20 Best Restaurants in Wichita, KS
This article was written by local contributor Charlee Morris & edited by the Travel Lens team.

Wichita, the largest city in Kansas, has always been a special place for me.
Its rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly people create an atmosphere that can't be replicated anywhere else.
But one of my favorite things about living here is the food scene.
With a diverse array of cuisines to choose from, any food lover will be in paradise.
Whether you're in the mood for mouth-watering barbecue, fresh sushi, or authentic Mexican fare, there's something for everyone in this bustling Midwestern city.
Join me as we explore the 20 best restaurants in Wichita, Kansas, and I promise you'll be craving a visit to the Air Capital City in no time.
Roxie's on the River
I recently decided to try out Roxie's on the River with some friends and family who were visiting from out of town.
We were all impressed by the amazing service and the cozy ambiance of this small old-town diner.
The menu offers a variety of traditional American dishes, as well as some new and unique options.
We were seated quickly, despite it being a busy day.
I ordered an omelet, which turned out to be absolutely delicious.
My sister also enjoyed her meal, and we both appreciated that the biscuits and gravy were clearly homemade with real sausage.
Sesame - Mediterranean Kitchen

The other day, I decided to visit Sesame - Mediterranean Kitchen for a tasty meal, and I must say, it was an unforgettable experience.
As soon as I entered the restaurant, I was impressed by the spacious seating area and the peaceful atmosphere.
The soft classical music playing in the background added to the charm, although I wished it was a tad quieter to make conversation easier.
I opted for the fatoush chicken salad, which turned out to be absolutely delicious.
My food arrived quickly, and I appreciated the fresh lemon slices they provided for my water.
What caught my eye on the diverse menu were the chicken shawarma and lamb kabab, which I've heard are some of the best in town.
I also couldn't resist trying their falafel, and I was not disappointed – it was amazing.
Gabby's Peruvian Restaurant

The moment I walked into Gabby's Peruvian Restaurant, I was welcomed by the warm and cozy ambiance of the restaurant, featuring soft music, cloth-covered tables, and interesting Peruvian artifacts as decor.
I started my meal with the Tostones Rellenos, which had great plantains, even though the topping of chicken seemed to be canned chicken with mayo.
For my main course, I tried the Arroz Chaufa, a generous portion of delicious Peruvian-style fried rice.
The server recommended I try the Chicha Morada, a unique and authentic Peruvian drink, which I absolutely loved.
What I appreciated most during my visit was the excellent service.
For dessert, I indulged in the tres leches cake and the flan, both of which were good.
Tanya's Soup Kitchen

Visiting Tanya's Soup Kitchen for lunch was an amazing experience.
I could tell this was a place where people from all walks of life felt comfortable and welcome.
I started my meal with their famous tomato soup, which was a must-try according to many fellow diners.
The flavor was rich and comforting, perfect for a chilly day.
I also ordered the Athena sandwich, packed with delicious ingredients like artichoke hearts, spinach, and feta cheese.
While I was enjoying my meal, I noticed the restaurant was bustling with people.
It was clear that this was a beloved Wichita staple for both lunch and dinner.
One of the standout aspects of Tanya's Soup Kitchen was their use of farm-fresh ingredients in their dishes.
I could taste the difference in quality, and my sensitive stomach appreciated the wholesome food.
Their commitment to quality ingredients definitely sets them apart from other lunch spots in the area.
As I finished my meal, I couldn't help but think about the rave reviews I'd heard about their pumpkin bisque and roast beef sandwich.
I made a mental note to try those items on my next visit.
Metro Grill

One of my favorite dining experiences in the area has to be at Metro Grill.
Located just 2.8 miles away from the heart of the city, this gem offers a fantastic mix of Italian, American (new), and American (traditional) cuisine.
The moment you step inside, you'll notice the inviting ambiance and ample seating that can accommodate large parties.
What truly sets Metro Grill apart is its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a diverse and flavorful menu.
Each of my visits has been nothing short of amazing, with the Brusco burger standing out as one of the best in Wichita.
There are several other sandwiches that are equally delicious, such as the Italian chicken and the Cuban Sandwich, which won me over during my first visit.
The mango mahi sandwich is also worth mentioning as well.
I recommend trying their half-sandwich lunch combo deal, which includes a half sandwich, chips, and a drink.
And don't forget to save room for their excellent tiramisu!
Wasabi Hinkaku

