3205 Main St., Kansas City
816/753-0828
www.gatesbbq.com [1]
HOURS: Daily 10 a.m.–midnight
COST: Most entrées between $10–20
If you’re seeking some of Kansas City [2]’s best barbecue, you’ve got to head to Gates. To make your first visit less overwhelming, follow these tips. You’ll immediately be greeted with the restaurant employees’ signature opener: “Hi, may I help you?” You probably won’t know what to order, so smile, make eye contact and signal for an extra minute.
The best bet is a sandwich with your favorite meat, served with a heaping helping of fries. If you’re with a larger group, try the mixed plate for a sampling of Gates’ tender meats and a heaping dollop of the restaurant’s famous sauce.
The dining room retains a traditional, old-fashioned feel thanks to a rich color scheme, leather booths, and vintage, belt-powered ceiling fans. It’s a fitting atmosphere for one of Kansas City’s first families of barbecue, and a perfect example of an old adage: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Links:
[1] http://www.gatesbbq.com
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/kansas-city