. It was one piece of bacon for a good size sandwich. A $14 BLT should definitely have several pieces of bacon on it! I had the salmon which was really good and the cubano at the table was also enjoyed. My daughter had the 1/2 chicken and wished she had ordered the mac and cheese instead. She thought the chicken had a spicy kick, but there wasn't much else going for the dish. We may return; however, we will be more careful about what we order.
(3)Emily M.
This is one of my all-time favorite restaurants in KC MO. I love that they support all natural and local companies. When we were pulling up, Shatto Milk company was making their morning delivery. I mean, how can you get it any fresher? Went with the daily special of BLT on Sasha's bakery bread with avocado spread and a light jalapeño cream sauce. It was delicious! Also, upgraded side to kale salad - which is a must have! And you can't go wrong with a side of mac & cheese. Thanks for a great lunch, Westside!
(5)Adam S.
This is a place that embraces Kansas City and Kansas City embraces it. It's higher end, farm-to-table, urban and delicious 90% of the time. It's even climbed my list of places to recommend to people visiting out of town. I've never seen this place slow, including lunch and dinners. It's a great, charming older building that is easy to feel at home at year round. You also get the added benefit of a beer garden on the side for the warmer days. As for the food, there are many good meals that I've tried (grilled cheese with tomato fennel soup, the burger and fries, mac n cheese, and some salads) but there have been a few meals that are a bit underwhelming. Not bad by any stretch, just more of a "this is $16 and tastes like it should be $9" type of feeling. It's a great early First Fridays dinner spot, but it's best to make a reservation because it's always packed.
(4)Tim C.
We were in town for a conference and decided to venture outside the convention area for a less touristy place to eat. We walked a mile to get to this little spot, and it didn't disappoint. It has a very hipster vibe to it, which normally isn't my thing, but it wasn't to bad. The cocktails were fresh, and well made. The food was fantastic. We sat on the patio, which was a little hot. Maybe some fans that worked a little better may have helped. Our server was very good. I definitely recommend WL for a nice place to grabs cocktail and/or grab a bite to eat with some good conversation.
(4)Eric S.
Great spot with an incredible menu. It's not every day you find a place that makes it hard to choose. I finally decided on the Summit Burger 1/2 pound ground hormone-free rib-eye, arugula, emmentaler, dijon vinaigrette, on farm-to-market brioche bun and the parmesan & parsley fries (which you'll eat them all, trust me.) It was so good, the beer menu was lengthy and the ambiance was upscale and hip. Look forward to trying the same burger with the jalapeño options next time.
(4)Tammie H.
So amazing! Kale salad for sure. Comfort food grilled cheese and crispy fries so amazing!
(5)Sidney M.
Everything we ordered was delicious it did need salt. A lot of business. Very relaxed, warm, inviting, laid back atmosphere. Jeremy was out server and he was awesome!!!
(4)Kent Jacob S.
I cannot believe I have never reviewed The Westside Local. Shame on me because if anyone ever asks for my opinion on breakfast/brunch places, The Westside Local always pops up in my head first. The food is delicious and the service is top notch! What comes to mind when I think of Westside Local are the parmesan fries and grilled cheese. I swear by it, their fries are probably my favorite anywhere. It beats Oklahoma Joes, In-N-Out, and any other place I've said where fries were amazing. For the life of me, I don't understand why but eating their fries with house-made ketchup and garlic aioli sauces will always stick with me. Therefore, this place must be that good. So, if I haven't raved about it enough, their fries are a must order I tell you! The grilled cheese was just as delicious. The bread is toasty yet moist and that white cheddar cheese is very tasty. The tomato fennel soup is really a good pairing for their grilled cheese, so kudos to the chef here. The people are friendly and they really know the food well. I love putting waiters on the spot and asking them for their favorite dish. I can still remember our waiter telling me about the fennel soup and grilled cheese. The place does get busy but am very pleased that they take reservations. The Westside Local is a great place to go. It's no wonder that Finding KC rates this place as one of the top breakfast joints in all of Kansas City.
(5)Micah B.
By far the best meal I have had since visiting KC! The lamb chorizo tacos are amazingly on point!!!!
(5)Frank L.
I had the privilege to check out Westside local for lunch while visiting Kansas City. I came in for lunch on a Friday around 11:20 and 15 minutes later, the place was packed. I decided to sit in the bar area on a high top so was helped by the bartender. He was awesome, and helped decide on my meal. I went with the Veggie Quinoa sweet potato burger with a side of kale hummus. Everythin on the menu looked great. The burger came out pretty quickly and was huge. There was a bi to much bread, so I just ate the yummy insides sans bun. It was my first time trying kale hummus and I was pleaseantly surprised. The craft beer selection was also pretty impressive, albeit a bit pricey for some. All in all a great place.
(4)Kaitlyn M.
A lovely quiet restaurant with brick walls and high ceilings. Doesn't get over crowded (not to say that the tables weren't full- every table was sat, it just wasn't noisy and uncomfortable like a lot of restaurants tend to get). The food was decent. They have a list of their cocktails, which our table tried a few different kinds, but the cocktails were all pretty unique I guess is a nice way to put it, no one ordered the same drink twice because they didn't love any single one... It's a little pricey, but not terrible, we ended up paying $125 for two people (we had three drinks each)... I just wasn't wowed with what I had, so I don't know if I will go back but I'm glad I went and I had a nice experience.
(4)A H.
I booked a table for 12 for my birthday. It was a really tight fight - uncomfortable. When 2 more people showed up, we asked if we could put two tables together. A smug guy said, "not a chance." Then when food starts arriving, I wait for mine. And I wait. Five minutes later the server appears to tell me that "they ran out of chicken - but mine is coming." When it does arrive (everyone else is halfway done) it is not correct. (Wrap instead of on a bed of greens). I wait again. By the time I get my food, my friends are mostly done. Very disappointed in the experience. The food is good, but organization and timing matter, as well as manners.
(2)Joe G.
I'm not sure what happened... But I ordered what I felt was going to be one of the better dishes. It came highly recommended. I had ordered the trout with quinoa, and roasted cauliflower. The portions were rather small and left me hungry later. That was disappointing as it was one of the pricier items listed, and the menu isn't that big. The waitress seemed very indifferent to being there. That's the other factor that turned me off. I will add, that 3 years ago- I had far superior service and better entree as well. I do like this place but had an off night.
(2)Cindy F.
Wonderful beer selection. Had a bourbon hard cider I fell in love with. Hubby liked Torn Label stout. Had sampling of baguette, venison sausage, & Shatto cheese to start. Deviled eggs are killer. I insist you order some. For main had spring quinoa with trout. Very fresh - had asparagus and chèvre. Very tasty. Hubby had the burger, it was unbelievable. Had ham on it with toasted cheese on the bun. Perfection. Fries were top notch. Patio and restaurant are beyond cute. Had wonderful meal, service was wonderful and attentive. Will be back for sure.
(4)Thorsten F.
My favorite burger of all time, my favorite fries of all time, AND they have really syrupy Coke. This place is probably my favorite restaurant in KC.
(5)Shanley C.
Tucked away in a quiet Kansas City neighborhood, Chef Nina Gann at The Westside Local serves up one of the best breakfasts in town. I'm a huge fan of their Veggie Hash made with sweet potatoes, one sunny-side up egg, oyster mushrooms, roasted poblano, breakfast potatoes, kale, Brussels sprouts, fresh herbs and hollandaise. In an area well known for its beef, you might expect hash that contains some of what the Midwest is famous for. But this hash is so delicious you won't miss the meat. From first bite you'll taste the fresh herbs mingled with rich homemade hollandaise sauce that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the dish. Get a forkful of salty Brussels sprouts, snag a mushroom and swipe them both through egg yolk/sauce mix. That's your roadmap to hash euphoria. The restaurant stays true to its name by keeping all of its products and ingredients local - from bacon to brews - just flip over the menu and you'll see a list of all the farmers and local businesses that went into making your meal. If you have room, the Apple Bread French Toast is Westside Local's signature sweet breakfast dish. The homemade apple bread contains loads of vanilla, cinnamon, chunks of walnuts and then battered and topped with chunky apple butter. From its hashtastic start to the satisfyingly sweet finish, Westside Local is your stop for phenomenal food.
(5)Catherine K.
My friend and I came here while visiting Kansas City, and I can't wait to go back! We ordered the cheese plate, (which had an amazing roasted garlic spread), the charcuterie board (you get to choose three kinds of meat, which come with sides of pickled vegetables, apricot jam, and whole grain mustard-- all delicious), and the fries (which also have three amazing sauces). We spent the evening savoring all of the different flavors, which were also really fun to mix and match. The people were very nice, everything came out in a timely manner, and the servings were generous. A great experience!
(5)Neeca B.
This is such a trendy little spot almost borderline pretentious but the food is honestly good. I would be totally proud to bring any foodie here. even for a regular joe the burgers would work, and they probably wouldn't balk to much at the price, well maybe a little. Service was a little slow but in all fairness i excepted it since it was a Friday night. decent portion size, ate half, the other even tasted better as next days lunch.
(4)Abby J.
Stopped in this weekend for the first time and definitely enjoyed my visit. Ordered the Woodhaven Burger with parmesan/parsley fries. The burger was one of the juiciest/freshest burgers that I've eaten to date. Topped with a thick slice of country ham and copious amounts of cheese, it doesn't get much better. Being so fresh, it comes at a little more expensive of a price- a $15 burger. Also, the fries were very flavorful and crisped just right. Usually I have to douse mine in ketchup, but not these! This place has many fresh and healthy options to choose from. Definitely worth a try.
(5)Anita O.
Doesn't get day better. Food good. Beer good. Ambience good. Attitude toward local food superb. What else is there?
(5)C. W.
Great atmosphere for a weekend lunch with friends. We were excited about having brunch, but beware, BRUNCH IS ONLY ON SUNDAYS starting at 11AM! Our server was a real sweetie, who consoled us and gave us great suggestions. I had the Chicken wrap (gluten-free--served on a bed of greens instead of the flour wrap) and roasted veggies. The flavor of the chicken and greens was sumptuous matching a very creamy dressing. And the roasted veggies offered variety and flavor, though slightly too salty for my taste and I like my roasted garlic chopped up rather than whole. Also, know that the coffee is tasty but strong! I'd come back if I had the chance.
(4)Mykl R.
I Lovveeeeee this place! Found it on a whim after a day of thrifting at the West bottoms. And I am so glad I did! It is a cute, quaint place that has such delicious food. I sat at the bar (which is equally as inviting and cute) and enjoyed a late lunch with my fiancé. We both loved the homey ambiance and the service. We both had the buffalo chorizo tacos (which are now discontinued... Please bring them back) and the Mac and cheese! They were both heavenly. We can't wait to come back.
(5)Geri W.
Since I work in the West Bottoms, I consider Westside Local. . .well, local. (mapquest drive time: 3 minutes!) Of course what it means is that all the food is sourced locally, and it is wonderful! Hubby and I made reservations for 6:00 PM on a Friday. I called at noon that Friday, and just skidded into the reservation, so I would consider noon probably a cut-off for a reservation of choice. So nice to sit down, look around, and feel at home. The vibe at Westside is definitely low-key, relaxing, and organic, with the wood floors, brick walls and candles. The service was excellent. A very attentive waiter disappeared at the right times and arrived at the right times to pour water. He was knowledgeable about the menu, and recommended the hummus to top my quinoa/sweet potato burger. So, so good, this vegetarian burger is. I have had it twice now, and it was delicious both times, with a homemade roll and aioli. And the fries. Westside's fries are delicious and unique: crispy like McDonalds, but real. I longed for some salt, and I brought out a packet from my stash. Our waiter saw the packet, and kidded me about the packet just being "a cry for help." He immediately brought a shaker of salt. Hubby was no dummy and ordered the Westside Local mac 'n cheese. Of course I had a bite, and it was cooked al dente with a mild, but pleasantly biting, yet creamy, white sauce. If you haven't tried the charcuterie board yet, do so, you won't be disappointed. I've been to Local several times now, and it is always good, and the service is great. Westside Local is where I bring people I really like: I don't want anyone else to know!
(5)Rachel W.
I truly enjoy the atmosphere at Westside Local...as much as I enjoy the entire neighborhood really. It is small, cozy and optimal for conversation. Parking is easy, even on a busy night. Highly recommend for a dinner or drinks date. I've frequented the restaurant a few times over the years both for drinks and for dinner. On my latest visit, I ordered the summer quinoa which is vegan-friendly but also includes the option to add chicken or salmon if you so desire. I stuck with the vegan version and it was yummy. I also had a tasty gin & tonic before my meal came and it was made well. Not too heavy on the gin, not too heavy on the tonic. On previous visits I've enjoyed the mac & cheese (delicious, but I had to take some home bc of the large quantity), the grilled cheese and tomato fennel soup (I love this combo, but to be honest..I've had better grilled cheese), the pint of fries (finger-licking good, not to be compared to KFC of course), as well as the kale salad (I love it when restaurants do salads well). I can't wait to try the sweet potato burger and long list of appetizers someday. Overall, I'm a fan.
(4)Joey P.
This is a solid restaurant that we may try again sometime. We enjoyed Saturday lunch there. My hubs had the lamb chorizo tacos and I had the chicken kale wrap. We both enjoyed our selections but not memorable. The service was great and love the local vibe and atmosphere.
(3)Tali Z.
We stumbled upon this restaurant after scanning yelp for options in the area, and we were thrilled with the find! The ambiance is lovely - cozy, yet open with a dark wood-planked ceiling and brick walls. We started by ordering drinks; I ordered Bob's Beer Coctail and my friend ordered The Josie. Both were delicious, but I especially loved the combination of beer, juic eand liquor in mine. I would never think to make a mixed drink out of a beer, but it was outstanding. For food we orders the Mac and Cheese and the Summit (heirloom option) Burger. Again, both were mouth watering. The meat in the burger was so flavorful, probably one of the best burger patties I have ever had. It was cooked perfectly to order and the cheese and add-ons added a great burst of flavor. We opted for the veggies on the side, which were again delicious though they did have a kick. If you like spicy, the hot peppers in there are for you. The Mac and Cheese was hearty, cheesy, hot, crispy... just the way it should be! I even found myself scraping the remaining cheese off the side of the bowl. Delicious. We then got the desert; key lime pie with a cookie (not sure what type of cookie - maybe shortbread?). Both were subtle flavors and weren't too sweet or tart, and together they were prefect! We were so thrilled with our food that we even ordered a side of fries (not on the menu as a side, but they'll let you get it) to take home with us. They were even good an hour later :) The only reason I rated at 4 stars as opposed to 5 was because there was a drip from the ac near our table, so they turned us sideways and it was a bit awkward. But it really was not a big deal. Also, our waitress originally told us a different dessert (banana bread) which we ordered and then waited a while thinking it would be brought out, but when she returned she told us they were out of that desert. Again, not a big deal and we happily switched to key lime pie, but it was a bit of a wait for her to let us know... All in all, I think I've found my favorite KC restaurant!
