These reviews for Kansas City, Mo., are...

These reviews for Kansas City, Mo., are excerpted from Zagat Surveys, a series of regional dining and lodging guides based on extensive ratings and reviews contributed by local restaurant-goers and frequent travelers. Ratings for food, decor and service are based on a numerical scale: 0-9, poor to fair; 10-19, good to very good; 20-25, very good to excellent; 26-30, extraordinary to perfect. Estimated cost is for a dinner, drink and tip for one person.

Zagat suggests business travelers consider these establishments when looking to entertain clients, conduct business or dine alone.

Top-Rated Barbecue Places

SMOKE STACK BAR-B-Q 8920 Wornall Road; (816) 333-2011 This suburban barbecue chain is noted not only for its inexpensive barbecue classics such as ribs and brisket, but also for its hickory-smoked fresh fish. The onion rings come stacked on a pole, and the pit-baked beans are “gloriously smoky.” Food: 23 Decor: 17 Service: 19 Cost: $12

GATES & SONS BAR-B-Q 1221 Brooklyn St . ; (816) 483-3880 1411 Swope Parkway; (816) 921-0409 2001 W. 103rd Terrace; (913) 383-1752 1026 State Ave.; (913) 621-1134 810440 E. 40 Highway; (816) 353-5880 215 Rawhide Drive; (913) 764-6210 Upscale cafeterias serving great ribs, lamb and “top-tier” sauce. The atmosphere is fast-food, but the chain’s popularity has caused new ones to pop up throughout the area. Food: 21 Decor: 12 Service: 16 Cost: $9

ARTHUR BRYANT BARBECUE 1727 Brooklyn Ave.; (816) 231-1123 The decor may be on the “dumpy” side, but this inner-city joint attracts customers from all over the country who claim its great sauce and “to die for” fries are what Kansas City is all about. Food: 20 Decor: 7 Service: 13 Cost: $9

SNEAD’S BAR-B-Q 171st Street & Holmes Road; (816) 331-9858 Some of the best barbecue in town in a place noted for its burned ends of beef, called “brownies.” Local delicacies and linoleum decor set this one apart. Food: 20 Decor: 11 Service: 18 Cost: $11

Cafe Dining

THE CLASSIC CUP 4130 Pennsylvania Ave.; (816) 756-0771 301 W. 47th St.; (816) 753-1009 The original location for this charming cafe is a Westport coffee, specialty grocery and classical music store, but the new location is equally attractive, with seating on the sidewalk and back deck. Highlights from the menu include a vegetarian club sandwich and strawberry Brie pancakes. Also popular for its unusual desserts. Food: 24 Decor: 17 Service: 20 Cost: $15

LE PICNIQUE Seebree Gallery, 301 E. 55th St.; (816) 333-3387 A great luncheon spot in the midst of a tony Midtown antiques shop, this cafe has a moderately priced soup, salad, sandwich and dessert menu despite its wealthy clientele. Lunch only. Food: 23 Decor: 24 Service: 20 Cost: $11