Restaurants of yesteryear

[Simply Red]

Me? I am just an average Joe. I WATCHED the other fights mostly. I avoided them 99% of the time. Plus the guys doing the actual fighting always looked like grown men. They all had TBM's back then- Turner Bear Moustaches...
Just messin with ya. ;)

[Simply Red]

Too many food topics today. B...

[Baby Lee]

I think I heard something about them opening off Roe.

MoF, I think it was an article in the Star when I was home Christmas.

EDIT: from the Star Archives

"Chicken-frying legend Stroud's is shooting for a mid-February opening at 4200 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Fairway."

EDIT EDIT: Too slow, but I guess I kinda confirmed?? :shrug:

Heh, we all ate there over Memorial Day. Good as ever, and my GAWD was it ever effing packed for 2:30 on a Saturday afternoon.

[chasedude]

Damn I wish I wasn't stuck in the middle of nowhere. The food selection around here is deplorable. One of these days I'll get a job in a larger metropolis and have a better variety. Ho Hum :sulk:

[Hammock Parties]

This thread is making me jones for a big cheeseburger, fries and a chocolate shake!

Saturday!

[Baby Lee]

This thread is making me jones for a big cheeseburger, fries and a chocolate shake!

Saturday!

Yeah, this big glass of water is SO FILLING!!

[Simply Red]

Actually, I ate shitty Taco Bell today. UGH!

[StcChief]

Pete's drive-in burgers in Wentzville MO....classic 50s

they still do car shows and cruzin' in the summer.

[Spott]

I still miss eating at Brown's Chicken in Lee's Summit.

[Simply Red]

I still miss eating at Brown's Chicken in Lee's Summit.

They had one on Noland too and one in Blue Springs (me thinks) in the eighties.

[MOhillbilly]

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=5 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR class="" bgColor=#d5d3b7><TD class=td_left vAlign=top>Boxcar Bar Bq</TD><TD class=td_middle vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=searchText align=left>1131 N Grant Ave
Springfield,MO 65802</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

i love there suzieQ, 8 inch 3 meat sammy. mmmmmmmmmm homer.

[Simply Red]

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=5 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR class="" bgColor=#d5d3b7><TD class=td_left vAlign=top>Boxcar Bar Bq</TD><TD class=td_middle vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=searchText align=left>1131 N Grant Ave
Springfield,MO 65802</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

i love there suzieQ, 8 inch 3 meat sammy. mmmmmmmmmm homer.

just pm'd you.

[sportsman1]

Went to Big Boy recently in Cherokee,NC. It was great, its too bad they aren't as prevalent anymore. I'm moving to Memphis in a month and definitly plan on hitting up a Shoneys there. Its been a long time since I have been to one of those.I hear they aren't as good any more. Ofcourse I will only do this after a week of eating BBQ in Memphis.

[Simply Red]

Went to Big Boy recently in Cherokee,NC. It was great, its too bad they aren't as prevalent anymore. I'm moving to Memphis in a month and definitly plan on hitting up a Shoneys there. Its been a long time since I have been to one of those.I hear they aren't as good any more. Ofcourse I will only do this after a week of eating BBQ in Memphis.

Isn't their a HiBoy on Sterling? Or a Big Boy in Lee's Summit off 50?

[Spott]

Isn't their a HiBoy on Sterling? Or a Big Boy in Lee's Summit off 50?

Isn't/wasn't Big Boy the place with the A framed roof that was on 3rd street in LS not too far from 50?

[Simply Red]

Isn't/wasn't Big Boy the place with the A framed roof that was on 3rd street in LS not too far from 50?

Yes, that's exactly right, it was right by Robin Hill's Apts.

[sportsman1]

Yeah theres Hiboy in independence. Used to go there before royals game They're great for PT sandwiches. Miss that place too.

[Simply Red]

Yeah theres Hiboy in independence. Used to go there before royals game They're great for PT sandwiches. Miss that place too.

PT sandwiches?

[Simply Red]

I tell you what I miss is Perkin's omelets and Tippins Roast Beef and Mashers w/ gravy. *drool*

[StcChief]

another great old place in STL. SmokeHouse in Chesterfield Valley.
http://www.smokehousemarket.com/ was a traveler's stop on old Highway 40.

[Simply Red]

another great old place in STL. SmokeHouse in Chesterfield Valley.
http://www.smokehousemarket.com/ was a traveler's stop on old Highway 40.

wow, sounds divine! Where is Chesterfield Valley?

[gblowfish]

PT sandwiches?

I think he means "Pork Tenderloin" sandwich.

I grew up on Hi-Boy burgers. Now for some reason their beef doesn't agree with me, and I cracked a tooth on one of their onion rings several years ago, so quit eating there. I do stop in very rarely for a chocolate shake. They do have excellent shakes and ice cream treats.

BTW: There are two classic family run drive ins in Independence that were recently reviewed in the Pitch.

Clem's in Western Independence on 23rd St, between Sterling and Maywood, and Mug's Up in Central Independence, on 23rd St. between Noland and Lee's Summit, Rd. Clem's serves old style "crumble loose meat" hamburgers, and Mugs Up still makes their own home made root beer and makes "Zipburgers" and "Whizzburgers." Both are friendly small businesses. Glad to see them both up and running, Clem's just re-opened this year after being shut down for a few years.

[Simply Red]

I think he means "Pork Tenderloin" sandwich.

I grew up on Hi-Boy burgers. Now for some reason their beef doesn't agree with me, and I cracked a tooth on one of their onion rings several years ago, so quit eating there. I do stop in very rarely for a chocolate shake. They do have excellent shakes and ice cream treats.

yes, that's what he means. I just couldn't pass up a thin seared cheesburger w/ (their standard) Mustard, Lettuce, Pickle, Tomato and cheese! Sounds SO GOOD!

[Simply Red]

I think he means "Pork Tenderloin" sandwich.

I grew up on Hi-Boy burgers. Now for some reason their beef doesn't agree with me, and I cracked a tooth on one of their onion rings several years ago, so quit eating there. I do stop in very rarely for a chocolate shake. They do have excellent shakes and ice cream treats.

BTW: There are two classic family run drive ins in Independence that were recently reviewed in the Pitch.

Clem's in Western Independence on 23rd St, between Sterling and Maywood, and Mug's Up in Central Independence, on 23rd St. between Noland and Lee's Summit, Rd. Clem's serves old style "crumble loose meat" hamburgers, and Mugs Up still makes their own home made root beer and makes "Zipburgers" and "Whizzburgers." Both are friendly small businesses. Glad to see them both up and running, Clem's just re-opened this year after being shut down for a few years.

Yep, just like the ol` `Nu-Ways` crumblies! A&W sucks though.

[Simply Red]

Simply Red
Forum Facilitator



Re: Mug's up - Independence, MO
« Reply #15 on: April 11, 2008, 05:05:54 PM » Quote Modify Remove Split Topic

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulled this off a recipe board.



Clare, I live in Temecula California right now, but grew up in Kansas City. Nu-Way is a chain out of Wichita, Ks. I understand they still have a few stores there and possibly one in Leavenworth, Ks. Back in the 50's they were a mainstay of our family diet, and was a real treat on a weekend if my Dad had the money for us to go get some.

It was a loose meat burger that was served on a fresh bun. A few dill slices on the bottom with some mustard, the meat was heaped on top and was sort of damp, but hot, and if you wanted onion they topped it with chopped onion. Then the whole thing was put in a bun freshener and steam was pumped through it, wrapped up and ready for you to take home.

The closest I can come to the recipe is to brown the beef, drain the fat, then boil it in one cup chicken bouillon to one pound of meat before serving. It is driving me nutz to figure it out, but not until I get to go home to KC or Wichita will I get the chance to try another "real" one to compare them.

"No spices are added to a nu-way burger it is cooked in a rectangular grill that is shallow at the top and deep at the bottom. It has a burner at both ends but the rear burner is only on when adding more ground beef. What makes a nu-way taste different is the organ meat they add when it is ground. That is why the grease, or what the regulars referred to as juice is yellow in color. To make one you would bring some meat up to the top of the grill and either press some of the grease out or not depending on the customer-take your bun directly from the plastic wrap on a cart (not steamed) add mustard, ground onion (very fine, almost juicy) and two pickles then flip the meat onto the bun and cut in half. I was a cook at nu-way for six years and did this many times. Also the meat packing company Manning-Clampit who also provided the chili bricks for nu-ways chili was owned by the same people."
....so there you have it, ORGAN MEAT IS THE SECRET

[Baby Lee]

wow, sounds divine! Where is Chesterfield Valley?

Even with all the development, it's still pretty hard to miss. It's right at the Eastern start of Airport Road, right where 40 enters the valley proper from the east, on the south side of the highway.

[Simply Red]

Even with all the development, it's still pretty hard to miss. It's right at the Eastern start of Airport Road, right where 40 enters the valley proper from the east, on the south side of the highway.

