So, you land at MCI, your bag missed the connecting flight and after having your airline tell you it will show up eventually and then by the time you head out to meet your ride it's late and he suggests stopping by for a burger. What do you do? Well, if you're like me and the best way to get over a bad day is with some greasy food then Town Topic is exactly was was needed. While it is 24/7 the dining room closes and so it was just ordering and picking up at the window. There was a short line but it moved quickly and I decided to get the bacon double cheeseburger and let's throw an egg on it. Fries? "Get the tots." Tots it is. It's definitely a good late night burger, hot greasy with the tots being that right amount of crisp. Did I get any pie? Nope! because at this time of night they're pretty much out. read more

I've been craving a patty melt for a few weeks, this evening I visited the KC staple Town Topic (89 years at this location) and they NAILED it. The flavor coming off that well seasoned grill "Can you say YUM!" The patty melt with grilled onions is $9.25 so worth it. She said tots, why yes please, nice and crispy $4.95. Finally the perfect beverage to go with this feast had to be a malt vanilla shake $7.50. OMG so good! Finally, the service is phenomenal. I was made to feel welcome the moment I stepped through the door. Locals already know, visitors this is a must enjoy spot in KC. Town Topic, thank you for a delish meal. read more

This is a small, old-school burger shop in Kansas City. We were visiting and came in late, and it was one of the only places still open. The burgers are honestly pretty solid, and the onion rings were very good. Unfortunately, there are a few issues. First, the burgers are miniature. The singles are basically kid-sized, and the triples feel more like a normal single. On top of that, the prices are pretty steep for the portion sizes. You can easily spend around $18 for a double cheeseburger and onion rings, and I still felt like I could have eaten a full meal afterward. Another downside is the staff. As mentioned earlier, they didn't seem particularly friendly and came across as a bit rude during our visit. Overall, the food itself is good, but if you end up going here, be prepared to pay a hefty price for not a whole lot of food. read more

Town Topic - Onion rings - Burgers Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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We stopped by Town Topic in Kansas City while passing through because it's one of those iconic "you have to try it" spots that everyone talks about on Yelp. Definitely felt like a must see for us. When we arrived around 9:42, the inside was closed, so we ended up standing outside in the chilly wind to order. Not the most comfortable experience, but we were committed once we got there. My husband and I each got a cheeseburger with fries. For a true hole-in-the-wall burger stand, the food honestly hit the spot. The burgers were tasty, and the fries were really good, hot and delicious. The only downside for me was the chocolate milkshake, which unfortunately didn't taste right. It had a strange flavor, almost like butane, so I'm not sure if something was off that night. Even with that, I wouldn't say it ruined the experience. Overall, it was still a fun little pit stop on our way out of town, and I'm glad we tried it. I'd definitely come back again, but probably skip the shake next time. read more

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Great little lace for breakfast or hamburgers. Nothing compares. I find the atmosphere friendly all patrons and staff joke and make you feel like you belong to the city. read more

No frill burgers and fries spot. It's a local institution that's been open for decades. I dig the old school simple vibes of this burger spot. read more

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Heard it was a great place to get a burger. Must be a place to go after all night drinking. Food? Well one and done. Hard pass

Town Topic has always been an iconic joint and a beloved spot for many years now and is still loved by everyone over these years. I have been visiting the joint for many years now but reviewing it now.. I know, so late!! I always get their onion rings and double cheeseburgers, and they are always freshly made with the right amount of toppings, taste great and served hot. The onion rings are nice and crispy (sometimes oily), but that's ok. I have had their pies too ,especially their strawberry and rhubarb pie and that one was amazing too! It straight took me back to my university days in the UK, where rhubarb custard pies were freshly sold at a nearby restaurant .. very nostalgic. I will give Town Topic a wholeheartedly 5 stars. Service is always prompt. However, I am not a fan of sitting inside Town Topic because the sitting area is small, but at night they are only open for to‑gos and after getting your order, you can stand outside or near your car in the parking lot and eat it. If you love a classic hot burger with fresh onion rings, fries, or tots on a cold or warm day or night then this one is for you! read more

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Small small inside surprisingly has seating. Great food people going in and out. Have to pay for parking next door. Place been here for ages. American style food. Great food just pricey for food n parking n crammed inside. read more

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I never get tired of this place (ever). Open late night....this cozy little place does your burgers well. And even if it looks busy...no worries....the staff knock the food out fast. - Flat top cooked burgers with caramelized onions....always a good burger rendition. - Onions rings....dash the salt on them...a good onion ring experience. - Chili: Now...this chili is pretty good actually. BUT....this stuff is greasy as greasy can be. I always like a greasy bowl of chili...but this (one), is one of the greasiest bowls of chili, (I) can recall ever having. read more

