Kansas City | OG BBQ & Local Strawberry Milk π
Kansas City BBQ is distinct from Texas-style β it emphasizes rich, tangy-sweet sauces, sometimes with a hint of spice. The glossy, layered glaze is brushed generously over ribs, which are then slow-smoked to perfection β resulting in a caramelized, slightly crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat inside. π Joeβs KC BBQ π 3002 W 47th Ave, Kansas City, KS This is Joeβs original location β tucked behind a gas station β½. Many American food chains started in gas stations β a truly βAmericanβ origin story. After road-tripping across the country, Iβve learned that gas stations are the heart of authentic roadside culture. Driving through the Midwest, you can go hours without passing a town or even a Starbucks β gas station coffee and food literally keep you going! Must-orders: Fries & Onion Rings π§ β These are the best onion rings Iβve had in the U.S. β incredibly crispy with a real crunch! The fries are dusted with Joeβs special seasoning β so good I bought a bottle from their shop to take with me everywhere. Ribs β Slow-smoked and deeply flavorful β fall-off-the-bone tender, never tough or dry. Burnt Ends β A Kansas City specialty! These are the crispy, smoky edges of the brisket β caramelized on the outside, juicy inside. Dirty Rice β A surprising standout. The server told me itβs his top pick β rice mixed with sausage, slightly spicy and richly seasoned. π Shatto Milk A must-try local Missouri dairy brand π. They offer many flavors β strawberry, coffee, marshmallow, chocolate, and more. The strawberry milk tastes just like Tianjinβs βHaiheβ strawberry milk β but even less sweet and with a natural, fresh strawberry flavor (no artificial taste!). You can even visit the Shatto Farm (less than an hour from KC) for a tour β see the cows, learn about milking, and sample all the flavors! π Messenger Coffee β Two locations β I went to the one near the museum, but the downtown spot has a beautiful 3rd-floor rooftop. Their pour-over coffee is excellent β options include Kenya, Honduras, Colombia, and even Geisha. #FoodieAdventure #HiddenGems #USATravel #TravelMeaning #LongWeekendGetaway #FoodShare #USRoadTrip