I'm sorry but I've been gone (out of KC) for 18 yrs. so that doesn't help. But it's in the basic outskirts of KC?

[Baby Lee]

[B]Re: Mug's up - Independence, MO
Have you had a Maid-Rite to compare?

[Simply Red]

Have you had a Maid-Rite to compare?

No, please tell me more, I'm hungry now. LOL

[Baby Lee]

I'm sorry but I've been gone (out of KC) for 18 yrs. so that doesn't help. But it's in the basic outskirts of KC?

Outer outskirts of St. Louis

another great old place in STL. SmokeHouse in Chesterfield Valley.

[Simply Red]

they (maid-rite) appear to be a chain though. I see they have them in D.C. as well.

[Simply Red]

Outer outskirts of St. Louis

oh, I missed the `Stl.` part. Damned A.D.D!

[Simply Red]

Have you had a Maid-Rite to compare?

Have you been to Maid-Rite?

[Baby Lee]

they (maid-rite) appear to be a chain though. I see they have them in D.C. as well.

Remember when Roseanne Barr bought a 'loose meat' restaurant, both one in real life and one on her sitcom? That was based on Maid-Rite.

They had one in Kirksville for like the first month I went to NEMSU/Truman, then it closed.

Had a couple before that one closed, had a couple more on a road trip to Iowa, then later went to Roseanne's operation.

Not bad, but I'd rather have a sloppy joe.

[gblowfish]

There's a Maid Rite still open in Lexington, MO, just down the street from Wentworth Military Academy. Lexington is about 35 miles east of KC on he Missouri River.

[Simply Red]

Never been to any of these places. My Grandmother used to make her version of the nu-way. She'd scramble and brown 50/50 chopped onion vs. ground chuck. until very, very well done. Next she'd steam wonder bread and simply put pickle and mustard on them. Man, they were good.

[MTG#10]

For me it was A&W when my dad was still alive, then later on Shoney's. I actually still have one of those little A&W glass mugs that are a little bigger than a shot glass from when I was 3 years old.

[StcChief]

There's a Maid Rite still open in Lexington, MO, just down the street from Wentworth Military Academy. Lexington is about 35 miles east of KC on he Missouri River.they have the equivalent
"Krumbly Burger" in Troy MO 15 M North of Wentzville.

[MOhillbilly]

Isn't their a HiBoy on Sterling? Or a Big Boy in Lee's Summit off 50?
i think theres a hi boy just up from independence center.

[MOhillbilly]

I think he means "Pork Tenderloin" sandwich.

I grew up on Hi-Boy burgers. Now for some reason their beef doesn't agree with me, and I cracked a tooth on one of their onion rings several years ago, so quit eating there. I do stop in very rarely for a chocolate shake. They do have excellent shakes and ice cream treats.

BTW: There are two classic family run drive ins in Independence that were recently reviewed in the Pitch.

Clem's in Western Independence on 23rd St, between Sterling and Maywood, and Mug's Up in Central Independence, on 23rd St. between Noland and Lee's Summit, Rd. Clem's serves old style "crumble loose meat" hamburgers, and Mugs Up still makes their own home made root beer and makes "Zipburgers" and "Whizzburgers." Both are friendly small businesses. Glad to see them both up and running, Clem's just re-opened this year after being shut down for a few years.


both greasy dive that are great.

[Deberg_1990]

i think theres a hi boy just up from independence center.

Theres one at Sterling and 40 highway. I try and stop in there when im up in KC.

Great burgers and fries.

[MOhillbilly]

Theres one at Sterling and 40 highway. I try and stop in there when im up in KC.

Great burgers and fries.

ya i always stop and get a double with cheese and an order of rings.

[MOhillbilly]

No, please tell me more, I'm hungry now. LOL
we had one in spfld for a short short time. i didnt like it all that much.

[LiL stumppy]

McGuffie's and Garbo's

[gblowfish]

Theres one at Sterling and 40 highway. I try and stop in there when im up in KC.

Great burgers and fries.

Actually, there is not a Hi-Boy at Sterling and 40 Highway.

There's one at Blue Ridge and 40 Highway, just north of Arrowhead.
Another at US 24 and River in North Independence.
Another at MO 291 and Gudgell in East Independence

They closed their Noland Road and 87th & Blue Ridge locations years ago.

[Baby Lee]

Actually, there is not a Hi-Boy at Sterling and 40 Highway.

There's one at Blue Ridge and 40 Highway, just north of Arrowhead.
Another at US 24 and River in North Independence.
Another at MO 291 and Gudgell in East Independence

They closed their Noland Road and 87th & Blue Ridge locations years ago.

Could've sworn the Noland Road location was going strong when we drove by on Memorial weekend last. Know for a fact was going strong when I ate there a couple years back.

[Deberg_1990]

Actually, there is not a Hi-Boy at Sterling and 40 Highway.

There's one at Blue Ridge and 40 Highway, just north of Arrowhead.
Another at US 24 and River in North Independence.
Another at MO 291 and Gudgell in East Independence

They closed their Noland Road and 87th & Blue Ridge locations years ago.


Ahh..ok...

I thought there used to be one in Lees Summit too? Or maybe that was a Burger Boy? It was similiar.

[Simply Red]

Actually, there is not a Hi-Boy at Sterling and 40 Highway.

There's one at Blue Ridge and 40 Highway, just north of Arrowhead.
Another at US 24 and River in North Independence.
Another at MO 291 and Gudgell in East Independence

They closed their Noland Road and 87th & Blue Ridge locations years ago.

Wow, yeah I barely (but do) remember that loca.

[Simply Red]

Ahh..ok...

I thought there used to be one in Lees Summit too? Or maybe that was a Burger Boy? It was similiar.

No, that was a Big Boy, two blocks from 5th st.

[Hammock Parties]

70 years. Has to be pretty good.

http://www.princeshamburgers.com/

http://www.princeshamburgers.com/menu.pdf

[Simply Red]

70 years. Has to be pretty good.

http://www.princeshamburgers.com/

http://www.princeshamburgers.com/menu.pdf

Yeah, those kind of places are usually very good.

[Hammock Parties]

I think ve haff a winnah!

http://www.becksprime.com/nav/default.asp?AdequateBrowser=Yes

[Skip Towne]

Maybe I lived in Salem, Oregon then. :hmmm:

More proof you don't even know where you are.

[Simply Red]

I think ve haff a winnah!

http://www.becksprime.com/nav/default.asp?AdequateBrowser=Yes

City Search is definitely a good barometer.

[Hammock Parties]

Man that restaurant would be PERFECT if they served onion rings. Dammit! Maybe they'll make 'em for me.

[Simply Red]

I'm sure the fries are good though, based on the endorsement by/from CitySearch.

[Simply Red]

KC actually had a decent hamburger joint in WestPort, back in 97 when I tried dating this KC girl she took me there. Me thinks it was called Ottos.

[Hammock Parties]

I think ve haff a winnah!

http://www.becksprime.com/nav/default.asp?AdequateBrowser=Yes

OK. That was pretty good. The burger was outstanding and well worth the $7. The fries were above average as was the shake. I give it a 7 out of 10.

[Bowser]

KC actually had a decent hamburger joint in WestPort, back in 97 when I tried dating this KC girl she took me there. Me thinks it was called Ottos.

Fred P. Ott's, perhaps?

[HonestChieffan]

anyone here ever hear of Sam's Hiway Hamburger in Butler Mo?

Those Curly Fries were fat soaked and delcious. Great Burgers and Chicken too.

Good Shit.


Still There, still good. Buy from local folks and screw the franchises

[Halfcan]

Anyone remember the Old Trolley on Truman road in Independence???

Well I am reopening it July 11th.

Yes Halfcan will have his own restaurant.

[Rausch]

oh, I missed the `Stl.` part. Damned A.D.D!

That's ok.

I might be the only tool to drive 2 hours to get Jack In The Box, be talking about Jack In The Box, and then miss the exit...:doh!:

[Simply Red]

Anyone remember the Old Trolley on Truman road in Independence???

Well I am reopening it July 11th.

Yes Halfcan will have his own restaurant.

ORLY? nice, I don't remember it. What kind of food?

[Simply Red]

That's ok.

I might be the only tool to drive 2 hours to get Jack In The Box, be talking about Jack In The Box, and then miss the exit...:doh!:

I've done worse.

[Halfcan]

ORLY? nice, I don't remember it. What kind of food?

I will post a thread with the specifics as it gets closer-but it is a totally new concept.

I have been working nonstop on it and it is coming along pretty good.

Everyone is invited!!!!

:)

[Simply Red]

I will post a thread with the specifics as it gets closer-but it is a totally new concept.

I have been working nonstop on it and it is coming along pretty good.

Everyone is invited!!!!

:)

Okay, let me know if I can help you at all,

I don't know if you know, but I went to Johnson Cty. Comm. College and studied Culinary-Arts.

