106 Main St., Smithville
816/532-2300
www.drugstorerestaurant.com

HOURS: Tues.–Thurs. 5:30–10 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 5:30–11 p.m.,
Sun. 5:30–9 p.m.

COST: Most entrées more than $20

Since Justus Drugstore opened its doors, critical acclaim has poured in from area foodies, critics, and those simply in search of a good meal. Named after chef Jonathan Justus’s family’s drugstore that previously occupied the building, the restaurant is single-handedly transforming Kansas City’s culinary reputation, appearing in publications such as Food and Wine and Travel + Leisure magazines.

The modern interior is a pleasing contrast to the restaurant’s small-town surroundings and includes a small yet spacious dining area and a bar outfitted with swivel stools, a homage to the building’s drugstore past.

Be prepared to drive—Smithville is about 35 minutes from downtown Kansas City—but it’s well worth the trek to launch a culinary adventure.

The Drugstore’s menu is peppered with local ingredients coaxed out of their comfort zone by inventive combinations. The focus is on the food, so a meal here isn’t a race; instead, it’s a leisurely event meant to inspire not just your taste buds, but your soul—the perfect prescription for whatever ails you.