31 Best Restaurants for a Birthday Dinner in Kansas City in 2024
The best thing about planning a birthday dinner in Kansas City is its endless options. From cozy, intimate settings to vibrant spots, Kansas City is the perfect place to explore culinary delights that cater to every taste and occasion.
Whether you’re looking to experience its distinctive barbecue defined by slow-smoked meats and tangy sauces or seeking an upscale experience with the sounds of jazz music coupled with a five-star dinner, Kansas City’s dynamic and lively atmosphere won’t disappoint. Here are our 31 best spots for a memorable birthday dinner in Kansas City.
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31 Best Birthday Restaurants in Kansas City
1. Fox and Pearl
For a unique birthday dinner in Kansas City, Fox and Pearl blends a cozy atmosphere with elevated cuisine. Chef Vaughn Good’s menu proposes farm-to-table cuisine with modern flavors, blending his French culinary background with regionally inspired comfort foods. This spot is one of the restaurants where you can book a private room for a more intimate birthday dinner in Kansas City.
The Vibe
Fox and Pearl has a rustic and warm atmosphere, with its cozy décor featuring exposed brick, wooden accents and soft lighting.
What to Order
The menu will depend on whether you want to celebrate a birthday breakfast in Kansas City or opt for an elegant dinner. However, the standout dinner options are the delicious beef tartare or smoked pork chop made with bourbon glaze and bacon creamed greens.
Fox and Pearl | 2143 Summit St., Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$
2. Voltaire
If you’re looking for a birthday dinner in Kansas City that offers New American cuisine and delicious cocktails, Voltaire is a great choice. It also allows you to set up a more customized celebration experience by offering private dining options.
The Vibe
Chic and modern, with a touch of vintage flair. It features exposed brick walls, ambient lighting and stylish décor. The atmosphere strikes a balance between lively and laid-back, making it perfect for both casual and dressier gatherings.
What to Order
Be sure to try the Spanish octopus or PEI mussels for your birthday dinner in Kansas City. Additionally, the extensive drinks menu offers craft cocktails that are a highlight, like the Hemingway spritz, which blends absinthe with plantain rum, Luxardo, grapefruit juice, simple syrup and sparkling wine.
Voltaire | 1617 Genessee St., Kansas City, MO 64102 | $$
3. Grünauer
For those seeking birthday ideas in Kansas City that involve the best food spots, Grünauer is a unique alternative in that it offers an authentic taste of Austrian and Central European cuisine. This family-owned restaurant is celebrated for its hearty dishes and traditional flavors, making it an excellent spot for a cozy and memorable birthday dinner in Kansas City.
The Vibe
Your birthday dinner in Kansas City at Grünauer will take place in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy the mix of classic and contemporary décor with dark wood furnishings and soft lighting.
What to Order
Don't miss the wiener schnitzel, a classic Austrian dish that is perfectly breaded and crispy. Be sure to pair your meal with one of the excellent Austrian beers for a complete dining experience.
Grünauer | 101 W. 22nd St., Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$
4. La Bodega
Among the best restaurants for a birthday dinner in Kansas City is La Bodega. This colorful venue offers delectable Spanish cuisine, with an extended tapas and wine menu.
The Vibe
The vibe at La Bodega can be described in two words: colorful and energetic. It features bright tiles, murals and rustic wooden accents that evoke the spirit of Spain. It’s perfect for both casual and special occasions.
What to Order
One of the reasons La Bodega is perfect for a birthday dinner in Kansas City is its extended tapas menu. Highlights include the gambas al ajillo, which consists of shrimp sautéed in garlic and olive oil. For a more hearty dish, try the paella (which also comes in a vegetarian option).
La Bodega | 1703 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$
5. Bristol Seafood Grill
What would be the perfect meal for a birthday dinner in Kansas City? Imagine steak, fresh seafood and wine, all in one place. Simply put? Perfection! That’s exactly the proposal at Bristol Seafood Grill, an upscale restaurant renowned for its fresh seafood and elegant dining experience.