(4)Andrea G.
This place is nestled in a quiet and snug manner in this old Kansas City neighborhood with a rich history as diverse and changing as the menu. I am glad this place is in my old neighborhood where I grew up, my mom was born and where my grandparents grew up. When I go home to visit my childhood home it is nice to walk up the street to this quaint little restaurant and bar. I embrace diversity especially when it comes with craft beers and happy hour wine prices. I am also glad to see that Kansas City is becoming more integrated I hope. It is not a noisy loud chain restaurant from the suburbs nor did it bring obnoxious new construction to this neighborhood with houses that are more than a 100 years old. The food is decent but what I like it even more is that it is all locally derived. They will also give you a cold glass of almond milk with a chocolate chip cookie if you are are a lactard like me. So I give it a lactose friendly stamp of approval. Cheers to the Westside Local. This is where I meet up with all my friends/family when I am home for a visit.
(4)Matt E.
Update time! The good: I frickin love their food. I eat here somewhat on the regular, and everything has been fantastic. Their mac and cheese and their grilled cheese are both on point. IN regards to the latter, I vote that you upgrade to include the ham, but still request the tomato and fennel soup rather than the lingonberry jam. I find the jam too sweet for a non-dessert. But still, it's a fabulous meal. Also recommended are the fish tacos. They're saucy and delicious and the kale adds a great texture. Yum yum. Their staff is consistently friendly and helpful. They have great personalities that shine through while they work, which I definitely appreciate as opposed to waitress-bots. I like these people! The bad: one thing. The flies! Sitting inside this isn't a problem, but their patio seems to have an overabundance of the pesty little insects. I hate having to constantly defend my food from dive-bombing bugs. Still, that's not enough to turn me away from the place. I am a big fan of Westside Local!
(4)Jeremy C.
Been here twice now. The first time, my friend and I came on a Sunday night for dinner and they were out of fries, so we were a bit disappointed. The service at the biergarden that night was subpar, not to mention we were served by two different waiters who kept asking us the same questions. The Deviled Eggs were nothing special, but the Apple Bread was phenomenal. We got the Summit burger and the Windhaven burger. Although I preferred the Shatto cheese on the Windhaven, the ground ribeye used for the Summit burger definitely made it the clear winner. Not to mention the brioche bun (Summit) is much better than the pretzel bun (Windhaven). Came back on a Friday night with a group of 6. There was a last minute cancellation when I called so they had the back table reserved for us. It was perfect and they were incredibly nice and accommodating. Our server this time was a significant upgrade and provided the perfect waiting experience. The local cheese and charcuterie plates were good, but the standout was definitely the kale hummus. The P.E.I. Mussels were served in a type of creamy bisque which was super rich and super delicious. (Pro tip: dip the parmesan fries in the mussels sauce). The baked Mac n Cheese is one of the best in KC (it has Brie in it!). Overall, this is one of my favorite restaurants in KC. Could use some improvement in the waitstaff department, but the food, drinks, and atmosphere make it hard to beat.
(4)S G.
We've eaten here several times and enjoy the food. The food has never been a disappointment. I gave 4 stars due to service. The waitress didn't really seem enthused to be there. She didn't mention any specials or dive into the menu. I actually felt like she was annoyed to have us there. She perked up a bit at the end. The times we've come before the service has been great. Usually the staff really talk about the menu but oh well. I still recommend this restaurant. It's still is a favorite for us.
(4)Doug K.
Awesome place to eat/drink. Highly recommend!!! Had the burger special with grilled veggies, amazing. Going to be a usual here.
(5)Jimmi H.
My husband and I have begun our tour-de-KC food as we wind down our final weeks. Being Westsiders, Westside Local is an obvious stop and last night made for a great meal. First the setting, specifically the patio. One of the best in KC! The space is wonderful for an early autumn dinner al fresco, and perfect for midday meals most of the year. The service is consistent and friendly. The highlight though is the food! Get the hummus. I love hummus and usually only really go for a traditional take on it, but WL just does it right, and I found it went best with the carrots. The tomato fennel soup was like an autumnal holiday in my mouth, just delicious. The only thing that could have improved that cup of soup was crisp autumn air, but I suppose the chef has zero control over the weather. For my dinner I chose the kale salad with a salmon add on. The salmon was light and rich with a delicate crispness that made it the star of the dish. I did find though that the kale, Brussels sprout mix with dressing ratio was way off. I finished my meal with a half of a plate full of dry kale. The best thing on the table though was my husbands meal, buffalo chorizo Mac and cheese! Decadent, rich and unlike any Mac and cheese I've had before, but in a very positive way. It was almost like chili but with everything I love about Mac and cheese; rich creamy sauce, full plump noodles and then mixed with a hearty, full flavor chorizo. Wow! This is a dish to share though. Great experience!
(4)B. L.
Completely rude staff. Left for Harry's country club.
(1)Sarah G.
Surprisingly I'm visiting KCMO for the first time- I've lived in St Louis my entire life (it's only about 4 hours away). My friend and I are big foodies and appreciate local foods and neighborhood establishments. I found The Westside Local on a blog as being one of the best Farm to Table restaurants in KCMO. We decided to try it on our first night here and it did not disappoint. The place was full when we arrived but it was worth the wait. We each ordered a cocktail- I had the Pleasant Peasant which is made up of Strongbow, gin, and a house made honey basil tea concentrate. It's a little sweet and very refreshing! We decided to split a few appetizers for dinner- we had the Cheese Plate (the roasted garlic spread is to die for!), the Charcuterie Board (we chose the prosciutto spread, country ham, and Broadway pate), and the Pint o Fries with a trio of sauces. Overall our experience was great and I will definitely be recommending this place to my friends! My one tip if you get the pate on the charcuterie board- try it with the apricot jam- it's delicious
(5)Nilav R.
This place uses local ingredients from local vendors. All menu items are accompanied with local beer suggestions, which I found to be very unique and creative. The actual food is delicious, I highly recommend trying one of their burgers, they are cooked to perfection!
(5)Baron A.
If we could have sent everything back, we would have. The mac & cheese had clearly been left in the oven or heat lamps for about 10 minutes too long, and all of the cheese broke-down into oil, so the result was twisting noodles soaking in 1 inch of clear hot oil. To their credit, when I showed it to them, they admitted it was a mistake and took it back; however, how can such a dish even make it to the table. Then, the chicken and polenta is an ill conceived dish. The dish is a chichen thigh and drumstick, polenta cakes, green beans, and a sauce. The problem is that the drumstick is literally sitting in the sauce; so, it is not crispy, and too messy to handle--therefore, you have to eat the drumstick with a fork and knife. But, the same grease problem that plagued the mac & cheese, killed this dish. The polenta was fried and shiny from grease and soaking in the greasy sauce. You could literally see the pools and trails of grease in the sauce. The green beans were cooked, and then oiled, and then cooked, and then oiled, and then cooked, and then oiled and then.... If they truly start with good local ingredients, then it is even a greater sin to coat it in oil and overcook it, because then you might as well be using Safeway ingredients. So, we used a fork and knife and separated the chicken meat off of the bones and then left everything else on the plate. The small amount of chicken that we separated from the small thigh and the drumstick was overcooked and rubbery. As a server, this is a major RED flag: a person done with their meal that didn't eat 9/10's of the plate's food. However, instead of asking "Was there a problem" or "seems like it didn't work out," or anything to acknowledge the uneaten meal, the staff simply said "are you done with that?" and took the plate full of food. Also, we ordered a glass of wine and the taste was horrible--it had the taste of wine that was in the box that your parents would drink. As with the chicken dish, we didn't drink any of it, and the wait staff never asked if there was a problem, and instead simply took the full plate of food, and ignored the completely untouched glass of wine. Lastly, they need to check their water filter. The water smells like an aquarium. I asked if they sold bottled water, and they said no. I would rather have unfiltered tap water, than water that is processed through an aquarium. Worst meal ever . . ..
(1)Ferzeen P.
Love the atmosphere, esp the back patio. I love the picnic table idea which is great for big groups or meeting new people. Pretty decent happy hour esp for wine. Ordered a make your own meat/cheese board and it was delicious. The Buffalo bison and cheddar were my fave. Everything is farm to table meaning you'll always have fresh food! Def coming back
(4)Kevin T.
I am on a roll for finding great eats lately and the Westside Local continues my good fortune! This is by far one of the best casual farm-to-table type restaurants I have ever been too. The grass-fed beef burgers are prepared to a pleasing medium and it was topped with pepper-jack cheese, fresh jalapenos, sliced onions, baby arugula and ripe tomatoes. The bun matched the freshness of the other ingredients. Served up with crisp Parmesan french fries and homemade ketchup which was amazing. I really like that they have a lot of local beers available too. I believe the prices to be pretty standard for a farm-to-table place. I am happy to say that I will be starting a new job that is only 1 mile away from here. You can bet I will be a lunch regular!
(5)Dina B.
Had reservations, seated with the setting sun glaring in our faces. Our request for a move seemed challenging to the staff, we did get moved to a great table, though. Place was empty on Saturday night. Bad sigh. Cheeses were served cold, too bad-great cheese. Pate had a rough texture and raw herbaceous flavor...ugh. Famous tomato and fennel soup was raw tasting and watery, didn't eat it. Service was okay. Kale and shaved Brussels sprouts salad was all kale, and not as good as in the past, sad. Finally, kale humus was flavorless. Won't return.
(2)Deva J.
Farm to table concept. Food never disappoints. Loved the grilled cheese sandwich! Seriously yummy! This restaurant also is supporting a good cause.....they are donating 10% of all who ate here today to the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society. How wonderful are they to do that? Amazing!!
(5)Gina M.
What can I say that's not completely scathing? This place was meh. On a night that wasn't crowded, it took us an hour and a half to be seated. This was after the host assured us it would be 10 minutes. Well every 10 minutes, it was another 10 minute wait. Not cool. When seated, we had a very apathetic waiter who could barely pay attention for the full minute it took for us to order. It took another 30-45 minutes for our food to come out. My grilled cheese and soup were hardly worth the wait and my husband's burger was nothing to be excited about. If we weren't treated so poorly and didn't have to wait so long for our food, maybe our experience would have been a little better. I'm sorry our business was a big inconvenience for you, Westside Local, we won't be back to bother you.
(1)Jennifer J.
Investing in an otherwise blighted, if emerging, area of Kanas City takes fearless leadership and an appetite for risk. The Westside Local graciously accepts the challenge with a fresh, innovative menu. Come for Blunch and enjoy deviled eggs and fresh beignets alongside sharp, local cheese and crispy crackers. The Apple Bread French Toast is a perfect if you're waking up with a sweet tooth; my boyfriend dove face first into a burrito and we shared strong coffee and mimosas. Rustic and elegant, the restaurant would be a perfect location for any special event and the seasonal outdoor seating is lush and accomodating. Adding this restaurant to my list of Kansas City crave-able food... can't wait to come back!
(5)JC A.
Grilled Cheese Worth Its Weight in Gold Went to lunch twice there recently and the grilled cheese was so good I got it both times. Not very imaginative of me, but The Westside Local did all the dream work for me with the rocking combo of "brie, emmentaler and shatto white cheddar on toasted sasha's baking co. sourdough, and tomato fennel soup for dipping". Note: Second time I was there, tried the Roasted Red Pepper soup with and loved it even more than the tomato fennel(and the tom fennel is wonderful!) If you have not tried their delicious deviled eggs, you must. They'rr the kind of dish you'd give as a housewarming gift if your deviled eggs sold on the black market for high dollar. Lunch partners got Westside Mac and Cheese( he proposed to it), Pork Belly sandwich(smelled so good we had sandwich envy). Fabulous food, great service and happy place to be all-around.
(5)Zane W.
Great, local food at a great price. Had a killer 750 ml bottle of beer without breaking the bank. Good service, too.
(5)Tricia H.
Okay I seriously seriously wanted to LOVE this place...but I didn't at all :(... I LOVED the neat ambiance and the oldness of this building.. It really reminded me of a big city artsy restaurant. Okay to the food ...The Bratwurst Trio was just okay nothing to write home about to be frank they were almost over cooked rubbery :(...I was so excited to taste the spicy pickle's seeing I LOVE pickle's especially spicy ones..another disappoint :( not spicy at all they tasted like garlic pickles outta a jar. The roasted beets were just OK too, nothing special....I really wanted to love this place but nothing really struck me with flavor or that YUMMMM factor for the price. I can say the Fries were bountiful and yummy.. I do plan on going back and trying many other items that are in the reviews...Maybe next time it will be better!!! Wish me luck
(2)Scott T.
Five stars, solid. What a delightful venue. We were checking several restaurants in the area for lunch but when we saw the menu here the deal was sealed. Why? Anyone using products from The Local Pig on their menu (one of our next stops for the day) is *really* serious about the food they're putting on the table. It shows here. A restaurant can get their products elsewhere easily enough, so why go with a small independent local butcher? Quality. The Local Pig is head and shoulders above the crowd in quality. Now, for the food... best french fries in town, hands down--a real surprise--insane. Someone message me where they're better because I want to go there. We split the cheese and charcuterie platter going for Gorgonzola, Manchego and Rosemary Goat for the cheeses and Rabbit Pate, Prosciutto and Andouille for the meats. Along with that came a marvelous Kale salad (picture included with review) and a couple of great beer selections. We spoke to a few other diners and everyone was raving about the food, and for good reason. The entire beer selection is exceptional, and the wine selection appears to be well thought out as well. The service very pleasant and was ahead of the game (more crackers with the cheese?), another beer? All OK? Appropriate, but not pushy, shared her experiences with some of the dishes. I'm in the area this coming Friday for the opera--no high brow dining for us beforehand. We'll be at The Westside. Keep up the great work!