One of my favorite places to dine in town is Wasabi Hinkaku, where I can enjoy excellent sushi and Japanese cuisine.
Their lunch specials are truly amazing, offering great value for the quality of the food they serve.
I've tried all their sushi lunch specials and bento box specials, and I can confidently say that the quality-to-value ratio is definitely compelling.
In fact, I visit Wasabi Hinkaku twice every week whenever I'm in town.
Not only is their sushi top-notch, but they also have amazing deals and specials.
I once enjoyed a 4-for-3 sushi roll deal, where I ordered a mountain roll, wasabi roll, a love roll, and a California roll and only had to pay for three of them.
The mountain roll was a standout hit, with fresh crab mixing unbelievably well with the other ingredients.
Another thing to note is their hot sake - I had it once on a Friday, and it was absolutely delicious.
Saigon Restaurant

During my recent visit to Saigon Restaurant, I was immediately impressed by the large and diverse menu.
It's rare to find such a wide variety of authentic Vietnamese dishes in one eatery!
I started my meal with their amazing egg rolls, which were surprisingly different, filled with sweet potatoes!
The spring rolls were excellent as well.
For the main course, I tried their #45, grilled pork with noodles.
The smoky flavor of the pork and the freshness of the cilantro took the dish to another level.
The egg noodle soup with pork and shrimp was perfect for the chilly weather outside, warming me up instantly.
Los Pinos Mexican Restaurant

During my visit to Los Pinos Mexican Restaurant, I had a truly memorable experience of authentic Mexican cuisine.
I started off with their famous guacamole, which is hands down the best in town.
As I dipped my chips into the rich and creamy guacamole, I knew I was in for a treat.
For my main course, I decided to try their crispy tacos, which left me in awe.
The shells were perfectly crispy and packed with generous amounts of flavorful fillings.
The toppings were fresh, adding a beautiful contrast in texture.
Wanting to try more, I ordered a mix of different meat tacos, including beef brisket, chicken, and tacos al pastor.
Each one was outstanding and had a unique taste that reminded me of home.
But the highlight of my meal was definitely the Carne Asada fries.
These crispy fries were topped with juicy Carne Asada, melted cheese, and a dollop of guacamole, making each bite an explosion of flavor.
During my visit, I also noticed the homemade hot sauce in the bottle, which my spouse gladly kicked up a notch, and I must say, it was very good.
If you enjoy fajitas, Los Pinos is known to have some of the best in town, always on point.
Thai House

I've been a frequent visitor to Thai House in Wichita.
The restaurant offers a snug, no-frills dining experience with traditional Thai fares, such as curries and pad Thai.
What I love most about this place is its large take-out-only menu, which never fails to satisfy my cravings for authentic Thai flavors.
My all-time favorite dish is the Pad Kee Mao with chicken, which I usually order with a hot spice level.
I have been a regular patron for 15 years, and I can confidently say that their Pad Kee Mao is the best I've ever had in the US.
I've tried to find a similar dish after moving away, but nothing comes close to Thai House's version.
Their pineapple fried rice is another must-try dish, and I have found that the medium spice level is just perfect for me.
What stands out about Thai House is not only the flavors of their dishes but also the friendly service.
The Belmont

As a Wichita resident, I've been to The Belmont quite a few times, and it's my favorite spot for enjoying a scrumptious brunch.
The upscale mod motif and bright atmosphere make it an ideal place for a lovely meal with family or friends.
Their thoughtfully sourced entrees and cocktails never disappoint and are always a hit!
During my last visit, we started off with the delicious Bruschetta, where you can choose three different types for just $12.
For my main course, I opted for the Norteño Benny - a classic eggs benedict with chorizo.
The egg was perfectly poached, and the hollandaise sauce was simply amazing.
My friend tried the Morning Sandy, a toasted croissant with scrambled eggs and grand cru cheese, which was an absolute delight.
We also couldn't resist ordering the fried green tomatoes appetizer, and I can confidently say I could eat those every day!
Not to forget, The Belmont offers happy hour cocktails from opening time until 6 pm, and the prices are unbeatable at just $6!
I tried the Rackhouse, a refreshing bourbon-based cocktail with black walnut bitters that paired wonderfully.
Besides the mouthwatering food and drinks, the ambiance at The Belmont is just as impressive.
The beautiful wooden bar with gold accents, velvet booths, and penny-tiled islands create a sophisticated and cozy environment.
The patio seating is especially lovely, with a view of the College Hill neighborhood that makes you feel like you're in a completely different place.
Georges French Bistro

