Most visitors to Kansas City know about the city's legendary barbecue. But food-savvy travelers and well-respected food critics across the country recognize Kansas City as having an exceptional fine dining scene. Here are three local restaurants whose chefs have caught the attention of the prestigious James Beard Foundation, which hands out the highest honor a culinary professional can achieve.

American Restaurant

One of Kansas City’s crown jewels for more than 30 years, The American Restaurant offers an elegant mix of fine food, wine and architecture. The service is impeccable and the view, from atop Halls Crown Center department store, is one of the best in town. It is Kansas City's only Mobil Four-Star Restaurant. In 2008, The American Restaurant welcomed back James Beard Award-Winning Chef Debbi Gold as its Executive Chef. Esquire named Chef Gold a “Chef to Watch” in 1997, the same year she received the first of three nominations for James Beard Foundation “Best Chef: Midwest.”  In 1999, Chef Gold won "Best Chef: Midwest."

Bluestem

Operated by chef-owners Colby and Megan Garrelts, Bluestem was their combined vision to bring “big city” dining to Kansas City in the spring of 2004. The unique menu features Progressive American cuisine using cutting edge technique and new varieties of American desserts. The award-winning wine list features sophisticated boutique wines from around the world. An atmosphere of casual elegance and innovative cuisine invites everyone to relax and enjoy. The striking interior with simple charm is off set by flickering candlelight, white linen tables, and a small glimpse into the bustling kitchen. Colby was nominated by the James Beard Foundation for 2007 Best Chef Midwest and was named one of the "Top New Chefs for 2005"by Food and Wine magazine.

Michael Smith

James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Smith, who previously honed his technique at restaurants such as Le Presqu’ile and L’Albion in the South of France; Charlie Trotter’s; Carlos’; Gordon and The American Restaurant – is widely considered to be among the nation’s best culinary craftsmen. He brings a passion for fresh, locally-produced ingredients, a vast knowledge of classical cooking methods and an incomparable palate to Michael Smith, fostering the restaurant’s early recognition as one of Kansas City’s top dining destinations. Located in the heart of the Crossroads Art District, Michael Smith restaurant delivers elegant, new American cuisine whose roots are drawn from France, Spain and Italy.