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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Downtown / River Market

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12 restaurants available nearby

A photo of BarCentral restaurant
1. BarCentral
4.6
Exceptional(1)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Kansas City
Booked 3 times today
Featuring Kansas City’s largest indoor video wall showing the most-popular televised events! BarCentral offers a relaxed atmosphere filled with fan-favorite libations and cuisine - just steps from all the most-popular downtown attractions.
A photo of Gram & Dun restaurant
2. Gram & Dun
4.6
Exceptional(4661)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Plaza / Brookside
Booked 67 times today
Gram & Dun is a shining star of American cuisine located in the vibrant Plaza area of Kansas City. With its "culinarily-driven fare," it offers a menu that beautifully honors traditional American dishes while adding a special, modern twist. Guests rave about beloved items such as the "shrimp and grits" and "burnt ends mac n cheese," which highlight the restaurant's commitment to authentic flavors. The ambiance is both "sophisticated and soulful," making it a perfect spot for brunch on their renowned patio or an intimate dinner indoors. With outstanding service and a warm neighborhood vibe, Gram & Dun truly excels at delivering an exceptional American dining experience.
A photo of Union on the Hill restaurant
3. Union on the Hill
4.8
Exceptional(81)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Kansas City
Booked 16 times today
Union on the Hill is a beacon of authentic American cuisine in the vibrant neighborhood of Union Hill, Kansas City. This modern American gem is renowned for its delectable dishes that leave patrons craving more, such as the famed Filet Meatloaf and the sumptuous Lobster Roll. Chef George's creations, paired with a warm, inviting atmosphere, make every meal a memorable experience. Guests rave about the “exceptional service” and the “creative and diversified menu,” which offers something for every palate. Whether you're gathering with friends or celebrating a special occasion, Union on the Hill promises a culinary adventure that truly captures the heart of American cuisine.
A photo of Grand Street - Plaza restaurant
4. Grand Street - Plaza
4.7
Exceptional(2596)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Plaza / Brookside
Booked 20 times today
Grand Street - Plaza in Kansas City is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, celebrated for its "delicious and varied" menu that perfectly balances simplicity with elegance. Nestled in the bustling Country Club Plaza, this locally owned gem has been delighting patrons for over 30 years with its consistently "outstanding" food and "top-notch" service. Diners rave about the perfectly cooked steaks and must-try white cheddar fondue, while the ambiance, described as "elegant" and "inviting," enhances every meal. Whether indulging in a Sunday brunch or a special dinner, Grand Street promises an exceptional and memorable dining experience that embodies true American culinary excellence.
A photo of Kona Grill - Kansas City restaurant
5. Kona Grill - Kansas City
3.6
Very Good(2385)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Plaza / Brookside
Booked 25 times today
Kona Grill in Kansas City’s Country Club Plaza is a must-visit for sushi enthusiasts. Renowned for its "amazing taste," the sushi here is not just a meal but an artistic experience, served with exceptional attention to detail. Diners rave about the "beautiful fashion" in which the sushi is presented, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. The sushi chef, Jose, has been praised as "an amazing sushi chef," ensuring every roll is crafted with precision and passion. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or trying it for the first time, Kona Grill promises an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you wanting more.
A photo of Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant - Kansas City - Plaza, MO restaurant
6. Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant - Kansas City - Plaza, MO
4.3
Awesome(6732)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Kansas City
Booked 120 times today
Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in Kansas City is a seafood lover's paradise, offering a menu that showcases the freshest and most authentic seafood dishes in the area. Diners rave about the "surf and turf" and the "butternut squash ravioli with seafood," calling them "probably the best meal we’ve had." The scratch kitchen ensures that every dish is crafted with precision and care, perfectly paired with their award-winning wines for an unforgettable dining experience. Guests consistently enjoy the "great food" and "amazing service," making Cooper's Hawk a top choice for seafood enthusiasts looking for quality and authenticity.
A photo of Gordon Ramsay Steak - Harrah's Kansas City restaurant
7. Gordon Ramsay Steak - Harrah's Kansas City
4.6
Exceptional(3420)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Kansas City
Booked 30 times today
Gordon Ramsay Steak at Harrah's in Kansas City delivers an exceptional dining experience, showcasing the best of Contemporary American cuisine with a unique twist. The restaurant combines Ramsay’s renowned culinary expertise with Midwest-inspired dishes, setting it apart from traditional steakhouses. Diners consistently rave about the “outstanding food and service,” noting the unforgettable taste of signature dishes like the beef Wellington and KC Strip. The atmosphere is both upscale and inviting, making it perfect for special occasions or memorable nights out. With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to excellence, this restaurant truly embodies high-quality Contemporary American dining.
A photo of JJ's Restaurant restaurant
8. JJ's Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1812)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Plaza / Brookside
Booked 26 times today
JJ's Restaurant is a quintessential Steakhouse delight in the heart of Kansas City's Plaza/Brookside neighborhood. Known for its "exceptional contemporary American food" and unrivalled steaks, JJ's has become a beloved dining icon. Diners rave about its "fabulous menu" and "outstanding meat options," with dishes that are "prepared perfectly and delicious." The ambiance is inviting, offering a private feel with "impeccable timing and rhythm" in service, making each visit memorable. With an "impressive wine list" and a team that inspires loyalty, JJ's ensures guests leave with a smile and a desire to return for "a great overall experience."
A photo of One East Urban Bar and Kitchen restaurant
9. One East Urban Bar and Kitchen
3.7
Very Good(22)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Crossroads / Freight District / Boulevard
Enjoy contemporary American cuisine One East Urban Bar + Kitchen features the finest locally crafted beers and spirits, paired with Modern American fare in a vibrant, communal atmosphere.
A photo of Scratch Gourmet Kitchen restaurant
10. Scratch Gourmet Kitchen
4.7
Exceptional(177)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Prairie Village
Booked 5 times today
Scratch Gourmet Kitchen in Prairie Village is a beacon of Contemporary Italian excellence, offering a dining experience that delights the senses. With accolades such as Best New Restaurant in Johnson County, Scratch has swiftly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Under the culinary mastery of Chef Taylor Hindman, each dish is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, skillfully crafted to excite the palate. Diners rave about the "amazing food with an impressive wine list," while the atmosphere is described as both "intimate" and "relaxed." Whether you’re indulging in their signature Sea Bass or savoring a delectable dessert, Scratch promises a memorable Italian culinary journey.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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