[pkane]

Strouds


I have been going there since I was six or so. They use to always have an old man play piano during dinner. Great place to go. To bad it is located now in Kansas.

[Simply Red]

Strouds


I have been going there since I was six or so. They use to always have an old man play piano during dinner. Great place to go. To bad it is located now in Kansas.

Yeah, that's been covered on here plenty, kind of ridiculous to read the entire thread though. But yeah, nothing beats the gourmet styled chicken.

[tomahawk kid]

Just had some Hi-Boy before the Chiefs open practice on Saturday.

Beats the hell out of a McDonald's or Wendy's hamburger.

[Simply Red]

Just had some Hi-Boy before the Chiefs open practice on Saturday.

Beats the hell out of a McDonald's or Wendy's hamburger.

easily! And Steak & Shake.

[CoMoChief]

What ever happened to Texas Tom's, Shoney's, A&W, Captain D's, Original Pizza,????

[Adept Havelock]

What ever happened to Texas Tom's, Shoney's, A&W, Captain D's, Original Pizza,????

Texas Tom's is still around. There's one on Blue Ridge near 87th, and another down on Blue Parkway a block or two from LC's.

Original Pizza is in Lee's Summit across from the tech. campus and at Metro North Mall

A&W is still around, but I don't think there are any in KC.

Captain D's is on Troost, Metro North Pkwy. and in Grandview per Google maps.

Shoney's is dead in the KC area, AFAICT.

[Simply Red]

I'd mentioned Original Pizza earlier. It used to be in the food ct. at Indep. Ctr. Captain D's is here in Atlanta as well as AW and Shoneys, all three are very average and AW's burgers are terrible. I'd rather have McDonalds than AW burgers -> that's how bad they are now.

[Baby Lee]

Texas Tom's is still around. There's one on Blue Ridge near 87th, and another down on Blue Parkway a block or two from LC's.

Original Pizza is in Lee's Summit across from the tech. campus and at Metro North Mall

A&W is still around, but I don't think there are any in KC.

Captain D's is on Troost, Metro North Pkwy. and in Grandview per Google maps.

Shoney's is dead in the KC area, AFAICT.

Belton has a brand new [well, a year or so old] A&W.

[CoMoChief]

I'd mentioned Original Pizza earlier. It used to be in the food ct. at Indep. Ctr. Captain D's is here in Atlanta as well as AW and Shoneys, all three are very average and AW's burgers are terrible. I'd rather have McDonalds than AW burgers -> that's how bad they are now.

I was all about A/W mini corn dogs. I never went there for burgers. Just Root beer and corndogs.

[CoMoChief]

Is TCBY still around?

[ChiTown]

Pizza Inn

Shawnee Mission Pkwy

[Simply Red]

Is TCBY still around?

yeah, here, anyways.

[Simply Red]

Pizza Inn

Shawnee Mission Pkwy

Good one, my father (el cheapo) used to cut their coupons out of the weekly paper to save. NTTAWWT.

[Adept Havelock]

Belton has a brand new [well, a year or so old] A&W.

Thanks. I finally have a reason to go back to Belton since the used book shop (A Better Bookstore) went internet-sales only. :)

[Baby Lee]

Well, I finally have a reason to go back to Belton since the used book shop (A Better Bookstore) went internet-sales only. :)

Actually the nearby Jose Peppers is the best dining choice.

[Simply Red]

Actually the nearby Jose Peppers is the best dining choice.

Jose Peppers?

[Baby Lee]

Jose Peppers?

http://www.josepeppers.com/UserFiles/File/JP_Menu_Main.pdf

[Simply Red]

http://www.josepeppers.com/UserFiles/File/JP_Menu_Main.pdf

sounds good to me.:drool:

[Simply Red]

I'm craving a Taco Town (Carthage) Taco-burger!

[Sure-Oz]

Pizza Inn

Shawnee Mission Pkwy

There was one locally, it was the shit

Also Stephensons Restaraunt on 40hwy ruled

[Simply Red]

There was one locally, it was the shit

Also Stephensons Restaraunt on 40hwy ruled

of course, applewood smoked pork chops, green-rice and apple fritter w/ churned butta...

[Sure-Oz]

of course, applewood smoked pork chops, green-rice and apple fritter w/ churned butta...

Yeah i wish it didn't get closed down, it was a place where our family went alot. Pretty cheap meal too, so damn good! I heard the owners died off or something and didn't have any family...

Now its just sitting there.:shake:

[Simply Red]

Yeah i wish it didn't get closed down, it was a place where our family went alot. Pretty cheap meal too, so damn good! I heard the owners died off or something and didn't have any family...

Now its just sitting there.:shake:

Yeah, he used to be married to our old neighbor, my mom got a in the oven brisket recipe and it melts in your mouth...

[Stewie]

Anyone ever had a Maid-Rite sandwich? There are a couple stores in the KC area, but I haven't tried one. I think they're a religion in Iowa.

[Simply Red]

Anyone ever had a Maid-Rite sandwich? There are a couple stores in the KC area, but I haven't tried one. I think they're a religion in Iowa.

no, but I'd try one.

[Simply Red]

http://www.maid-rite.com/newlocations/newlocations.shtml

[Sure-Oz]

Yeah, he used to be married to our old neighbor, my mom got a in the oven brisket recipe and it melts in your mouth...

Yeah, you must post that sometime

[Simply Red]

Yeah, you must post that sometime

I already did, let me find my thread.

[burt]

There was one locally, it was the shit

Also Stephensons Restaraunt on 40hwy ruled

They have re opened.

[Sure-Oz]

They have re opened.

Really?? When did that happen, i heard awhile back it was closed and drove past it and nothing.

[Sure-Oz]

I already did, let me find my thread.

Sweet! Love briscuit

[burt]

Really?? When did that happen, i heard awhile back it was closed and drove past it and nothing.

Christopher Hearne of the Star wrote about it this week. It has just been a few days ago.

[Sure-Oz]

Christopher Hearne of the Star wrote about it this week. It has just been a few days ago.

Sweet, thanks for the update, excellent news! Always wanted to take my gf to that place, but i met her after it was closed.

[Simply Red]

Sweet! Love briscuit

Dammit! I can't find it anywhere. I'll work on it, RJ, and FireMeBoy! both should still have the recipe...

[burt]

Sweet, thanks for the update, excellent news! Always wanted to take my gf to that place, but i met her after it was closed.

If I remember correctly, they have moved up the street a ways...so don't just show up at the restaurant. and I didn't find anything recent when I googled. But I am sure it has reopened.

[Sure-Oz]

No prob TBA...

Here is the article...new location and different name..i'll have to check it out...

http://www.kansascity.com/entertainment/columnists/hearne_christopher_jr/story/784026.html
Posted on Sun, Sep. 07, 2008
Rejoice! Stephenson’s returns, with fritters

Move over Stroud’s …

Fans of fabled local eatery Stephenson’s Old Apple Farm can rip off their black armbands and begin living large again because the apple fritters are back, baby.

Heir apparent Steve Stephenson has re-launched — for the most part — his family’s comfort food tradition at 6600 Blue Ridge Blvd. in the wilds of Raytown.

“The name of the new place is J.L. Stephenson’s Santa Fe Inn,” Stephenson says. “The reason it’s J.L. is because my real name is John Loyd, but nobody knows me by that name because since I was little, Steve is all I was ever called.

“I didn’t know I was John until I was old enough to go to school and somebody said, ‘John’ and I was like, ‘No, that’s not me.’ ”

But back to Stephenson’s future…

The new Stephenson’s is in the space of Raytown’s former Santa Fe Inn, which closed last year after coming under new ownership.

“We’ve been having some friends over the last couple days and they’ve been kind of critiquing everything and we kind of quietly opened (Thursday),” Stephenson says. “So we’re looking to go now, or let’s say I sure hope so.

“I’ve got my old chef from Stephenson’s, Charlie Meyers. So we’ll have the apple fritters, green rice casserole, apple pie with brandy sauce, baked chicken with butter and cream — it was written up in Duncan Hines’ famous foods for famous places — and the brisket of beef, pork chops and the homemade hot rolls. That’s all of the Stephenson’s stuff we have.”

But there’s more.

“We have the things the Santa Fe Inn had that were popular,” Stephenson says. “Their big hamburger, their big tenderloins, hamburger steaks, grilled ham and cheese sandwiches and a grilled beef and cheese sandwich.”

The original Stephenson’s seated 350 and broke a lot of hearts when it closed on one of the biggest dining out holidays of the year, Valentine’s Day 2007.

Funding was tight, the original owners had health issues and were holed up in Florida, and the situation reached the breaking point.

That was then.

The new joint is only a manageable size (110 seats) and will be open seven days a week, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The Santa Fe Inn’s Sunday catfish and fried chicken specials will return. As will much of Stephenson’s classic memorabilia.

“Oh yeah, I’ve got all the autographed photos of the movie stars that were in there,” he says. “And the Truman stuff, things that were signed by Truman — most of it is already up on the walls. And I’ve got the framed, original Kansas City Star front pages about Truman dropping the bomb and World War II ending, the Kennedy assassination and walking on the moon.”

