The American

The American The American has spent decades developing a signature blend of flavor and character for a truly exceptional private event experience.
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Let our seasoned staff help you create and customize your special occasion. For more than 40 years The American Restaurant has been putting Kansas City on the nation’s culinary map and introducing local fine dining fans to some of the country’s most celebrated chefs. But perhaps its best description is less about The American’s legendary food, service and ambience, and more about the role it has p

layed in Kansas Citians’ lives. It comes from the late Adele Hall, ardent fan, civic leader and wife of Donald J. Hall, chairman of Hallmark Cards, Inc., owner of the Crown Center real estate development The American calls home.

“I thought it would be wonderful,” she said, reflecting on The American’s 25th anniversary in 1999, “if this could be the place to come to put the exclamation point on a special occasion.”

That, The American most certainly has been, and continues to be.

Chef Michael wowed at ShuttleCork 2024, crafting a Rabbit Pâté en Croûte with garden-fresh veggies and tart cherry mosta...
05/06/2024

Chef Michael wowed at ShuttleCork 2024, crafting a Rabbit Pâté en Croûte with garden-fresh veggies and tart cherry mostarda!

Images from yesterday’s 23rd Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner. An unforgettable evening celebrating our 50th annive...
03/03/2024

Images from yesterday’s 23rd Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner. An unforgettable evening celebrating our 50th anniversary and supporting the James Beard Foundation. Heartfelt thanks to our incredible chefs and to everyone who joined us for the occasion. Cheers to a memorable night!

Join us in welcoming back James Beard Award-winner Chef Debbie Gold to The American for our 23rd Annual Friends of James...
02/29/2024

Join us in welcoming back James Beard Award-winner Chef Debbie Gold to The American for our 23rd Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner. With over two decades of culinary brilliance, Chef Gold’s return is a homecoming event not to be missed. Her innovative French cuisine and storied career, including her acclaimed tenure at The American, set the stage for an unforgettable evening. Only 2 tickets remain—find the link in our Instagram bio!

Chef Olson took the spotlight on Fox 4’s Great Day KC this morning, sharing the secret behind his mouthwatering Pakora. ...
02/26/2024

Chef Olson took the spotlight on Fox 4’s Great Day KC this morning, sharing the secret behind his mouthwatering Pakora. He also gave us a sneak peek into what’s in store for the 23rd Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner happening this Saturday.  Limited tickets are available – grab yours before they’re gone! Link in Instagram bio!

Chef Nguyet Nguyen, a first-generation Vietnamese American, weaves her cultural heritage into a symphony of flavors. Hon...
02/25/2024

Chef Nguyet Nguyen, a first-generation Vietnamese American, weaves her cultural heritage into a symphony of flavors. Honing her skills under renowned chefs and shining internationally, including a bronze at the 2020 Culinary Olympics, she brings a wealth of experience to our 23rd Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner. Known for pastries that celebrate tropical fruits and luxurious chocolates, Chef Nguyen’s desserts are a canvas of innovation. With just a few seats left, don’t miss out—find the ticket link in our Instagram bio.
 
23rd Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner Tickets, Sat, Mar 2, 2024 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/23rd-annual-friends-of-james-beard-benefit-dinner-tickets-818783723157?aff=erelexpmlt

Excited to spotlight our next chef, Chef Michael Corvino of Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room for our 23rd Annual Frien...
02/22/2024

Excited to spotlight our next chef, Chef Michael Corvino of Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room for our 23rd Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner. A master of contemporary American cuisine, Chef Corvino’s culinary artistry earned the AAA Four Diamond Award shortly after the restaurant’s opening. As a 2023 James Beard Award Semifinalist, his innovative dishes are a must-experience in KC. Join us to taste the excellence from a chef who’s shaped the city’s dining with each plate. Tickets are going fast: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/23rd-annual-friends-of-james-beard-benefit-dinner-tickets-818783723157?aff=erelexpmlt

