23 Best Restaurants in Shawnee, KS

This article was written by local contributor Alex Young & edited by the Travel Lens team.

Alex Young

Jun 25, 2023 • 19 min read

Shawnee, Kansas, is a hidden gem when it comes to diverse and delicious dining options.

As someone who's been living in this charming city for years, I can confidently say that the culinary scene here is not just limited to the good old Midwestern fare.

In fact, you can find a variety of cuisines, from spicy Mexican dishes to authentic Italian pasta and from mouth-watering BBQ to delectable Asian flavors.

Shawnee's food scene truly has something for everyone, and I'm excited to share with you some of my favorite spots in town where I've enjoyed countless meals with family and friends.

So, let's dive in and explore the best restaurants in Shawnee, Kansas!

Juan Jose's Taqueria

I must admit, I didn't expect to find such an amazing Mexican restaurant in my neighborhood, but Juan Jose's Taqueria has truly become a hidden gem.

My family and I tried it for the first time recently, and we were blown away by their generous portions and the freshness of their chips and salsa.

As someone who's constantly glued to my phone, I was thrilled to find out they have USB charging at each table. I went there for lunch with some coworkers and enjoyed their 4 taco special + soda, which came with chips and salsa for just $8!

The chicken and ground beef were absolutely delicious, and my coworker couldn't stop raving about the carne asada.

It's rare to find a place that doesn't skimp on the meat, but these tacos were stuffed to the brim.

Not only was the food amazing, but the service was top-notch as well.

As someone who works nearby, I know I'll definitely be back soon.

Hawaiian Bros Island Grill

Let me tell you about my experience at Hawaiian Bros Island Grill.

I've always been a fan of Hawaiian cuisine, so when I found out there was a Hawaiian restaurant right here in town, I couldn't resist giving it a try.

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and a friendly atmosphere.

I decided to dine in, and the food was delivered to my table quickly.

The veggie mix was a delicious combination of broccoli, carrots, and green bell peppers, and I appreciated that I could customize the level of spiciness to my liking.

The mac salad was also tasty, and I couldn't help but feel transported to the islands as I ate my meal.

One thing I really appreciated about Hawaiian Bros Island Grill was their attention to detail and organization.

They have separate areas for call-ahead, online, and app orders, making it super convenient for customers.

Plus, they offer a drive-thru option, which I've found to be quick and efficient when I'm in a rush.

Hideaway Bar & Grill

I absolutely love spending my evenings at Harley's Hideaway Bar & Grill.

The moment you walk through the door and descend the flight of stairs, you know you're in for a unique experience.

I usually start off with an appetizer of poutine, which I find quite tasty, although the cold cheese curds are not for everyone.

My go-to meal is the Rocky Balboa burger - a Philly cheesesteak on top of a burger.

It's messy but definitely worth it.

My friend, on the other hand, swears by the pork tenderloin sandwich.

And you absolutely cannot leave without trying their dessert - funnel cake fries!

They're ridiculously delicious, especially when dipped in caramel.

Harley's Hideaway also offers some great deals, like their wing special on Wednesdays.

And if you're up for a laugh, they host comedy nights on the same day!

McLain's Market Shawnee

Ever since I discovered McLain's Market Shawnee, it has become my go-to spot for a relaxing brunch or a quick coffee break with friends.

As soon as I walk in, the calm environment invites me to stay a while and enjoy the delicious food and beverages they have to offer.

The food at McLain's is always a treat.

I've tried their bakery items, like the signature cookies and cakes, and they are absolutely scrumptious.

Their breakfast and light lunch options never disappoint, either.

My personal favorites are the Bacon & Sausage Quiche and the Smothered Burrito.

The flavors are always on point, and the quality of the ingredients truly shines through.

They are friendly and welcoming without being intrusive, allowing me to enjoy my meal and conversations at my own pace.

The self-service aspect of the place, where you clean up after yourself and pack your leftovers to go, adds to the laid-back atmosphere.

One of the best features of McLain's Market Shawnee is the outdoor patio, where I've spent countless hours reading books or catching up with friends.

There's something about the combination of a good book, a flavorful cup of coffee, and the warm sun on the patio that makes for a perfect, relaxing afternoon.

Taqueria la Nueva - Olathe

Let me tell you about my experience at Taqueria la Nueva - Olathe.

It's a small restaurant but has some of the best tacos I've ever tasted!

Whenever I'm in the mood for authentic Mexican food, this is my go-to place.

I always go for their steak and chorizo tacos, which they serve with delicious grilled onions and whole jalapeños on the side.

One of the things that sets Taqueria la Nueva apart is their fresh and flavorful food.