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Georges French Bistro with some friends, and it was truly a delightful experience.
Upon entering, we were greeted by the lively buzz of excited diners and the mouthwatering aroma of modern French dishes being cooked in their open kitchen.
The lighting was low, creating an elegant and intimate ambiance, while the music in the background was just the right volume to have a conversation without raising our voices.
We started off with some appetizers from their happy hour menu, including delicious fries and fresh oysters.
I also enjoyed their seasonal Negroni, which was so scrumptious that I plan to recreate it at home!
For our main course, I chose the Trout Amandine, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
My friends ordered various dishes like steak frites, scallops, and crepes, and everyone was raving about the quality and taste of their meals.
Although the parking situation was a bit tricky, it was well worth the effort to get to this gem of a restaurant.
Kobe Steak House of Japan
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Kobe Steak House of Japan.
Before even beginning the main course, I was treated to a savory Japanese clear soup, followed by a crisp house salad with ginger vinaigrette dressing.
The succulent shrimp appetizer was just a tease before the main event.
The chef prepared my steak and calamari with fried rice right at my Teppanyaki table, alongside an accompaniment of hibachi vegetables.
The food was cooked to perfection and tasted as good as it looked.
But the experience at Kobe Steak House of Japan is so much more than just the food.
And let's not forget about their drink menu - it was extensive, and the cocktails were delightful.
Prost

As soon as I walked into Prost, I was greeted by the warm and inviting ambiance that struck the perfect balance between a restaurant and a bar.
The unique and fun decorations, including the impressive display of steins, further added to the charm of the place.
I decided to try the Wiener schnitzel, and I was not disappointed.
The dish was absolutely fantastic, and the red cabbage and spaetzle that accompanied it were equally delicious.
It was quite clear to me that Prost takes pride in offering truly authentic German cuisine.
To wash down my meal, I enjoyed a refreshing German beer, chosen from their impressive selection of imported brews and locally crafted options made exclusively for Prost.
The beer truly complemented the flavors of my meal and added to the overall experience.
While Prost might not be the ideal spot for a quiet sit-down dinner, it's perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in an authentic German Biergarten experience.
B&C Barbeque

During my visit to B&C Barbeque, I was pleasantly surprised by the bare-bones shack offering buffet-style barbecue along with all the fixings.
The restaurant also provided a salad bar and catering services, which added to the overall experience.
Upon entering, I noticed the place was quite packed, but the service was great and lightning-fast despite the crowd.
The interior of the restaurant was well-organized, and the process of paying upfront for my desired combo, moving to the meat line, and finding a seat was smooth and painless.
I decided to try their 3/4 lbs meat combo with three sides for $17, which I found to be very reasonable for the amount of food served.
I opted for the lean brisket, spicy sausage link, and pork, with potato salad, macaroni, and green salad as sides.
The meal was nothing short of fantastic – tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
While I didn't get a chance to try their Happy Hour from 3-6 PM during weekdays, I was impressed by their extensive beer selection, both on tap and bottled.
Their house-made ranch dressing, available in both original and jalapeño flavors, was another highlight that enhanced my dining experience.
Piatto Neapolitan Pizzeria

It was a lovely evening when I decided to visit Piatto Neapolitan Pizzeria with my family.
The bar seating centered around the pizza oven added to the ambiance and made it even more inviting.
We were greeted warmly by our friendly waitress and ordered the popular pepperoni pizza.
To my delight, it turned out to be one of the best pizzas I've ever had.
My son also enjoyed it thoroughly, and we both left feeling satisfied and full.
The service was impressive, and everyone at the place was amicable.
I couldn't help but think that Piatto would be a perfect spot for a gathering with friends, especially for wine and socializing.
One of the things I appreciate about this local Wichita restaurant is its dedication to using fresh, local, and premium ingredients.
The authentic Neapolitan pizza is made to order and baked in just 90 seconds!
Piatto also offers gluten-free crust options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their delicious pizzas.
The outdoor patio area at the back adds to the charm of Piatto Neapolitan Pizzeria.
Meddys Downtown

During my numerous visits to Meddys Downtown, I have come to appreciate the consistently delicious and authentic Mediterranean food this place has to offer.
I first tried their chicken shawarma, and it quickly became my go-to order.
The hummus with house-made pita bread and crunchy pita chips is an absolute must-try, too - it's practically addictive.
On one of my visits, I branched out and tried the garlicky chicken with seasoned potatoes, and it was just as rich and flavorful as I had hoped.
My partner ordered a side of lentil soup, which turned out to be perfect for a chilly evening, especially with some pita on the side.
It's great to know that they offer several gluten-free options on their menu too.
The warm and inviting atmosphere of Meddys Downtown makes it even more enjoyable to eat there.
I remember one time when my friends and I decided to share a variety of dishes, including hummus, baba ganoush, chicken shawarma, and the Wed variant.
We were all blown away by the quality and flavors of the food.
Krua Thai Restaurant