The Vibe
Polished and sophisticated, the atmosphere is upscale, ideal for an elegant birthday dinner in Kansas City.
What to Order
Be sure to try the lobster bisque, a rich and creamy starter that is a customer favorite. For a main course, the seafood mixed grill, featuring shrimp, scallops, salmon, jumbo lump crab cake, mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus is a standout.
Bristol Seafood Grill | 51 E. 14th St., Kansas City, MO 64106 | $$$
6. Bo Lings
Apart from the renowned tasty BBQ, Kansas City Food is also known for having a wide variety of international dishes. That's exactly what you'll find at Bo Lings, a popular Chinese restaurant known for its authentic cuisine. If you’re a traditional Chinese food fanatic, this is the ideal place for your birthday dinner in Kansas City.
The vibe
Bo Lings has a warm and inviting vibe, featuring elegant décor with Asian-inspired accents and a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.
What to order
Be sure to try the famous dim sum during your birthday dinner in Kansas City, or the Mongolian beef, consisting of tender slices of beef in a savory sauce. Pair your meal with a pot of traditional Chinese tea for a complete and authentic dining experience.
Bo Lings | Multiple Locations | $
7. Ocean Prime
Head to Ocean Prime for an upscale birthday dinner in Kansas City. This sophisticated steakhouse is well known for its luxurious dining experience that features a variety of prime-cut steak, fresh seafood and tasty cocktails.
The vibe
With chic décor, sleek furnishings and ambient lighting that create a refined and stylish atmosphere, it has an upscale and contemporary vibe. The setting is perfect for formal birthday dinners in Kansas City, encouraging guests to dress up.
What to order
The filet mignon, perfectly cooked to your liking, and the Chilean sea bass, known for its buttery texture and flavorful preparation, are standout choices. Complement your meal with one of the expertly crafted cocktails or a selection from the extensive wine list.
Ocean Prime | 4622 Pennsylvania Ave., Ste. 300, Kansas City, MO 64112 | $$$
8. Pierpont's
Considered “The culinary jewel of Kansas City,'' Pierpoint’s offers a remarkable setting for a birthday dinner in Kansas City, combining historic elegance with exceptional cuisine. It's known for its classic steak and seafood dishes, prepared with high-quality ingredients.
The Vibe
With its grand architecture and luxurious décor, coupled with its high ceilings and ambient lighting, it evokes a sense of timeless sophistication while still being inviting.
What to order
Order the prime ribeye, known for its tenderness and robust flavor, or the smoked scallops, perfectly cooked and beautifully presented. Both are ideal choices for a mouth-watering birthday dinner in Kansas City.
Pierpoint’s | 30 W. Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$$
9. Rye Plaza
Combining Midwestern comfort food with refined dining, Rye Plaza is the place to be for an unbeatable birthday dinner in Kansas City. It is characterized by its farm-to-table approach, featuring classic American dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The Vibe
Rye Plaza has modern, yet rustic décor, featuring wood accents, comfortable seating and soft lighting. The atmosphere is relaxed and elegant, suitable for both casual and more formal birthday dinners in Kansas City.
What to Order
Start your birthday dinner in Kansas City with the deviled eggs. For the main course, opt for the fried chicken, known for its crispy coating and juicy meat, or the Kansas City strip steak, expertly cooked and flavorful.
Rye Plaza | 30 W. Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$$
10. Waldo Thai
If you’re craving Thai food for your birthday dinner in Kansas City, Waldo Thai is a must-visit. It features a menu with bold flavors and traditional Thai dishes made with high-quality ingredients.
The Vibe
Waldo Thai has a modern and energetic vibe partly due to its contemporary décor featuring colorful accents.
What to Order
If you’re visiting for the first time and want the full Thai experience, consider ordering Lanna small plates — celebrating the traditional cuisine and unique flavors of the northern Thai region they're named for. The variety of samples will ensure you have a taste of everything during your birthday dinner in Kansas City.