I've tried their Carnitas and Birria as well, and I must say, they never disappoint.

You can even choose your preferred preparation style, whether it's torta, quesadilla, or tacos.

Not only is their food amazing, but the service is also friendly and fast.

Sushi Mido

One of my favorite spots for a delicious and satisfying meal is Sushi Mido.

The all-you-can-eat sushi menu is perfect for those nights when I'm craving a variety of rolls, and it's made even better with the fact that it's all made fresh to order.

What I love about their all-you-can-eat menu is that they're clear about the rules, ensuring that I don't accidentally order too much and waste food.

It's a great way to try new rolls without feeling guilty about leaving any behind if I don't like them.

My personal favorite is their dessert roll – it's a unique and sweet way to end the meal.

If I'm not in the mood for sushi, it's no problem at all, as Sushi Mido offers a Chinese fare menu as well.

This versatility makes it an excellent choice for a night out with friends who may have different preferences.

One of my favorite places to eat is Blind Box BBQ.

Their Kansas City-style BBQ is simply mouth-watering, and their modern, stylish ambiance makes it a perfect place to hang out with friends and family.

During one of my visits, I tried their burnt ends, and it was love at first bite.

Tender, with just the right amount of fat and a good dose of delicious bark.

They serve it with a light sauce, but you can always ask for extra if you prefer.

I also ordered their waffle-style sweet potato fries, which were cooked to perfection – crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfectly salted.

I couldn't resist sharing some of their 3-cheese Mac balls as an appetizer with my friends, and they were absolutely amazing.

The place is always clean, and the atmosphere is inviting.

On another visit, I tried their BBQ nachos, which were unique and extremely flavorful. I also had their homemade chips, which were crispy and delicious.

I've heard their whiskey flights are amazing too, so I'm planning to give them a try during my next visit.

Lulu's Place Authentic Mexican Food

One day, I decided to try out Lulu's Place Authentic Mexican Food since I had been hearing a lot about their delicious dishes.

I ordered a couple of meals, including tacos and a burrito, and I must say, the horchata was amazing.

The food was good, and the service was fantastic!

I've also heard from others in the community who love Lulu's cooking and enjoy the authentic Mexican food this place offers.

Wandering Vine at the Castle

One of my favorite spots in town for a quiet lunch or dinner is Wandering Vine at the Castle.

The atmosphere is just perfect for catching up with friends or even a romantic date night.

What I love the most about this place is their unique wine flights, which add a fun twist to the experience.

Although I do wish they offered a build-your-own option, the selection is still quite enjoyable.

Their food menu, though limited to lunch, has never disappointed me.

The bacon-wrapped dates are to die for, and the burger with bacon jam is a must-try.

Another highlight for me is their farm-fresh tomatoes – they really bring out the flavors in their dishes.

Oishi Sushi Restaurant & Bar

Oishi Sushi Restaurant & Bar has always been my go-to place for satisfying my sushi cravings.

Whether I'm there with friends, family, or even solo, I can always count on a fantastic dining experience.

One of my favorite things to order is the sushi sashimi platter.

It comes with a delightful assortment of fish like salmon, yellowtail, ahi tuna, and white fish - all of which are incredibly fresh and expertly prepared.

The boat display adds a touch of fun to the presentation, making it even more enjoyable to dig in.

I also really like the crab rangoons for their great flavor.

For a more intimate dining experience, I highly recommend trying Sushi and Sashimi for Two.

It includes soup, salad, sushi, sashimi, and two rolls for around $70, which is a great value.

The quality of the sushi at Oishi is outstanding, and the prices are reasonable, especially considering what you'd pay for similar dishes in the more expensive parts of town.

Knub's Pub

One of my go-to spots for a laid-back night out has to be Knub's Pub.

Hanging out with friends becomes so much more fun with the pinball machines and live music on weekends.

I still remember the first time I visited Knub's Pub, I had the sampler appetizer, and my taste buds were blown away by the fried pickles!

They were baby gherkins, unlike anything I've ever had before. And if you're looking for a fantastic burger, you can't go wrong with their BYO burger, it's always cooked to perfection.

I've also tried the boss hog sandwich, which was pretty good, though I'd recommend asking for less coleslaw so the meat takes center stage.

Knub's Pub is a relatively small place, so it tends to fill up quickly during rush hours.

If you're planning to catch their live music on weekends, I'd suggest getting there early.

It's a great little pub in Shawnee that has become a favorite among locals, including myself.

Pegah's Family Restaurant

One of my favorite spots for breakfast in town is Pegah's Family Restaurant. Although the food is usually great, I remember the time I ordered the Biscuit Benny, and the sausage was quite overcooked.

