You Say Tomato — Restaurant in Kansas City

I would probably be torn between 3 and 4 stars (with a five-star review being reserved for the old-style, stuffy-sort of fine dining, with table-side service, starched tablecloths and folded napkins, a sommelier, etc.) but, I've been a resident in this area for over 25 years and that, in itself, would bump up my review a solid point. When I was much younger, I worked in food and beverage management all over the country, Kansas City, Chicago, San Francisco, Palm Beach, etc.- all four and five star hotels and restaurants; so I believe that my past experience in a very tough, demanding business, gives me an eye for detail that others might miss. Our neighborhood has struggled with crack and crime and the problems of other urban environments, but you don't have to worry about walking the streets anymore. Though still in the process of gentrification, it has retained its congenial diversity. I enjoy the locale and clientele: a mixture of young and old, different racial ethnicities, local office workers and their management, acceptance of sexual orientation, and the closeness to the 'artsiness' of the nearby Crossroads District. The physical layout of the restaurant lets you see exactly how your food is being prepared (you can even see the prep work being done). The staff is extra friendly and some of them (the ones I've had a chance to speak with) live in the neighborhood as well. Atmosphere and food quality is top-notch and you even get a chance to pick up some local produce. It is very hip, in a low-key, relaxed sort of way and a wonderful place to take friends, especially from Johnson County where you just don't get this kind of non-corporate, one of a kind, community-like ambiance. I've been to YST at least a dozen times and each of those times, the food has remained consistent, in presentation, freshness, quality and taste; one might call it innovative, comfort food. I not only enjoy myself when I go, but I feel like I support my neighborhood and the young people that take pride in what they produce, a sense of commitment, Although generally young, the 'crew', if not in restaurant work as a career, is probably composed of struggling, local artists, not business majors expecting large tips for little knowledge or respect for 'the food.' Prices are reasonable. Try it and I would suspect you, too,...

I love this place, I've been going for about 2 years now and it's a favorite of mine. It's quaint and a little quirky. The seating is first come first served, and it's definitely a little unique, but if you're not shy or expecting a full service experience, this place can be perfect.

Advice on seating: if you see a couple sitting at a table meant for a large party, don't begrudge them, it may have been the only thing available at the time. The community around this place is also usually accommodating if you need to sit at the same table, just politely ask if you can join them if that's the only seating available. I know some people find that weird, stressful, or it might be the wrong mood for the type of meal you're trying to have... but honestly if you're open to possibilities and kind to others, seating is not an issue. Also be aware to not just hang out too long afterwards if theres a large crowd... no one has ever said anything to me or made me feel uncomfortable, but I try to be accommodating if theres a rush, so that others can sit and have a nice meal too. I have had days where I can comfortably sit there for an hour or two with no risk of displacing anyone, just depends on the day.

The food is health conscious and delicious. Every restaurant has their off days, so I've probably only had one, maybe two things that I wasn't thrilled about but they change their menu everyday so that's a little expected to happen every once in a while... I've probably been here 20 times or more.

Certain times are busier than others, so I reccomend coming either earlier or after the brunch rush.

This place can be really fun and really great if you let it. And don't expect for this place to work like every other breakfast place, it's unique and its greatness is solely rooted in that. So come in with an open mind and a good attitude and you'll be rewarded with a great experience.

The staff are nice and down to earth, which adds a lot to the homey vibe. It's always charming and a treat...

Update: Still great and the following review still stands. The raspberry rolls are a must try, coming in second only to the chocolate rolls that are inspired by classic choices in some Mexican cuisine.

Google is asking me to review this place after a recent visit. You Say Tomato is still 5 stars. I guess I didn't elaborate 4 years ago when I first offered a rating, and now I could. There's just a lot to say, and here's some of it. I've been a big fan since I first went here - 2011? 2012? I'm not really a very conspicuous customer, but I've had the pleasure of chatting with Annie during the pandemic food pick ups, and resourcing the delightful food here to ease how many things there are to juggle. The pocket Reuben is always a smashing success for me, but it doesn't stop there. Are there ever blips? Yep, because humans are making this food. Will building a relationship with the menu (the quiche! the breakfast casserole!), if not the people, be worth your while? I certainly think so. I know I'm not the longest running customer by far, but there's few places that I've been as happy to go back to, over and over again for both the people and the food. P.S. I've never found a quiche...