City: Kansas City, MO

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (816) 561-1101

Address: 900 Westport Rd. (Midtown)

Description: When husband-and-wife chefs open a restaurant, it can’t help but be high on the romance meter. That’s the mantra at this 43-seat bistro that has been rocking the local foodie contingent since 2004. What makes it romantic is the pacing—don’t expect to eat and run to catch an eight o’clock movie. Dinners start with amuse-bouche, a complimentary sampling of tastes. This is your first glimpse of Colby’s attention to detail (and a reason he’s been a James Beard Award contender several times): Each miniature canapé is presented like a gem at a jewelry counter. Entrees might have you reaching for your camera before tucking into such masterpieces as wild salmon with crispy sweetbreads or a beautifully grilled strip steak next to mahogany-colored roasted onions. Like many fine establishments in town, diners can choose three- to five-course fixed-price repasts. But bluestem offers as many as 12 courses; this last one—described as a “spontaneous collection from the chef”—is only available Tues through Thurs and only if the entire table says yes, please. Megan’s skill with pastries is evident in the dessert selection, which includes a citrus crème brûlée and silky malted-chocolate sponge pudding. Sunday brunch is often a “Who’s Who” of local chefs from other eateries, and the wine bar connected to the restaurant is a swanky place to spend an evening. Even here the cocktails are thoughtfully crafted and there are enough tempting appetizers to turn it into a light meal.