The Founders’ Lounge is open before most evening shows featured at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. In order to operate a sustainable service for our arts patrons, we must meet a minimum threshold of reservations to operate for each date scheduled for service. Walk-in diners are welcome, but the Founders’ Lounge needs a guaranteed amount of visitors to make the model work. We greatly appreciate your consideration in making a reservation.
Dinner and a Show
Are you attending a show at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts but worried about having enough time to enjoy dinner? Our in-house dining option, Founders’ Lounge, ensures you’re only steps from your seat at the end of the meal.
The dining team prepares elegant dishes, seasonal craft cocktails and a diverse selection of wines and spirits that are sure to satisfy. And if you’re only looking for refreshments, they’re available throughout Brandmeyer Great Hall.
Pre-Show Dining in the Founders’ Lounge
Located within the south entrance, the Founders’ Lounge offers sweeping views of Kansas City in a sleek and sophisticated atmosphere. If you’re seeing a show, please plan on 90 minutes for dinner service to enjoy our menu without feeling rushed. Reservations are recommended, and walk-in dining is offered depending on availability.
Small plates are available for those guests who may be arriving close to curtain. This dining experience provides a perfect pre-show complement to your visit. The Founders’ Lounge is open prior to most shows.
Podere Le Ripi
Spring Wine Dinner
Join us for an unforgettable evening of fine wine and exceptional cuisine at our exclusive Spring Wine Dinner in the Founders’ Lounge, featuring the wines of Podere Le Ripi.
Savor a five-course culinary experience masterfully prepared by Executive Chef Voldan, with each dish thoughtfully paired with five expressions from Tuscany. Guiding us through the evening will be Mary Cerini, U.S. Ambassador and Wine Manager from Podere Le Ripi, who will share stories, insights and the rich history behind each vintage.
Whether you’re a devoted oenophile or simply looking to indulge in an elevated dining experience, this is an evening you won’t want to miss.
Make a Reservation
Reserve your table at the Founders’ Lounge today.
Directions & Parking to the Founders’ Lounge
Allow yourself enough time to arrive, park and delight in a pre-performance meal featuring exquisite yet casual modern-American cuisine steps from your seat at the Founders’ Lounge.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll find the Founders’ Lounge just within the south doors of the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Be sure to check our calendar for open dates and times.
You are more than welcome to dine with us, whether or not you plan on attending an event at the Kauffman Center. However, our hours of operation are tailored around performance times. Reservations are recommended. Walk-in dining is offered depending on availability.
Much depends on the food you order and your desired experience. However, in general you should plan on up to an hour and a half for a party of up to four people in size who are having appetizers, dinner and dessert.
We are very limited for spacing on large parties. If you plan on having 5 or more people, please email dining@kauffmancenter.org with your inquiry. We will always do our best to accommodate our patrons; however, seating for larger parties will depend on availability.
Just as with our patrons for performances, restaurant patrons arrive in all styles of dress. Business casual is usually a safe bet if you’re concerned. Any other dress code requirements meet the obligations required by Kansas City restaurant laws and codes.
We kindly request that if you need to cancel your reservation, please do so 48 hours prior to your reservation time.