(5)Gina M.
Great atmosphere with excellent food choices. Met a friend here for "Blunch" and loved the creative choices on the menu. The ingredients were very fresh, which is always nice. The grilled salmon benedict was a.mazing! My friend had the veggie hash, which also looked (and smelled) delicious ~ must've tasted delicious too, judging by my friend's face and the clean plate at the end of the meal.
(4)Stephanie G.
Disappointed. I've been told by many to go here. The hummus was way too acidic too eat and was served along with Parmesan crackers that were chewy and tasted like cardboard. The grilled cheese was average, not worth 11 dollars by any means. Way too much bread for grilled cheese, too. I especially liked it when our waitress asked me over my shoulder if I wanted to box that up as I was eating it. Will not go back.
(2)Rayni K.
Every now and then we are giant cheeseballs and crave cheesy meals. We had one of those days in Kansas City while we were at the Convention Center for a conference. So we took a little walk during the break and got ourselves the Westside Mac & Cheese and the Grilled Cheese. We were in cheese heaven. The tomato fennel soup that came with the Grilled Cheese was actually brilliantly tasty, and I normally dislike tomato soup. The side of fries was also cooked just the way I like it - crispy! We opted for the addition of bacon & shallots on the Mac & Cheese and they did not skimp on the bacon whatsoever. It was a cheesy bacon festival in a bowl. Highly recommended place to eat at. Service may be a tad slow, though.
(4)Madeline S.
I'd like to update my past review and share a recent dining experience. i had dinner with my brother and dad who were visiting, after taking them to Room 39 and Jack Stack the nights before. They decided that Westside Local was their favorite meal. They both ordered burgers, which were delicious. I tried the fries too and they were great. We chose several items to add to an appetizer plate - salami, spicy pickles, baguette, kale hummus and deviled eggs. Then I had the crispy skin trout. We shared a unique and scrumptious dessert, the strawberry shortcake, that was not anything like your average shortcake, it was more like a buckle.
(4)Dave L.
An ounce of pretension is worth a pound of manure. The food took an hour to come out and was not worth the $15 it cost.
(2)Jacy R.
Quiet enough to bring a client in for a handcrafted cocktail. Try the Black Lodge. House infused hibiscus flower tequila, dry curaçao, fresh grapefruit juice, & agave. They menu features many locally sourced options. It's a tad pricey for the area but it won't disappoint.
(5)Jacques C.
I've been here a good number of times. The good is always seasonal, always fresh, and always well prepared. I can't find anything to complain about except for an occasionally dippy server...and only very occasionally. I just had lunch there today and it was stellar. Granted the prices are a little higher than the normal lunch fare, but the quality is if a sufficiently higher quality to merit the price. Dinner is also superb.
(5)Arturo H.
Great hipster restaurant on the west side of Kansas City... Just minutes from downtown. The overall ambiance and interior was a pleasant surprise but the wait staff could be more attentive when guests are seated as it took about 15 minutes for a waitress to acknowledge us. That was the only downside. Otherwise the menu is unique and had various fresh, and eclectic options. Three people at the table couldn't resist the grilled Cheese and they all loved it. Gourmet white cheese, that oozed from the sandwich with a side of Parmesan fries. I got the chicken mole tacos which were average but a great attempt at a twist on the bland chicken tacos. Overall, we all said we would love to come back and made this a must for lunch on our next trip.
(4)Robert H.
We went between the lunch and dinner times 3-5pm so we got in with no wait. Ate off of the appetizer menu and was blown away with the pint of fries and various dips. (see photo) My wife got the hummus plate with half beet dip. The beet dip was better than the hummus. Just loved it all! I also had a tasty bowl (size of a cup) of chicken tortilla soup. Our waitress was Erin and she knew how to take care of us. Can't wait to go back and try more stuff! Super cool place off the beaten path.
(5)Amy L.
This is one of my favorite areas and restaurants in Kansas City and I always try to go at least once when I'm in town. My go-to is the warm quinoa dish with a dollop of goat cheese. You can add salmon or chicken for an extra 5 dollars, but the main dish usually fills me up on its own. My one complaint would be the price tag. 15 dollars is a bit pricey for quinoa! Also, be sure to make reservations in the evenings - this place fills up fast!
(4)ashley v.
I came here with a few friends for an early dinner about a week ago. Luckily, we had no wait and a pretty empty restaurant. Our waitress was nice, but unfamiliar with the menu. She couldn't remember what they served for dessert, so she had to leave and come back to tell us what the other half of the dessert items were. She also couldn't remember the specials, either. They should probably just hand you menus with those items printed on them. Our meals were good, but nothing to write home about. I ordered the grilled cheese with tomato "soup" for dipping, along with some fries. The house made ketchup was kind of impressive, and the fries were tasty, but maybe just a little limp. I prefer my fries to be crispy. My grilled cheese was nothing special, despite the fancy cheese blend and homemade bread. The slices of bread were much too thick for the small amount of cheese they sandwiched between them. So a pretty dry sandwich. The soup was just kind of weird. It was less of a soup and more of a cup of slightly warmed chunks of tomatoes, like stewed tomatoes. I don't mind a chunky soup, but this was pretty hard for "dipping" since there wasn't much liquid involved at all. For dessert I ordered the lemon creme brulee. I was really disappointed with this. The lemon flavor was good, if maybe a bit too sweet. I prefer more of a tart, fresh lemon taste. What was really unappetizing about the creme brulee, though is that it was runny and underdone. It definitely should have been thicker. It was less of a custard and more of a pudding. I couldn't taste the egg at all. The crust wasn't as crisp as I like, either. I think they could have cooked the sugar on top more. It wasn't as much of a dark, caramel color on top as a light golden color. Overall, I had a nice time here, but I feel that it is overpriced even with the "farm to table" ingredients. It is great that the food is fresh, but the items could have been better prepared.
(3)K G.
We visited this restaurant on the recommendation of a couple of friends, as we are from out of town. This place is really cute! We sat outside in the back patio area & it was perfect. I had the smoked salmon egg salad sandwich with fries. Those fries...omg!! They are amazing. & the homemade ketchup was great, too. I loved the brioche bun that my sandwich came on. The filling was good, but it could've definitely benefited from some salt. The fries could've been salted more as well. Overall, though, it was a great meal! I had a bite of my boyfriend's burger, & it was perfectly cooked & delicious. Our waiter was quirky & nice.
(4)Jeanette B.
The food was wonderful and the staff was just lovely. I had the quinoa, my family had the pork chop, pot pie, veggie burger and mac and cheese. We all were so pleased! I can't say enough positive things about this restaurant.
(5)eva G.
Have been here 3 times haven't been disappointed so far. The food is really good very fresh, good selection of beers. If it's warm sit in the patio perfect place for lunch. Love this place wish we lived closer so i could go more often.
(5)Elizabeth G.
We went to this place for dinner. It was very cute and cozy with a great atmosphere. Their menu seemed very fresh and creative. We ordered the kale salad and a build your own cheese plate. When the kale salad arrived, it was more the toppings (shaved brussel sprouts, almonds, etc.) on a bed of kale. It was still pretty good, but just not what I expected and a whole lot of kale. The cheese plate was decent too. We tried 3 cheeses we've never had before. The Rosemary goat cheese was phenomenal. Then of course we had dessert and the pumpkin cheesecake was awesome. It wasn't a normal creamy cheesecake it came in a souffle type of dish with a homemade crust. I would definitely come here again. Also, just to keep in mind their ticketing time is a little slower if you're in a rush.
(4)Ian J.
Great locally-sourced food with a menu that changes seasonally. I had the summit burger with the spicy addon for a couple bucks more. Jalapeños provided just enough of a kick to give it that something extra without overpowering the perfectly cooked medium rare beef. Microgreens and a bit of sweet jelly to balance it out and this was one of the best burgers I've had in KC. The parmesan and parsley fries were also top notch. Wash it all down with a cold KC Pils. Perfect lunch. Highly recommended!
(5)Barrie L.
1 hour and 15 minutes to get our food and the place wasn't busy, over cooked steak and asparagus. Not really pleased with the service. Had really high hopes because of the referral that was given to try this place. Gave it 2 stars because the ambiance was nice.
(2)Acprose A.
The place for wine and cheese on a super relaxing patio. creative wine list and a fun cheese and accoutrements menu. crispy trout is a treat. friendly staff, and doggies!
(4)Emma B.
Westside Local is one of my favorite restaurants in KC. It's farm to table, so the food is always fresh and delicious, and the the decor is really pretty. They even have a beer garden style patio, which is great when the weather is nice. Service can sometimes be a bit slow, but the food and ambiance more than makes up for it. Last week my boyfriend and I took his parents there for dinner and everyone loved it. I got my absolute favorite - the grilled cheese sandwich. I've tried tastes from different meals every time I've been there, and everything is always great, but 90% of the time I get their grilled cheese and am obsessed with it. Delicious melty cheese, amazing tomato fennel for dipping and super tasty french fries. You can't go wrong with it! Or then again, with anything on the menu. Other favorites are their burgers, quinoa main dish and honestly pretty much anything I've tried. When my parents come up for visits, it's our go to. They always say it's their favorite place to go when they're here! P.S. Their cocktails are great, too. I love the Laura Palmer!
(5)Natalie R.
Excellent Service. Clean restaurant. Fresh ingredients. Amazing menu items. Great assortment of beers. Love it!
(5)Rhiannon B.
I loved this place! The location and the ambience are awesome. We went around 8pm on a Saturday night with no reservation and were seated immediately. They have a great cocktail/beer selection. Now for the food..... I had the fall quinoa. Sweet potato, brussels sprouts (my fave), mushrooms and onions topped with pesto and a nice sized dollop of chevre. It was delicious. My brother opted for the veggie burger which was also good. (I love that they make it with cannellini beans). It's definitely worth trying out!
(4)Carrie M.
Love the food here but wait staff is a hit or miss. I've had some of the best servers here and some of the worst. Some dishes are way overpriced, but for the most part, I enjoy this restaurant. The atmosphere is always great and everything I've tried is delicious - you HAVE to get the apple bread as part of this. You won't be disappointed.
(4)Logan P.
Pretty cool ambience although we sat by the door and it was freezing. Went on a Friday night and there was a guy playing guitar which was pretty chill and added to the ambience. I ordered the burger and sautéed brussel sprouts, my date ordered a burger and the Parmesan garlic fries. Really liked the fries, the burger was good but not worth going back for. Pretty good beer selection and a long wine list. For dessert we ordered the bread pudding and the apple cinnamon cobbler. Cobbler was pretty soupy and bread pudding was tasteless and dry. Don't think I'd go back to this place again.
(3)Jin K.
Been here a few times but just recently came here w/ my 2 yr old. We had a great time & the food was great as usual! We split a patty melt & was great! My son, obviously loved the fries, as did I! Great casual feel to the place & service was great. I've also had the mussels here & it was good! Will definitely come back again.
(4)Stella M.
Consistently good. What more could you ask for in a restaurant? The menu changes regularly, but as cheesy as it sounds, I have yet to have a bad meal here. I feel like a weirdo going there as frequently as I do, but man, I'm 99% certain they put some sort of addictive substance in their french fries. This is the place that got me into the habit of ordering fries as an appetizer - and now I'm that person eating kale salads for my entree after hogging down a bucket of fries to start. Ugh.
(5)Shruti N.
This was a great farm to table, organic restaurant in Kansas City. The ambiance was great and the service was quick and friendly. I came here with a large group of coworkers (19 people total) and we were all very pleased with both the food and the service. Some of the highlights included the burgers, quinoa, mac n cheese and pulled pork. This is also a great restaurant for vegetarians and healthy eaters, but also satisfies the more indulgent!
(4)H C.
Great food. And how can you beat the patio? (You can't). Before or after your meal, take a stroll through the neighborhood. Beautiful homes and a great view of the city.
(5)Marla H.
I had lunch today and this was my first time here. I had the broccoli quinoa burger with the Parmesan fries. Everything was delicious. There must be something that can be put in the burger to keep it intact as it totally fell apart. It might even work better as an open faced sandwich on one piece of vegan bread. The fries were delicious and you could tell the ketchup was made in house, it was very fresh. The sandwich was a nice size, flavorful, kind of a light sweet taste which I wasn't sure if it was the sauce or something on the bun as the top of the bun was a little sticky. The service was good and the atmosphere was nice. I live that they use only local ingredients. Very small menu but I have a feeling they would be flexible. My friend ordered the hamburger and she said the meat had a weird taste to it and she only could eat half of it. I'm looking forward to going back and taking my daughter who is in culinary school. We are always trying to find locally-owned establishments to support. We are tired of the chain restaurants around our house.
(4)Jessica E.
Delish! Grabbed a bite to eat last night, namely the grilled cheese sammy with the side tomato soup (when I dip, you dip I dip) and french fries. Holy crap that sandwich is huge. Come hungry and the menu will satisfy you for sure. They have a small and simple menu, though it provides a lot of vegan and vegetarian options as well as catering to the fellow carnivores. Drink menu was extensive and they have daily specials; can't vouch for any of their specialty stuff, I just rolled with a PBR yesterday. The space is small and intimate and our server was SO nice and genuinely made us feel welcome. Can't say enough nice things about this joint. See you soon!
(4)An L.
the Margarita was pretty good and hamburger was great. cook just like I like it.. did I mention that the margarita was good.. would love to sit outside next time.
(4)Jeremiah L.
An amazing dinner with my lovely wife. Usually there is something that isn't quite right when we go out to eat. Probably cause I'm a bit critical being a chef myself. Everything we ordered was cooked perfectly and tasted exquisite, this never happens to me. The heirloom quinoa with crispy skinned trout was phenomenal, the bison chorizo tacos were from planet Too Good, and the chocolate zucchini bread was straight from chocolate heaven. New favorite restaurant!
(5)Michele N.
