Anchor Inn: Hutchinson

If your travels take you to Hutchinson, KS, make sure you make your way to Main Street for Mexican food at the Anchor Inn. Serving food for almost 40 years, this huge restaurant packs 'em in every day and night for a bountiful buffet and some of the best tamales money can buy.

The Beacon: Wichita

If you're hungry for breakfast in Wichita, Kansas be sure not to miss The Beacon. Located on Douglas Avenue near Old Town and the Wichita Eagle Newspaper, The Beacon is a classic greasy spoon that has been serving Wichita locals for years.

Grinders at the Crossroads: Kansas City

Grinders at at the Crossroads features delicious New York Style Pizza by the slice or whole pie. They also have great meatball and sausage grinders and traditional Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches. Run by the artist, Stretch, Grinders also features uniques fixtures made by the artist such as light fixture made out of world war two helmets and an impressive sculpture garden out back, where they also host some great concerts.  Monday night is special at Grinders, as guest chef George shows up to cook traditional Hungarian meals. Get there early on Mondays because they always run out pretty quickly.  Featured on "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives", Grinders ranks as a must eat if you're in the Kansas City area.

Fireside Inn: Thayer

The Fireside Inn in Thayer is one of hidden gems of Kansas dining.  The steaks are cooked over an open fire in the dining room fireplace pictured above. A small salad bar and a loaded baked potato make the meal complete. If you're lucky, you might also be able to listen to the,  "Singing Chef" as he prepares your steak.

Crabby's - Joplin, MO

Great place,not a chain !!! Chef can season food . Reasonable prices . A+

800 W. 7th, Joplin

J's Carryout - Emporia

J's Carryout

27 Commercial Street

Emporia, Kansas 66801

J's Carryout is a locally owned hamburger shack, located in historic southern downtown Emporia, Kansas.

Don't let this small building fool you; inside are the Flint Hills' best hamburgers and the best customer service west of Columbia, Missouri.

Grilled onions are a must to complete this once-in-a-lifetime burger. With piping hot onion rings or french fries, the free vanilla ice cream perched upon a cake cone perfectly complements this meal.

Guy and Mae's Tavern: Williamsburg

If you are traveling on I-35 south of Kansas City, it's worth taking the Williamsburg exit to Guy and Mae's Tavern.  A classic barbecue joint in small town America with home made sauce, Guy and Mae's should be tried at least once.  The barbecue is served wrapped in newspaper and napkins are plentiful.  There's even a  pool table if you wan't to work off some of the food.

1106 Drive In - Pittsburg

The untimate drive in experience! Great burgers & rings, they haven't changed since the 60's. Try the "1106" burger with grilled onions & home-made onion rings. Be sure and ask for extra napkins.

1106 S. Broadway

The Cozy Inn - Salina, Kansas

The Cozy Inn

108 North 7th Street

Salina, Kansas 67401

No, it's not a hotel...but it is a six bar stool, standing room only, 88 year old hamburger joint where you buy them by the sack! Make it a combo with chips and a can (yes, an old school can) of your favorite vintage sodas. When is the last time you had a Sunkist? Watch rows and columns of hamburgers being cooked right before your eyes on their open to view grill. Like onions? No worries because onions are a main ingredient with these delectable little hamburgers. Don't ask for cheese, though, you'll end up in the street!

Burger Stand at The Casbah: Lawrence

The Burger Stand at The Casbah is Lawrence is gourmet burgers at it's best.  Try out the smoke burger and duck fat fries for a truly unique dining experience.  The Kobe beef burger is always a big hit as well.      803 Massachusetts
Lawrence, KS 66044

Smoke'n Babes Barbecue: Gardner

Located in Southern Johnson County, Smoken' Babes surprises with light smokey flavor and a solid homemade sauce. The pulled pork and burnt end sandwiches tasted great and the outdoor unisex restroom was unique.

Rating: ***