Lest I forget: Stephenson’s side dishes like Texas potatoes and zucchini casserole are also on the menu, and if demand warrants, they’ll bring back lesser entree faves as specials on a regular basis. So just ask or let ’em know.

[Sure-Oz]

Dammit! I can't find it anywhere. I'll work on it, RJ, and FireMeBoy! both should still have the recipe...

Appreciate it!

[burt]

No prob TBA...

Here is the article...new location and different name..i'll have to check it out...



Damn....you youngsters are good at this interweb..........

[Sure-Oz]

Damn....you youngsters are good at this interweb..........

ROFL

Definetly...i have missed this place alot, been going since i was a 5 year old...it shutdown the day after I got with my gf...i remmeber weeks later i drove past and it was shutdown. Supposedly thought it was cause of a fire...im stoked to eat that classic food again. Thanks!

[burt]

ROFL

Definetly...i have missed this place alot, been going since i was a 5 year old...it shutdown the day after I got with my gf...i remmeber weeks later i drove past and it was shutdown. Supposedly thought it was cause of a fire...im stoked to eat that classic food again. Thanks!

You are most welcome....I am just glad I read Christopher that day.

[MOhillbilly]

last time i was at stephensons it was gahddahm terrible. have to talk my grandmother into eating there this weekend.

[burt]

last time i was at stephensons it was gahddahm terrible. have to talk my grandmother into eating there this weekend.

I don't believe I have ever had a poor experience there, but then again, I drink a lot of whiskey and my memory is getting poor. What were we talkin' about?

[Sure-Oz]

I don't believe I have ever had a poor experience there, but then again, I drink a lot of whiskey and my memory is getting poor. What were we talkin' about?

LOL, i have never had a bad exp. ever...i used to over drink the apple cider back in the day just waiting for a table. I am sure it will be different at the new place but the food is all i care about, the fritters were so damn perfect too!

[MOhillbilly]

this was right aroung the time it closed. trust me it wasnt good atoll.

[stumppy]

Reds on the west side of Springfield.

Best GD burgers, chili, fries, and homemade rootbeer ever.

[MOhillbilly]

Reds on the west side of Springfield.

Best GD burgers, chili, fries, and homemade rootbeer ever.
heard great things.

[stumppy]

heard great things.


Yea, it was a sad day when he retired.

[MOhillbilly]

Yea, it was a sad day when he retired.

there was a special on pbs about mo 66 that had old pics and whatnot. i liked the big orange cooler reds had to serve coffee on the counter.

http://www.birthplaceofroute66.com/images/bk1,1A.jpg

[Programmer]

Shakey's Pizza - Best Pizza of the day.

A&W - Car Hops

Smaks - Grease

Homers - Best hamburgers around.

[Stewie]

Heir apparent Steve Stephenson has re-launched — for the most part — his family’s comfort food tradition at 6600 Blue Ridge Blvd. in the wilds of Raytown.

Sweet! I know where I'll be headed after my next round of golf at Swope.

[MOhillbilly]

first thing im doin when i blow into town fri. is get a double with cheese and onions w/ a side of rings from hi boy.

mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

[stumppy]

there was a special on pbs about mo 66 that had old pics and whatnot. i liked the big orange cooler reds had to serve coffee on the counter.

http://www.birthplaceofroute66.com/images/bk1,1A.jpg

Thats the place. Went through that drive through hundreds of times. Come to think of it he might have invented the drive through. He had mirrors positioned all over the inside so no matter where he was he could see a car outside at the speaker (it was at about the middle of those hedges). He used to have those coolers on every table with rootbeer in them. Don't know if it's true but I was told that the old white car broke down on him right where it sits when he first came to Springfield.

I miss Reds......and my 66 Chevy.

And my girlfriend at the time...................................in my 66 Chevy.

[SAUTO]

Griff's Hamburgers: Used to be one at 24 Highway and Noland across from William Chrisman HS. Now a used car lot. There's still a Griff's in Sedalia, MO across from Smith-Cotton HS.
.

GRIFFS used to be on 7th st trfy. in kck we ate there a lot as a kid, pauls drive in on osage, kck, go chicken go on 7th in kck

[SAUTO]

oh what about some Chubby's, on main or is it broadway? hell i just ate there a couple of weeks ago we hit it up every time we get to kc, we used to eat there before they moved also

[Macroach]

My favorite...how could I forget....was Joe's Barn in Stillwell. :drool:

Same here. Every Sunday, although it interfered with the 12 pm kickoffs.

Is Joe's Barn still around?

[Simply Red]

Same here. Every Sunday, although it interfered with the 12 pm kickoffs.

Is Joe's Barn still around?

I'd never been there, but remember people talking about it,

[Dayze]

last time i was at stephensons it was gahddahm terrible. have to talk my grandmother into eating there this weekend.

x2

only been there once; and it was awful.
I think they closed down a few months later.

possibly the worst food I've ever paid for.

[Simply Red]

x2

only been there once; and it was awful.
I think they closed down a few months later.

possibly the worst food I've ever paid for.

I assure you, it's not always been like that.

[Baby Lee]

Move over Stroud’s …
Granny's Chicken Ranch already made that request.

[Stewie]

Is Joe's Barn still around?

They closed years ago. The last I knew it was a Manny's Mexican restaurant.

[Simply Red]

They closed years ago. The last I knew it was a Manny's Mexican restaurant.

Manny's is good, No?

[Al Czervik]

Same here. Every Sunday, although it interfered with the 12 pm kickoffs.

Is Joe's Barn still around?

They tore it down years ago...
And rebuilt a Manny's....Not bad....
I believe it is a Coachs bar and grill now

[Simply Red]

.

[Simply Red]

Is Manny's still around? ... that shit used to be very good.

[gblowfish]

Manny's is still on Southwest Boulevard just north of the Freight House restaurants at Union Station. It's my favorite mexican restuarant, excellent food, reasonable.

[SDChiefs]

Uppercrust Pizza in Vista. Used to skate across town to play FIFA World Cup for hours and eat the best Cheezy Garlic bread ever. Then when I got older, it was Sundays and football. Good times.

[gblowfish]

Thats the place. Went through that drive through hundreds of times. Come to think of it he might have invented the drive through. He had mirrors positioned all over the inside so no matter where he was he could see a car outside at the speaker (it was at about the middle of those hedges). He used to have those coolers on every table with rootbeer in them. Don't know if it's true but I was told that the old white car broke down on him right where it sits when he first came to Springfield.

I miss Reds......and my 66 Chevy.

And my girlfriend at the time...................................in my 66 Chevy.

Back in the 1980's Lou Whitney & the Morells (Springfield based band) did a rockabilly song about Red's. One of those places that live in people's memories. Too bad its been gone for so long.

Hey, I found a video!
http://www.vimeo.com/groups/21864/videos/6228379

[DMAC]

Anyone from Springfluff remember Bill & Ruths? It was on National just south of Battlefield. They served chili 5 ways, etc.

[Simply Red]

Uppercrust Pizza in Vista. Used to skate across town to play FIFA World Cup for hours and eat the best Cheezy Garlic bread ever. Then when I got older, it was Sundays and football. Good times.

oh yes, i've had it, been yrs, though.

[CoMoChief]

Do they still have Betty's Diner in Blue Springs??? Off of 40 Hwy? Across from BS Bowling Alley

[Simply Red]

Do they still have Betty's Diner in Blue Springs??? Off of 40 Hwy? Across from BS Bowling Alley

yes, but it's called something different now, btw, it was Betty's Fried Chicken. :)

My Dad still lives back there behind it.

[Titty Meat]

Panini- Westport Flea Market

Tacos- Margaritas

Chineese- Wok N Roll

Mediterranea- Jerusalem Cafe

[Demonpenz]

this thread is HOF material

[MTG#10]

There used to be a restaurant in Springfield when I was a kid called Sip and Flip. I dont know if it was a chain or just a locally owned business but I used to go there and get cheap burgers and play video games all the time. I think it was on Battlefield. Anyone else remember it?

[mikeyis4dcats.]

I read today on Pitch that the original Texas Toms closed. Never ate there, but I remember some of you talking about it

[Oxford]

Allens on State Line south of Ward Parkway, Bamboo hut on 40 HWY, V's on 40 HWY and Sterling

[KCUnited]

I read today on Pitch that the original Texas Toms closed. Never ate there, but I remember some of you talking about it
I used to live by the one in Midtown on Linwood, straight garbage food but I was still there weekly.

[wazu]

In Lee's Summit:

The Chinese Chef

[badgirl]

Well I can't think of any that doesn't still exist, but I did work after school at a curb side restaurant. The same few old men would be up there sitting around having cup after cup of coffee and talking about the news for the day, week whatever. I would go to the car, take their order and then walk their meal to them. We made good food there, not so much like the quick frozen stuff, it was actually homemade food like potatoes and pies that were made from scratch. hmmmm makes me wish it was still open, I may take a drive 2 hours away just to eat tomorrow.