Wow, why did we wait so long to get to this stop on our list? This off the beaten path restaurant offers a great venue to enjoy good food and good beer. They have a beer garden that has large picnic style tables which are community style, as well as smaller tables. I had read a review suggesting that they put speakers outside to enjoy the live music from inside, or just pipe in some pandora...I concur! Other than that the beer garden is awesome. The restaurant interior is nice as well, with exposed brick walls etc. Although the menu is not huge, we had a hard time deciding what to order; everything sounded appealing. We started with a "pick your own" charcuterie and cheese plate. The portions were much larger than we expected (especially compared to the reasonable price), so we ended up just sharing a salad and splitting a burger for our meal after the appetizer. The kale and shaved Brussels sprout salad was a fresh, crisp diversion from the usual. The burger was awesome and accompanied by crispy, delectable fries. They offer a great option for sharing plates that I really appreciated; you can split at no charge or you can pay a modest $2 charge and they split the main dish in the kitchen and give you two full portions of the side (no having to share the fries, woohoo)!
(4)Mark S.
Past experiences here have been excellent. I recommend then when they do their groupons or for Taste of Kansas City. Their steak and chips are awesome, and they have a huge selection of beers. I enjoyed their unique salads and desserts in the past as well. I'm noticing an increasing lack of service each time I go, however. This past weekend was one example: 1. I fell through a chair on a rotted-out back patio that they have, immediately when sitting down. The owner and waitstaff were mildly apologetic, but asking me if I'm going to sue them BEFORE asking me if I'm ok was pretty rude. They didn't even do anything to try to make my experience better (maybe a beer or an appetizer or dessert for the table would have been nice!). Learn some courtesy instead of mocking your guests, please. 2. When we asked what we should eat, the waitstaff told us about their specials and recommended items that they liked, and then told us that they were out of these! Why tease us with your "best dishes" if you don't have them to serve us! Rude! 3. Some dog of the owners was jumping on the tables and stretching out all over the peoples' food; then it got into a dogfight outside, then came to our table begging. I'm sorry, but at the prices we pay at this place, I'd rather not have some scrappy mutt disturbing my dinner. I'm a dog-lover, but please let me enjoy my dinner, thanks. 4. It got dark; it took them about 25 min and us asking TWICE to get a few candles to our table. Seriously, The Westside Local, you need to improve your customer service and courtesy to your patrons. Shame on you! (Also, PotPie's mussels blow yours out of the water!)
(2)Tyson S.
Wife and I split the special: Jerk chicken BLT with parmesan fries. In-credible. We will be back...soon! Back patio is perfect in nice weather.
(5)Amy R.
Gosh I love this place! We had our belated holiday dinner here last week and it was phenomenal! The service was outstanding. We arrived one at a time and he had no problem getting each person a drink as they sat down. Food was great: rosemary hummus and french fries were divine! My salad was lovely. Such a fun funky atmosphere. Love it.
(5)Daniel H.
I thought my GPS was sending me to the wrong location but remembered somebody took a picture of the restaurants sign. I saw that as I slowly drove by and found parking. I don't think you will have problems finding street parking because there was plenty; in addition, walking almost never hurt anybody. lol I was here for a CMYE (Community Manager Yelp Event) outside in the patio area and our waiter was nice and helpful. He helped me decide on the kind of beer that would be good since I've never been here. I ordered the Boulevard Dry Stout (normally $5 but it was $3 for happy hour) and the Summit Burger ($11). The Boulevard Dry Stout was good and I wouldn't mind ordering it again but there were other drinks on the menu that I want to try because it sounded good. I didn't pay attention as to how long it took our food to come out because I was chatting/listening to everybody at the table. I know that everything came at once so that's good. My Summit Burger was pretty good and the only thing that was kinda ehh for me was the dijon vinaigrette sauce. It had an interesting taste especially on a burger like this. I still added it to my burger even though it was kinda ehh for me. lol The fries were pretty tasty and they gave me the right amount. I saw a couple of us order the Deviled Eggs ($6) and I didn't try those but they looked good! I stayed after all except one Yelper (Lilian O.) left and I sat while Lilian and her fiance (also a Yelper) ate their dinner inside. The inside had fewer tables and seats and it was busy! I think it was around 9pm? or something. I guess everybody was off from work and came here to eat dinner. Good place to eat and drink!
(4)Kirin A.
This is probably my favorite restaurant in the city. It's tucked away in the cute Westside neighborhood, definitely a hidden gem. The food is delicious and the drinks are great too. I'm a big fan of the grilled cheese. The service can be a little so-so if it's too busy, but that doesn't keep me away. The patio is great during the nice weather as well.
(5)Dan J.
I have now been many times and may soon call myself a regular. Now that spring is finally here I'm looking forward to the patio dining. Never disappointed here. Even taking my customers here for dinner.
(5)Samantha L.
I guess I get the appeal, but I am just not as into it as so many of my peers. The food is pretty good but pretty expensive. Cool neighborhood, great house-made ketchup. The outdoor area is pretty good if you don't mind picnic benches and smokers. I guess I just think it's a bit over-rated, but I find myself there pretty often because it makes my friends happy.
(3)meli l.
This is a go-to restaurant for us; the food is consistently good and the staff is friendly and competent. Usually we go for dinner, and this weekend we decided to stop in for brunch. While the night staff is excellent and the food consistently some of the best in Kansas City, our brunch experience was mediocre. We were seated outside, in spite of the fact that it was raining; there's a slight shelter over part of the patio, but several in our party got soaked before we were able to readjust, and there was still a lot of dripping throughout the meal (including onto our food). Our waiter took a long time to show up to take drink our orders, then disappeared for over 15 minutes before taking our food order. The food quality in our party varied wildly. Folks who ordered half-orders of biscuits and gravy got plates of food the same size as those who ordered the full meal; the biscuits were fluffy and flaky and the gravy was delicious. The grilled cheese plate was generous and the Belgian waffles perfectly cooked. On the other hand, those who ordered the vegetable hash with Hollandaise were given less than a cup of the hash with a tablespoon or so of sauce. Absolutely outrageous for $12, and on top of that, it was lukewarm and the potatoes in the hash were undercooked. We all agreed that Westside Local is on hiatus for us, brunch-wise, until they get the staff and food situations under control.
(3)Sara D.
I never realized this place was so popular and I'm thrilled I got the chance to try Westside Local at the latest CMYE. There is nothing better than sipping wine at a picnic table surrounded by vines, on a beautiful evening, while chatting with your favorite people. Our server extended Happy Hour for our group. I got some kind of white wine for $4. I ordered the grilled cheese for $10 which I consider far too expensive, but found the grilled cheese much tastier than Eden Alley's. Westside Local's dish also came with a side of tomato soup and a choice of either potato salad or french fries. Katie was kind enough to share one of her deviled eggs with me, and it was absolutely delicious! I enjoyed chatting with Katie and Rhonda and watching David and Susan's dog sniff around for any wayward crumbs he could find. Westside Local's Beer Garden is a lovely area. Our service was excellent. I found the food to be too expensive and wished the menu was a bit more extensive, but overall I had a fabulous time!
(4)Ben S.
Terrible service. Water wasn't refilled the entire night, became the running joke of the evening. How many times could we ask for water and be ignored. At dessert time one of our party was in the restroom so we asked if the waitress could wait to share the dessert options till everyone was there, especially the expectant mother. Waitress says I will just tell you the options and you can remember and tell her. The drinks were tiny. Margaritas were literally about 2/3 full in the cup. We asked for a full drink and the manager came out and offered to fill them up with fruit juice. Dinner was mediocre, not bad, but nothing special. For dessert we got an apple tart. It came out like a soup. I really think they might have forgot to cook it. Will not be going back.
(1)Stephen H.
It was the end of the academic year, and for my teaching company, that meant an end-of-the-year celebration. Brandon was nice enough to accommodate our group of 15 and we had come up with a special menu beforehand for 3 courses and two beers/wines/well drinks for $30. Our waitstaff was excellent, the food was well done, and the dessert was AMAZING (a granola-chocolate concoction with some creme fraiche): Thanks Nina!!!
(5)Boris Y.
Came for a quiet birthday dinner with a dear friend on a Thursday night. Perfect atmosphere for what we needed! Made a reservation online - fairly easy. The wait-staff wasn't overly attentive - SO refreshing! - they refilled our drinks when necessary, gave great recommendations, and weren't too overly or underly perky. JUST right for a quiet night out. The drinks were good, but nothing spectacular. We ordered the "Fernet Me Not" and "Black Lodge." Parmesan fries with different sauces as an appetizer: BRILLIANT. Presentation was clever, taste was everything you'd ever want in a French fry. Curry Quinoa - spectacular. Windhaven Burger - spectacular. Chicken Tortilla Soup: not the best, more like chili. But each item we ordered was so cleverly original, it really didn't matter. Lemon custard almond cake for dessert - to die for! All in all a GREAT experience! More expensive than I usually go for... But was NOT disappointed in the slightest.
(5)Jen D.
I felt compelled to update my Westside Local review after eating there again last night. This time around, our server, Phillip, was quick and attentive. He was fantastic, actually, as last night was one of those sought after nights of drinking, eating and conversing at a relaxed, leisurely pace. Phillip didn't rush us at all, and made a great recommendation for an appetizer (ask him about building a cheese plate, you won't be disappointed!). The appetizers and entrees were great. I stuck with comfort food by ordering the grilled cheese sandwich (the stuff dreams are made of), and the bf had a burger. Sorry, not just a burger, but the "best burger he has had since he can remember". We both really enjoyed our experience this time and will definitely put the Westport Local in our rotation. Per Joi's recommendation, I look forward to relaxing in the beer garden when the weather decides to be consistent.
(4)Amanda R.
My friend and I went here for happy hour one weeknight and I was thoroughly impressed with the cheese plate and the beer/wine/drink selection. I thought I had found my new favorite place! I brought my boyfriend in that Friday for date night and was excited to try the dinner menu. I got my nice glass of white wine and he got to try their bourbon selection - which he found a couple new ones he might buy. We ordered the Trout and a Burger. It was just ok. The burger was just a burger on a nice bun with some good fries on the side. The curry alioli was a welcome change from ketchup or ranch. But again, nothing to squeal about. The Trout was pretty good, but the bed of additives it was on did not complement the trout at all and made the entire dish bland. Oh well, perhaps I'll just stick to happy hour!
(3)Zach K.
I'm on a trek to find the best burger in KC. The Westside Local's was a contender, and it truly is one of the best in the city. My recommendation is to NOT do the "uptown" version (adding the glaze + mushrooms) -- It's fine as it is! Everything is locally sourced and fresh. Perfect weekend dinner spot or weeknight dinner after a long day at work.
(5)Wayne F.
Our first time at WL and it was really good. No reservation but were seated right away. Our waiter was attentive and knew the menu well. Lime and Lemon non-alc drinks were good. I ordered the angus beef burger, which was very tasty (albeit a little too much dijon), and great fries. Portion (the burger) could definitely be a larger. My gf had a veggie burger which turned out to be also very good. Loved the place and location. 4 out of 5 because although our food was very good and I would recommend it to others, it simply wasn't amazing.
(4)Randy D.
This is one of the few gems for dining and hanging out. Try it you will love it! Great menu and libation choices.
(5)Jessi B.
A cluster. Snooty hostess started off our evening, someone needs to teach her to smile. We sat at the bar while waiting for our table. We each had a nice cocktail, we were seated quite quickly and I asked if our tab would be transferred, a different hostess said yes. As we were having our appetizers the bartender came and asked us to settle up with her. Ok, that's why I asked in the first place. We had the cheese plate which was pretty but no wow pairings of cheese and accompaniments. I had the trout, it was cooked well but over salted. The beet root risotto was a flavorless mush. My co diner had a burger that was very good. We never had our empty water glasses refilled. I was never asked if I wanted another cocktail. Plates weren't cleared until I put my napkin on my plate and walked out. I definitely won't be returning. I love the atmosphere and space but the service we received turned us off for good. Edited to add, the waiter decided we didn't tip well enough so added an extra $10 to his tip on his own. The restaurant did refund the money, but nothing else to compensate for their employee committing a felony. I'll be letting everyone I know about this one.
(1)Mad C.
I love this place and I've only had an appetizer thus far. The sardines were tasty, but I'm giving this place 5 stars for the space alone. I didn't notice any service issues, but I was sitting at the bar and the bartender was someone whom I know to be a professional. I looked at the rest of the menu and it was right up my alley with the grass fed beef. I'm going back on Sunday to check it out some more. I wish this place had been open when I lived in da hood.
(4)Angélica W.
An old college friend of mine visiting from Chicago, my husband, and I dined here on a Saturday evening. We were lucky to grab a table even though initially we were told they were all reserved. The atmosphere was calm, intimate, and artsy. I liked the charcuterie plate - having never had Braunchweiger before, it is a delicious meat treat! And gotta love those crackers. My friend ordered a Manhattan, which I sipped a bit of and thought it was quite nice. I ordered a cocktail on the menu - Rosemary Regatta - but was not impressed. It was a bit too sweet, and just about zero rosemary taste shined through. No matter - dinner was soon served. I left thinking I should have gotten the grassfed burger or the grilled cheese sandwich like my dining mates did. But, wanting to stay at least slightly Paleo, I got the mussels. They were good, but I wasn't dazzled. And one of them I had to spit out since it tasted too much like the sea. Those fries that came with my husband's burger = AMAZING. We ordered coffee at the end of our meal, which was presented very nicely, and kept quite full by the staff. Our server was lovely, too bad I don't remember her name! :( And our water glasses were never left wanting. You should try it! Depending on what you order I think you'll probably have a great time. My friend from out of town said he wants to go back. That's all a restaurant can ever ask for.
(3)Charley B.
I finally made it out and gave The Westside Local a try and while I think it's a solid restaurant it just didn't live up to its hype. I stopped in for brunch and what really stood out were the biscuits. Amazing. I ordered the biscuits and gravy and another in our party had a bacon egg and cheese biscuit. Both of us couldn't stop talking about them. The mushroom gravy over my biscuits held a good flavor and was nice and thick. Another party ordered the french toast, which were seasoned well, but fell apart way too easy. I was a little disappointed in the service. Our server scoffed a little when all of us decided to stay with water as a beverage. I also ordered a egg to go with my meal. The server asked if I wanted scrambled, I told her over easy, but she still brought me scrambled. I didn't send it back, but I was disappointed she didn't write my order down. I'd like to give dinner a try sometime because I've heard some of those dishes can put you in a coma but I'm not sure if that will be any time soon.
