15 Best Restaurants in Manhattan, KS
Ah, Manhattan, the Little Apple.
Nestled in the heart of the Sunflower State, this city simply charms with its vibrant culinary scene that's every bit as delightful as its larger namesake.
From sizzling steaks to delectable sushi, pulled pork to gourmet cupcakes - the Manhattan food scene has something to satisfy every taste and craving.
And let me tell you, the city's restaurants will not disappoint.
So prepare your palate as I take you on a culinary tour through some of the best restaurants in Manhattan, Kansas.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Manhattan, KS that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
Rockin K's
Just last Saturday, I decided to treat myself to a meal at Rockin K's.
An inviting modern vibe filled the room, and unlike some other establishments, it was quiet enough for me to relax and unwind.
One look at the simple layout of the restaurant, and I knew I was in for a neat and seamless dining experience.
I decided to order one of my favorite dishes, a hearty burger, and I was pleased to find it was cooked to perfection.
Although the guacamole that came with it seemed like it wasn't made on-site, which was a bit disappointing, it was still quite tasty.
It's just that I'm a sucker for fresh guacamole.
The next time I visit, I'm thinking of trying out the brisket tacos.
I've heard from a friend that it's a delight to the taste buds.
Not to mention, the free parking in the designated area is such a convenience, and it saves me the stress of looking for a good parking spot.
But the cherry on the top has to be the homemade ranch.
Let me tell you; it's the best in Manhattan.
It's just the right consistency and flavor, making it an absolute must-try.
Oh, and did I mention their freshly brewed tea?
It’s a must-have, trust me.
It's as refreshing as a summer breeze.
The service was quick, with my food arriving faster than I expected.
I appreciate this kind of efficiency, especially when I'm hungry.
The prices here are pretty decent too.
Pizza Shuttle
If there's one thing I've always appreciated about living here, it's the late-night pizza runs.
And when it comes to that, there's no place I'd rather go than Pizza Shuttle.
Their unpretentious counter-service setup is a breath of fresh air, focusing more on the food than on putting up a show.
I remember one night when we ordered two pizzas - a pineapple, ham and cheese, and an all meat.
Now, you may have your opinions about pineapple on pizza, but let me tell you, Pizza Shuttle knows how to do it right.
Both pizzas were excellent, and the cinnamon breadsticks were the perfect sweet touch to the end of the meal.
It didn’t take them long to get everything cooked, and we took it back to our place to enjoy.
Pool House Kitchen & Bar
There's a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Manhattan, Kansas, that's got me hooked.
You wouldn't believe the charm that the Pool House Kitchen & Bar holds unless you've experienced it.
Believe me, when I say it, this place is a must-visit if you're in the city.
One time, I remember coming in soaking wet from the unforgiving Kansas rain.
Even though the weather had dampened my spirits, I was quickly cheered up by their impressive range of small plates.
I ordered the poke dip while my sister decided on the spicy Chicago dog.
The food was not only delicious and well-priced, but it also had a certain homely feel to it, as if it was specially prepared in a family kitchen.
Sitting at the bar, we received exceptional service throughout our stay.
Whether it was a refill or a napkin, everything was served with a genuine smile and without any delay.
The bartenders here are always on their toes, ensuring that every patron feels welcomed.
But hey, don't just take my word for it.
Come on over and try their cocktails.
They're absolutely fantastic!
From the concoction of the drink to the vibe of the bar, everything screams brilliance.
I haven't found a place in Manhattan that does it better than Pool House.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, you can't help but appreciate the energy in the room.
Once, I even had a work/study group meeting outside over drinks.
They didn't have any issue with that at all.
Instead, they accommodated us perfectly.
There's just something about the welcoming atmosphere that makes it stand out.
It's refreshing, to say the least.
Arrow Coffee Co
It's a bit of a running joke in my circle that you might as well start forwarding my mail to Arrow Coffee Co because I practically live there.
You'll find me here most days, whether I’m sipping on a rich, artisan cup of joe or tucking into one of their divine pastries.
What keeps me coming back?
Well, it's not just the fabulous coffee and pastries.
