Kansas City Restaurant Named to Top 50 List
Anjin, an izakaya-style spot in the Crossroads District, was recognized by The New York Times.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Japanese Food
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The New York Times has selected Anjin as one of the 50 best restaurants in the nation. This izakaya-style eatery is the only restaurant in Missouri to earn a spot on the prestigious list.
Why it matters
The restaurant was founded to address a perceived void in local izakaya-style dining options in Kansas City. Its inclusion highlights the growing culinary reputation of the Crossroads District.
Anjin, which employs 12 people, has operated in the Crossroads District for 15 months. It is currently the only Missouri establishment on the list, while no restaurants in Kansas were selected.
The players
Anjin
Anjin is an izakaya-style restaurant in the Kansas City Crossroads District that has previously been recognized as a James Beard finalist.
The New York Times
The New York Times is a national newspaper that produces various cultural and lifestyle lists, including its annual compilation of top U.S. restaurants.
The details
The New York Times utilized a team of 16 traveling reporters to compile the national ranking. The owners of the Japanese-style restaurant were notified of the achievement directly by telephone.
Timeline
September 2026: The New York Times announced the restaurant list.
June 2025: Anjin opened in the Crossroads District.
Culture Shift
This selection reflects a broader cultural shift where regional food scenes outside of traditional coastal hubs are gaining significant national visibility. It marks a departure from historic trends that often centered exclusively on major metropolises for culinary recognition.
Residents can anticipate increased demand and longer wait times for tables following the national announcement. Prospective diners should consider making reservations well in advance to accommodate the restaurant's small, 12-person staff capacity.
The takeaway
Success in the restaurant industry often stems from identifying and serving a specific, overlooked niche in the local market. Supporting such local businesses contributes to the overall growth and recognition of a city's unique culinary footprint.
Further reading
For more on the local culinary scene, explore the Japanese Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KMBC 9.
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