(3)Sam C.
Only had drinks here, but enjoyed the atmosphere and look forward to trying the food out.
(4)TL M.
Snottiest staff EVER. Not sure I will go back. Tried to sit outside and order a bottle of wine. The server asked if we were having food. After hearing "no" he told us to go get our own drinks. Horrid. We left.
(1)Rich S.
Had a fantastic dinner here. Very good atmosphere when you walk in the door. We were seated promptly. The menu was fantastic. The spinach salad with blueberries, peaches and salmon was outstanding. Make sure you try the deviled eggs. We will definitely be back.
(5)Christyn K.
I only heard of this place because someone had given me a gift certificate, stating, "It's a foodie place - and you seem like a foodie." Not knowing what to expect, I made a reservation for two for a Saturday night. When we arrived the hip little place was no where near full, though the hostess was turning those without a reservation away. We sat down near the back of the old store-front turned restaurant layout and admired the local art on the walls while watching the place fill up at an enormous speed. Though the atmosphere at first seemed snoody, our server was personable and very patient with us as we read over the menu at length. The options were awesome - appetizers are create-it-yourself cheese plates with humus or bread or olives :) I ordered a bunch of cheese and bread and an entree of mac and cheese with sweet potato (I can start my diet tomorrow). We enjoyed a few drinks with our food and left perfectly full but not stuffed. As we were leaving we noticed a huge line waiting to get in. Sure glad we made online reservations through Yelp earlier that day (a super easy step which made the whole evening possible). I can't wait to show this place off to my out-of-town friends here.
(5)Shannon S.
No matter how many times I go its always an exceptional experience. Saturday night I ordered the beef entree. Everything was cooked to perfection, especially for a take out order. They didn't fuss about items being in a to go box, which suited my recovery from Friday night perfectly. Love this place!!
(5)Carol A.
I'm a happy camper after having lunch at The Westside Local today. It is always fun to find a "new-to-me" place where I know I'll want to make a return trip because there were so many good choices on the menu that I couldn't try them all. Today I chose A Vegetable Sammy that was wonderful with portabella mushrooms and lots of other sliced veggie goodness and picked a wonderful spicy bean soup which was the daily selection as my side. Even the whole grain, hearty bread (from Farm to Market) was exceptional. Hubby got a Summit Burger and fries and Sis ordered a phenomenal looking Grilled Cheese with a cup of tomato fennel soup for dipping and some yummy looking spiced roasted potatoes as a side. Both got compliments from the diners and had me plotting a return trip. Everyone was too full to order dessert but I'd like to save room next time, as there were a couple, including a bread pudding, that sounded intriguing. The restaurant space is all exposed brick and has a soaring ceiling and there were a series of beautiful urban paintings on the walls that just popped and seemed to complete the feel of the place. It was a good lunch and I was very happy to find another good place to eat on Summit. (Which is becoming one of my favorite destination spots in the city.)
(4)David A.
This place has been on a downward spiral for me. I've been here 5 times. 4 out of 5 times food were misses. However, here is what is going for it: Great service, great ambience in the beergarden and the patio dog friendly. I've really enjoyed their drinks and they have quite a good bartender who knows how to mix them up well. Would I come back? Yes, to hang out with friends and my dog at the beergarden and enjoy some drinks. Food? I really have given up.
(2)Samantha N.
Oh. My. Goodness. My husband and I ate dinner here the last day of our KC stay and we ended up very full and very pleased after our meal. The restaurant has a wonderful atmosphere for a low key date. I had the Lay, Lady, Lillet (orangy/basily) and a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon to drink and I ate the mac 'n' cheese with bacon and shallots with wild abandon. It was so amazing, I nearly stuffed myself sick. I helped myself to a few bites of my husband's Grass Fed Burger, which we agreed was one of the most flavorful, delicious burgers I've ever tasted. My only complaint is that they had run out of almost all their desserts. They said we'd have to come back for some creme brûlée next time, but, seeing as we live in Denver, it will only be in our dreams.
(5)Jim X.
Westside Local. Where to begin? Locally sourced, yes. Fresh flavors, no doubt. Original, definitely. Seasonal menus ensure there's always something new to try. Take their Winter Quino. Packed with flavor and fresh earthy veggies. Top that with your favorite protein and it's heaven on earth. Bottom line, if you're in KC and looking to branch out of the ordinary, this is your spot.
(4)krysztof n.
Flavor. It's why we eat. Let me rephrase that: It's why we ENJOY eating. I'm no foodie. Call me a "Flavor Savant", perhaps? I know that when it goes in my mouth, it better fire synapses of delight in my brain and satisfy that pit in my gut that needs sated. And what have I found over the years? It's no surprise: food grown locally, fresh to table, served with love in an environment of warmth usually tastes the best. Especially if I'm not the one cooking. I ended up here the other night after the KC Crossroads Artwalk with Local Diners and Appreciators The Fellow Gentleman and his gal The Fashion Plate while The Dame was out of town (and sorely missed by us all), and we weren't disappointed. Each of our plates (and drinks) was amazing, and what made it even more so was that our server took the time to field our many questions about WHY it was so amazing. Our time there was too short, however; I would have loved to stayed longer after the meal, maybe enjoyed some desert or another drink, but alas it wasn't in the cards. I can't wait to take The Dame back for another round, and to see how she reacts when that same quality of flavors hits her tongue.
(4)Jason C.
This is my first visit to this little gem. Really nothing to complain about here. Very quaint, comfortable spot. My server was very friendly, and gave just the right amount of attention. I started with the deviled eggs (very nice). I then had the quinoa burger, with the house tomato fennel soup as my side. Both were very fresh and delicious. They boast a farm-to-table menu here and they definitely seem legit. I will return.
(4)Jocelyn R.
I've had drinks at the Westside Local before but this past weekend I finally got to eat dinner there and wow - such a home run decision that was! I will definitely be back soon. Drinks and appetizers were perfect - I love roasted garlic so was excited to see that on the menu along with a lovely cheese plate. I ordered the grilled cheese and fries which was an upscale version with several kinds of cheeses and a little cup of tomato soup for dipping. My husband ordered the pork belly which he said was delicious. The service was great and the prices were reasonable. Go there.
(4)Bailey W.
Unfortunately, after having been wanting to try The Westside Local out for many months, we checked it out and had a pretty disappointing experience. I'll start with the good. My boyfriend ordered a burger and said it was good. The deviled eggs weren't bad either, but Beer Kitchens are exponentially better. The limeade was good though. Now for the bad. The grilled cheese was just average. There's so much bread that I ended up taking off one slice. I noticed that there was something in it that looked like a piece of paper or something. Eventually the waitress came back and informed me it was the rind of the cheese and that it was edible. Then she took away my meal without asking if I was done or would have liked a box for the deviled egg and tomato soup I had left. Also the ketchup(?) was a bit runny. The service was what was really disappointing. Besides the fact that she took my food away, she also never brought my boyfriend the lemonade he ordered. After bringing our food, she never checked on us until we had already finished, despite there being only four occupied tables and her checking on the table right next to us twice. It's a shame since I'd been looking forward to trying it. Had the service been better, I would be willing to give it another shot and try something different on the menu.
(2)Renee H.
If it is a warm day, sit outside. Seriously. This a great restaurant to discover and enjoy Paleo food.
(4)Tracy K.
Totally awesome place! The food is amazingly good, everything we've had has been so full of flavor. It's a can't miss! Call for a reservation is a best bet to eating quicker. Bar is small so not much in the way of eating in there although we have done it before.
(5)Callie E.
Here's why I love West Side Local: Strong focus on local brands and/or produce Hip, urban atmosphere Consistently delicious food - vegetarian and vegan friendly (yeah!) Service hasn't disappointed thus far West Side Local is the one place in town (ok, I kid, there are maybe four) that I can recommend to my friends and confidently know they will enjoy. A few of my favorite dishes include: Quinoa Broccoli Burger, Roasted Carrot Soup (holy Sh*t - I hate soup, but love this), Tomato - Fennel Soup (again, read note above) and Kale Salad (minus bacon). It's places like this, that make moving back from The Bay, an excellent decision!
(5)Lindsay P.
Okay, so this is a bit random...but I LOVED their ketchup. It has a cidery taste that goes perfectly with their amazing french fries. I'm hoping to come back on a future trip to KC to scope out more of their menu, but the beer and wine list are pretty rocking, and they have some great small dishes if you're just looking for a tapa-esque experience. Our server was also great with suggestions as to what to drink/try.
(4)Reed N.
I was so damn close to giving 5-stars. So close. Just the texture of the burger was the difference. Let me explain... but first know that it you want a good burger you can pull the trigger on this place without hesitation. You see, I am a burger guy. It is a last rights food for me. Beef, fat all ground into a juicy patty of goodness. On a bun, Farm-to-Market brioche no less. Chopped jalpenos. Aioli. Arugula. Out. Of. Control. The only thing not perfect about my southwestern burger was that it was a little too "tight" or patted together too long. Other than that... this place nailed it. The fries were a crispy treat, and were flour dredged or something. The coating was light and they stayed crisp in my take out box for 10 minutes. I know treated fries may be blasphemy to OCD spud lovers out there, but get over yourselves long enough to taste something purely on its own merit. There are no rules in cooking these days unless you profess them as part of your business model. Which Westside Local does do on a different plain... in their name. Much of the ingredients are local sourced. : )
(4)Daniela G.
Ladies night was just kicked up a notch! The drink were amazing, our server was super helpful with the menu and suggestions and the food delicious. I can't wait to bring my boyfriend here! I gave on less star because of the snooty little hostess who not only spent the entire time we were there playing on her phone but dismissed us when we asked for a table away from the door because we were really cold. Other that her this place is one of my new favorites in Kansas City!
(4)Carly F.
One of my favorites in KC. The service can be slow sometimes and the wait staff a little snooty, but the food and drinks make up for it.
(4)Adrn H.
I read the reviews prior to going, and I really resonate with those put-off by the service. Local is by no means a new fad, but that doesn't mean you need to half-ass it. I mean you don't need to go all Portlandia on us and offer a dossier on our meals, but please gratify me and explain how my sub-par BLT was locally sourced. (Or my husband's mussels, for that matter.) As a bleeding heart, I can concede a little quality if I know a little bit of the story. But from Westside Local? Nothing. No stories, mention of local farms, just a hastily printed (and soggy) menu. Additionally, the critiques of service are dead-on. I found the waitstaff detached and unconcerned with our experience. The host took us to a booth where I immediately sat in a HUGE water puddle and soaked my dress. When I asked the server for an explanation, he gestured up and mumbled "uh, yeah, that happens a lot." Evidently they're okay with the AC dripping condensation on patrons during their meal. The food? Mostly uninspired nu-comfort food. Drinks were expensive and watery. If you go, I'd stick to the pint o' fries and a table not under the AC ducts.
(2)Kathleen M.
Many grateful thanks to fellow Yelper Ken B for steering me here. I owe you a recommendation! We came here for lunch after a great visit at the National World War I museum and it was the perfect place. We were still chewing our experience at the museum,the horror of war, etc. and needed a calm oasis of good vibes and better food. Faster than you can sing Over There we were exactly at that oasis. Our waiter was super friendly and answered all my questions about the area, the neighborhood, etc. I had the chicken sandwich which I would have cheerfully saluted. I also adored the potato salad. We split the mini candy bar dessert, too much for one but perfect for two. Such fun to come eat at a fresh, healthy place and it was a great contrast to other places we had visited. My only complaint about Kansas City is that we have to go home tomorrow and haven't seen, done and eaten everything we wanted to. Thanks for such a great time!
(5)Clifford S.
This was a darn good meal - great burger and the best fries I have ever tasted. The waiter promised they were and he was right. We liked the whole package - the neighborhood, the ease of street parking and the good food. It was friendly; like the whole city of Kansas City. I hope the Cubs play here again so we can come back to the city and this restaurant.
(5)Christine H.
Food was awesome! Service was great. One of the best veggie burgers in town. Creative food, great atmosphere and quality food.
(5)Ken B.
My partner called and made reservations at Westside Local to take Granny out for Mothers Day. We arrived, stated our name and got the look of Who What Where are you sir!!! Well, he had made it for the following Saturday. Not what you want to hear when you have a hungry grandparent with you. Without missing a beat, they made us feel welcome and found us a table to be seated at. So nice. The waitress (which I regret I don't have her name.....though she is the one pregnant with twins) was more than fantastic. Personable, funny, knowledgeable, attentive and professional. Really, the best kind of waitress you could ever hope to have. The attentiveness and slowness of the waitstaff had always been the problem for me at Westside Local, but as of my last handful of visits, that is a thing of the past. The food was still amazing. Fresh and flavorful. The menu has gone through some downsizing but all of the favorites still remain except for my favorite beer that I had discovered here, but there are many more options for me to happily try til I discover my new favorite. The atmosphere is still one of my favorites in the city and I look forward to some great spring/summer nights out in the beer garden. I think my partners mistake of making the reservation for a week later than what we were planning will not be wasted......we kept it in place and will happily return in a week to have another great night out. Thanks Westside Local!
(5)Derek T.
Easily in my top 3 favorite restaurants in KC. Must go!
(5)Rhonda S.