Discover the origins of elegance at The American Restaurant. The first photo reveals our very first menu, where architec...
02/09/2024

Discover the origins of elegance at The American Restaurant. The first photo reveals our very first menu, where architect Warren Platner’s vision was woven into the fabric of our space, aiming “to look ‘like a huge lace valentine.’”
The second image transports you inside the iconic dining room of 1974, under a canopy of glass and oak, embodying intimacy and grandeur—a true hallmark of Kansas City’s fine dining scene.
As we prepare for the 23rd annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner on March 2nd, 2024, we’re not just celebrating our culinary excellence, but also the artful design that has hosted these unforgettable experiences.
 
Get your tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/23rd-annual-friends-of-james-beard-benefit-dinner-tickets-818783723157?aff=oddtdtcreator

Get ready to be wowed by Chef Vaughn Good of Fox and Pearl at our 23rd Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner. A c...
02/07/2024

Get ready to be wowed by Chef Vaughn Good of Fox and Pearl at our 23rd Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner. A craftsman of regional cuisine, Chef Good brings a soulful touch to his dishes. As a 2020 James Beard Semi-Finalist, expect nothing but an exquisite showcase of flavors, all sourced from local farms and served with his signature rustic flair. Join us for a taste of his enchanting blend of tradition and innovation. Photography: &
Tickets available here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/23rd-annual-friends-of-james-beard-benefit-dinner-tickets-818783723157?utm_source=eventbrite&utm_medium=email&utm_content=follow_notification&utm_campaign=following_published_event&utm_term=23rd+Annual+Friends+of+James+Beard+Benefit+Dinner&aff=ebemoffollowpublishemail&utm_experiment=follow_template.B

Exciting news! The 23rd Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner is on March 2nd. This year, we’re celebrating 50 Ye...
02/01/2024

Exciting news! The 23rd Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner is on March 2nd. This year, we’re celebrating 50 Years of the American with a Golden Anniversary theme. We’ve got an amazing lineup of chefs. It’s a blend of the classic and the modern, all in support of a great cause. Tickets go on sale tomorrow on The American’s Eventbrite page. Join us for this special evening!

Check out these stunning shots from this wedding at the American. Truly mesmerizing! Dreaming of your own magical day? G...
01/31/2024

Check out these stunning shots from this wedding at the American. Truly mesmerizing! Dreaming of your own magical day? Get in touch with our Sr. Catering Seller, Pex Kotz, at [email protected] to start planning!

Photos:
Planner:
Florals & Furniture:
Lighting:

Ringing in 2024 with a dazzling NYE bash at The American! Each corner turned into a spectacle of celebration! Inspired t...
01/16/2024

Ringing in 2024 with a dazzling NYE bash at The American! Each corner turned into a spectacle of celebration!
Inspired to host your own unforgettable event at The American? Email [email protected] and let's make your vision a reality.

Balloon artistry by:
Décor and specialty furniture by:
Stage & lighting magic by:
Photography by:

Thank You for an Unforgettable Evening!Last week, we celebrated Día de los Mu***os in style, and it was truly a night to...
11/14/2023

Thank You for an Unforgettable Evening!
Last week, we celebrated Día de los Mu***os in style, and it was truly a night to remember! A heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us! Your presence made the evening extra special.
From the exquisite dishes crafted by our talented chefs to the enchanting Mariachi melodies that filled the room, every moment was a testament to the spirit of this beautiful tradition. We hope the flavors, colors, and sounds of the evening left you with cherished memories.
As we close this chapter, we're already buzzing with excitement for our next big event. Mark your calendars for early March, as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of The American with a spectacular James Beard Benefit Dinner. It's going to be an evening you won't want to miss.
Stay tuned for more details, and once again, thank you for being part of our community. Your support means the world to us!