[Dottefan]

I know any body growing up in KCK back in the day would know about Paul Bunyan's...cheeseburger basket, burrito baskets, taco baskets..

[Dottefan]

I read today on Pitch that the original Texas Toms closed. Never ate there, but I remember some of you talking about it


Straight up stoner food......so good :D

[Earthling]

Griffs hamburger joint in Wichita. Never saw another one anywhere but I still remember their advertising sign out front..."Hamburgers .15 cents"

[Wilson8]

Did not read through all 44 pages so these may have already be listed.

Zuider Zee on Noland Road in Independence. The front used to look like a windmill and had a great salad bar with a great big block of cheese.

House of Toy - Chinese food down on the southwest corner of the Plaza in Kansas City.

Later Chinese place was Hunan's also off Noland Road. A whole family could eat for a few dollars.

Jenny's in Lee's Summit - home of $4.00 steaks.

Country Medallion Inn in Raytown Not sure if that was really the name. Steaks with a layer of cheese and mushroom gravy.

Pappi's Pizza - I think still around in Lee's Summit

Johnny Ray's in Lee's Summit still around now.

A framed building in Warrensburg that sold bags of burgers, Ku Ku burgers. Maybe called the Ku Ku Hut or something like that.

Tim's Pizza - Not the one in Independence but it was in Warrensburg by the bowling alley on Hwy 13.

Of course Sonic for the Sonic burger.

['Hamas' Jenkins]

If any of you went to college at Truman State:

Pancake City.

It's a 24 hour greasy spoon that offers a huge truck stop type menu along with a lot of interesting local fare.

The best food:

Grub fries. French fries covered in pan fried bacon, with sour cream, melted liquid cheese (very important) and ketchup.

That along with either an order of biscuits and gravy or toasted ravioli makes for the greatest drunk food imaginable.

I refuse to eat at Waffle House just b/c I've been so spoiled by "The Shitty".

[tyton75]

I miss Zipp's..

northland, 72nd st and N. Oak... the burgers were cheap and the fries were awesome!.. everyday after football practice I would stop there and eat before going home.

its an LC's now

[Simply Red]

Allens on State Line south of Ward Parkway, Bamboo hut on 40 HWY, V's on 40 HWY and Sterling

V's had a nice robust Marinara, that place will never 'set the world on fire' -but, legitimate 'safe' americanized Italian. They still offer their frozen Ravs and containers of marinara at the sto?

[DMAC]

I miss Zipp's..

northland, 72nd st and N. Oak... the burgers were cheap and the fries were awesome!.. everyday after football practice I would stop there and eat before going home.

its an LC's nowIs it just me, or does anyone else get the raging derrs everytime they eat at LC's.

[MOhillbilly]

Back in the 1980's Lou Whitney & the Morells (Springfield based band) did a rockabilly song about Red's. One of those places that live in people's memories. Too bad its been gone for so long.

Hey, I found a video!
http://www.vimeo.com/groups/21864/videos/6228379

very cool!

Props G.

[MOhillbilly]

i may have asked this before but ive slept since then.

What was the name of the diner that was downtown excelsior?
Rays maybe?

my granddad used to take me there when i was little-little and get me a burger and he'd drink sugar w/ coffee.

Then we would head out to the waste water treatment and id catch contaminated frogs...:)

[SAUTO]

Griffs hamburger joint in Wichita. Never saw another one anywhere but I still remember their advertising sign out front..."Hamburgers .15 cents"

used to be one on 7th st in kck, iirc there is still one in sedalia mo.

[KC native]

Not reading through the whole thread but

1) LC's- I grew up right around the corner from the one by the stadiums. I remember when his smoker used to be outside.

2) Big Boy (and Hi Boy)- Awesome burgers. I was partial to Big Boy and my little bro liked Hi Boy so that always made arguments about where to go fun.

3) Las Playas - Our family's restaurant that used to be on 40 highway in the historic site house thingy. Had my first job there actually. My 16-17 year old cousins used to love me because I was always willing to come in and work on Fridays and Saturdays once I turned 12.

4) Town Topic-This was more my high school years. My friend and I would get smashed hanging out down on the West Side, Westport, and occasionally down in the Dotte but we would always make it to Town Topic to end the night. TRUCKSTOP FTW!!!!!!!!!!

[Simply Red]

Not reading through the whole thread but

1) LC's- I grew up right around the corner from the one by the stadiums. I remember when his smoker used to be outside.

2) Big Boy (and Hi Boy)- Awesome burgers. I was partial to Big Boy and my little bro liked Hi Boy so that always made arguments about where to go fun.

3) Las Playas - Our family's restaurant that used to be on 40 highway in the historic site house thingy. Had my first job there actually. My 16-17 year old cousins used to love me because I was always willing to come in and work on Fridays and Saturdays once I turned 12.

4) Town Topic-This was more my high school years. My friend and I would get smashed hanging out down on the West Side, Westport, and occasionally down in the Dotte but we would always make it to Town Topic to end the night. TRUCKSTOP FTW!!!!!!!!!!


Las Playas has been mentioned by me, already & everyone just stared at me funny, dude, I went there as a kid RE--LIGIOUSLY.

[KC native]

Las Playas has been mentioned by me, already & everyone just stared at me funny, dude, I went there as a kid RE--LIGIOUSLY.

Small world. I wouldn't be surprised if we were there at the same time. I practically lived there for a good portion of my youth. I used to think my great grandparents were awesome because being from Mexico they loved wrestling so if we were there and wrestling was on I was sitting there watching it with great grandpa and grandma.

[Inspector]

Loma Vista bowling alley - tacos...

Allens, Kings. A place I think was called the "Y" out by longview road on Blue Ridge - but I think that might have closed in the late 50's or 60's....

Plus so many others mentioned on here like Paul's, etc.....

OK, I gotta go eat lunch now.

[Dartgod]

Pappi's Pizza - I think still around in Lee's Summit

It's still there, but the original owners sold it a couple of years ago. Forget their name...Frank I know and I forget his wife's name. I think their last name was Burr. My first job ever was at Pappi's. Damn that was a blast.

Anyway, the pizza is nowhere near as good as it used to be.

[Lin Elliot]

Not sure if this has been mentioned yet as I'm not going to read every page of this insane thread but in the lower level of Blue Ridge Mall there used to be a place called "Don's World of Beef", or something like that. Had the best sandwiches around. If I remember right, there was also a radio station in the basement of that mall.

[penguinz]

Anyone else here remember Lucille's in westport?

[Deberg_1990]

Anyone remember Smacks? I remember them when i was a kid in KC.

[FishingRod]

In Overland Park...

Here's the places I grew up with and still have to eat at every time I come back in town...

Taco Via
Haywards...I remember the little hole in the wall off of 95th street...and you had to wait an hour or more to get seated...
Pizza Shoppe....greatest pizza on the planet.
John's Space Age Donuts....yumm. (heard they're closed now??? is this true?? sad if so)
Wylies....outstanding double or triple burgers...

Sounds like we were from the same part of town. John's is closed? Say it ain't so. If you are old enough there was a Smacks and a Red Barn on 95th a little west of Antioch.

[Pneuma]

Here is a few I could think of...

Shoney's
Po Folks (SP?)
Ponderossa

[SAUTO]

Loma Vista bowling alley - tacos...

Allens, Kings. A place I think was called the "Y" out by longview road on Blue Ridge - but I think that might have closed in the late 50's or 60's....

Plus so many others mentioned on here like Paul's, etc.....

OK, I gotta go eat lunch now.

been gone from the hood 11 years and they still know my order at pauls in armourdale

[Simply Red]

I'm surprised nobody but me seem to remember Whistlers hamburgers in Carthage, hell, they even served Vess cola.

[Simply Red]

Common w/ the visits to Blue Ridge we'd always hit up Orange Julius.

[Al Czervik]

Seems like quite a few posters grew up in JOCO....
Here is a good video that shows some old Metcalf South
pictures as well as some Restaurants/Hangouts....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhYaE6fCA3M&feature=related

[DeepPurple]

In the late 70's in Pensacola I ate late night breakfast many times at Sambos, they were a chain similar to Denny's. I believe black folks didn't take kindly to the name and eventually they went under in the 80's. That one did a hell of a lot of business, it was in a mall parking lot right next to a club called triple decker "Big Daddys", which was also a chain out of Ft. Lauderdale.

As mentioned earlier, I remember when I lived in Savannah, eating at "Po Folks" and they were always packed. Drank ice tea out of a mason jar and usually ate fried chicken. When I moved to Baltimore in 1989, they had a Po Folks here but they went out of business before I had a chance to eat there.

They haven't gone out of business, but since I moved north I miss "Krystal Hamburgers" and "Sonny's BBQ". Last year when I hit Myrtle Beach first place I went to was Krystal for their little burgers. Next time I get to Orlando I'll hit Sonny's, you can get a great plate of food for cheap.