Waldo Thai | 8431 Wornall Road, Kansas City, MO 64114 | $$-$$$
11. Westport Café
Combining classic Parisian cuisine with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, Westport Café is a charming French Bistro where you'll love celebrating your birthday dinner in Kansas City. It also offers a venue worth hiring for those looking to enjoy a more intimate celebration.
The Vibe
Westport Café offers an intimate and chic vibe, with quaint, bistro-style décor featuring vintage accents and an elegant ambiance.
What to Order
The hors d'oeuvres offer a twist on traditional dishes, like cold oysters served with kiwi, shallot, ginger, mint and arugula oil. If you're in the mood for a classic meal for your birthday dinner in Kansas City, order the steak frites, served with crispy fries.
Westport Café | 419 Westport Road, Kansas City, MO 64111 | $$
12. Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant
Located in the Country Club Plaza, Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant is an excellent choice for a birthday dinner in Kansas City, offering a unique blend of modern American cuisine and handcrafted wines. This upscale restaurant features a menu that pairs innovative dishes with wines produced in its own winery.
The Vibe
The atmosphere balances a lively energy with an elegant feel, ideal for both casual and formal birthday dinners in Kansas City.
What to Order
Start with the ahi tuna sashimi, a flavorful appetizer that's fresh and zesty. For the main course, order the pretzel-crusted pork chops with barbecue maple glaze, Mary’s potatoes, roasted broccolini and candied bacon.
Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant | 540 NW Chipman Road, Lee's Summit, MO 64086 | $$
13. Buca di Beppo
When it comes to date ideas in Kansas City, nothing is more romantic than Italian. And if you’re looking for a charming birthday dinner spot to surprise your partner, Buca di Beppo is the perfect place. This lively Italian restaurant is known for its hearty, family-style portions and festive atmosphere.
The Vibe
The cozy and vibrant vibe is made up of eclectic décor with Italian-themed photos and memorabilia adorning the walls.
What to order
Menu highlights are the spaghetti with meatballs, featuring giant, flavorful meatballs, as well as the chicken parmigiana, a classic dish with perfectly breaded chicken and marinara sauce.
Buca di Beppo | 310 W. 47th St., Kansas City, MO, 64112 | $$
14. 801 Chophouse
If you've always pictured your ideal birthday dinner in Kansas City as having the classic American steakhouse ambiance, 801 Chophouse is the restaurant to book. It's an upscale steakhouse known for its exceptional cuts of beef and refined dining experience. The menu features the finest USDA prime steaks, fresh seafood and an extensive wine list. It also offers six private dining rooms that can host parties from eight to 70 people.
The Vibe
Thanks to rich wood paneling, leather seating and ambient lighting that create a warm and inviting atmosphere, 801 Chophouse has a sophisticated and timeless vibe.
What to Order
The bone-in ribeye or filet mignon will provide the juicy tenderness you're craving for a birthday dinner in Kansas City. Complement your meal with a side of lobster mac and cheese for an indulgent treat, then finish with the classic New York cheesecake for a sweet ending to your birthday dinner in Kansas City.
801 Chophouse | 71 E. 14th St., Kansas City, MO 64106 | $$$
15. The Majestic Restaurant
Blend the best of both worlds for your birthday idea in Kansas City by booking at The Majestic Restaurant. Not only does it offer some of the best BBQ in Kansas City, but it also levels up your celebration with live jazz music.
The Vibe
A lively yet intimate atmosphere means you're guaranteed to enjoy a sophisticated and festive birthday dinner in Kansas City.
What to Order
Among its premier steaks, you’ll find the 16oz American wagyu bone-in — a stand-out choice. The New Zealand lamb chops will also make your tastebuds sing.