There are chefs, and then there's Kyle Hopkins—a culinary adventurer whose journey took him to the screens of MasterChef...
10/26/2023

There are chefs, and then there's Kyle Hopkins—a culinary adventurer whose journey took him to the screens of MasterChef Season 13. But his love for cooking doesn’t end in the kitchen. As a Certified Cicerone and beer industry veteran, Kyle sees food as an interactive landscape that pairs perfectly with a good brew. He first grabbed attention with his local pop-up supper club, Food Underground Kansas City (FUKC), and has worked with iconic names like Boulevard Brewery and Surly Brewing. Residing in East Brookside, Kyle brings a creative edge to our Día de los Mu***os feast, promising dishes that will not only taste good but feel good.

There is still time to get your seats for November 3rd:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dia-de-los-muertos-a-celebration-of-cuisine-and-culture-at-the-american-tickets-726806436617?aff=oddtdtcreator

Marissa Gencarelli is not just a chef; she's a culinary storyteller. Born and raised in Sonora, México, she brings her a...
10/14/2023

Marissa Gencarelli is not just a chef; she's a culinary storyteller. Born and raised in Sonora, México, she brings her authentic roots to Kansas City with her venture, Yoli Tortilleria. Yoli recently won the prestigious James Beard Award for 'Outstanding Bakery,' a testament to Marissa's commitment to quality and tradition. At Yoli, you'll find stone-ground corn tortillas, tamales, and a range of salsas that elevate your dining experience. Marissa’s work intersects food with storytelling, making her creations not just meals, but experiences. Her culinary prowess will grace our tables during the Día de los Mu***os, adding an unforgettable layer to the celebration.

Grab your tickets here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dia-de-los-muertos-a-celebration-of-cuisine-and-culture-at-the-american-tickets-726806436617?aff=oddtdtcreator

Clear your calendar on November 3rd for Día de los Mu***os: A Celebration of Cuisine and Culture at The American! We’re ...
10/12/2023

Clear your calendar on November 3rd for Día de los Mu***os: A Celebration of Cuisine and Culture at The American! We’re rolling out a night of sensory delights, merging rich Mexican traditions with culinary mastery. We’re thrilled to announce that the evening will feature award-winning Chef Marissa Gencarelli of Yoli Tortilleria, our very own Executive Chef Michael Olson, and the talented Chef Kyle Hopkins from MasterChef fame. It’s going to be a night full of unique flavors and masterful pairings. Don’t miss out—tickets are available NOW: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dia-de-los-muertos-a-celebration-of-cuisine-and-culture-at-the-american-tickets-726806436617?aff=oddtdtcreator

Nicolette Felling is a powerhouse of talent, creativity, and skill, currently gracing the world as the Executive Pastry ...
06/27/2023

Nicolette Felling is a powerhouse of talent, creativity, and skill, currently gracing the world as the Executive Pastry Chef at The American. She has been a pivotal part of our culinary family for the past 8 months, elevating our dessert offerings for our private and public events!
 
Born and raised in Kansas City, Nicolette's culinary journey took her far and wide, from the hustle of New York to the sandy beaches of Florida. She carries an essence of every place she has worked at, infusing her creations with a unique and delicious multicultural tapestry.
 
A proud alumni of the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), Nicolette's formal training equipped her with the technical skills necessary to excel in a professional kitchen. Nicolette frequently traded her scheduled breaks for the opportunity to apprentice under the coaching of Instructor Stéphane Weber. Through Weber's careful mentoring, Nicolette nurtured a deep appreciation and passion for the art of macaron-making, which has since evolved into her signature craft.
 
Nicolette's macarons are not merely sweet treats; they're tiny edible works of art, as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. Her standout flavors include a vibrant blueberry lavender macaron, a delightfully surprising meyer lemon olive oil variant, and a classic Tahitian vanilla bean that's truly a celebration of simplicity and purity.
 
Ten years ago, Nicolette had the honor of working under the acclaimed chef, Michael Smith. This stint significantly shaped her culinary perspective, encouraging her to embrace a balance of tradition and innovation in her craft. She continues to bring that ethos into her work at The American, delighting patrons with her blend of classic and contemporary pastries.
 
