Michael Smith
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It's no wonder Michael Smith has such a great reputation in the KC area. What was once a boring, boxy space with previously unsuccessful restaurants is now a world-class contender with a warm atmosphere, excellent service, and exceptional food. And although not all the dishes were perfect, there were more than a few that have stayed on the brain. Overall, our experience was one of great pleasure. We will definitely return. Try the braised rabbit with gnocchi; bossa nova cheese plate.
Atmosphere
Since I have lived in KC, 6 years now, I have seen several restaurants in the space where Michael Smith's now resides, not one really peaking my interest, until now. Although the space itself is kind of industrial in nature, square, boxy, cold, MS manages to create a warm and intimate dining space that is both modern and comfortable. Dark olive-colored walls are complimented by long brown curtains and dark carpet, and set against bright, colored paintings, black leather chairs, and high, loft-like ceilings. Huge windows floor-to-ceiling windows help keep the small dining room from being claustrophobic. The tables are set with white tablecloths and brown linen napkins, and soft jazz music and moderate lighting set a relaxed tone.
Service
Our server was excellent, one of the best, if the not the best I've experienced in KC; warm, friendly, but never intrusive. We were never rushed through our meal, even though we were one of the later tables, and when he did not know the answer to one of our questions he didn't bluff his way through it, but instead went to find out- the sign of a good server, in my opinion.
Food
I had heard so much hype about MS before going that I wasn't sure what to expect. The menu was well-diversified, with many items that looked appealing. The menu changes often depending on what is in Season. Prices are very reasonable for the type of restaurant. Before the meal, warm, spongy rolls were brought to the table, along with unsalted butter. A very good start. For appetizers I had the house-made gnocchi ($13) with braised rabbit, leeks, and shaved Parmesan. The server said it was the best on the menu and it certainly didn't disappoint. Warm, rich, creamy, complex, the gnocchi was so delicate it melted in my mouth. Excellent. James had the white bean and bacon soup($6) that was ham-y, salty, and spicy, but in a good way. It came to the table in a beautiful white tureen. For entrees, James had a veal 'porterhouse' ($32) that came with polenta, artichokes, and a veal jus and although the deep, rich flavor of this dish was wonderful I would've liked to see more polenta or, actually, more of everything, as the dish was very, very small. Poor James, he was still hungry when it was finished. It really was only a couple of bites. I, on the other hand, had the tuna ($29), cooked perfectly rare, which came with rice, green beans, pine nuts, crispy, salty bacon, and a complex lemon-y sauce that was outstanding. Rice and green beans, which could be a horrible disaster in my mind, came together perfectly, and the pine nuts and bacon gave the dish interesting texture and depth. For dessert, I chose the house-made cherry strudel with almond ice cream which had a nice flakey crust but was altogether too sweet for me. (That's a lot of sweet!) But James had what I thin was the standout of the meal, Bossa Nova Sheep's cheese, served with a slightly sweet biscuit and honeyed apricots. Together the sharpness of the cheese, combined with the doughy-ness bread of the biscuit and the sweet-tart of the honey and apricots- My God, this was amazing! Normally, I would never choose a cheese plate over dessert but, in this case, I made an exception. I happily gave my strudel to James and polished off the biscuit, cheese and honey. In fact, I have often thought of going back to MS again, just for the cheese plate, and maybe a cup of the Roasterie coffee that was also excellent. Yes, I think I'll do that one day soon.
MS also has a nice, and manageable, wine list. Glasses range from $8-$16. They also have a good selection of beers. I had my favorite, La Fin Du Monde, for $7.
MS also has a nice, and manageable, wine list. Glasses range from $8-$16. They also have a good selection of beers. I had my favorite, La Fin Du Monde, for $7.
Cleanliness
Very clean. The bathrooms, a new addition since the opening of Extra Virgin are a much better option than having to go downstairs like before, and are well-decorated and well-maintained.
Pros
Warm, cozy atmosphere, excellent service, and great food at relatively reasonable prices.
Cons
The veal porterhouse was very, very small for a $32 entree. Cherry strudel was too sweet.