The Majestic Restaurant | 931 Broadway Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64105 | $$$
16. Affäre
If you’re hoping for a birthday dinner in Kansas City with some international flair, a great option is Affäre, which offers a modern twist on traditional German cuisine. Chef Martin Heuser offers an exclusive dining experience focusing on locally sourced ingredients, changing the menu every season.
The Vibe
Affäre has a sophisticated and trendy vibe, with sleek décor, artistic touches and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
What to Order
If you’re seeking the whole gourmet experience for your birthday dinner in Kansas City, consider trying the tasting menu, with three courses and a dessert taking you on a unique culinary journey.
Affäre | 1911 Main St., Kansas City, MO 6410 | $$$
17. Café Sebastienne
A unique ambiance and artful dining experience combine in perfect unity at Café Sebastienne. While Café Sebastienne is not open for dinner service, it can be booked for a private birthday dinner in Kansas City any night of the week.
The Vibe
A sophisticated and artistic vibe, with vibrant, contemporary décor and an intimate atmosphere.
What to Order
For a delicious appetizer to kick off your birthday dinner in Kansas City, start with the roast carrots made with garlic yogurt, crispy kale, dukkah and chive oil. The salmon, grilled with lentils, asparagus, spinach and lemon aioli, is also exquisite.
Café Sebastienne | 4420 Warwick Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64111 | $$
18. Lidia's
Located in the historic Freight House district, Lidia’s is an exceptional choice for a birthday dinner in Kansas City as it offers an authentic Italian experience. It’s well known for its handmade pasta and traditional Italian dishes, all made with high-quality ingredients.
The Vibe
This popular spot has a cozy and charming atmosphere that fits the bill for a comfortable birthday dinner in Kansas City.
What to Order
The signature pasta trio offers a taste of three different handmade pastas. Pair your meal with a fine Italian wine and don't miss out on the tiramisu for dessert.
Lidia’s Restaurant | 101 W. 22nd St., Kansas City, MO 64108 | $$$
19. Stock Hill
Renowned for its premium steaks, fresh seafood and innovative side dishes, all prepared with meticulous attention to quality and detail, Stock Hill is an upscale steakhouse perfect for a luxurious and memorable birthday dinner in Kansas City.
The Vibe
With sleek décor, marble accents, plush seating and ambient lighting, you'll experience an overall elegant vibe.
What to Order
Start your birthday dinner in Kansas City with the flavorful and fresh tuna tataki. For the main course, popular options include the Delmonico ribeye or the wagyu options with cuts from Australia, America and Japan.
Stock Hill | 4800 Main St., Ste. G-001, Kansas City, MO 64112 | $$$
20. Sichuan Dynasty
For those who love authentic Chinese cuisine, Sichuan Dynasty is a great option for a birthday dinner in Kansas City. You can enjoy a variety of dishes including meat, seafood, hot pots, noodles and bubble tea.
The Vibe
Enjoy a warm and welcoming birthday dinner in Kansas City with traditional Chinese décor, including beautiful lanterns and intricate woodwork, creating a cozy atmosphere.
What to Order
Try the mapo tofu for a bold and flavorful meal. The Chongqing spicy chicken, featuring crispy chicken pieces and a generous amount of chile peppers, is also a must-try.
Sichuan Dynasty | 206 W. 119th St., Overland Park, Kansas City, MO 66213 | $$
21. County Road Ice House
For a more casual and laid-back birthday dinner in Kansas City, County Road Ice House offers tasty food and a comfortable environment. It's known for its classic Kansas City barbecue, offering a menu filled with smoked meats, savory sides and refreshing drinks.
The Vibe
County Road Ice House has a laid-back and fun vibe, with rustic décor, communal seating and a bustling atmosphere.
What to Order
The pulled pork sandwich is bound to fill you up during your birthday dinner in Kansas City. The smoked ribs are also a go-to for meat lovers looking for a hearty meal filled with immense flavors.