It's the vibrant, chic community atmosphere, the eclectic range of unique events, and the fact that they put so much heart into what they serve.
For instance, they always have a selection of vegan and gluten-free options, which is heaven-sent for someone like me who has dietary restrictions.
Plus, their Friday evening cocktails are a bit of a local institution - a perfect way to unwind after a long week.
Little Grill
Just like everyone else, I have my favorite little nooks and crannies that I frequent.
One such place is the vibrant Jamaican spot, Little Grill.
Blessed with an ambiance that transports you straight to the islands, it's become a regular haunt for me to savor Caribbean cuisine and tropical drinks.
I recall the first time I stepped foot inside Little Grill, I was immediately struck by the elaborate island accents that adorned every corner.
The place was pulsating with a unique soul that had a way of pulling you in.
It was a weekday, and the live music wasn't playing, but even then, the place was alive with a rhythmic energy that was contagiously heartwarming.
Over the years, I've come to appreciate the authenticity of the food and the drinks served here.
And don't even get me started on the food!
It's hard to pick favorites, but an absolute must-try is the hot cheesy potato salad – it is mouth-wateringly divine.
Sale Barn Cafe
Ever had one of those days when you just crave a hearty, home-cooked meal, but you're not in the mood to cook?
That's when I head over to the Sale Barn Cafe.
This place has an old-school diner vibe that's hard to find these days.
And the food?
It's the perfect balance between hearty and delicious.
Their portions are generous enough for a cowboy, with larger than usual drink cups to avoid the constant need for refills.
I find myself torn between two favorites every time - the omelet combo and the cheeseburger with fries.
Both dishes are the epitome of comfort food for me.
Trust me; you'll be thanking me later once you try them! You can find the location of Sale Barn Cafe here.
The atmosphere is always welcoming, and the service is solid.
It's a place where you can sit down and enjoy a good meal without any fuss.
McAlister's Deli
You know you've found a gem when the sweet aroma of freshly baked bread wafts in the air, beckoning you inside.
That's exactly what I get when I step into McAlister's Deli, located conveniently on Tuttle Creek, Manhattan.
This easygoing, counter-service chain is one place I've come to rely on when I'm in the mood for a tasty, casual meal.
Known for its mouthwatering sandwiches and indulgent stuffed baked potatoes, McAlister's Deli can quickly become a favorite for any food enthusiast.
I can't help but give a shout-out to their sweet tea - the perfect thirst quencher on a hot day!
While I must admit that I've noticed some litter near the back door a few times, I've always found the inside of the restaurant clean and welcoming.
I've often been pleasantly surprised by the quick service, despite the restaurant's popularity and busy hours.
One of the things that keeps me coming back is the warmth that emanates from everyone working there.
The kindness and efficiency they show, along with the delicious food, make every visit to McAlister's Deli a delightful experience.
Goolsby's
Visiting Goolsby's has quickly become a regular part of my routine.
Whether I'm swinging by for a quick shot of interactive golf or planning a whole night out with friends, there's always something to keep me entertained.
One thing's for sure; you won't be bored.
Once you step inside, you're greeted by an array of self-serve beer taps that are hard to resist.
With a wide selection ranging from exotic delights to local and national favorites, it's a beer lover's paradise.
My personal favorite is their Blue Moon - except for this one time when it was flat as a pancake, but I guess everyone has off days.
On a whim, I even tried some of the stronger flavors and sours.
They were intense, but in small doses, they added a unique twist to the palate.
Vista Drive In
Every place has a place that holds memories for its residents, a place where time appears to have stood still.
In our city, it's the Vista Drive In.
A visit there is like taking a trip back in time.
I can't help but feel a wave of nostalgia every time I pull into the retro-style drive-in.
You might be wondering, what's so special about it?
It's the enduring classics like malts and shakes, corn dogs, and chicken strips, prepared just as they would have been decades ago, that make it stand out.
The first time I visited Vista Drive In, I was taking my dog to the vet nearby.
I had heard about the place but hadn't had a chance to stop by.
That day, I had time and decided to give it a try.
I was instantly hooked!
