by Ron Stern, Travel Photo Journalist
If you love good food, there’s no reason to spend the time and money flying to The Big Apple when The Little Apple™ of Manhattan, Kansas, so dubbed by collaboration with Mayor Ed Koch and New York City, will do nicely for a prime slice of culinary heaven.
While Manhattan, Kansas hasn’t been known as a destination for cuisine aficionados, that may be changing due to an upsurge in economic growth and the addition of creative new eateries dotting the landscape.
Bourbon and Bakers serves soul food, small plates. Their fried chicken and a biscuit and strawberry bruschetta are amazing. Next is Bluestem Bistro with their pulled pork and salad as well as their newest strawberry waffle lolly—trust me, you will love it.
Varsity donuts bakes rich and creamy specialties like maple bacon and then, after a night on the
town, head out back to visit their food truck. The most popular is the highly coveted mac and cheese sandwich consisting of house-made mac and cheese and bacon grilled into a cheesy, gooey sandwich for $5.
The Hibachi Hut’s history goes back 50 years and has been relocated to downtown. While there try their Bomb hamburgers and excellent creole cuisine.
The Chef is my pick for the best breakfast in a colorful, festive atmosphere. Their three egg Buenos Dias Frittata was named the Best Breakfast in Kansas by Food Network Magazine.
There are many others that you should try including Powercat Sports Grill, Coco Bolo’s, Cox Bros. BBQ and for a premier, fine dining experience, Harry’s can’t be beat. Be sure to try their signature bruschetta made with goat cheese, herbed tomatoes on thin strips of French bread.