[ZepSinger]

Anyone else here remember Lucille's in westport?

Yep! Used to eat there after playing the Lone Star...

[KC native]

Common w/ the visits to Blue Ridge we'd always hit up Orange Julius.

ROFL Man, blue ridge mall (i always preferred independence center bc the blue springs girls used to go there and they were better than the hood rats around my way). That takes me back. My mom lives over by there now.

[Titty Meat]

Seems like quite a few posters grew up in JOCO....
Here is a good video that shows some old Metcalf South
pictures as well as some Restaurants/Hangouts....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhYaE6fCA3M&feature=related

Cool link. I can't believe some of the old stores from the 1980's still have signs up like Nearly Famous Pizza.

[MOhillbilly]

It appears that Rays in E.S. is still around.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/57/170057020_763d434c2c.jpg

I dont remember it having that kind of facade circa 1977-84.

[CoMoChief]

Anyone remember Smacks? I remember them when i was a kid in KC.

you mean the sugar puff cereal with the Frog on the front???

[gblowfish]

you mean the sugar puff cereal with the Frog on the front???
Nope.
Smacks was a chain of hamburger stands, with "Smackie the Seal" as their mascot.

They had multiple locations around KC.

[gblowfish]

I read today on Pitch that the original Texas Toms closed. Never ate there, but I remember some of you talking about it
Toxic Tom's was 1am stoner food.
Border basket with a deep fried "burrito" -a major deep fried gut bomb-, greasy tacos, fries, a hamburger. The food was all greasy and cheap but plentiful.

[Stewie]

used to be one on 7th st in kck, iirc there is still one in sedalia mo.

Yes, that Griff's was on 7th until the mid 80s I think, maybe later.

[Stewie]

Loma Vista bowling alley - tacos...

Allens, Kings. A place I think was called the "Y" out by longview road on Blue Ridge - but I think that might have closed in the late 50's or 60's....

Plus so many others mentioned on here like Paul's, etc.....

OK, I gotta go eat lunch now.

That's the second mention of Allen's. Was that a drive-in? I vaguely remember it.

[Simply Red]

Toxic Tom's was 1am stoner food.
Border basket with a deep fried "burrito" -a major deep fried gut bomb-, greasy tacos, fries, a hamburger. The food was all greasy and cheap but plentiful.

i remember the sand dune minature displays incased between booths, the place had character.

[Stewie]

Texas Tom's was the worst excuse for a restaurant that ever existed. There was one next to where I worked in the summer during my high school days. Back then I'd eat damn near anything, but I ate at TT 3-4 times and had enough.

[Simply Red]

Texas Tom's was the worst excuse for a restaurant that ever existed. There was one next to where I worked in the summer during my high school days. Back then I'd eat damn near anything, but I ate at TT 3-4 times and had enough.

Well, it's no Taco Via, that's for sure. :)

[stlchiefs]

Texas Tom's was the worst excuse for a restaurant that ever existed. There was one next to where I worked in the summer during my high school days. Back then I'd eat damn near anything, but I ate at TT 3-4 times and had enough.

You bite your tongue! The Buckaroo Basket was an amazing drunken feast. The Texas Tom's on Troost was the place to go for late food in college. Javed the manager/employee was an amazing Chef! :clap:

[Simply Red]

can anyone tell me if Whisler's Hamburgers in Carthage, Mo. is still around? I'm getting conflicting reports from Google. There site seems to be up, also. But i thought i remembered hearing on CP it'd closed. Cp news is usually accurate.

[DeezNutz]

Naugles.

[Alton deFlat]

can anyone tell me if Whisler's Hamburgers in Carthage, Mo. is still around? I'm getting conflicting reports from Google. There site seems to be up, also. But i thought i remembered hearing on CP it'd closed. Cp news is usually accurate.

Yes they are. Just called them, to find out for sure.

[Simply Red]

Yes they are. Just called them, to find out for sure.

Ty - i'd sure like on of those down here, good burger in a pinch.

[Predarat]

Well I can't think of any that doesn't still exist, but I did work after school at a curb side restaurant. The same few old men would be up there sitting around having cup after cup of coffee and talking about the news for the day, week whatever. I would go to the car, take their order and then walk their meal to them. We made good food there, not so much like the quick frozen stuff, it was actually homemade food like potatoes and pies that were made from scratch. hmmmm makes me wish it was still open, I may take a drive 2 hours away just to eat tomorrow.

I bet you made them crunch on ice chips when they really wanted Orange Juice.

[bobbymitch]

That's the second mention of Allen's. Was that a drive-in? I vaguely remember it.

Since this this thread was bumped - Allens was "the place to cruise" after Winsteads. The Allen Royal was their signature basket meal. Both Allens and Smaks were owned by the same company, IIRC.

[Simply Red]

it's funny - Hartsfield Airport has Arthur Treachers, anyone remember the one on Noland Rd?

[listopencil]

My favorite old time food place that is still around: Der Wienerschnitzel

There is one about an hour North of us. When my kids played Pop Warner football we'd stop there after a game.

My favorite that appears to be gone: Shakey's Fun Time Pizza


I think there are still Shakey's Pizza places around but not like the ones when I was a kid. They would show old black and white movies (Laurel and Hardy, Abbot and Costello, Lil Rascals), and it was kind of like an old timey Chuck E. Cheese. They even had karaoke. A player piano was set up on stage and the words would appear on the movie screen. If no one wanted to go up then they'd play a classic sing along song. There was an arcade, not a video game arcade. I'm talking old games that you could play for a dime or a nickel.

[Mojo Jojo]

Who remembers The Buttonwood Tree in the KC Board of Trade Building. Was a five star restaurant by most national rating companies.

[ShortRoundChief]

Umm. Fred and Reds..

However they closed a couple of weeks back

[bobbymitch]

Buttonwood? Nope, probably too rich for our blood. But then there was the Branding Iron Steakhouse that I do remember.

[whoman69]

We had a fast food place called Sandy's here before the big chains moved in. Also ate a lot at Big Boy. Godfather's Pizza was our main pizza fix, which is still around, but in many areas not available.

[scorpio]

A&W. The old-school ones with phones in the booth.

[Alton deFlat]

However they closed a couple of weeks back

Yep.

http://www.joplinglobe.com/food/x715443163/Cheryle-Finley-Fred-Red-s-serves-last-bowl-of-chili

[Chief Faithful]

Nope.
Smacks was a chain of hamburger stands, with "Smackie the Seal" as their mascot.

They had multiple locations around KC.

In elementary school we used to argue which hamburger was better, Smacks or McDonalds. I used to get Tenderloin sandwich and tater tots.

[Chief Faithful]

If any of you went to college at Truman State:

Pancake City.

It's a 24 hour greasy spoon that offers a huge truck stop type menu along with a lot of interesting local fare.

The best food:

Grub fries. French fries covered in pan fried bacon, with sour cream, melted liquid cheese (very important) and ketchup.

That along with either an order of biscuits and gravy or toasted ravioli makes for the greatest drunk food imaginable.

I refuse to eat at Waffle House just b/c I've been so spoiled by "The Shitty".

I went to Truman State when it was still called Northeast Missouri State. Was the Blue Moon Cafe just north of the square still around when you went? The old lady would pan fry hamburgers and serve with a Double Cola.

[Stewie]

Heh! My sister was a waitress at Waid's in high school (1970s). It's still exactly like it was back then. Old people, bad food and depressing.

This is a review from kclunchspots.com


This place is insane.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3558/3502464809_93a55cb1a5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thedlc/3502464809/)
For people who like odd experiences, who like to challenge their notions of comfort, for those who can’t abide the ubiquity of tin ceilings, exposed brick and conical glass lampshades, this place is for you. The strangeness here is rivaled only be the old Nichols Lunch. And as with Nichols, just don’t expect to eat well.

Walking into Waid’s I found myself the object of dozens of octogenarian eyes and suddenly wondered if I had mistakenly walked into the dining room of a cheap retirement home. What in the hell was this place? It was quiet, dark and entirely devoid of any redeeming physical characteristic. I’m sure Waid’s used to be cute and retro, but they didn’t have the good sense to pursue a nostalgic vibe. Indeed the 1980s makeover is all too apparent, made more creepy by all of the seemingly unintentionally depressing details: hotel room art, drop ceilings, industrial carpeting, and the blandest of American diner menus.

If the Prairie Village Waid’s was a movie, David Lynch and John Waters would co-direct. There was the guy coughing and hacking up phlegm, three ladies going over every detail of their check to make sure they hadn’t been swindled and a certifiably crazy woman with papers and change all over her table.

My waitress had the sort of shocking cheeriness reserved for overprescribed mental patients and Maharishi disciples. I’m pegging her for the former. She had this odd way of speaking with incredible gleefulness and vigor while never really making eye contact. As I have implied, the clientele was almost entirely senior citizen–not a bad thing in and of itself, but I did feel odd, almost like an interloper into a world in which I did not belong.

