When soccer fans from around the globe started pouring into Kansas City for the World Cup season, they came hungry for one thing beyond the matches: real Kansas City barbecue. And more than a few of them found their way to Q39.
That international spotlight recently landed in print — or rather, online — courtesy of Amerika Only, a Netherlands-based travel publication that covers American destinations for Dutch readers. In a feature commissioned by Visit Kansas City, writer Michelle de Vos singled out Q39 as the definitive place to understand why Kansas City barbecue has such a devoted following worldwide.
What International Visitors Are Saying About Kansas City BBQ 
Kansas City barbecue stands apart from other regional styles because it doesn’t play favorites with the meat. Many barbecue traditions center on a single protein, while the Kansas City barbecue scene offers an all-star lineup: brisket, ribs, pulled pork, chicken, and sausage.
The article calls out burnt ends specifically — those crisp, deeply caramelized brisket pieces that are practically synonymous with Kansas City barbecue — as the dish every visitor needs to try at least once. It’s a detail that barbecue lovers in Kansas City already know, but seeing it explained to an international audience is a good reminder of just how unique this regional style really is.
Why Q39 Stood Out
According to the feature, Q39 earns its reputation by combining traditional, championship Kansas City barbecue with a more refined, elevated dining experience. It’s comfort food, done with extra care: classics like brisket, ribs, and pulled pork are smoked and served fresh from pit to plate, alongside wood-fired grilled entrees, specialty sandwiches, house-made sides, and more. Expect world-class hospitality in a setting that’s comfortable for conversation and vibrant with energy.
Plan Your Visit
Q39 has four locations in the KC metro area, with the original Midtown location at 1000 West 39th Street, Kansas City, Missouri, and is easy to reach by car or rideshare. If you’re building out a full Kansas City food itinerary, the Amerika Only piece also suggests pairing a Q39 visit with a stop at the Museum of BBQ. The Museum of BBQ is only about ten minutes away, a fitting next step for anyone who wants to go deeper into the history behind what’s on their plate.
Whether you’re a longtime regular or discovered by us through international press during World Cup season, we’d love to have you at the table.
Read the full original feature (in Dutch) from Amerika Only: Restaurant Q39: Kansas City’s Best BBQ