County Road Ice House | 100 E. 14th St., Kansas City, MO 64106 | $$
22. The Melting Pot
Any birthday dinner in Kansas City involving fondue will provide a fun and engaging way to enjoy a meal with friends and family, and that's exactly what you'll get at The Melting Pot.
The Vibe
A cozy and romantic vibe with dim lighting, comfortable seating and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
What to Order
The Land and Sea entrée, featuring a selection of premium meats and seafood for cooking in a flavorful broth, is highly recommended for any birthday dinner in Kansas City.
The Melting Pot | 50 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64112 | $$
23. Lonnie’s Reno Club
What makes Lonnie’s Reno Club a great place for a birthday dinner in Kansas City is an exciting concept that blends fine dining with live jazz music. You can explore the News and Events section on the restaurant's site to find out when popular jazz artists are set to hit the stage.
The Vibe
Lonnie’s Reno Club has a casual and upbeat vibe with retro décor and a comfortable neighborhood bar feel.
What to Order
The pre-fixe menu is the way to go for three courses filled with flavor. Options include fresh Caesar salad, salmon, beef Wellington, triple chocolate mousse and more.
Lonnie’s Reno Club | 1111 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64106 | $$
24. Ça Va
If you’re looking for a restaurant with exquisite French cuisine, Ça Va is a delightful choice for a birthday dinner in Kansas City. Get ready to enjoy Champagne and sparkling wines from around the world, paired with a menu of delicious French-inspired dishes.
The Vibe
With an elegant, yet relaxed atmosphere, charming décor featuring vintage Champagne posters, cozy seating and soft lighting, this is undoubtedly one of the best birthday restaurants in Kansas City.
What to Order
Kick off your birthday dinner in Kansas City with a cheese and charcuterie board featuring a selection of artisanal cheeses and cured meats, paired with fresh baguettes and house-made preserves. The croque madame, deviled eggs with caviar and French soup are also worth ordering.
Ça Va | 4149 Pennsylvania Ave., Kansas City, MO 64111 | $$-$$$
25. Tavern at Mission Farms
Birthday dinners in Kansas City don't get more memorable than those spent at Tavern at Mission Farms. The menu features a variety of dishes ranging from burgers and sandwiches to seafood and steaks, all crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The Vibe
Sophisticated and inviting, with contemporary décor and plush seating creating a cozy, upscale ambiance.
What to Order
Try the lobster pot pie, made with lobster, shrimp, Atlantic cod, shallots, garlic, Yukon potatoes and a deliciously creamy white wine sauce. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from the curated selection or opt for a tasty cocktail.
Tavern at Mission Farms | 10681 Mission Road, Leawood, Kansas City, MO 66206 | $$
26. Kona Grill
With a healthy combination of diverse American and Asian cuisines, Kona Grill offers a vibrant and eclectic dining experience, perfect for a fun and festive birthday celebration. With a menu featuring sushi, burgers, sandwiches and signature cocktails, amongst other tasty options, there'll be something for everyone to enjoy at your birthday dinner in Kansas City.
The Vibe
Kona Grill has a modern and energetic vibe, with sleek décor, upbeat music and a bustling atmosphere. The setting is lively and inviting, creating a vibrant backdrop for an unforgettable birthday dinner in Kansas City.
What to Order
Start with the avocado egg rolls, a popular appetizer with a crispy exterior and creamy avocado filling. For the main course, try the pad Thai or the premium Australian wagyu picanha made with chipotle lime butter and crispy garlic potatoes.
Kona Grill | 444 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64112 | $$
27. Prime Social
If you enjoy good food and elevated flavors, discover creative cuisine at Prime Social, an ideal spot for an unforgettable birthday dinner in Kansas City. Created with sharing in mind, this restaurant offers a varied menu featuring prime steaks, seafood and exquisite cocktails.
The Vibe
Prime Social is stylish and chic, with contemporary décor and a refined atmosphere.