Naturally Waid’s is not the sort of place where one expects great food. Ordering a salad never entered my mind, though they have several on the menu. I took forever deciding on my order because I didn’t want something gross. This was a futile pursuit. I can’t begin to tell you what to order here. You’re on your own.

When asked about the soup of the day, our server told us it was steak soup. “But it’s different than it used to be,” she said, “we used to make it with hamburger and now we use…you know, steak.” I did not order the soup.

I’m sure breakfast is passable at Waid’s, it’s not hard to make eggs, bacon and toast after all. Lunch is a different affair, presenting you with possibilities like chili dogs, tuna melts, fried cod, reubens and burgers. I wound up ordering the chicken fried steak sandwich for god knows what reason. Life is too short to eat one more substandard reuben. My sandwich came to me aptly presented but utterly bland and kind of dry since I opted not to use the cup of mayo they provided.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3627/3503167474_df79f323f1_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thedlc/3503167474/)

Despite a decent appearance my sandwich tasted like nothing and was cooked to death. The french fries, however, were woefully undercooked.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3364/3502356593_a095a7f265_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thedlc/3502356593/)

You know the restaurant that you always have to take your grandma to when you swoop into town for a once a year Sunday lunch to stave off the crippling guilt of not really finding her that interesting? Waid’s is that restaurant. It’s crazy but a lot of older people have a singular ability to overlook the sheer creepiness of a place in favor of comfort and familiarity. They know the waitress, the know what they like to order, they know how much it will cost. They could be eating in a dungeon for all they care.

I, on the other hand couldn’t help but notice the overwhelming sense of drabness: scratched faux-stained glass, ancient institutional carpeting, water-stained ceilings and water glasses that had been through the dishwasher about 800 times too many.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3381/3502358043_4c8a4df799_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thedlc/3502358043/)

Waid’s is a local chain and one that used to be fairly prevalent in the metro area as I understand it. From what I can tell, there are only 2 current locations: Prairie Village and South KC (and maybe Lee’s Summit?). I’m sure a lot of folks who frequent this place have done so for a very long time and don’t really pay much attention to the details anymore. I am not qualified (or old) enough to know if it has become worse over the years. In its present state, it is just another American casual restaurant in the vein of Big Boy or Denny’s. Thus Waid’s is an imitation of something that had no business being imitated.

[Strongside]

Boone & Dauben's-Fort Scott, KS
Chicken Annie's-Girard, KS
Great Plains Deli-Fort Scott
Papa Don's Pizza-Fort Scott
Trail Blazer-Middle of nowhere, MO

[seclark]

I went to Truman State when it was still called Northeast Missouri State. Was the Blue Moon Cafe just north of the square still around when you went? The old lady would pan fry hamburgers and serve with a Double Cola.

it's still there, but i believe it's changed hands a few times...closed and opened back up. wife said she went there there w/her friends on "girls night" a few weeks ago. wasn't impressed at all.

back in the day, it was pretty good. just awful dark in there.
sec

[burt]

The OP mentioned Annies Sante Fe.....I waited tables ther thru college and several years after. The money waas WAY better than starting salaries that were offered at the time.

[Pitt Gorilla]

Boone & Dauben's-Fort Scott, KS
Chicken Annie's-Girard, KS
Great Plains Deli-Fort Scott
Papa Don's Pizza-Fort Scott
Trail Blazer-Middle of nowhere, MOChicken Annie's Girard is still going strong. It's easily my favorite of the Chicken Annie's/Mary's establishments.

[Simply Red]

Annie and Mary were either sisters - or SIL's - I can't remember - I liked both, it was just really a nice combo, Uncle Harry used to have quite the spread, Spaghetti, German Potato salad + Fried Chicken all from Annies, then he always offered either Pepsi or Tab, our choice.

[rocknrolla]

Don't know if it's still there. Haye's hamburgers in North K.C. One of the best greesey burgers ever.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Baby Lee]

I went to Truman State when it was still called Northeast Missouri State. Was the Blue Moon Cafe just north of the square still around when you went? The old lady would pan fry hamburgers and serve with a Double Cola.

I was in Kirksville when the Maid-Rite closed, about a year before Roseanne started pimping loose meat sandwiches.

[Viper400]

If any of you went to college at Truman State:

Pancake City.

It's a 24 hour greasy spoon that offers a huge truck stop type menu along with a lot of interesting local fare.

The best food:

Grub fries. French fries covered in pan fried bacon, with sour cream, melted liquid cheese (very important) and ketchup.

That along with either an order of biscuits and gravy or toasted ravioli makes for the greatest drunk food imaginable.

I refuse to eat at Waffle House just b/c I've been so spoiled by "The Shitty".

Bogey's. The Wooden Nickel.

[Stewie]

I imagine one led to the other.

June 7, 2012 Health Code Violations

Waid’s, 6920 Mission Road, Prairie Village, had 12 critical violations during a May 24 follow-up inspection. They included: Bread for toast was adulterated with raw egg when an employee did not change gloves/hand-wash between tasks and turkey was adulterated with ink from date-marker, and black beans were date-marked May 14 and chicken was date-marked may 15, longer than the seven day limit and a repeat violation .

Restaurant officials did not return phone calls.


Waid’s closes in Prairie Village
BY JOYCE SMITH
The Kansas City Star

One of the metro’s last Waid’s restaurants has closed.

The restaurant in the Prairie Village Shopping Center, 6920 Mission Road, Prairie Village, closed Sunday night, according to Cathy Dieckman, former assistant manager of the Prairie Village restaurant. The owner could not be reached for comment.

A Waid’s restaurant at 1130 W. 103rd St. is still in operation.

[Rain Man]

Heh! My sister was a waitress at Waid's in high school (1970s). It's still exactly like it was back then. Old people, bad food and depressing.

This is a review from kclunchspots.com

[...]


Despite a decent appearance my sandwich tasted like nothing and was cooked to death. The french fries, however, were woefully undercooked.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3364/3502356593_a095a7f265_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thedlc/3502356593/)



I gotta be honest. That looks pretty good to me right now.

[Simply Red]

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/6GQwbgnJiQI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Hammock Parties]

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/6GQwbgnJiQI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Looks like dog shit, son.

Get some TACO FUCKING BUENO

http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/03/a8/a6/96/taco-bueno.jpg

[Marcellus]

Its probably been mentioned in this thread but Spring River Inn was a buffet place that used to exist in Riverton Ks. Damn good food.

I worked another buffet place called The Gazebo in Joplin while I was in HS. Pretty much all the food was made from scratch. Pretty good stuff as well.

[Simply Red]

Its probably been mentioned in this thread but Spring River Inn was a buffet place that used to exist in Riverton Ks. Damn good food.

I worked another buffet place called The Gazebo in Joplin while I was in HS. Pretty much all the food was made from scratch. Pretty good stuff as well.

My grandmother used to work at that homecooked spot at the Carthage Airport - her good old friend Pat owned it.

[Simply Red]

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/6uLcnVmGK7o" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Al Bundy]

I miss Texas Tom's.

[Valiant]

I am not as old as some of you fucks. But,

Hays hamburgers in the Northland. Still eat there.

There was a place in Independence, off of 24hwy. Backstage BBQ, it was not bad. Never understood why it did poorly, I think location. Then there was a Pioneer type place across the street for breakfast.

[GloucesterChief]

I remember Rax but I think that was just a Mid-Atlantic thing.

[Hammock Parties]

When I was a fat hambeast in college I used to get up and have breakfast on the run probably 3-4 times a week at Taco Bueno.

I'd get a large pepsi and a chicken quesadilla. That's like 900 calories, easy. LMAO

[DJJasonp]

Looks like dog shit, son.

Get some TACO ****ING BUENO

http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/03/a8/a6/96/taco-bueno.jpg

heh....ground beef tacos! :)

[Rain Man]

When I first moved to Denver, there was a local burger chain here called "Round The Corner" if I remember right. It was a sit-down diner-style restaurant, and their burgers were pretty good.

But the best thing about the place was the service model. They didn't have servers in the traditional sense. They had phones at the table, and when you were ready to order you picked up the phone and someone in the back took your order. Then a "deliverer" brought the food. Want a soda refill? Call them up. Ready for dessert? Call them up. It was very efficient, but I guess it wasn't efficient enough since they went out of business.

[Al Bundy]

I remember Rax but I think that was just a Mid-Atlantic thing.

No, there were Rax here in Kansas City.

[Baby Lee]

When I first moved to Denver, there was a local burger chain here called "Round The Corner" if I remember right. It was a sit-down diner-style restaurant, and their burgers were pretty good.

But the best thing about the place was the service model. They didn't have servers in the traditional sense. They had phones at the table, and when you were ready to order you picked up the phone and someone in the back took your order. Then a "deliverer" brought the food. Want a soda refill? Call them up. Ready for dessert? Call them up. It was very efficient, but I guess it wasn't efficient enough since they went out of business.

