Lagnaippe, Nica’s Cajun Kitchen, Kansas City

Executive chef Bryan Merker's food may be inspired by his travels all across America, but one destination really stands out: New Orleans. He and his wife Monica (Nica) have fallen in love with its Cajun-style cooking.

At Nica's Lagniappe, they serve treats such as red beans with ham hocks, crab bisque, seafood gumbo, redfish al la mer, and shrimp creole. They also specialize in bourbon bread pudding and true french beignets, which can be stuffed with sweet fillings such as chocolate truffles. These pair with creative cocktails, such as the Ramos gin fizz or the Hurricane. The eatery even serves drinks from an absinthe fountain.