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One of KC's best late night favorites is actually great at all times. Classic burgers, fries/tots, breakfast, pies, shakes, and more! It may be small and sometimes it gets busy but this staff is experienced and keeps the orders turning. read more

Town Topic - View from bar - Pie selection - Burgers Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

so you know when you've been out drinking since 5 PM ...going to a concert ...stopping at another bar and on your way back to the hotel you think I'm hungry... This is the place to stop burger, onion rings and chocolate malt all to smash at 1 AM before going to bed. Walk up counter quick service just the vibe I was looking for.! read more

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Stopping by late at night this is a good place to get some junk food. To help sober up. The price is here are slightly high in my opinion for what you get. The burger is here. Do taste great however the patties are a little bit underseasoned. I would skip on the chili cheese fries as the pretty basic. The pork tenderloin sandwich could also be skipped. read more

Town Topic - Burgers Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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This burger spot is close to our hotel and after walking by/driving past the last couple of days, we decided to stop in for a quick late lunch around 3:30 on a Sunday. My husband and I both ordered single burgers, along with an order of onion rings and a Coke. We were lucky and got the last 2 barstools at the counter. (By the time we left, there was a line formed) The prices are very affordable, our bill came out to about $21. We ordered our burgers with everything which is grilled onion, and pickles: I probably could have used some mayo but it still tasted pretty good. Onion rings were great and the crushed ice for the fountain drinks make for a refreshing soda pop. read more

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This is a slice of 1950s diner culture. My burger was prepared perfectly and I was dazzled with the pork tenderloin. Not a plate-filler, but was just outside the bun and was delicious. My pineapple pie was tremendous and I really wanted one to go. The service was excellent with friendly, talkative folks doing a great job making and serving great food. I look forward to going back someday. Your mileage may vary... read more

Town Topic - The sign... of great burgers... - Burgers Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

We enjoyed ourselves very well at the town topic! It is a Kansas City legend and has a wonderful old-school diner atmosphere. We sampled the Double Cheeseburger and the Chili, everything was fresh, juicy and tasted just as it should be in a usual burger. It is 24/7 and therefore the ideal place at any hour of the day. Definitely recommend this historic site as one that needs to be experienced! read more

Tasty, greasy burgers! Perfect after a night out in Kansas City. I wouldn't suggest if you're overly particular about presentation but if you just want some good diner food, this is your spot. read more

We placed an order on the phone which is super convenient since this place gets packed. All we had to do was make our way up to the counter and inform them we had placed an order over the phone and it was ready. Staff wasn't the friendliest, but the food made up for it. We got a couple cheeseburgers as well as the chili fries, and everything was delicious. The place is super small with maybe 6 seats, so we usually eat in the car. read more

Town Topic - Chili cheese fries - Burgers Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

Town Topic is a famous staple in KC and we've been going there forever. It's changed so much, and their customer service is not friendly and very poor attitudes, especially for first time visitors. Very rude, no manners or kindness coming from the 2 women serving and taking orders at the front. A customer walked in and mentioned not ever being there and the staff member says "here's the menu let me know what you want"Instead of any recommendations just a stand offish, you're just another dollar attitude. From the moment we sat down the staff was not helpful, very short and not welcoming at all. Maybe they need a little more customer service training. read more

Town Topic has a top 5 burger in Kansas City, and I wouldn't be surprised if it's many people's number 1. The patties were crisp but still moist without being overly greasy, and the onions smashed into the patty added moisture and sweetness. I recommend keeping the default toppings of mustard and pickles. I also ordered onion rings, which were pretty good but nothing special. The restaurant itself is tiny so it may be a good idea to plan on ordering take out. Despite being very busy, our food came out fast. read more

Town Topic - Double cheese burger - Burgers Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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You just can't beat a place that has been open since 1937! Their location is tiny and cozy. We have been known to order and eat in our car. Their smash burgers are flavorful and served with pickles and grilled onions. They offer a good choice of sides. Their portion sizes are a good size. They also have pies, serve breakfast, chili, coneys, shakes and malts and ice cream. The staff is very friendly and always greet you with a smile. It's our favorite place to go for burgers when we are downtown. read more

Town Topic - Double smashburger and fries - Burgers Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

