Kansas City, Missouri, a city world-renowned for its distinctive BBQ, historic jazz scene, and vibrant arts culture, also offers a surprisingly diverse and incredibly affordable culinary landscape. Beyond the famous smokehouses and bustling entertainment districts, KC is brimming with unique local eateries serving up fantastic, budget-friendly bites that truly capture the heart and soul of the Midwest. We've explored cherished institutions and neighborhood gems, along with glowing customer reviews, to bring you a curated list of 10 must-try dishes, all for under $10, that will satisfy your cravings and introduce you to the authentic, delicious flavors of Kansas City.

1. Pork Tenderloin Sandwich from Kitty's Cafe

  • Restaurant: Kitty's Cafe

  • Description: A legendary sandwich featuring two thin pork patties, dipped in a light, tempura-like batter, fried golden brown, and stacked on a bun with hot sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, onion, and pickles.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Kitty's Cafe is a world-famous Kansas City institution, renowned for this unique and incredibly delicious pork tenderloin sandwich. KCUR, a local NPR affiliate, raved, "I can't believe something this good, costs only $8.50." Yelp reviewers consistently praise its unique texture and flavorful hot sauce, making it a truly essential and affordable KC culinary experience.

  • Price: $8.50

  • Location: 810 E 17th Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108

2. Burnt End Street Taco from Slap's BBQ (Taco Tuesday Special)

  • Restaurant: Slap's BBQ

  • Description: On Taco Tuesdays, enjoy street tacos featuring deep-fried burnt ends, sautéed peppers and onions, and Slap's special taco sauce.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Slap's BBQ is a highly acclaimed Kansas City barbecue joint, known for its commitment to cooking fresh and selling out daily. While their platters are famous, their Taco Tuesday special offers an incredible and affordable taste of their expertise. Their website highlights these unique tacos. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their burnt ends, and this special provides a creative and delicious way to enjoy them without breaking the bank.

  • Price: ~$3-$4 per taco (check specific Taco Tuesday pricing)

  • Location: 5530 Centerpoint Dr, Kansas City, MO 64119

3. Cheeseburger from The Borough

  • Restaurant: The Borough

  • Description: A classic 6-ounce ground chuck patty, featuring a crispy exterior and juicy interior, with American cheese, ketchup, mustard, dill pickles, grilled onions, lettuce, and tomato on a bun.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: The Borough offers a fantastic take on a classic American cheeseburger, celebrated for its simple yet perfect execution. KCUR describes it as "crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside." Yelp reviewers often praise it as a "great classic burger" that delivers on flavor and satisfaction. For a few dollars more, you can even add tater tots and still stay within budget.

  • Price: $8.50 (add $1.50 for Tater Tots for $10 total)

  • Location: 415 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111

4. Taco (Mushroom Mole or Potato Pipian) from Taco Naco KC

  • Restaurant: Taco Naco KC

  • Description: Authentic street tacos with unique vegetarian fillings like Mushroom Mole or Potato Pipian, featuring made-from-scratch tortillas using heirloom Mexican corn.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Taco Naco KC has quickly become a standout for its modern approach to traditional Mexican food and commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. KCUR highlights their tacos for their "made-from-scratch tortillas" and vibrant freshness. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "unique flavors" and authentic preparation. These innovative vegetarian options offer a delicious and affordable taste of KC's evolving taco scene.

  • Price: ~$3.75-$3.90 per taco

  • Location: Multiple locations in Kansas City (e.g., 4144 Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, MO 64111)

5. Spicy Crab Salad from Sushi U.N.I.

  • Restaurant: Sushi U.N.I.

  • Description: A refreshing and flavorful salad featuring seasoned crab meat, often mixed with spicy mayo and fresh vegetables.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Sushi U.N.I. is a popular local spot for quick and delicious sushi and Japanese fare. While their rolls are great, their Spicy Crab Salad offers a fantastic and incredibly affordable option. KCUR specifically recommends it, stating, "My real love is their Spicy Crab Salad for only $5.95." Yelp reviewers consistently praise the freshness and flavor, making it a perfect light yet satisfying bite.

  • Price: $5.95

  • Location: 1800 Baltimore Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108

6. Beef and Bun Noodles (Small) from Bo Lings

  • Restaurant: Bo Lings

  • Description: A comforting small bowl of Chinese noodles with tender beef and a savory broth.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Bo Lings is a long-standing and highly regarded local Chinese restaurant in Kansas City, known for its extensive menu and consistent quality. While they offer a wide range of dishes, a small bowl of their beef and bun noodles (or similar noodle soup) often fits comfortably within the under-$10 budget, offering a deeply satisfying and authentic meal. Yelp reviewers frequently praise their "delicious noodles" and "flavorful broth," making it a reliable choice for comforting Asian cuisine.

