Skyscrapers, fifty-fifties, and steakburgers — that’s what most people think of when they drive by Winstead’s. Today though, we’re shifting the focus from our stomachs to the story behind this local institution. We hope you came hungry...

The birth of an icon

Founded in Springfield, IL in 1936 by Kathryn Winstead, the restaurant biz quickly became a family affair. With the help of her sister Nellie, the soda stand-turned-drive-in eatery (one of the first in the US) expanded its footprint to Jacksonville, IL, Fort Wayne, IN, and Sedalia, MO.

Winstead's circa 1980s. Can you spot any differences? | Photo via Kansas City Public Library

At home in the Heartland

Sometime between 1938 and 1940, Nellie and her husband suggested a restaurant near a bustling car-centric shopping district in Kansas City. While Kathryn was hesitant at first, she eventually agreed to bring Winstead’s to the Country Club Plaza in 1940.

Its original 101 Emmanuel Cleaver Blvd. location would be the first of its kind designed in the Streamline Moderne style — plus, it would serve customers inside and outside via carhop.

Its delicious legacy

The Country Club Plaza was just the start of their KC legacy. Locations in Lee's Summit and Independence open later in the 1940s, eventually expanding to North Kansas City, Lenexa, and Overland Park. While today there are only two left in the metro, the restaurant's legendary status has stayed for generations of locals.

Is there an iconic Kansas City eatery, landmark, building, or era that you want us to dig up? We'll put our detective hat on — just let us know where to start.