Now, every time I'm in that part of the city, a visit to Vista Drive In is a must.
Something else that sets Vista Drive In apart is the service.
It's hard to find good service these days, but there, it's a guarantee.
The crew is always welcoming, making you feel right at home.
During my last visit, I ordered a burger and fries, and they were delicious.
The onion rings?
Incredible!
Goodcents
Oh, Goodcents, how well I know thee.
Nestled on Anderson Avenue in Manhattan, Kansas, Goodcents has become a frequent stop for me and my daughters.
There's a comforting familiarity to the place, a simple delight in its straightforward counter-serve setup.
Whether I'm yearning for a cold sub, craving a hot one, or fancying some pasta or salad—Goodcents has me covered.
Their chicken alfredo is a must-try!
Subs-N-Such
No matter how often I go, I'm never let down by the delicious sandwiches and the top-notch service of Subs-N-Such.
While their menu is extensive, I tend to stick to my regular order - the Kitchen Sink.
It's a sandwich that promises a bit of everything, and usually, it lives up to its name.
My friend also tried it, and she agrees with me!
Their friendly service is also a plus in my book.
Radina's Coffeehouse & Roastery
I find myself longing for the days when popping into Radina's Coffeehouse & Roastery was a part of my daily routine.
Hidden away in the Leadership Studies building of Kansas State University, this little gem of a coffee shop was my favorite spot to grab a quick bite or just unwind with a steaming mug of coffee.
Their lemonade was something to write home about, full-bodied with just the right balance of sweetness and tartness.
The sandwiches were quite the treat, too, served on the tastiest bread and in generous portions.
The ambiance of Radina's was warm and welcoming, making it an ideal place for coffee, snacks, or even a quick meeting.
They kept the place spotless, and the efficiency with which it was run was commendable.
Their coffee, which I dare say rivals the likes of Starbucks, was reasonably priced too.
The outdoor fireplaces were an absolute delight, adding to the overall charm of this beloved coffeehouse.
Kite's Bar & Grill
There's a familiar comfort in the air when you step into Kite's Bar & Grill.
A local haunt for Kansas State University students, it's a place of many stories shared over cold beers and juicy burgers.
I've spent many nights here, from laid-back weekdays to lively weekends, and it's always been an adventure.
The food, I would say, is standard bar fare.
I've tried their chicken fried steak, and it's pretty good.
But my favorite on their menu is their mozzarella sticks which always kickstart my appetite.
Crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside, it's the perfect way to start a night of fun and drinks.
They've also got happy hour beer specials, which is great when you're meeting friends for a quick catch-up after work.
QDOBA Mexican Eats
There's a hum of excitement every time I step into QDOBA Mexican Eats in Manhattan.
The food they serve never fails to impress me.
Aside from that, it's their customer service that keeps me coming back.
On one occasion, I visited this restaurant with my partner.
We tried the impossible burger fajita bowl.
It's a game-changer!
The bowl was so flavorful that I barely noticed it was meatless.
Chens Chinese Restaurant
I've always considered myself a food lover, and when it comes to Chinese cuisine, I've found my comfort zone at Chens Chinese Restaurant.
There's a certain charm to this casual eatery that always hits the right spot.
Not only is the ambiance cozy, but the servings are also hearty enough to keep your stomach and heart content.
One of my personal favorites is the Mongolian Beef lunch special.
It's a plateful of deliciousness that fills you up nicely.
The food here has a familiar flavor that somehow takes me back to my childhood.
It's as if each bite is wrapped with a warm blanket of nostalgia.
What impresses me the most about Chens is their promptness in delivery.
They ensure that your food reaches you hot and perfect, just the way you'd want it.
Final Thoughts
There's no denying that Manhattan, Kansas, offers an impressive culinary scene that caters to a diverse range of tastes.
Whether you're craving a sumptuous steak at Rockin K's, mouth-watering pizza at Pizza Shuttle Delivers, or authentic Mexican food at QDOBA Mexican Eats, there's always something delicious waiting for you.
This city truly is a food lover's paradise, and I am so fortunate to get to enjoy all of these amazing tastes right here in my hometown.
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