Luckily, I also tried their Pegah's Mocha that day, which was absolutely delicious!

I also appreciate how fast they serve the meals, even when they're packed with customers.

The Hamm Bennie with poached eggs is another dish I enjoy, accompanied by that thick and flavorful hollandaise sauce.

I find their hash browns to be cooked just right, and their burritos are quite delightful.

There's a reason they're always busy, and I'm happy to support my local Pegah's Family Restaurant, whether in western Shawnee or downtown Shawnee.

Jake's Place

Last weekend, I stumbled upon this charming spot called Jake's Place, a local bar and grill that also doubles as a cigar shop.

What caught my eye was the laid-back atmosphere and the lively patio seating area. As soon as I walked in, I felt like I belonged there.

Their juicy 90/10 beef burgers are a delightful experience that will make you come back for more.

I also noticed other patrons enjoying a steak dinner that looked absolutely mouthwatering, so I can't wait to try it next time.

Aside from the delicious food and drinks, Jake's Place also offers various entertainment options, such as darts, pool, and bowling.

It's the perfect spot to unwind with friends or make new ones.

Oh, and don't forget to check out their special desserts starting on Friday nights, they're a real treat!

Grandstand Burgers

Whenever I'm in the mood for a delicious burger, I always head over to Grandstand Burgers.

This tiny, vintage-style pit stop has become my go-to spot for some of the best quick-serve burgers, fries, and shakes in town.

The atmosphere at Grandstand Burgers is very different from your typical fast-food joints, offering a unique dining experience that I enjoy every time I visit.

One thing I love about this place is their outdoor picnic seating.

Although there's no room to eat inside, I actually prefer enjoying my meal outside, especially on a sunny day.

It's also a great spot for a casual date night or a quick weeknight stop after a long day at work.

The menu at Grandstand Burgers offers a variety of unique items that you won't find at other burger places.

Their milkshakes, in particular, are some of the best I've ever tasted.

Additionally, the tots and onion rings are perfect sides to complement their juicy, greasy spoon-style burgers.

Hurricane Allie's Bar & Grill

I must admit, one of my favorite spots to hang out with friends and enjoy a good meal is Hurricane Allie's Bar & Grill.

The place may not look fancy from the outside, but trust me, it's a real hidden gem.

The service is fantastic.

The food is simply delicious, and every time I go, I try something new.

I still remember the first time I had their Taco Tuesday special; I was blown away by the great taste and the three levels of sauce options they offer.

Their fried green beans are also amazing and a must-try!

The atmosphere at Hurricane Allie's is fun and welcoming.

The place also hosts karaoke nights, which is a blast to participate in or just watch and enjoy.

Other Restaurants Nearby

Viona's Italian Bistro

One fine Saturday afternoon, I decided to treat myself and my grandma to a nice lunch at Viona's Italian Bistro.

We arrived at the restaurant around 3 pm, and it was pleasantly uncrowded, with only one other table occupied.

Starting off with some soft rolls and oil, followed by a salad, we couldn't help but be impressed by the flavorful Italian dressing.

Our main course consisted of delicious homemade tortellini, which tasted incredibly fresh.

The portions were generous, leaving us with enough leftovers to enjoy at home.

For dessert, we indulged in a delightful strawberry cheesecake.

Sushi UNI

Sushi UNI is definitely one of my favorite spots for sushi.

This compact, busy strip-mall venue serves traditional Japanese sushi, sashimi, salads, and hot entrees that never fail to satisfy my tastebuds.

Every time I visit Sushi UNI, there's a homey feel to the place, making me feel comfortable and welcomed.

Although it's small and often requires a bit of a wait, it's always worth it.

I usually go in, put my name down, and patiently wait for my turn, knowing it's going to be worth it.

Some of my personal favorites include the hot and sour soup, spicy crab salad, dumplings, and the infamous dinosaur roll.

The sushi rolls always taste fresh and full of flavor.

The weekday sushi lunch special is a great deal, and I particularly love the 87th Street roll and the KC Chiefs roll for dinner.

While there can be long wait times during busy hours, it just shows how good this place is, attracting many people to this small strip mall sushi place.

And if you are really worried about the waiting time, you can always get your food to go.

Sierra Grill

I recently decided to treat my partner to a spontaneous date night at Sierra Grill, a local restaurant I had heard great things about.

The moment we stepped inside, I knew we were in for a treat.

The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with dim lighting and an open wood fire where the food is cooked.

We started our meal with smoked salmon crostini, which was so delicious that we ended up ordering two portions.