Ever been to an automat? Basically a restaurant sized vending machine.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automat

[ThaVirus]

I'm not going to read through this whole thread but I used to love me some Rax and Frisch's when I was a kid. Mmmmmmmmm.

[Baby Lee]

I'm not going to read through this whole thread but I used to love me some Rax and Frisch's when I was a kid. Mmmmmmmmm.

Ironically, we ate at Rax all the time, but I don't know if we ever had their roast beef.

Lunch buffet on Metcalf baby.

[Mojo Jojo]

When I first moved to Denver, there was a local burger chain here called "Round The Corner" if I remember right. It was a sit-down diner-style restaurant, and their burgers were pretty good.

But the best thing about the place was the service model. They didn't have servers in the traditional sense. They had phones at the table, and when you were ready to order you picked up the phone and someone in the back took your order. Then a "deliverer" brought the food. Want a soda refill? Call them up. Ready for dessert? Call them up. It was very efficient, but I guess it wasn't efficient enough since they went out of business.

There was a place like that down in Fairway along what is now Shawnee Mission Parkway at about Belinder when I was young...40+ years ago.

[Simply Red]

Ever been to an automat? Basically a restaurant sized vending machine.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automat

we had a concept like that here - not sure it's name - they didn't make it. It was off of Clairmont Rd.

[stonedstooge]

I grew up about 100 miles north of Kansas City. First fast food restaurant I remember was what we called the Cuckoo House. It was shaped like a cuckoo clock with a big cuckoo that came out on the hour. On weekends they would knock a penny off on hamburgers on the hour. I think they stayed open till midnight or so and burgers were normally 15 cents. By midnight they were down to a dime. The Old Man would load us up around 11 and go buy a sack full of hamburgers. This was back in the late 60's.

We had a Lil Duffer Restaurant that I worked at through high school. The Big Duffer was similar to the Big Mac and a Little Duffer was a regular hamburger. I think there is still a couple of them left in the US.

We also had one of the first Sonics in MO that opened in the mid 70's. Artic Circle and Dogs' and Suds along with an A&W were all around until the early 80's when a McDonalds came in and shut down all those restaurants

[Rukdafaidas]

I grew up about 100 miles north of Kansas City. First fast food restaurant I remember was what we called the Cuckoo House. It was shaped like a cuckoo clock with a big cuckoo that came out on the hour. On weekends they would knock a penny off on hamburgers on the hour. I think they stayed open till midnight or so and burgers were normally 15 cents. By midnight they were down to a dime. The Old Man would load us up around 11 and go buy a sack full of hamburgers. This was back in the late 60's.

We had a Lil Duffer Restaurant that I worked at through high school. The Big Duffer was similar to the Big Mac and a Little Duffer was a regular hamburger. I think there is still a couple of them left in the US.

We also had one of the first Sonics in MO that opened in the mid 70's. Artic Circle and Dogs' and Suds along with an A&W were all around until the early 80's when a McDonalds came in and shut down all those restaurants

There's still one Ku-Ku Burger left. It's in Miami, OK which is about 30 minutes west of Joplin. The burgers are no longer 15 cents, though.

http://static.newsok.biz/sites/nie/whats_new/route66_lesson3.pdf

[Frosty]

No, there were Rax here in Kansas City.

Yeah, we had them in the PNW, too. I liked their salad bar.

I didn't realize that there are still a few of them around.

[Simply Red]

surprisingly Zarda BBQ has/had an excellent salad bar.

[Pasta Little Brioni]

Which provided the best clean break for young red?

[Frosty]

surprisingly Zarda BBQ has/had an excellent salad bar.

The only salad bar I hit with any regularity is the one at Sizzler when we visit the in-laws in Salem.

[Simply Red]

Which provided the best clean break for young red?

Perkins Denver Omelet bud

[Gonzo]

I think I've mentioned this before but I'm going to bitch anyway.
Almost all of the original Omaha steak houses are gone. The last caniglias is closing down this month. That'll only leave Johnny's Cafe, Anthony's and Brother Sebastian's.
Everything else has made way for shit holes like the Texas Road House, apple-fucking-bees or another goddamned outback.

I hate to say it but this place was better when the mob was around.

[Simply Red]

I think I've mentioned this before but I'm going to bitch anyway.
Almost all of the original Omaha steak houses are gone. The last caniglias is closing down this month. That'll only leave Johnny's Cafe, Anthony's and Brother Sebastian's.
Everything else has made way for shit holes like the Texas Road House, apple-****ing-bees or another goddamned outback.

I hate to say it but this place was better when the mob was around.

http://i.imgur.com/vjXoI2H.gif

[Lin Elliot]

I don't know if this has been mentioned but way back in the day I remember a place in the basement area of Blue Ridge Mall that served hot ham and cheese or beef and cheese sandwiches. I believe it was called 'Don's World of Beef'. Loved that taste!

[WhawhaWhat]

When I was a kid, my parents used to take us to this place called Po Folks , I believe it was in Independence, that I used to love. They had awesome fried chicken, although I was probably 5 or 6 years old so who knows if it was actually good.

[htismaqe]

I think I've mentioned this before but I'm going to bitch anyway.
Almost all of the original Omaha steak houses are gone. The last caniglias is closing down this month. That'll only leave Johnny's Cafe, Anthony's and Brother Sebastian's.
Everything else has made way for shit holes like the Texas Road House, apple-fucking-bees or another goddamned outback.

I hate to say it but this place was better when the mob was around.

There's still a few of those around here, even though the ringleader is in federal prison.

Not really a "chain" but a cartel that ran little Greek-style steakhouses in small, south central Iowa towns.

[Baby Lee]

When I was a kid, my parents used to take us to this place called Po Folks , I believe it was in Independence, that I used to love. They had awesome fried chicken, although I was probably 5 or 6 years old so who knows if it was actually good.

Po Folks was an interesting case study in restaurant success and failure.

They started out very generous in their portions and very well prepared. They were so busy they had folding chairs set up, about 25-30 for overflow.

And slowly they got skimpier and lazier and the crowds dried up. Looks like they are still in Florida, but they're long gone from the midwest.

[Dartgod]

I don't know if this has been mentioned but way back in the day I remember a place in the basement area of Blue Ridge Mall that served hot ham and cheese or beef and cheese sandwiches. I believe it was called 'Don's World of Beef'. Loved that taste!

I remember that place. Never ate there though.

Another one I just remembered, was King's Food Host. They were mostly in Nebraska around Omaha and Lincoln, but there was one in Raytown too I believe.

The Cheese Frenchee was the best! We used to always go there when we were visiting my grandparents. And on your birthday, they would bring you a little cake with trick candles on it.

Ahhh, the memories...

[Simplicity]

I wished they had Timmy Ho's down here in Iowa (Tim Horton's) that place is amazing when I go up to Canada in the summer... Canada's version of Dunkin Donuts but x5555555 better.

[Mojo Jojo]

Who remembers Zyder Z's in KC? It was a giant windmill...often referred to as the windmill restaurant. It was located around 103rd and State Line 40/45 years ago before 435 went through there.

[srvy]

Forum Cafeteria.
The Rusty Scupper
Griffs
Dog & Suds
Smak's
Ray's Big Burger
The Lunch Counters in the Department stores downtown KC back in the day they were excellent.
Shakey's Pizza it was mentioned but gotta shout it out it was awsome.

[srvy]

Gaetano's at 5th and Oak St downtown KC yum.

[srvy]

Jenny's at South end ASB bridge

Sutera's by the American Royal and Kemper Arena.

[Mojo Jojo]

Forum Cafeteria.
The Rusty Scupper
Griffs
Dog & Suds
Smak's
Ray's Big Burger
The Lunch Counters in the Department stores downtown KC back in the day they were excellent.
Shakey's Pizza it was mentioned but gotta shout it out it was awsome.

They still have Shakey's Pizza in Tokyo...when I saw that I had to get one.

[Mojo Jojo]

Jenny's at South end ASB bridge

Sutera's by the American Royal and Kemper Arena.

Did a lot of eating/drinking at Sutera's during Big 8/12 Basketball Tourney's over the years. They are now located in Westwood, KS.

[gblowfish]

I don't know if this has been mentioned but way back in the day I remember a place in the basement area of Blue Ridge Mall that served hot ham and cheese or beef and cheese sandwiches. I believe it was called 'Don's World of Beef'. Loved that taste!

Yes, there was also a Don's World of Beef in downtown KC.

Three of my favorites that are gone now:

1) Italian Gardens Downtown. Old school italian food. Pictures of Sinatra on the wall.

2) Broasted Chicken, 66th and Blue Ridge in Raytown. Served out of a shack, excellent chicken and broasted potatoes.

3) Stephenson's Apple Farm: Used to be at US 40 and Lee's Summit Rd. Gone. Now it's a Quik Trip.