Kansas City’s food scene has no shortage of hidden gems. I spent the week hunting down some local spots you can’t miss that are just minutes from Rockhurst’s campus. Here’s what I found and why each location belongs on your must-try list.
Luca Bagel: Authentic Jersey-Style Bagels- 633 E 63rd Street, Kansas City, MO 64110
The first stop on my list was Luca Bagel. Luca Bagel, which started as a beloved pop-up at the Overland Park Farmers Market, has now opened its first brick-and-mortar in Brookside. The Brookside location’s steady weekend crowds make its place on this list no surprise.
I tried the No. 2 on an everything bagel—bacon, egg, Hemme Bros. cheddar with scallion schmear—for just over $12. Although the price gave me pause at first, the weight of the box said it all. Packed to the brim with cheese melting into every crevice, this was no ordinary breakfast sandwich. Luca Bagel was hearty, flavorful and truly worth the hype.
Rating: 9.5/10
Baba’s Pantry: Palestinian-American Deli & Bakery- 1019 E 63rd St, Kansas City, MO 64110
Baba’s Pantry is a family-owned Mediterranean deli offering something for everyone—vegans, carnivores and all in between. Just off Troost, it offers delivery, takeout, outdoor seating and catering. Baba’s Pantry is as versatile as it is delicious. The dining area is cozy and comforting, with an open view of chefs preparing food fresh in the back.
I ordered the chicken shawarma pita for $13.50, expecting a standard wrap, but instead received a generously stuffed pita layered with bold, balanced flavors. The portion was unbeatable for the price. Even better, the stuffed falafel pieces for $6.15—falafel filled with sumac onions and parsley, served with tahini—were both vegan and gluten free, and absolutely unforgettable. I’d return for the falafel alone.
Rating: 8.7/10
Bay Boy Specialty Sandwiches– 4706 Holly St, Kansas City, MO 64112
My favorite gem on this list is a Kansas City staple. Bay Boy brings a taste of the Bay Area to KC as the first shop to introduce Dutch Crunch bread locally. Tucked into a neighborhood just outside the Plaza, it has a cozy, vintage vibe with counter service and indoor-outdoor seating.
The menu rotates often, offering both classics and inventive specials. On my visit, I tried the Peaches and Scream—turkey, candied jalapeños, arugula, fontina cheese and Amish peach jam on toasted Dutch Crunch. The sweet-and-spicy combination was phenomenal. I also sampled the Hot Pastrami, stacked with premium pastrami, Swiss cheese, pickles, horseradish and mustard. It was easily the best pastrami sandwich I’ve had. While the prices may seem high for a sandwich on a student budget, the size and quality make every bite worthwhile. If you haven’t been already, Bay Boy is a one-of-a-kind sandwich spot in the city.
Rating: 10/10
Blackhole Bakery: Mochi Donuts and French Pastries- 5531 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110
Blackhole Bakery is quickly becoming a campus favorite thanks to its unique offerings. Specializing in French pastries, scratch-made bagels and the Midwest’s only mochi donuts, it has become the go-to weekend treat spot.
I sampled several mochi donut flavors—Oreo and Mango Chili stood out—but the brioche cinnamon roll was the true star. Gooey, buttery and perfectly balanced, it’s worth lining up for. Arrive early, though—the lines form quickly, and for good reason.
Rating: 9.7/10
Mildred’s: Your new study spot- 5060 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64112
Mildred’s has been a KC staple since the 1990s, expanding from a family-run café to one of the city’s go-to breakfast and lunch spots. Known for its wide variety of scratch-made pastries, it’s hard to walk in without grabbing something from the case alongside your coffee.
On my first visit, I tried the Chipotle Breakfast Wrap for $9.49—steamed eggs, bacon, breakfast potatoes, cheddar and chipotle aioli wrapped in a tortilla. It was easily one of the best breakfast burritos in KC. Later in the week, I went back for the Classic Breakfast Sandwich on a brioche bun, which may have been even better. Perfectly balanced, flavorful and satisfying, it set a new bar for breakfast sandwiches.
To wash it all down, I grabbed a classic iced coffee with vanilla, which has already earned its place as a daily staple for me. With strong espresso drinks, seasonal flavors and even spiked options for customers 21 and older, Mildred’s covers all the bases. The café also offers multiple levels of seating and a spacious outdoor patio, making it an ideal spot to study or hang out between classes.
Rating: 9.3/10
Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast sandwich, a Mediterranean feast, or a one-of-a-kind donut, there’s no shortage of options just outside Rockhurst’s campus bubble. Next time you’re hungry, skip the usual chains and take a short walk or drive, as you just might find your new favorite spot.