For the main course, I went for the rack of lamb, which was tender and full of flavor, while my partner opted for the fish special, featuring a perfectly cooked halibut filet.

We also shared a side of mushrooms and green beans, which were cooked to perfection.

To finish off our date night, we shared a dessert of bread pudding with apples, which was the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

J. Gilbert's Wood-Fired Steaks & Seafood Kansas City

I recently decided to treat myself to a fine dining experience at J. Gilbert's Wood-Fired Steaks & Seafood Kansas City, and I was not disappointed.

The moment I walked in, I was taken aback by the comforting ambiance and music that filled the restaurant.

For my meal, I decided to go all out with a three-course meal.

Starting with the delicious Maine Crab Bisque that had a delightful kick to it.

For my main course, I went for the cowboy cut cooked medium rare, accompanied by lobster mac and cheese and mushrooms.

While my steak was cooked to perfection and full of flavor, it was the lobster mac and cheese that truly stole the show.

I couldn't help but finish it first, wishing it was a main dish on its own.

As for drinks, I opted for their homemade lemonade, which was simply fantastic.

To conclude my meal, I indulged in a creamy creme brulee that left me completely satisfied.

Kababs Pak Mediterranean Cuisine

My partner and I decided to celebrate our anniversary at Kababs Pak Mediterranean Cuisine, and I must say, the ambiance of the place was impressive.

Right from the moment we stepped in, the lovely aroma and the perfectly organized seating arrangements caught our attention.

The decor, lighting, and music created a fabulous setting for our special night.

We ordered a kabab platter and chicken makhani, which turned out mouthwatering.

I've also tried their lunch buffet, which offers a variety of delicious chicken and vegetarian options.

It's a great spot for a fulfilling meal at just about $20 per person.

Smoketown BBQ and Catering

I recently decided to check out Smoketown BBQ and Catering in my quest for the best BBQ in Kansas.

I had heard mixed reviews about the place, but I wanted to give it a shot myself.

When I arrived, the restaurant had a welcoming atmosphere and smelled fantastic.

I decided to try the burnt ends sandwich, which was decent but not the best I've had in town.

I also wasn't a fan of the pickles on the sandwich.

However, I did enjoy their unique take on classic BBQ dishes.

The Smoketown throw-down I sampled was topped with these really different onion straws that had an interesting texture.

The mac bites were also a pleasant surprise, as they were made with Gouda cheese instead of the jack cheese listed on the menu.

Dragon Inn

My go-to place for Chinese cuisine has always been Dragon Inn in our neighborhood.

As someone who appreciates good food and a welcoming atmosphere, I find their traditional decor and red booths quite charming.

Over the years, I've introduced many friends and family members to this longstanding eatery, and it has never disappointed me.

The customer service is always wonderful, and their prices are reasonable for the portions they serve.

I love their fried dumplings and spring rolls, but I must admit that their crab Rangoon can be a hit or miss sometimes.

On the other hand, their Mai-Tais are to die for, and I highly recommend giving them a try.

As someone who can handle spice quite well, I've never had any problems with their Orange Chicken or General Tso's.

What keeps me coming back to Dragon Inn, however, is the consistency of their amazing service and the authentic experience they provide.

I've been a regular customer for over a decade, and the quality of their food and ambiance has remained top-notch throughout.

India Palace

Just the other day, I decided to visit India Palace for lunch.

This Indian restaurant has been my go-to spot for amazing classic Indian cuisine for quite some time.

I've always been impressed by their extensive menu, which includes a great variety of vegetarian and tandoori options, all set in a casual and comfortable atmosphere.

One thing I love about India Palace is their warm and flavorful dishes.

They offer a plethora of both vegetarian and carnivorous options to satisfy any craving.

While I sometimes miss their buffet, I've come to appreciate the opportunity to explore their menu and try new dishes, all prepared to order.

Plus, the portions are usually generous enough for leftovers!

And who can resist their complimentary chai tea, especially during lunchtime? It's the perfect sweet treat to accompany your meal.

Over the years, I've tried many of their dishes, but I must say, their vegetable korma is truly one of the best I've ever tasted.

Their appetizers and mains are fantastic as well, and don't even get me started on their mango ice cream – simply delicious!

Final Thoughts

Shawnee, Kansas offers a diverse and delicious variety of restaurants that I've had the pleasure of experiencing firsthand.

As someone who's spent years exploring the local food scene, I can confidently say that whether you're in the mood for sushi, barbecue, or a juicy steak, you won't be disappointed.

So, the next time you find yourself in Shawnee, make sure to treat your taste buds to some of these fantastic eateries.

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