I decided to visit Krua Thai Restaurant for dinner the other day, and it turned out to be an excellent choice!
From the moment I entered, the soothing music and beautiful decor featuring birds on the TV created a welcoming atmosphere for a relaxed dining experience.
For starters, I ordered the gyoza appetizer.
Though it wasn't extraordinary compared to others I've had, it was tasty and served as a great introduction to the meal.
Next, I tried the double chicken panang curry.
The dish had a generous portion of vegetables and just the right amount of chicken.
What I really appreciated was the well-balanced spice level that wasn't overwhelming.
The spicy cashew nut with chicken was also a delight, featuring tender and delicious chicken.
I couldn't leave without trying their crab Rangoon and tofu, which were served with delicious sauces.
What added to the authenticity of the experience was that everything was served with a spoon instead of a fork, just like how Thai people traditionally eat their food.
Cafe Bel Ami

When my friends and I were planning a night out, we decided to dine at Cafe Bel Ami.
This fine-dining, full-service restaurant is a staple in our community for its classical French cooking and Mediterranean dishes.
Upon entering, we were welcomed by the ornate, old-world setting, which brought a sense of warmth and charm to our evening.
The attentive service made us feel right at home, and we were amazed by the variety of great food options on the menu.
I ordered the lemon herb salmon, which was simply divine.
The sautéed veggies were cooked to perfection, and my friends were equally pleased with their choices.
One of my friends got the Chicken and Shrimp Au Poivre, and she couldn't stop raving about how delicious and flavorful the sauce was.
We also appreciated the quiet ambiance, perfect for catching up and enjoying each other's company.
The restaurant's vintage style added to its quaint and cozy atmosphere.
After our delightful entrees, we couldn't resist indulging in their desserts.
We shared a tiramisu that was simply to die for.
It was a perfect way to end our meal.
Bella Vita Bistro

One of my favorite places to enjoy a delicious Italian meal in town is Bella Vita Bistro.
This charming, family-run restaurant has been serving traditional and inventive Italian dishes for more than a decade in a beautiful villa-like atmosphere, complete with a full bar.
From the moment I step into Bella Vita Bistro, I feel welcomed and at ease.
The moment I sit down, I'm treated to freshly baked bread with olive oil, seasoned balsamic vinegar, and freshly ground Parmesan Reggiano cheese.
It's a delightful introduction to the culinary experience that awaits me.
During one of my visits, I tried the soup du jour, a smoked Gouda bisque, and it exceeded all my expectations.
The flavors were complex and perfectly seasoned, and it was served at just the right temperature.
For the main course, I opted for the chicken piccata, and it did not disappoint.
The tender chicken breast was accompanied by a smooth sauce with subtle yet complex layers of flavors, topped with capers and fresh artichoke hearts.
The pasta served alongside had an excellent taste, cooked to perfection with just the right amount of seasoning.
What sets Bella Vita Bistro apart is not only the delicious food but also the impeccable service.
Sabor Latin Bar & Grille

Just the other day, I decided to grab lunch at Sabor Latin Bar & Grille, and I must say, it was an experience worth sharing.
As I walked in, I could feel the Latin vibe resonating through the contemporary eatery.
It's located just off an old-town square, and they even have outdoor seating available.
We started with a delicious soup with pork, veggies, and a slice of avocado – packed with flavor!
Following that, we enjoyed calamari and coconut shrimp appetizers, both of which were scrumptious.
For my main course, I went for the churrasco tacos, while my wife opted for the quinoa salad.
I must admit, the churrasco was amazing – it melted in my mouth, juicy and full of flavor!
And the quinoa salad didn't disappoint, either.
We couldn't resist trying their iconic Tres Leches cake for dessert, and it was the perfect way to end our meal.
But what really impressed me was their mojito.
It's quite hard to find a decent mojito in town, but the one I had at Sabor was absolutely amazing.
I could tell that whoever was working the bar knew their stuff.
Final Thoughts
I can personally vouch for the exceptional culinary experiences that Wichita has to offer.
From the cozy atmosphere of Tanya's Soup Kitchen to the delightful flavors of Sabor Latin Bar & Grille, there is a restaurant to suit every palate.
So, if you ever find yourself in this vibrant city, I highly recommend indulging in the delicious fare of these dining establishments – trust me, your taste buds will thank you!