I feel as if I'm one Yelper behind the rest, as I had never visited Westside Local till last night. I attended a Yelp event, but I am reviewing the restaurant. Being a bit budgeted for food money last night, I can't see spending 13.00 for a sandwich, period. 11.00 for grill cheeses? Well, it looked good. I'm trying to decide between 3 or 4 stars, and the prices bought the review down, not the atmosphere or service. One person can easily spend above $20.00 on a meal, and to me, $20.00 can buy alot of other things. Their food is produced locally, which might account for higher prices. We sat outside, under a wooden roof, I think this was a beer garden. I love places that have outside areas like this. We sat at a picnic table, with vines around us, with bamboo plants, and vines on the roof of the garden area. We were presented with menus, which didn't surprise me of the prices. They extended happy hour for us, making the cheapest beer $2.00. It was PBR, and I happen to like PBR. The next cheapest thing ont he menu was French fries, with house ketchup and aioli sauce, which I ordered. Katie D. raved on the deviled eggs, I was surprised of the price being $6.00. (I don't eat chicken embryos), but was expecting them to bring a plate of several deviled eggs, yet, it was only one egg, in half. Later I was told, it was $2.00 for an egg, which is sitll expensive to me. Sara, Katie and Treesha, around me, all had the grilled cheese. The grilled cheese, which I considered, but was very budgeted, were 11.00, and were presented with salad I'd never eat, and something else. The menu increased in price, and the cheeseburger that Daniel had, (he was sitting next to me) though it looked good, was $13.00. The grill cheese looked really good, but not the salad with it, or the other offering. And I might want to go back for it. But i'm sure I'd be paying for the salad, which, though I lean vegetarian, cold vegetables aren't on the top of my list to order. They offer Quinoa, which Joi says is really good. I wanted to order it, but couldn't. I mean, how does WSL price their food? Too high. I cannot ever fathom a sandwich over $8.00. Especially a hamburger, which I doubt I'd ever order. At this point, I need to mention it was Lilian O's last Yelp event here in Kansas City, and she is the one who introduced me to Donna's Dress Shop. But the place is cute, has charm, and good service. It is dog friendly, as can be verified by Colt, the cocker Spaniel who owns David and Susan. Colt had a joyous time when the waiter accidently dropped some food. I certainly enjoyed the company, and my fellow Yelp friends. I like the location of WSL, but the prices might turn me away. .
(3)Andria N.
As I realized that I frequent this place about once a week, I realized I need to update my review. I love Westside Local. Their food is ALWAYS spot on... You cannot go wrong with their ever changing specials or my old faithfuls of grilled cheese, french dip, or burger. Their snacks or Appetizers are a great way to start especially when you get their olives (They also have a great selection of cheese and crackers). And to top things off, their beer and wine selection is up to par!
(5)E H.
We landed at the Westside after falling in love with the neighborhood earlier in the day. Had great food, good drinks, and decent service the first night. The quinoa was subtle and surprisingly delicious, my $10 cocktail strong but tasty, and the olives were truly amazing. So buttery! The second visit was a little less thrilling, but still worthy of four stars.
(4)Joi B.
This place just hits all the right spots. It's been a year since my last review and because the star rating doesn't get any higher than five, so my rating remains. But! There have been some changes here, subtle, but great. And yes, I do realize some of the small plates are no longer on the menu, but maybe when in season, they'll reappear (sun chokes... anyone?) Regardless, I like what they have on there now and we tend to get the same thing, parmesan and the aforementioned Castelvetrano olives (the K gets his beloved prosciutto and being that I grew up with the stuff being on many a Sunday dinner's antipasto, WL's is the bomb). The quinoa is better than ever. I swear it has improved and I'm not even sure how that's possible, but I'm craving it right now. All those delightful textures and flavors. It's the ultimate. The real reason for this update, though, is to note that I love sitting in the bar area the most. Because I suck at planning ahead and rarely make reservations (it's true), the last several times they asked if we'd mind sitting in the bar. Now, I normally *loathe* sitting at those high tables and chairs. I can't put my finger on why exactly, but let's just say I feel like I'm sitting in a highchair and I don't recall ever liking being in a damn highchair even as a child (I was born sophisticated, what can I say?). At Westside Local, however, if I'm not sitting out on that divine patio, the bar area is where I want to be sitting! That bartender is one of the best servers in the city, I've found. Not only can he whip you up any drink you desire, but he also is "on it" all the time: manning the bar, serving the three or four tables in his section and generally just being awesome. So, there you have it. My updated review for one of my favorite places in town. I'm especially excited just thinking of sitting out on the patio in the upcoming months. Bring it on!
(5)Kelsy M.
I am already looking forward to coming back to The Westside Local. The ambiance is great and the food was delicious. I definitely recommend the kale salad. I have never had a salad so delicious in my life, I need to get the recipe! The reason I gave it 4 stars was because I also ordered the mac and cheese with my kale salad. I wish I didn't order the mac and just got a bigger salad, that's how delicious it was. The mac was pretty good, it wasn't the most amazing mac I have ever had. I think it lacked some salt and I think they should have used a stronger cheese, it was very mild tasting. Perhaps it's just a personal opinion, but I like a little more pizzazz to my mac.
(4)Nicole B.
Since I love restaurants where the food is locally sourced, I'm not sure how I haven't dined here sooner. The decor is simplistic and not over done. Local art is displayed on the walls. Service was attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly. Good beer selection as well. To start, my dining mates and I shared a cheese plate and charcuterie plate. We let our server decide on the meats and cheeses. He did an awesome job at doing that! The Beemster cheese and Rabbit Pate were outrageously good. I also loved the roasted garlic on the cheese plate. For my meal, I went with the Crispy Pork Belly. I was expecting a larger portion, but it was still delicious. The polenta was creamy and tasty. The pork belly was crispy on the outside and tender in the middle. Everyone else was very happy with their meals as well. I'm looking forward to dining again so that I can try more of the menu options.
(4)Mary M.
Great! A lazy post st paddys day evening found blondie and I looking for some interesting eats. Westside local was exactly what the doctor ordered. Based on reviews, I was expecting uninterested and slow service. Nothing could be farther from the truth! On a busy Friday night, we bellied up to the bar rather than wait for a table. The bartender was great and gave lots of information about the menu items and food preparation.... I love that! In summary....Everything said of the deviled eggs is true. The tomato fennel soup is good, but Id whir it up a bit and kick in some additional. The arugula salad is amazing with the matag bleu bits, roasted grapes and pumpkin seed brittle. However...... The quinoa is the closet rockstar on the menu!! It's a rollercoaster of flavor! Roasted squash, cherries, haricot verde, Brussels sprouts, shaved Parmesan! Forget rollercoaster, this is a pinball game going on with your tastebuds! Add a perfectly cooked piece of salmon (yes, perfectly medium!) and your tastebuds are doing the dance of joy! Next time, I'm trying ...umm... Everything. This is a place I will return to till I've tried it all. P.S. Because we were at the bar, several of the servers talked with us while waiting for drink orders and they were all very friendly pleasant engaging folks. I can't imagine getting poor service here.
(4)Lee R.
This is the perfect "Go To" place. The menu is small, but I still have a hard time deciding what I want every time I go. The inside atmosphere is pretty cool - nothing amazing, but unique. The outside space is what really gets me though - it's awesome. Huge picnic tables and a fenced in, covered area. I'd recommend this place for happy hours, business lunches, or dinner and drinks. Probably not the best venue for any more than 4 people.
(5)Mel h.
Initially seated by window, blazing hot. Manager asked us to stay and moved us to a much better spot. Saved our night.
(5)William R.
I took my girls (3 and 6) out for a fancy dinner, for them, and we were treated very nicely by the staff at Westside Local. Our host was cordial and seated us quickly, with crayons and paper. The room is somewhat noisy, so some kid noise wasn't overly disruptive. Our waiter offered to split the mac and cheese (which is a large portion) for them, in fact he suggested it. I had the crispy pork belly which is one of the tastiest things I've had at a restaurant all year. I'd love to learn the secret of the crispy outside and decadent inside. Wow. Great selection of draft beers, and craft bottles. I've been here many times, and it seldom disappoints. The inside bar is very cozy, great place for a grownup drink. The outside beer garden can not be beat in warmer weather in Kansas City, in my opinion. I can't say enough how nice they were to this (for the night) single slightly overwhelmed dad and small girls.
(5)Mnason M.
So how the hell did I not know about this place sooner! My older brother, Jachin M., told me about this gastropub because I tend to like gastropubs a lot. My wife and I went there on a Sunday afternoon. The place was pretty quiet. In fact, the bartender was our waitress in the main dining area. I believe her name was Jenna. I must say she was excellent! I think she could tell my fancy for beer. Therefore she answered my questions in detail along with giving suggestions and provided samples basically without even asking... They had some good beers on tap, so if you combine that with their bottled list then you have quite a selection! We started off with a strange, but fitting, appetizer of bacon and scrambled eggs. Good start. Then we ordered a couple of Summit Burgers. My wife did customize hers a little bit but mine was OEM. What I have to say... what an awesome burger! Perfectly cooked rib-eye burger at medium, juicy, and the arugula with melted cheese on top was a great addition. The Garlic Fries were great too! I was disappointed they were out of Deviled Eggs which is one of the items they are known for so I'm not sure how that works... I do plan on making a second trip in my future so hopefully they have them next time. Summary: - Great food! The Summit Burger was awesome! - Great beer selection when you combine taps and bottles - Great, and helpful, service! - Out of Deviled Eggs during my visit which made me sad - The location is a little on the rough side. So stay in a group or don't wander around aimlessly. And lock your car (-; - Highly recommended so far. I hope my next visit is as good if not better
(4)Lisa K.
I've been told by numerous farm to table foodies that I MUST try Westside Local so I attempted to dine there on a Sunday night at 6pm.. no reservations. Walked in with my group of three and was told they didn't have any available tables until 8:30 pm for dining inside or the patio. I looked around and noticed five open tables, rolled my eyes and moved on down the road to La Bodega for sangria ( LOVE their sangria so the night wasn't a complete loss!) Attempted to go again (glutton for punishment I guess) but went on a Saturday afternoon at 1pm.. Once again plenty of indoor seats and outdoor seats available and was granted a table. Maybe they noticed the snarl on my face and decided not to mess with my twice. We dined on the patio and sat on a picnic table. Our hippy waitress who wore her sunglasses over her glasses (is that now in style?) took her sweet time coming around to take our order (the water filler was ON TOP of making sure our glasses were full at all times. Yeah!) We ordered two deviled eggs ($2), rosemary hummus and crackers as appetizers ($4). All were delish and devine. Our Entrees of choice included a magnificient large kale salad $11 (walnut tahini dressing, shaved cauliflower and sauteed shallots) and we added chicken $6. The salad was amazing however the chicken was bland, blah, boring, dry.. etc. but I needed some protein so.. oh well. Hippy chick took her sweet time bringing our bill and we were ready to bail since our bottoms were hurting from being camped on a picnic table for over an hour.. Go for the kale... bring a cushion for the patio. all is good.
(3)Zack Y.
I had been wanting to give the Westside Local a try for awhile so when my dad came to visit me here in KC I figured it was the perfect opportunity to impress him with some of the cool and interesting restaurant options we have here in KC. It ended up being, well, just okay. It was a very busy Thursday night but we were able to get seats on the (totally beautiful) patio with literally no wait at around 7:15. Our server was able to take drink orders but the manager came by to make sure because apparently she was taking care of a large party inside. The manager dropped off our drinks and took our food order. Apparently there were no specials or anything, which I was surprised about, and the chicken was unavailable. Cocktails ended up being fine. Nothing special or super-impressive, but at least when you order something there you know what to expect. Our salads came out super-quick despite how busy it was. A few bites in, though, the manager came out with our entrees. He apologized and told us that it was his mistake, not our servers. That apology was as far as any attempt to make sure we were cool with this mistake went. He didn't really wait for a response from us. No discount or anything. I'm usually pretty laid back eating out and so I didn't make a big deal out of it, but as I was sitting there eating two courses at once I realized it was pretty detrimental to the experience I had. I had to eat quicker so my trout wouldn't get cold, the flavors of my salad didn't work well with anything else, it pretty much changed the dish, and not for the better. I didn't want to make a big fuss about it but looking back I sort of wish that I had. That said, if not for this mistake the food would have been excellent. I'm pretty sure, anyway. I can at least say that the trout was cooked well. We stayed for dessert--some brownies baked with local figs. They came out on a single plate with a single mug full of milk, which would have been fine if not for the fact that we were sharing dessert and that I'm lactose-sensitive and the server forgot to mention that they came with milk. The brownies themselves were delicious, though. Our server was friendly and attentive and the food was great, but silly mistakes sort of kept us from having the five-star meal I was hoping for. I might try going back before the rush instead of after it next time.
(3)Roger D.
The Westside Local will keep you on the Right Side of good health! They serve gourmet Local Fruits, Vegetables, Meats, Fish, Breads, Beers, Wines and Desserts. The Service is phenomenal, friendly, personable and professional. Their Sunday Brunch will make your Day. You will want to return with your Family & Friends for many memorable meals.
(5)Rachel B.
I want to give this restaurant more stars, but I just can't. The food has been really hit or miss for us the past few times we have been. The "hits" we have had In the past were the chicken sandwich, mac and cheese, and their burger. all were fantastic. However, we went on Saturday, and had a horribly disappointing meal. I tried the Halcyon mussels, the broth had a weird bitter after taste. I didn't even use the bread to soak up any of the broth, that's how bad it tasted. Husband had the pork sandwich, which was nothing special, just a bland, boring sandwich. Our friend had the quinoa dish, which was also completely bland. What an over-priced, disappointing meal. My advice: If you are a risk-taker go for it, you may happen to have a great meal! But if you don't want to risk spending good money on a mediocre meal, there are so many better restaurants in the area.
(3)Jillian C.
Out for a ladies night, we hit up this joint for some upscale food and fun. I had the kale salad and the andouille sausage soup. Both were good, though I was expecting greatness. I liked the sausage but only got one piece in my whole little tiny bowl. The kale salad was yummy too but a bit dry. It came out looking like I wasn't expecting. The kale leaves were torn into rather large pieces and then it was topped with a combo of shaved brussels, almonds, parm, fried shallots, brown sugar bacon, and a maple-tahini dressing. So it felt more like brussel sprout salad (in the style of a deli chicken salad) on top of some dry kale leaves. In retrospect, I could have done without the kale and just had the brussel sprout part. Still though, I think the flavors were there. The saving grace of dinner was a nice glass of red wine, generously poured, and the bread pudding with cranberries, oranges, and chocolate chips. I could...and actually mostly did...eat the whole thing myself. I was worried it would be much too fruity but it wasn't. The orange and cran flavors were assertive but you got enough of the chocolate to make it feel dessert-like enough. Well balanced dessert.
(4)Sofie C.
The food was delicious. We had a party of 6 and we all ordered a variety of things. Everyone was pleased with their choice. Our server was great. She brought my girlfriend dessert for her birthday and when I received the bill, she comped it! She didn't have to do that, but she did. Great quality food, nice atmosphere. You can have a nice date night with yummy food and a bottle of wine for under $60.
(5)Jangs J.