What to Order
Trust us when we say the fresh oysters will be the cherry on top for a wonderful birthday dinner in Kansas City. The exquisite selection of sushi rolls are also worth trying, and for parties looking for a decent burger, the Prime sliders are excellent.
Prime Social | 4622 Pennsylvania Ave., Kansas City, MO 64112 | $$
28. Blade & Timber
Looking for a birthday idea in Kansas City that's far from the norm? Get the best of both worlds by burning calories and indulging in delightful food at Blade & Timber. Located in the Crossroads Arts District, Blade & Timber provides a safe and controlled environment for guests to learn and enjoy the thrill of axe throwing.
The Vibe
Blade & Timber is known for its energetic and adventurous vibe. With industrial-chic décor, comfortable seating areas and upbeat music, the atmosphere is laid-back, yet exciting.
What to Order
The food offerings are mostly snacks and small bites, including nachos, wings, sliders and fries. These are well-paired with crafted cocktails or beers that can be enjoyed during an active birthday dinner in Kansas City.
Blade & Timber | 1303 Baltimore Ave., Kansas City, MO 64105 | $
29. The Campground
If comfort food and creative cocktails sound like a match made in heaven for your birthday dinner in Kansas City, The Campground is the place to be.
The Vibe
The atmosphere here is nostalgic, laid-back and inviting, encouraging guests to unwind and enjoy a leisurely meal in a cozy setting.
What to Order
The pork loin and cavatelli are both signature dishes that blend quality ingredients with smoked flavors. Finish off your birthday dinner in Kansas City with a dish of s’mores.
The Campground | 1531 Genessee St., Kansas City, MO 64102 | $$
30. The Dinner Detective
Seeking more than just a delectable meal for your birthday dinner in Kansas City? Head to The Dinner Detective for a comedic murder mystery show with a four-course plated dinner, creating an engaging and entertaining evening.
The Vibe
The Dinner Detective is a lively and interactive place to enjoy your birthday dinner in Kansas City, with a blend of suspense, comedy and flavorful dining.
What to Order
Guests can enjoy a four-course plated dinner that typically includes options like salad, an entrée choice (such as chicken, beef, or vegetarian) and dessert. The menu varies based on the specific venue and date of the event.
The Dinner Detective | 1301 Wyandotte St., Kansas City, MO 64105 | $$
31. The Mercury Room
Located in the heart of downtown Kansas City, The Mercury Room offers a chic and sophisticated venue for a stylish birthday dinner in Kansas City.
The Vibe
This popular spot for a birthday dinner in Kansas City is glamorous and refined, with a contemporary, yet timeless aesthetic that appeals to guests seeking an upscale spot in which to celebrate.
What to Order
The Mercury Room focuses exclusively on elevated cocktails, like its Corn 'N' Oil made with rotating foursquare rum, falernum, juicy lime coin and aromatic bitters. Though they do not offer food, you can arrange catering for a private celebration.
The Mercury Room | 700 W. 47th St., Ste. 115, Kansas City, MO 64112 | $$$
Other Foodie Experiences in Kansas City
While a birthday dinner in Kansas City is always a great idea to gather with your loved ones, celebrating doesn’t always have to mean dining out. You could hire private chefs in Kansas City to enjoy a gourmet dinner without leaving the comfort of your own space. Whether it’s an intimate dinner for two or a gathering with friends and family, you can book a renowned chef to tailor the menu to your preferences and create a memorable culinary experience. Or, you could go for something more interactive that promises fun for everyone, such as cooking classes in Kansas City. Not only will you have a top-rated meal to enjoy for your birthday; you'll gain hands-on experience by honing your cooking skills, thanks to the best in the business.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
Your special day is coming up and you probably want to plan the perfect birthday dinner in Kansas City. Luckily there are endless options that adapt to all preferences and budgets. Whether you want to enjoy a classic barbecue with smoked ribs, or you want something more sophisticated like oysters with Champagne, Kansas City always hits the jackpot with the best restaurants and bars.
For even more ways to explore Kansas City and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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