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.
Course I
Tuna Crudo
Citrus-Fennel Salad, Olive Oil, Calabrian Chili, Sicilian Pistachio
2023 Podere Le Ripi Attenti al Lupo Toscana IGT
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Course II
Porcini Agnolotti
Brown Butter, Parmigiano Reggiano, Thyme
2022 Podere Le Ripi Sogni e Follia di Montalcino
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Course III
Grilled Lamb Loin
Charred Eggplant Puree, Roasted Tomato, Oregano Jus
2021 Podere Le Ripi Cielo d’Ulisse Brunello di Montalcino
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Course IV
Beef Cheek Brasato
Soft Polenta, Black Truffle, Cipollini Onion
2021 Podere Le Ripi Amore e Magia Brunello di Montalcino
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Course V
Aged Pecorino di Pienza
Roasted Grapes, Chestnut Honey, Toasted Walnut
2020 Podere Le Ripi Lupe e Sirene Brunello di Montalcino Riserva
Disclaimer
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness.
Allergy Warning: Menu items may contain or come into contact with wheat, eggs, shellfish, fish, soy, sesame, peanuts or tree nuts. Ask our staff for more information.
We politely decline any modifications or substitutions.
Parties of 8 or more will have 20% gratuity added.
Make a Reservation
Reserve your table at the Founders’ Lounge.
Directions & Parking
Allow yourself enough time to arrive, park and delight in a meal featuring exquisite yet casual modern-American cuisine steps from your seat at the Kauffman Center restaurant 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.