Local: We've loved you for two years, but you're slipping. Last night stunk to the tune of my having to wake up early on a Saturday and write a yelp review. Damnit, Local. So, there's the stuff that some people get bent out of shape about--like the waiting 20 minutes past the reservation time for a table and the being seated without a drink menu and the bad live music and the general cacophony of it all--but not me. (Except maybe the music. Holy crap. What was that 20-minute repetition of the same scale thing about?) It's the food. It actually stunk last night. The giardiniera was crap--like cauliflower sitting in Wishbone Italian salad dressing. My grocery store makes a better giardiniera. The deviled eggs were good, as usual, but did they have to show up literally french kissing the dish of gross giardiniera? And the barbecued chicken sandwish you served my wife, that was so gross. The pretzel bun seemed to have come from a wet t-shirt contest just before serving as the soggy, pasty base of a mound of bland shredded chicken. We'll be back, but not before you think about what you're doing. You enjoy a good rep and can probably survive a few bad reviews from people who still come to you for food and not just for social capital. But do you really want to be that restaurant?
(3)Kyle G.
Went in for lunch after reading previous reviews and was lucky to have a get a table on a Wednesday afternoon. Great concept of simple, clean, local foods. Ordered the Cuban sandwich with sauteed greens for a side. The pork in the Cuban was perfectly cooked and was nice and moist alluding me to believe it was cooked today and not re-heated. A little pricier for a lunch, but you definitely get the quality you pay for.
(5)Dana C.
I've been wanting to try this place for awhile. Thanks to Groupon, I was finally able to try it last Sunday! It was a dark and cloudy night...no seriously, it was a perfect, intimate evening to spend at Westside Local. My date and I arrived around 6:45PM. We were seated promptly. The decor and atmosphere were right on. I sat on the booth side of the table, not the most comfortable, but it was clean. I enjoy clean restaurants! My boyfriend and I had looked over the menu before leaving for our destination so we knew what we wanted. I ordered the grilled cheese on a friend's recommendation, and he ordered the BLT. I had a feeling there would be a bit of a wait, but we weren't in a rush. We each also ordered a beer. I forget which beer we ordered, but it was quite tasty. We waited almost an hour for our food, no joke. It didn't feel like an hour, so I'm not complaining. My grilled cheese tasted just as amazing as it had been described to me, and the garlic fries complimented it well. Super silly, but I need to mention it. My sandwich didn't come with a pickle on the side. I love pickles. The customers seated to to the left and right of me both ordered the same dish as me, and they got pickles. Yeah, I took note - don't judge me. All in all, it was everything I expected it to be. The restaurant is a little higher in price than I can normally afford (understandably, it's local and delicious). I will definitely be back once I have some extra $$.
(4)Jessi H.
I hate to write a bad review because of one horrible experience, but i'm going to. this restaurant used to be one of my favorites. so much so that we had our wedding night dinner there. last friday, we showed up at about 6:30 without a reservation. the hostess couldn't even look us in the eye to tell us how long of a wait we would have (even though we were willing to wait over an hour or more). instead, she said things like "well, it's going to be very long" and "um, yeah, you don't have a reservation?" (they had at least 7 empty tables at the time. ) Lucky for us, a couple was just leaving a table in the bar where we were told we could eat dinner. We sat. We waited. The service has always been slow, but this was ridiculous. We finally ordered a couple glasses of wine, which were nice pours and good wine. Then, I chose to order the kale salad described as kale with shaved parm and crispy prosciutto. to add chicken or fish was $6, but i did. And then, I waited for my $16 salad. You guys, SIXTEEN DOLLARS. My salad and my husband's sandwich were delivered to our table by a server from the dining room. She was so rude to me and gave me the bitchiest look I'd ever received that I actually had to ask my husband if she was a former girlfriend of his. When I asked for salt and pepper, she brought it out, threw it down on the table, turned her back and stomped off. Now let's talk about the $16 salad. It had one 1-inch size piece of crispy prosciutto. ONE. I paid $16 for a handful of kale, 3 shaves of parm, 1 inch of prosciutto and a 2-ounce portion of chicken. I'm sad because I've had so many other experiences there that have been good, but this was horrible. You know what they say about first impressions. Well, it's also true for sixth impressions.
(2)Brandi C.
I want to give The Westside Local 4 stars, I really do, but so far they're really only a 3 1/2 star place in my book. Not because of the food, which is really, really good, but more because of the service. Allow me to explain... We've been in here twice now. Once for dinner, and once for lunch. Both times the atmosphere has been great, the food has been great, and I have absolutely nothing to complain about there. The servers, though, have been apathetic, forgetful, and somewhat inept. I've also felt somewhat rushed both times. Maybe it's the super tight skinny jeans they all seem to wear? Maybe I'm just more discerning now that I'm Yelping about my experiences? I don't know. The first time around we had to ask about any specials, but then things went pretty well until dessert. (I had salmon, and it was cooked perfectly. My husband had the Roast Beef sandwich, and he loved it.) When it came time for dessert we were game to split something, so our server told us what was on offer for the evening but neglected to mention that what we ordered included a large amount of strawberries. (Don't know how you forget to include that in the description of the dessert? It was a pretty major ingredient.) This would've been a deal breaker for me, since I'm allergic. Instead, I think I got one bite of non-strawberry contaminated dessert and had to watch my husband enjoy the rest on his own. Sad, I know. But apparently it was good! On our most recent (lunch) visit, we were handed menus, given some time to look over them, and then asked what we would like (pretty standard, really). Of course, I ordered the one item (Chicken Salad) that they were out of...apparently the server was just hoping neither of us would want that. (Really. He actually said that.) *SIGH* Might have been helpful info to tell us they were out of that option when handing us the menus, huh? So, instead I opted for the Grilled Cheese with tomato-fennel dipping sauce, and my husband got the Roast Beef sandwich (again), both with fries. I also ordered an iced tea...which came with sweetener or sugar as needed, but nothing to stir the tea with, not even a straw. I ended up just using my knife, as the server was nowhere to be found. The sandwiches were great, the fries were garlicky little bites of potato heaven (you do need to like garlic, though!), and the tomato-fennel dipping sauce made the grilled cheese excellent. All in all, it was a perfect lunch...if only the service would've been a little more clued in. Will we be back? Yes. Will I continue to hope for better service? Yes. Would I still recommend Westside Local to other people? Yes.
(3)Leland M.
Food: Tasty burgers, Diverse beer selection Atmosphere: The vibe in Westside Local is relaxing. The interior is full of dark tones and simple yet beautiful shapes through contemporary design with a slight eastern flair. great atmosphere!
(4)Layla R.
Best restaurant in KCMO hands down. Great food. Organic, healthy, fresh food. The ambiance is just right with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick walls, it's inviting and warm while still keeping an upscale vibe. Also, the food is delicious and the service is fantastic. Best spot in KC without a doubt.
(5)Robert L.
We went to lunch on a lovely late spring day and got right in at one of the shared tables in their courtyard. There was so much sun I went back to the car to get our hats and sunscreen. When some guests left we moved over a bit into the shade under the grape leaves. Our service was quick and pleasant. The food was perhaps the best we've had in KC. We shared the arugula salad with the restaurant's buttermilk dressing, and their grilled cheese sandwich, probably the best I've ever had. This was served with amazing French fries what were seasoned to perfection including some Parmesan cheese and the restaurant's own ketchup for dipping. It was all finished off with a horchata coconut granita and chocolate truffle dessert. This was perfect. It made for a great lunch and we'll certainly be going back.
(5)Kelly S.
My favorite lunch date friend and I decided to try a new place last week and we landed on Westside Local! Everything we had was awesome. I ordered the veggie burger, which I was told was new on the menu, along with the soup of the day- chicken tortilla. The burger didn't have a normal burger consistency but the taste was awesome. The soup was more brothy than creamy and had crunchy tortilla strips in it. We both loved it! My friend got the pulled pork sandwich that comes with cole slaw on top and the flavor made me feel like we were in an actual barbecue restaurant. All in all- great food, cute place, not too expensive. Two thumbs up!
(5)Logan Locke B.
If you follow my reviews, you know I evaluate the service just as equally as I do the food. The qualities of both are very important to me as a customer. Not often do restaurants match up to 100% in both categories. Lucky for you, me and Kansas City---WESTSIDE LOCAL is the place for outstanding service (ask for Jason) and incredible food! I was at a table of 5 & everyone enjoyed their meals immensely (several times throughout the meal it was verbalized how delicious the food was), the wide variety of beers, wine & cocktails, and the delicious biscuit bread pudding (that was more like the very best strawberry short cake I have ever had). Might I recommend any of the salads with salmon (perfectly cooked), quinoa (with so many flavors), grilled chicken sandwich, "Best Burger In Town", and DEFINETLY, MOST DEFINETLY if you love tomato soup, you must not walk out the door without trying the TOMATO FENNEL SOUP!
(5)James H.
Pretty good. I really liked the bar and the outdoor seating. The fries were amazing with the garlic aioli and habanero sauce. My fish tacos were pretty good but I've had better for cheaper. My whiskey sour was not what I think of when ordering a whiskey sour. It was more of a whiskey lemonade/iced tea. Pretty good selection of specialty beers as well.
(4)Monica A.
I went for brunch with four girlfriends about a month ago. I was excited as I'd heard and read great things about The Westside Local. The restaurant only had a few other tables sat when I got there, and we went to a cute picnic table on their back patio. Here's where things start going wrong. I'm not going to get in to the specifics with how poor the service was because even now, weeks later, it still annoys me to think about. Our server was incredibly inattentive and inappropriate. Do we want to know that you went on a bender last night and that's why you've been so MIA? No. Now I can't stop wondering if you've been puking in the bathroom in your hungover, sweaty state, and you're touching my plate, which makes me feel ill. Never mind that the food, once it did come out 35 minutes after ordering (I wish I was exaggerating), was delicious. I had the egg & bacon biscuit and wish somewhere I enjoy going to would duplicate it. I also couldn't believe that the manager didn't notice (with so few patrons in the restaurant) that our service was beyond poor and we were clearly distressed sitting there, waiting.... and waiting for our food. I do think I'll try it again and hope for a better experience, because I do like supporting local restaurants and food providers. But if I see that server in the restaurant, I'm out of there and never looking back.
(2)Nicole K.
What this place gets right, it gets really, really right. The deviled eggs have a devilish kick, and the mac and cheese is worth every single calorie. The service is always friendly and personal. The appetizers and localities are tasty and fresh. The quinoa is delicious. The bar is cozy and inviting for hanging out with your friends. The patio is perfect for a warm spring night. The ambience is warm and comfortable. Just a few quibbles. The bathroom door was too small for my buddy to get into in his wheelchair (not cool), and both times I've had sandwiches here, the bread was greasy but not flavorful. So as long as you're not bringing a good friend with a disability here or wanting the grilled cheese, this is the place to be.
(4)otto h.
I really enjoyed my kale salad without bacon and cheese. Had a nice vegan lentil soup, too. Glad there are a decent number of vegan options on the menu, but wish there were some vegan dessert choices!
(4)Jon N.
We had an excellent meal. They had a nice selection of food. The menu online was a little different than the one that they were using when we were there. Overall it was great though. We had a nice bottle of local wine and some amazing food.
(4)Brandy C.
I have been here to dine on two different occasions. The restaurant is nice but nothing unique. The food is okay but definitely not worth the price. The mac and cheese was fine...but $15 for mediocre mac and cheese is a bit crazy. Service left a lot to be desired as our waitress was quite rude, in my opinion. My friend and I both sat with empty water glasses for some time. There are definitely better options in the same part of town.
(2)Amanda G.
I generally tend to think of Westside Local as more of a place to drink than eat, but that may just be because of my more recent visits and the fact that the beer garden is incredible on a warm summer night. However, it is one of the great places around town that offers delicious, thoughtful options for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. For brunch, the veggie hash is a tasty combination of veggies, potatoes and hollandaise sauce that makes you forget it doesn't have any kind of breakfast meat involved. The grilled cheese sandwich on the lunch/dinner menu is a must try, with an amazing dipping sauce that is reminiscent of tomato soup. The garlic french fries are some of the best fries I've ever had, and the deviled eggs are spicy and fresh-tasting. The impressive beer menu is what keeps me coming back, and the happy hour prices are competitive to other, less cozy and sophisticated settings. I love the tiny bar area (off to the left when you walk in) probably more than the main dining area. It gets crowded, but it feels friendly. As I said above, the beer garden is one of the best outdoor restaurant spaces in town, but when it gets crowded be prepared to be patient when ordering food or drinks.
(4)Katie C.
Alright, this is probably my favorite restaurant I have discovered in Kansas City!! My husband and I have gone numerous times alone and brought family and friends. All the dishes I have ever had here is fantastic - Burger, Grilled Cheese, Spicy Chicken. Definitely get the mashed potatoes!! Good selection of hand crafted cocktails. Great ambiance in a terrific neighborhood. Great place for a date or to celebrate a special occasion. The only reason I am choosing 4 stars over 5, is the price. Make reservations :)
(4)Bill B.
I went there expecting to be unhappy --- very unhappy. I am a pesco vegetarian, and the online menu looked like a turnoff. Also I usually prefer wine to beer, while Westside Local emphasizes its unusual beer selections. To make things worse: when I walked in, the hostess immediately informed me that the blackened tuna on the menu was not available that evening. Groan. Well, I was already there, so I figured I should give it a try anyway, and maybe go somewhere else afterwards for food I might like. Was I ever wrong. This place blew me away. I had four courses: peanut soup, a beets salad, garlic fried potatoes, and sliced pears. I had a glass of each of three different interesting wines, and a double espresso. The server, Jason, was exceptionally considerate of my somewhat unusual preferences, and everything was first rate. The decor is Greenwich Village/Montmartre, and they evidently have live entertainment many evenings starting at about 6 pm. If I were in the market for art, I'd be more inclined to buy what is on the walls here at reasonable prices than what I often see on the walls three blocks to the east in the Crossroads Art District at less credible prices. There is a parking lot directly across the street and another one behind the restaurant. It's because of places like this that I like KC so much. Otherwise I'd spend more time in Lawrence.
(5)Kimberly V.
The grilled cheese sandwich was the best I've ever had! I also would highly recommend the potato salad!
(5)Layne R.
