We are trying to figure out what it is about gas stations and BBQ in Kansas City. We all know about the nationally recognized joint that recently dropped Oklahoma from its name. There is another place that sits on the side of the highway a little farther west in KCK. Well now we found one across the state line in the Lee’s Summit area. Filling Station BBQ is located at 333 SE Douglas Street in the downtown section. Let’s take a closer look.
The Golden Era
When we arrived at Filling Station BBQ it was obvious where the name originated. Unlike the other gas station restaurants, this place is no longer a functioning gas station. The old-fashioned pumps still adorn the exterior and add a nice nostalgic flair to the setting. Bright colors make for a cheerful look even on a cloudy day. A couple picnic tables outside offer overflow seating, but not on a cold winter day. Time to head inside.
Eye Candy Galore
Inside the colors continue and are joined by plenty of other cheery objects. The formica topped tables are appropriate for the time period being represented. Upon entering, customers place their orders at a small counter, before finding a seat. We arrived at opening time, so we didn’t have to fight a crowd. Of course, by the time we were leaving, others were beginning to file in and fill the empty tables.
As we waited for our food, we inspected the myriad of memorabilia covering just about every square inch of wall space. Replicas of signage from the heydays of Route 66 travel was apparent. This is the kind of place where you could spend a lot of time playing a game of “Eye Spy” with your kids. It certainly makes the time waiting on our meal go quickly. Soon one of the staff brought over our plentiful platter, and it was time to concentrate on filling the voids in our stomachs.
Plenty To Test
We wanted to get a good sampling of the offerings, so we ordered the Sampler Platter for Two. This comes with ribs, chicken, sausage, and two other meats of our choice. We decided on ham and burnt ends. It also includes two sides, which we picked the baked beans and sweet potato fries. All of this comes for $27.00, and is more than enough for three. Let’s talk sides. The beans had good flavor, but we couldn’t stop nibbling on the fries. These had a nice crisp to the outside, but still retained their moist interior. As we dived into the main courses, it was immediately apparent that we would be taking food home. The burnt ends were good, as were the ribs and chicken. Crystal was a big fan of the ham, and I would agree that it had a nice smoke taste. I was enamored with the sausage, which was a spicy Italian style. It had just enough kick to taste the spice, without being overbearing. We decided to leave a sampling of each meat for our son, who happily devoured the leftovers. Our overall impression was that the BBQ had good flavor and a nice price point. Clearly it appears that Kansas City is quickly becoming the gas station BBQ capital of the world.
Sounds like another one of your stories you have kept hidden from me , saving left overs for your son unless your not telling me something , very good article , and thanks again .
Oh, he ate well when he lived here. Now we have noone to eat the leftovers.