Town Topic (est) 1937 BEST BURGERS FRESH AND FAST. Always busy, so best to call in your oder ahead of time. Huge slice of pie for desert is highly recommended. read more

I went there yesterday people talking about it's a great burger in this and that it is absolutely not if that is one of the best burgers in town we're in big trouble I got a tenderloin that looked like a McChicken sandwich. The chocolate shake was good the service was fine no problem with that but when I got that tenderloin my God very disappointed wouldn't recommend it to anybody even my daughter's burger looks sad read more

I've never felt so uncomfortable and disrespected at a place in my life. From the moment I walked in, with my loved ones, the energy was off. The woman working there (Nancy) looked at me like I didn't belong before I even said a word. It wasn't just a "bad attitude"-it was very clear hostility for no reason. What really got me is that I was asked to leave almost immediately. No explanation, no warning, nothing. I wasn't being loud, I wasn't causing a scene, I hadn't even had the chance to order yet. So what exactly was the problem? Because from where I was standing, there was no valid reason for me to be treated like that. It's hard not to see this as something deeper. When you single someone out the second they walk in and treat them like they don't belong, that says a lot. The way I was treated was beyond unprofessional-it felt targeted and completely out of line. Places like this really need to do better. We're in 2026, and there's no excuse for making people feel unwelcome or judged just for walking through the door. Basic respect should not be optional. I will never be coming back here, and I would strongly suggest others think twice before supporting a place that treats people like this. There are plenty of businesses out there that actually know how to treat customers with decency. read more

I went with a friend of mines the first time (Riparadise friend aww) and he bought us lunch since we were frequented the area becuz he was looking for art for his apt, an the burgers were ok but not all that, a bit pricey, plus we had to wait forever. I went again at night with a group of friends an the food was much better, guess it was different workers or something idk but it was a cool lil spot an it's located by alot of clubs an attractions nearby. read more

Visiting Kansas City for the very first time, I loved the fact that you could stay out until 3 AM here, good times, good people but where can you find a place to eat? Our Uber driver suggested town topic so off we went. As soon as I saw it, I already knew this was my kind of Place. Cheeseburger and onion rings hit the spot. During my one week stay, our group of friends went there a total of three times and ordered something different each time. I tried their bigger cheeseburger, french fries, milkshake, chili beans, etc and everything was on point. The food is good, It's satisfying. It's what you hope for from a place like this. This is a must go to for anyone visiting Kansas City. Open 24/7! read more

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Town Topic is a Kansas City institution. Most towns across America have one little burger joint or diner that has stood the test of time. I think at one point in KC we all would have agreed that spot was Windsteads, but I think Town Topic has remained more relevant, and reliable over the course of the past decade or so. I happened to visit this location as many Kansas Citians do, on a late night after everything else had closed and I wanted a bite to eat. I was with some friends so we all ordered cheeseburgers and since it was cold, all jumped back in the car to chow down. The consensus was that they were the perfect fast food burger, but obviously much better than a big chain. Town Topic is the kind of place you go to if you are craving a solid, affordable hamburger and fries. I've also heard they have good pie and milkshakes. I will caution you that if you eat it in your car like I did your car will smell like cheeseburgers the next day and inquisitive children will ask why you were eating fast food in the middle of the night. read more

Town Topic - Burgers Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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First off this was a chance find and it was and is more then 5 stars.. Been around since 1937 it is open 24 hours a day. The dining area is open until 730 every night then the walk up window opens. The burgers are great smash burgers with amazing onion rings and perfectly coked tater tots. The shakes are very good the pie OMG so good and about every kind you would want.. Now for trip to carry out breakfast we got biscuits and gravy the biscuits were very very good.. the sandwich we got the Haystack I will have dreams about that sandwich.. Definitely going to be a must stop for us everytime we visit KC.. read more

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This is a cute and quaint diner! You order right as you walk in and then take a seat at the counter. The food came out super quick and the people behind the bar were attentive to what you might be missing. The burger itself was delicious. It had crispy edges that added to the flavor! Can't really go wrong with standard burger and fries. read more

This is classic diner realness! You've got 8 seats at the counter, 3 more against the wall, and that's it! You've pretty much got 4 options here: burgers, sandwiches, dessert, and breakfast, the last of which is why I came here. Strong coffee comes out quickly, of course, and is refilled frequently, of course. I was surprised that the 123 Breakfast had only a single pancake, but it was large, filling, and delicious, along with the bacon and eggs. Omelets are quite popular here too. I hope I can get back to try a burger. read more

Town Topic - 123 Breakfast with coffee - Burgers Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

