Finding Romance in Kansas City

I love how much we travel with our girls.  Near or far, it’s always an adventure.  But sometimes we adults need some time to get away and remember just why we fell in love.

Doug and I recently had an “adults only” getaway to Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, Missouri.  The Plaza holds special memories for us as Doug surprised me with a weekend getaway there when we were early in our relationship and we took a long weekend there when we got married.  It was the perfect getaway to reconnect and enjoy a little romance.

The Raphael Hotel, Kansas City Most Romantic Boutique Hotel

The Raphael, Kansas City’s Romantic Boutique Hotel

The minute you arrive at the Raphael Hotel you know you’re somewhere special.  The elegant brick structure brings to mind a time when buildings were built with care, each brick an important piece of the finished work.  As your vehicle rolls to a stop your door is opened and you are welcomed with a flourish by the impeccably dressed doorman. As the doors open and you enter the gilded lobby you know you’ve stepped back in time to a day when luxury hotel stays meant you dressed for dinner and guests were treated as more than bodies in a room.

Suite at Raphael Hotel

Most of the rooms in the hotel are suites featuring a roomy sitting area with desk and television and a separate sleeping area.  I love this type of room as I am an early riser and Doug loves to sleep in when he can.  I enjoyed tea made in the Keurig and utilized the free wireless internet at my leisure- so relaxing with no little ones interrupting.  A light breakfast delivered from the on-site restaurant made my morning complete.

While the hotel, itself, is an incredible treat it is the staff that makes it truly special.  Every coming or going is recognized with a greeting, wishes for a good day, or offer of assistance; it feels like every member of the staff wants your stay to be perfect.

The Chaz Restaurant

Smoked Salmon Benedect & Bananas Foster French Toast

With live music practically every evening and an eclectic variety of dishes, it’s no wonder Chaz on the Plaza has become one of Kansas City’s favorite dining spots.

The restaurant is small and quiet which made it perfect for pre-dinner drinks and a small appetizer.  The Braised Veal Cheek Sliders are a must, the incredibly tender meat so well accompanied by the salty mildness of the Emmentaler cheese.

The breakfast menu had a decidedly French feel with omelets, Benedicts and a Bananas Foster French Toast that was simply heavenly.  The only disappointment was the Chicken Fried Steak.  While good, it was almost as if the meat was too nice of a cut and the breading too light and not crisp enough.   (Yes, I know, how sad is it to say a piece of meat was too good?)

Enjoying Country Club Plaza as a Couple

Country Club Plaza was created to resemble Seville, Spain.  Statues, murals, tile mosaics and beautiful buildings make this a perfect area for strolling, hand in hand.  Upscale shops attract your eye and dozens of restaurants are available to please you palate.  My top picks for romance:

Best place to relive Lady & the Tramp’s Spaghetti Scene:  Buca di Beppo

This Italian restaurant is popular with large groups for their family style dining, but small, private boots are perfect for your romantic evening.

Best place when the cost doesn’t matter: McCormick’s & Schmick’s

Known for their steaks and seafood, M&S serves only the very freshest food available.  The chefs are known for their incredible variety and perfect presentation.  For a truly private dining experience reserve a snug.

Best for couples who can’t agree on what to eat:  Fogo de Chao

Roasting Meat at Fogo de Chao

Meats slowly cooked over fire.  And a salad bar that even salad haters will love.  Gauchos who bring the meat, on the skewer, to your table and slice it off right in front of you.  And tasty side dishes that include caramelized bananas and warm cheese bread that is lighter than air.

Most romantic for dessert:  The Melting Pot

Chocolate fondue.  Need I say more?  OK, chocolate fondue and champagne.

Best place to relax on a beautiful afternoon:  O’Dowd’s Little Dublin

Bangers, cheese and toasts

Head directly for the only rooftop deck on the Plaza.  Relax with a drink, nibble on the Ploughman’s Platter, talk, flirt, and remember what life was like before kids.

Kansas City is one of our favorite destinations, both as a couple and as a family.  With so much to do, so many things going on, it’s no wonder one of our favorite sayings is “Kansas City Here We Come!” 

Kansas City Vacations

 
Disclosure: This getaway was fully paid for by Doug & I.