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Jess & Jim’s Steakhouse , a third-generation family-owned and operated restaurant in south Kansas City, makes everyone, even first-time patrons, feel like part of the family.
I recently made my first visit to the 86-year-old steakhouse and was blown away by the welcoming staff, homey space and best steak I’ve ever had.
Though I just recently learned about Jess & Jim’s after it was named one of the “most legendary steakhouses in the South” by Southern Living magazine, the restaurant has been recognized for its excellence many times before.
Jess and Jim’s Steakhouse at 517 E. 135th St. opened for business in April 1938 by Jess Kincaid and Jim Wright. It first came to national fame in 1972 when Playboy Magazine published an article about the restaurant. Nearly 30 years later, Playboy named Jess & Jim’s one of the top 10 steakhouses in the world. The restaurant’s menu pays homage to the magazine with the Playboy Strip , described as “25 oz. of pure beef goodness.”