3 of us went in around 6 pm and were able to order and eat inside. Very little inside seating, mainly a takeout spot. We all had varying forms of burgers so not sure about the quality of breakfast. Burgers were worth 4 stars for sure. Nice thin patties with sautéed onions and mustard on a warm bun. Pretty tasty. Enjoy! read more

This place really knows how to cook a burger. The smashed patty has a slight char on the outside but still juicy on the inside, which gives rise to something delicious. And make sure you get the grilled onions on your burger as it's just not the same without them. You shouldn't visit Kansas City without stopping by Town Topic, and those that live here that haven't had it should plan to visit because they make one of the best burgers in Kansas City in my opinion. You can see more of our experience on our YouTube travel channel: https://youtu.be/JTMDUGmk8Vg read more

Town Topic - Burgers Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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Such a cute little diner ! They definitely make use of a small space. I got a double burger with onion and pickle. There is ketchup and mustard at the tables/bar areas. Then if you want mayo they give you some packets. The burger had a nice good flavor and the fries were perfect crispness. You do get refills on soft drinks if you choose. We got a double burger and a double cheeseburger, soda-pop, and fries was $26. Not too shabby ! Especially out here in 2024. If you're looking for a more classic burger style, this place is a good choice. Our service was spectacular. When in the area again this will be an option for us to come back ! read more

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Stopped in and to get a quick bite to eat only 11 seats. I got lucky to get one. good food good atmosphere great people worth stopping in. read more

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Not open 24 hours, they close lobby at 7pm and open at 6am??? I'm trying to eat less in my car and almost took a shower for this place. What's the point of driving across town and finding out this place like everything else in life is a futile dream of nostalgia that never existed... read more

Town Topic is infamous in the crossroads. Perfect stop for a late night bite after a few drinks, or maybe a lot. Also good at any time of the day. You just can't go wrong stopping in for their food. Double cheeseburger with onions and fries is my go to. It is the definition of a what a good smash burger should be. Menu also includes breakfast items, homemade chili, grilled cheese, onion rings, malt shakes and pie. Oh yeah did I mention pie, they have a huge selection of pies-by-the-slice to choose from and is the best way to end your meal. There are two locations. This one in particular is open 24/7 but the other location does close, so just be aware of that. Both are very close to each other though so no biggie if you go to the wrong one. It's what you would expect from a tiny diner with a few bar stools to eat your delicious food at, all while taking in the smells of all those greasy hamburgers cooking on the black top. It's like stepping back in time eating here. Service is also superb. 5/5, highly recommend to all. read more

Town Topic - Double cheeseburger with fries - Burgers Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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I've never actually been here during the day time...until recently. Nothing like enjoying a double cheeseburger at the counter of a KC establishment. Do yourself a favor and stop by when it's a little less busy (i.e. late afternoon on a weekday). read more

Okay so Town Topic really took me by surprise. Great burgers, incredibly fast service, and enough parking to make it an easy stop. We ordered a couple of burgers to go (the only way, apparently, since the seating was closed and there wasn't any seating outside). They traveled well enough, but I did feel like my burger was more steamed than grilled/charred. They were fantastic though, and loved all of the classic greasy toppings. We also ordered a couple of pies to go, delicious (duh). Not much more you can say about that. read more

It's gonna take some time to get your food but WELL worth it! The party melt and chili is my go-to!

If you're in the CrossRoads, or maybe on your way back to JoCo from downtown, then Town Topic is your late night grub stop. You can be sure that your burger will be hot and fresh, your shake will be thick and hand-mixed, and someone in line will be headed for Hangover City the next day. If you're feeling the munchies and don't mind the gastric assault that is a late-night cheezborger, then this is your jam. My suggestion: go with a triple patty, kick it with some grilled onions, and add ketchup as you go for that added sweetness. Don't be scared of the three patties, because they are thin and hand-smashed. The seasoning pairs perfectly with the grilled onions and ZAM! late-night burger. The burger is probably worth five stars, but expect a wait, and the overall delivery is a three-star experience at best. But the cultural marker and checking off the 'Have you done Town Topic?' item from your KC must-do list makes up for the delivery. Expect to stand in line outside, in pretty much any kind of weather, and that's largely due to COVID shutting down the dining area (even though it's really small) and the order window being the way to go. But the line is part of the hook as you can people-watch, share nightlife stories, or huddle together for shared warmth on cold late nights. Nothing else like it in KC! read more

Town Topic - Rockin' Broadway for nearly nine decades! - Burgers Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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