  • Price: ~$8-$10 (for a small/lunch portion of certain noodle dishes)

  • Location: Multiple locations in Kansas City (e.g., 4701 Jefferson St, Kansas City, MO 64112)

7. Drip Coffee from Oddly Correct Coffee

  • Restaurant: Oddly Correct Coffee

  • Description: A meticulously brewed cup of high-quality, ethically sourced drip coffee, representing Kansas City's thriving specialty coffee scene.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Oddly Correct Coffee is a highly respected local coffee roaster and shop in Kansas City, known for its distinct approach to coffee and dedication to quality. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "amazing coffee" and describe the experience as a "guide to a better coffee experience." It's the perfect spot for an affordable and top-notch caffeine fix that truly represents KC's vibrant coffee culture.

  • Price: ~$3.50-$4.50 (for a regular drip coffee)

  • Location: 3940 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64111

8. Classic Croissant from Kukiss Bakery

  • Restaurant: Kukiss Bakery

  • Description: A perfectly golden, flaky, and buttery French-style croissant, baked fresh daily.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Kukiss Bakery is a local gem in Kansas City, offering a delightful array of handcrafted pastries, including a classic plain croissant that's both authentic and affordable. Their website lists the Classic Croissant at a great price. Yelp reviewers praise their "delicious, handcrafted" pastries, with many highlighting the quality of their croissants. It's an ideal choice for a quick breakfast or a sweet treat that showcases local baking excellence.

  • Price: $4.00

  • Location: 8600 W 137th St, Overland Park, KS 66223 (in the wider KC metro area)

9. Custom 5 Slice from The Combine

  • Restaurant: The Combine

  • Description: A large slice of cheese pizza with your choice of up to 5 toppings.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: The Combine is a popular local pizza parlor and deli, offering a great selection for a casual meal. KCUR highlights their "Custom 5 Slice" as a top cheap eat, noting it's a "large slice... for $6.99 with your choice of 5 toppings." Yelp reviewers commend it as a "great lunch spot" that delivers on both value and flavor.

  • Price: $6.99

  • Location: 2999 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64109

10. Breakfast Egg Sandwich from City Diner

  • Restaurant: City Diner

  • Description: A classic breakfast sandwich featuring egg and cheese, often with your choice of meat, served on a toasted bun or bread.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: City Diner is a well-established local diner in Kansas City, known for its straightforward, comforting breakfast and lunch offerings. Their website and Yelp reviews indicate they serve "breakfast and other dishes" with a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Yelp reviewers frequently praise their "great breakfast sandwiches" as a reliable and affordable way to start the day. It's a classic diner experience that delivers on value and taste.

  • Price: ~$6-$8 (for a basic egg sandwich)

  • Location: 301 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106

Kansas City's dynamic food scene proves that incredible flavors don't have to come with a hefty price tag, especially when you explore its amazing local establishments. From iconic Pork Tenderloin sandwiches and authentic BBQ tacos to unique custom pizza slices and comforting diner breakfasts, these ten dishes under $10 offer a fantastic way to explore the city's diverse and locally-driven culinary landscape. So, whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through, make sure to savor these delicious and affordable bites that showcase Kansas City's unique charm!

Price Comparison Table

Dish Restaurant Price (Approx.) Location
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich Kitty's Cafe $8.50 810 E 17th Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108
Burnt End Street Taco (Taco Tuesday) Slap's BBQ $3-$4 per 5530 Centerpoint Dr, Kansas City, MO 64119
Cheeseburger The Borough $8.50 415 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111
Taco (Mushroom Mole/Potato Pipian) Taco Naco KC $3.75-$3.90 per Multiple locations in Kansas City
Spicy Crab Salad Sushi U.N.I. $5.95 1800 Baltimore Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108
Beef and Bun Noodles (Small) Bo Lings $8-$10 Multiple locations in Kansas City
Drip Coffee Oddly Correct Coffee $3.50-$4.50 3940 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64111
Classic Croissant Kukiss Bakery $4.00 8600 W 137th St, Overland Park, KS 66223
Custom 5 Slice The Combine $6.99 2999 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64109
Breakfast Egg Sandwich City Diner $6-$8 301 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106