Delicious. Stopped in for a late lunch and was not disappointed. Had the Summit Burger. 1/2 lb of meat, wilted arugula, Emmethaler (sp?) Cheese, a tasty vinaigrette and a side of garlic fries. All of it was great. Atmosphere is laid back and service is friendly. If you are near the Westside, I highly recommend stopping in. Updated: I've since been back a couple times and the Summit Burger continues to deliver and the fries are excellent. The first time I went the vinagrette/aioli whatever it is that came with the meal and I dipped my fries in was amazing. AMAZING. the last two times it hasn't been quite as spectacular which makes me a little sad. Still all good, but I really want that amazing taste again. It was SO good.
(4)Tj P.
This place is A ok. The deviled eggs are ok but not outstanding, they did not invent them you know. The hostess had a stick up her butt. The waiter was great. All in all a yes.
(3)Diane S.
This place has been on my "to try" list for a while and several people have mentioned how much they really enjoyed the food so I really wanted to like it. The good: The décor and feel of the place is very comforting and open. The layout is welcoming and easy to walk around. They accommodate large groups with no problems and the drink menu is great. I had The blunch menu is pretty good with a good selection of brunch and lunch items. I had the breakfast burrito and it was good and filling. The not so good: air conditioner not working. It was 90 degrees outside and not much cooler indoors. I'm not sure why but people in my party were fanning themselves with menus to cool down. The service was meh. Our server looked like she felt completely put out and she had better things to do than to serve us. I wanted to tell her to fix her face and pretend like she wanted a tip. Overall, it's not a bad place and I wouldn't be opposed to trying it again.
(3)Stephanie P.
I stopped in for a cocktail while I was waiting for a friend in the area to get home so I could visit him. There's a separate bar and outdoor area slightly off the main dining room that's cozy and sweet. Received friendly service and an okay cocktail (not the best mixology but not the worst). Intrigued by the food menu, and lo and behold, two hours later my friend and I went back and ate dinner. Again, super-awesome/friendly service and great grub. I just really like the atmosphere here. Can't wait to return on my next visit to KC!
(4)Guillermo V.
Their brunch is the best in KC. Best french toast i have ever had. They have real homemade ketchup to go with great fries!
(5)Jessica C.
Westside Local fills the "restaurant for out of town coworker business meeting that is deliciously enjoyable, locally pertinent, classy but not stuffy, hip but not pretentious, quite enough for a meeting but pleasantly buzzing" niche. Yes, yes I know this is a ridiculously specific niche, but somehow I end up pulling the Westside Local card at least every other month. Not only does it's artsy vibe and location impress, but the food is consistently satisfying and interesting. The beer garden on pleasant nights is a fantastic place to spend time socializing, enjoying a fancy beer, and scarfing down plate after plate of deviled eggs... OK, so I generally stop at one plate, but good lord they are delicious with their lemony kick and their micro arugula. The long tables force you to get to know your neighbor, which for a painfully social individual like me is worth some bonus points. The grilled cheese is great, the quinoa is darn good, and the servers are always friendly and prompt. Maybe it's the good vibes of the joint, perhaps it's the stiff drinks, but every meeting I've ever had at Westside has ended with great results.
(4)MARY N.
I was recently introduced to The Westside Local by one of my foodie friend and fell in love with it. They have a great atmosphere and the staff are very friendly, not to mention the food is delicious. My favorite there is the summit burger and their fries, both are done perfectly here. My friend always order a side of zucchini bread, which I tried some and OMG they are delicious. In addition to the great food, you can opt to sit outside and enjoy some of the grapes they have growing on the vines. They let you pick the grapes and eat them all for free! Makes the atmosphere seem fun and relaxed like you're in your backyard. This is def one of my favorite places now in KC.
(4)Nancy F.
The food was really good, but lately I've had better. Tried their mac n cheese...good. Burger...very tasty...deviled eggs...ok. Spinach salad...ok. Sorry, not sure why it wasn't over the top for me. I look forward to coming back again when the weather is nicer and we can sit out on the patio. This is definitely a place I'd like to try a few times and improve upon my overall review!
(3)Jeremy G.
Such a great neighborhood spot. The outdoor area is awesome on a sunny day.
(4)Zach F.
The bottom line : Their hamburger was one of the best I have ever eaten. Ever. Get their green beans on the side if you can. Fries: For me, they were awesome, just a bit too salty though. My wife didn't care much for them though. Skip the mashed potatoes. The atmosphere was a bit rustic, and the volume in the place was just right. The waiters were nice but not intrusive. The reason it gets 4 instead of 5 is the price and a small kitchen snafu. It's a bit high for either the hamburger or the beer. I highly recommend this place.
(4)Christine B.
Went for lunch and enjoyed it! I love the farm to table aspect of the place--it delivered in most areas! We went early and avoided the crowd for the most part. We both had the grilled cheese and it was very good! The tomato soup was flavorful, homemade ketchup had a nice flavor, and our server recommended accompanying the garlic fries with their homemade ranch dressing as well. I chose the fries because of the raves I'd seen, and really these were a little disappointing. I think I was expecting more "farm" and less "Sysco" taste. I will be back, and order a salad with the sandwich next time. The food was good--simple and tasty. Which brings me to the service. Attentive, helpful, friendly but not bothersome. The person I was with and I were pretty deep in conversation and he read us perfectly! Thanks for a nice lunch.
(3)Jeffrey S.
Came here during a business trip with a small group of local notables. Staff were attentive, pleasant and kind of strange in a strange way; not a bad way, not a good way -just a strange way. Maybe it's a KC thing. Here's what I experienced: * Braised Rabbit in Winter veggies, herbs and broth. Not terrible, but there are several different ways I'd prefer to have rabbit executed, and this is towards the bottom of my list. Maybe rabbit & dumplings? That'd be interesting. I'd also love to see someone do roast rabbit with a mustard-herb-apricot glaze. Maybe a rabbit pot pie, with fennel-spiced apples in a puff pastry shell? Or, rabbit slow-roasted under maplewood smoked bacon accompanied by a Russian mustard aioli -atop a heap of braised leeks? Me thinks even Elmer Fudd could have concocted a more pleasing dish with this particular sacrificed lagomorph. As it stands I give this dish a 5 out of 10 for its bland matzoh-ball soup flavor. * Deviled eggs - 9/10. Yum. * Garlic fries OMG, 10/10, * Beer selection (though I didn't order any) 8/10. Note, I'm from the land of microbrews, so I'm (too) picky. * Beet salad 10/10. Excellent. * Desserts, of which all were sampled (by all), were absolutely magnificent. 9/10. * Cheese, olive, Italian peasant bread plate was satisfying, but not spectacular. 6/10 One thing that did sort of tweak me a bit, was that it took forever for the food to arrive, and when it did, it came all at once. It was fairly busy so I suppose I should cut them some slack, but I won't. Not being from KC, thus not privy to the variety of what KC has to offer overall, I was still somewhat impressed by this little gem. It's clean, makes good use of its historic brick interior, and has a vibe which reminds me of a cozy, hip, minimalist designed college area restaurant of the neo-Bohemian ilk. Our hosts made a good decision in choosing this place to exemplify what KC can do if/when left with apparent regional ingredients. 7/10 overall.
(4)cathy m.
We ordered three fish tacos, and they were delicious. Why then, did I only give it one star. The fish was almost non-existent. A veggie taco should not taste or cost the same as a fish taco. We ordered a beer off the menu, and our server returned to tell us that it was not available. Then, we were asked if we wanted another beer around the "same price". He did not ask what kind of beer we like - just the price range. When we left, three employees were standing by the door. None of them asked how we enjoyed that meal. None of them said "Good night." We will not go back.
(1)Sovana L.
I absolutely love this place. I've always wanted to dine here but a friend of mine gave it a terrible review. Fortunately, I decided to check it out myself the other night and I regret nothing! Moral of the story: Follow your own desires. ;] My party and I walked in to a full house with live music. I was rather impressed considering where it's located. Nonetheless, its live entertainment provided a great atmosphere. I ordered their P.E.I. Mussels. It's pretty much a stew with "spanish chorizo, cilantro, tomato, jalapeños, and lime with a side of grilled baguette slices". One word...AMAZING. I very rarely finish an entire plate because I have a small stomach but this dish was so good I finished everything! I also had their summer shandy cocktail which was quite tasty! I tasted my brother's Quinoa dish which has "haricot verts, corn, tomato, zucchini, red onion, golden raisins, shaved parmesan, & crisp garden ruby chard". I totally loved that dish! We shared everything and nothing disappointed us...including our server. ;] This place is a nice weekend dinner spot. I totally recommend it.
(5)Brenna P.
I've heard the name "The Westside Local" several times in the year I've lived in Kansas City. Why I haven't been there before now is beyond me. A friend invited me to dinner there on a Friday night. All I can say is YUMMMMMMMM! I have been missing out! To start off, I looked at the drink menu. It's filled with all kinds of imports and microbrews... Oh, and my favorite local, Boulevard's Tank 7. Most places that serve this particular brew have good food, I have noticed. While sipping on my delightfully strong beverage, I glanced over the menu. So many delicious sounding options! I'm used to having slim pickings when it comes to salads, but The Westside Local has some of the best sounding salads. However, I decided to go with a heartier entree and I chose the quinoa ($14). I love that the standard version of this dish does not include meat (although you can add salmon or chicken). The quinoa dish consisted of zucchini, corn, tomato, onion, raisins, parmesan, green beans, and ruby chard. I'm pretty sure I had a mouthgasm with my first bite of this delight. The vegetables were crisp and their flavors paired perfectly between the parmesan and sweet raisins. Parmesan and raisins? Yes, not something I would think to put together, but amazing! I'm definitely returning here in the near future. There are a lot of vegetarian options I look forward to trying.
(5)Katie W.
This is our favorite place to eat! My favorites are the biscuits and gravy or the almond French toast for breakfast. For lunch nor dinner- you have to try the ham and jam. It is amazing! Their mixed drinks are pricy, but so good!
(5)Joe K.
Excellent local urban restaurant. Food is great. Great service. Nice beer and wine selections. We sat outside on this nice summer night. The inside was nice too, but the crowd voices made it a little loud. The only drawback was it was a little expensive otherwise it is a 5-star all the way.
(4)Caleb L.
Simply scrumtralescent! This place is the emobodiment of hipster, and I loved it. The service was friendly and attentive. There was a great selection of beers and liquors to choose from. The food options were unique, and a cut above other restaurants of this caliber. When I see things like "Grass Fed Beef" as an option on the menu, I know I'm at a place that pays attention to details. There were other great options on the menu and it seemed like a place you could close your eyes and point at the menu and be very happy with whatever they brought out. They also had several vegetarian entres (shocker for hipster place, right?). They have excellent french fries cooked with truffle oil and sprinkled with parmesan. To complete my mountainous grass fed burger (which already came with ham), I added bacon which was probably someof the best bacon I have had from any restaurant. I will definitely be back here anytime I'm in the area, although this place merits special trips even if you aren't in the area.
(5)Ali A.
After a disappointing attempt at another restaurant for dinner my girlfriend and I decided to stop in here and split something. We got the mac and cheese, split, don't do that though just ask for an extra plate because I believe they charge $2 to split something. It was yummy and definitely hit the spot. I enjoyed some good canned beer and for dessert we had a stout chocolate cake also very delicious! Oh and I tried their bloody mary, they make their own mix, it was awesome. I think this place would be great to go on a date to. I will be back Westside!
(4)jennifer j.
This much anticipated spot is a shot in the arm for the Westside. Trailblazers like Bluebird, Lil's and Fervere have known the charms of this neighborhood for quite some time. Now, there's a place where you can just hang out and have a few beers or a glass of wine on an outdoor patio shaded by old trees. The atmosphere is great. This place has unique charm and quirkiness that just doesn't exist in many other spots. Outside tables are communal. The inside is well done, but tends to feel more like restaurant then a drinking establishment. The thing is, Westside Local is working hard to offer both. The service has some serious kinks. Although there seem to be a good number of servers, the impression was that they were overwhelmed. With the patio only 1/2 full, this should not be the case. The wait for a greet, a drink and food was too extended. It wasn't just our experience, as a party of 3 women grumbled about crackers delivered to them after, rather then during their appetizers. We had dinner & drinks, yet our check was automatically closed & delivered to our table after our meal. So much for another drink. Is this a hint? When you sit down the waiter brings out a few olives sprinkled with olive oil and pepper....a nice touch. Appetizers are extremely straightforward. Deviled eggs, a small pile of ham, a few pickles. A minimalist wet dream. For the non birdlike eaters, there are a selection of sandwiches and larger plates. You can check out their menu online. I had the chicken sandwich and my partner has the roast beef. Both come with garlic fries. Although the fries has a garlic smell, there is no visible garlic, so I am not sure if they are using a powder or infused garlic oil. The bread used on each sandwich was the best part of the sandwich. Nothing really stood out, but nothing was bad either. In summary, I like this place...but to be more specific, I like this place for drinks. To be even more specific, I like this place for drinks on the patio on a beautiful summer night. Kudos to the trailblazers.
(3)L B.
After not having been back here for a couple years, I've found a surprisingly renewed interest - 4 visits in 4 weeks! Either I just had bad luck when I'd been here before or they have really improved. One of the best mac and cheese dishes in the city - maybe tied with The Jacobsen. The burgers are so fresh and juicy and I love anyone who uses the local Farm to Market pretzel buns. French fries are very tasty and crispy - I tried my best to eat them all but it's a lot of food with the burger. One of my visits, a friend veered off the usual mac and cheese / burger and tried the pulled pork - not as good as the burger, but if I'm not in the mood for cow, will definitely go for the pig next time.
(5)Kevin C.
I've been on a quinoa-craze for the past two weeks thanks to this place. We had dinner here before heading to the Kauffman Center for a Saturday night performance. (By the way, if the weather is agreeable, parking in the Westside area and walking over to the Kauffman Center is pretty convenient. Don't mind the creepy I-35 overpass on 17th St.) Anyways- we had the PEI mussels and Quinoa entrees. The mussels were pretty tasty but the quinoa really stood out to me. I guess I never really look for it on menus but I was super impressed with the flavors and textures. The crispy arugula was a noteworthy touch. I also like beer and there's a large beer list here. Nice!
(5)