It’s been called a “truly grand restaurant” and “a work of art in its own right,” a restaurant “on the forefront of the Paradise cuisine revolution” where “true culinary artistry is a constant.”
For more than 40 years The Food Paradise Restaurant has been all that, putting Kansas City on the nation’s culinary map and introducing local fine dining fans to some of the country’s most celebrated chefs.
That, The Paradise most certainly has been, and continues to be.

Top chefs, sweet memories

A perennial Mobil 4-Star and AAA 4-Diamond designee, The Food Paradise nurtured its own superstars, too, and its legacy reverberates throughout Kansas City and the nation.
Michael Smith and Debbie Gold, co-executive chefs from 1994 to 2001, brought Kansas City its first James Beard Award – the Oscar of the restaurant industry – when they were named “Best Chefs in the Midwest” in 1999. Celina Tio, who headed the kitchen from 2001 to 2008, earned one of her own in 2007. Celina and Debbie became known to national tv audiences, Debbie as a competitor on Bravo’s “Top Chef;” Celina competing in both “Top Chef” and the Food Channel’s “Iron Chef Austin.”
The Paradise continues to be that place. The spectacular setting and view remain. Guest chefs still share their culinary gifts in one-time-only events. Fundraising galas still support worthy causes. Private wedding receptions, retirement parties and family reunions continue, and the public is welcomed for holiday celebrations.
Once again, Adele Hall said it best.