The World's Best Tenderloin Sandwich Is Made Daily Inside This Humble Little Missouri Cafe
By Liz Oliver|Published August 27, 2018
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Liz Oliver
Author
Liz is a Missouri native with a B.A. in English from Mizzou and a M.A. in Non-Profit Administration from Lindenwood University. She works for a STL metro-area community college and enjoys writing, traveling, and indoor cycling. Her true passion is forcing her encyclopedic knowledge of Missouri facts on uninterested strangers from across the globe!
This little red cafe may not impress you from the outside, but locals know this humble cafe serves the best tenderloin in the whole state. Kitty’s Cafe has been serving generations of Kansas Citians and they’ve built a loyal following. Brimming with history, charm, and a whole lot of flavor, this is one lunch counter meal you don’t want to pass up!
Kitty's Cafe opened in 1951 and has been in continuous operation ever since. The cafe was originally opened by Japanese-Americans, Paul and Kitty Kawakami, who moved to Kansas City after spending much of World War II In a Japanese internment camp.
Kitty's became legendary for their heavenly pork tenderloin sandwich. Many tenderloin fans may question the integrity of these sandwiches based on size alone. Don't be fooled, the three slices of perfectly fried pork in the light and crunchy batter is what makes this tenderloin so special.
Take a bite out of this triple-decker pork sandwich. It's served best with all the fixings - especially hot sauce. Pair your sandwich with crinkle cut fries for the perfect meal.
You can't go wrong with their tots either. They have the perfect amount of crunch and seasoning. Order at the counter and grab a seat inside if you can. Many people grab their lunches to-go or dine outside on the covered patio.
Kitty's Cafe has been serving this tasty tenderloin for over 65 years. This little cafe is cash only, so make sure to hit the ATM on your way. Kitty's is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or 5 p.m. in the summer. On Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.