Gates & Sons Bar-B-Q   

There are plenty of places to eat good barbecue in Kansas City. So why go to Gates? For starters, Gates is one of the legends of KC barbecue. The first Gates restaurant opened in 1946 at 19th and Vine, when the district was still a hoppin' jazz spot. The Gates empire has since grown to six restaurants in the metro area. Part of that success has been Gates' irresistible original sauce, which gives the slow-smoked beef, pork, chicken and other comfort food a pleasing zip. Another reason for success is Gates' College of Bar-B-Que Knowledge, which all employees attend to ensure they're doing the job right. Some customers complain of Gates' noisy atmosphere, because barbecue college training involves learning to call, "Hi, may I help you?" to every customer who walks through the door. If you're one who likes to eat your meal in peace, consider grabbing some Gates to go. In addition to all menu items, Gates sells smoked meat by the pound and sauce by the jar. Or look for one of the four varieties of sauce at your supermarket. -- Anna Foote