Recent Diamonds

I just couldn't help but blog about two of my new-found favorite spots in Kansas City to eat at! One of which is called Chez Elle, located in the Westside neighborhood at 1713 Summit. It is an adorable little building that used to be a theater, but has been redone as a little french creperie, fit with accordion music and fresh flowers at each little circular table. The atmosphere is that of a neighborhood coffeehouse; you order at the counter and then have the food brought to you. The restaurant is also clearly what it claims to be: a place that serves only crepes. But don't let that fact deceive you, there are LOTS of options. There are around 25 or so choices of various crepes ranging from sweet crepes, to vegetable crepes, to breakfast crepes. There are healthy options, and those not-so-healthy options to appease a man who loves his bacon and gravy. There are also plenty of vegetarian crepes. I had a crepe with brie cheese, apples, and walnuts that was heavenly. My mom tried one that was Italian-inspired with mozzarella cheese, chicken, and marinara sauce. I highly suggest it if you are looking for a cute, local place to have brunch! (Beware, it is only open for the first half of the day, but it is rumored to also be open during the night on First Fridays). Definitely a hidden treasure of Kansas City!!! Here is a link to their menu if you like to plan ahead!

The second place I am excited about is La Bodega. Now, this restaurant is not new to me, as I'm sure it is well known to others in the Kansas City area, but I just had to give it props since my most recent visit. I have always liked this place for both its delicious sangria and atmosphere, but we must have just ordered the perfect combination of tapas last time, because we all left raving about it! The restaurant is located on Southwest Boulevard amidst the well-know local Mexican establishments (there is also a new Johnson County location on 119th St, but I don't like to acknowledge this), however, don't be fooled. La Bodega is no Mexican restaurant! It is Spanish cuisine and they are well known for their array of tapas (small plates). Having been to Spain, I understand that tapas are a huge part of Spanish culture...the idea of coming together to share food, have a few cocktails and socialize fits well in my life, not sure about you!! I think I like the idea that I don't have to decide on just one thing...you order a few and then get to try everyone else's, too! Last time we were there, we ordered the prosciutto-wrapped shrimp, the goat cheese crepe, and sauteed mushrooms (just to name a few!). I highly recommend this place for a date-night, celebration, or family dinner :) Just an FYI, there are entrees on the menu as well, so don't be discouraged if tapas ain't your thing!