Photo by Amber Hipp
If you are in search of a restaurant to enjoy lunch before a matinee at the Kauffman Center, look no further than The Stilwell, tucked inside the elegant Loews Kansas City Hotel. Just a short walk from the Kauffman Center, this hidden gem offers American cuisine with a distinctive Kansas City twist – think an elevated burnt ends sandwich, classic salads or a tender pan-seared salmon.
It’s a quintessential stop before an artistry-filled performance. Whether you’ll be taking in the graceful movements of the Kansas City Ballet, the powerful voices and storytelling of the Lyric Opera, or the rich, resonant sounds of the Kansas City Symphony, The Stilwell’s fare will fortify you before an unforgettable performance.
The Stilwell is open for lunch from noon to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
A Dining Experience Blending Comfort, Style and Flavor
The moment you step into The Stilwell, you’re welcomed by a warm, open-concept space that balances rustic charm with modern elegance. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a superb lunch stop.
One side of the restaurant features a sweeping view of the Kansas City skyline, while the other offers a peek into the kitchen where chefs bring your dishes to life. It’s a front-row seat to both the city and the culinary action.
The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating, so lunch can be enjoyed in the cozy dining room or on the comfortable patio complete with fire pits.
A Menu for Everyone
With something for everyone, The Stilwell’s menu is as welcoming as its atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for comforting classics or thrill-seeking dishes with a creative Kansas City twist, there’s no shortage of flavor and variety.
Signature items include whipped goat cheese, fresh oysters, Creekstone Farms striploin and True North salmon, each crafted with bold flavors and high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Looking for something more familiar? The Stilwell also serves up favorites like an elevated turkey club and a barbecue-inspired creamy mac and cheese.
By partnering with eight local farms and bakeries, The Stilwell creates dishes that reflect the freshness and flavor of Kansas City’s regional cuisine.
The kitchen’s menu also caters to a range of dietary needs, with gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. Younger guests are always welcome and can choose from items on the dedicated kids’ menu.
Adults can enjoy craft cocktails or choose from a thoughtfully curated wine list.
On weekends, the restaurant offers a laid-back breakfast buffet, bringing an easy, comfortable start to the day before heading out to explore the city.
Planning a gathering? Two private dining rooms provide stylish and comfortable spaces for group events, such as family or business brunches.
As you leave the restaurant and step outside the Loews Kansas City Hotel, you’re greeted by a striking view of the Kauffman Center. It’s the perfect transition from a satisfying meal to an afternoon of world-class performances.
A Bite of Kansas City History
More than simply a restaurant, The Stilwell is a tribute to Kansas City’s rich and storied past. Its name comes from the Stilwell Oyster Car, a historic Pullman train car that delivered fresh oysters to the Kansas City Market in the 1800s — no small feat for a landlocked city.
The story behind the name honors Arthur Stilwell, the visionary railroad builder who helped shape the region. He laid more than 3,000 miles of track, founded 40 towns and drove more than $1 billion dollars in economic growth across the Southeast and Midwest.
Stilwell wasn’t only a businessman; he was a true innovator. He became the youngest railroad president at 32 years old, and he created one of Kansas City’s first amusement parks, Fairmount Park, to draw visitors to the area.
Stilwell made Kansas City his home, marrying his childhood sweetheart at age 19 and dedicating much of his work to the city’s development. Today, The Stilwell carries forth that same spirit of innovation and hospitality.
A nod to this rich legacy can be found on The Stilwell website, proudly sharing the story behind the name and its history.
The Perfect Start to Your Kauffman Center Experience
From skyline views to standout service, The Stilwell is more than simply a lunch stop — it’s a perfect prelude to your afternoon at the Kauffman Center. Whether you’re attending a symphony, ballet, opera or touring performance, let your day begin with a taste of Kansas City’s culinary and cultural charm.
The next time you have tickets in hand for a show at the Kauffman Center, include a lunch stop at The Stilwell. You’ll step into the theater not just with a full stomach, but with a culinary experience and a full sense of what makes this city unforgettable.