Nicolette Felling is not just an Executive Pastry Chef; she's a story-teller, her desserts being the delicious chapters of her captivating narrative. As you take a bite of her macarons or any of her creations, you're not just tasting an exquisite dessert—you're experiencing a piece of her journey.

We're proud to feature Chef Instructor & CEPC, Nick Wesemann. With over 20 years of experience, Chef Nick promises a swe...
06/23/2023

We're proud to feature Chef Instructor & CEPC, Nick Wesemann. With over 20 years of experience, Chef Nick promises a sweet ending to our 5-course feast at the James Beard Benefit Dinner this Saturday!

We're sold out! Every seat has been filled for our 22nd Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner, this Saturday at T...
06/22/2023

We're sold out!
Every seat has been filled for our 22nd Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner, this Saturday at The American. Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has confirmed their attendance. Take a look at the official menu, beautifully crafted by a lineup of chefs who have, at some point in their careers, graced the kitchen of The American.

Award-winning 'Best Chef Midwest', Colby Garrelts is back at The American for the 22nd Annual Friends of James Beard Ben...
06/21/2023

Award-winning 'Best Chef Midwest', Colby Garrelts is back at The American for the 22nd Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner on June 24th. From refining his culinary craft across the US, to serving up the finest Midwest comfort fare at his beloved establishments in KC & Leawood, Colby's journey is nothing short of spectacular.

Grab your tickets for this Saturday: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/638861500947



Chef Michael Smith helmed The American as Executive Chef and Corporate Chef in the early 1990s. In 1999, he won the Jame...
06/19/2023

Chef Michael Smith helmed The American as Executive Chef and Corporate Chef in the early 1990s. In 1999, he won the James Beard Award for “Best Chef in the Midwest,” one of the first chefs in Kansas City to be honored with the coveted award. Since then, Michael opened Extra Virgin and Farina in the Crossroads Arts District. Known for his passion for modern Italian cuisine, we can’t wait to see what Chef Smith will present at The American's June 24th Benefit Dinner!

Grab your tickets now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/638861500947

Chef Celina Tio, from the Belfry & ANNX Spirits Co., will be crafting a special course for our James Beard Benefit Dinne...
06/15/2023

Chef Celina Tio, from the Belfry & ANNX Spirits Co., will be crafting a special course for our James Beard Benefit Dinner. We can't wait to taste what she has in store! Stay tuned for more chef features.
Grab your tickets now at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/638861500947

Unforgettable flavors danced across our screens this morning! Chef Michael Olson was on Fox 4, giving us a taste of what...
06/14/2023

Unforgettable flavors danced across our screens this morning! Chef Michael Olson was on Fox 4, giving us a taste of what we can expect at our 22nd Annual Friends of James Beard dinner on June 24th. He served up a masterpiece: Fried Chicken Raviolo with Broccoli Leaves, Ginger-Scallion Oil, Gochugaru Jus & Cracklin'. Check out the snapshots and don't forget to grab your tickets for the 24th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/638861500947

Address

200 E 25th Street Ste 400
Kansas City, MO
64108

Opening Hours

Wednesday 5:30pm - 10pm
Thursday 5:30pm - 9pm
Friday 5:30pm - 10pm
Saturday 5:30pm - 11pm

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For more than 45 years The American Restaurant has been putting Kansas City on the nation’s culinary map and introducing local fine dining fans to some of the country’s most celebrated chefs. But perhaps its best description is less about The American’s legendary food, service and ambience, and more about the role it has played in Kansas Citians’ lives. It comes from the late Adele Hall, ardent fan, civic leader and wife of Donald J. Hall, chairman of Hallmark Cards, Inc., owner of the Crown Center real estate development The American calls home. “I thought it would be wonderful,” she said, reflecting on The American’s 25th anniversary in 1999, “if this could be the place to come to put the exclamation point on a special occasion.” That, The American most certainly has been, and continues to be.

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