Coffee & Food Guide: This Week's Favorites

I’ve been exploring a few spots around the Topeka/Lawrence area lately, and I’m excited to share my honest reviews. A few places I've been before & a few are new! Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy cappuccino or a lively dinner experience, here are some places I’ve recently tried—and loved.

1. CoffeeHead - Topeka, KS

   
   

CoffeeHead has been a longtime favorite of mine.

For the longest time, I was loyal to their vanilla iced matcha, but recently I made the switch to their traditional cappuccino with vanilla and oat milk. Best decision ever. It’s smooth, balanced, and not overly sweet—plus, the price is unbeatable at $3.95. Affordable, consistent, and comforting. 5/5 stars.

Gas station cappuccino

2. Circle Coffee - Topeka, KS

This one surprised me.

Circle Coffee offers a "Gas Station" cappuccino with oat milk that completely exceeded my expectations. It’s rich, creamy, and easily one of the best cappuccinos I’ve had in Topeka. Great study spot and service, as well. At around $5, it’s definitely on the pricier side compared to CoffeeHead, but the quality is there. If you’re in the mood to splurge on your morning coffee, this is the spot. 5/5 stars.

3. HuHot Grill - Topeka, KS

If you’re looking for something interactive and fun, HuHot Grill is worth a visit. It’s an Asian-style buffet priced at about $15 per person. You get to build your own bowl by choosing noodles, vegetables, proteins, and sauces, and then watch as it’s cooked right in front of you on a large grill. The flavors are customizable, the experience is entertaining, and you’ll definitely leave full. 4/5 stars.

4. Camequaro Mexican Restaurant - Topeka, KS

Camequaro is one of those places that doesn’t look like much from the outside—but don’t let appearances fool you. This is authentic, flavorful Mexican food at its best. I ordered a mix of lengua (cow tongue), chicken, and steak tacos, paired with a classic glass-bottle Mexican Coke. The meat was tender, the tortillas were fresh, and there was a wide selection of sauces to top everything off. This spot feels like a hidden gem, the service is great (although I recommend you know a bit of Spanish, haha), and I’d recommend it to anyone wanting a true, authentic experience.

5. Barker on Mass Street - Lawrence, KS

   
   

Barker is one of those places that feels like it was designed for slow mornings and beautiful photos. Their atmosphere is gorgeous and aesthetic, with décor that’s perfectly on point. It’s always busy, so go early before they run out of their amazing croissants and cruffins. Their iced matcha is perfectly earthy—not overly sweet—and comes in a delicate glass that makes the experience feel special. The food is picture-perfect: their fried eggs (yes, it’s surprisingly hard to find a great fried egg) are amazing, and they bake their own bread in-house. Barker easily earns a “10/10 stars” in my book.

6. Billie's Grocery - Kansas City, MO

Billie’s Grocery is an absolute must if you’re in the Kansas City area. Their chicken sandwich might be the best I’ve ever had—crispy gluten-free panko fried chicken layered with green leaf lettuce, tomato, pickled onion, smoky aioli, a pickle, all served on a traditional egg bun. Pair it with sweet potato fries or truffle fries and you’re in food heaven.

Their iced matchas are just as impressive, offered in several varieties, and their drink menu is full of creative, health-forward options. One standout is the Shroomunity Latte, a coffee made with mushrooms that leaves a lasting earthy flavor. Their bowls are also fantastic—the Lazy Sushi Bowl is one of my personal favorites. If you’re looking for something both clean and flavorful in KC, Billie’s Grocery is the place to go.

Final Thoughts

Topeka has some hidden gems worth discovering, and it’s easy to branch out into nearby Lawrence or Kansas City for even more unique finds. For a dependable daily drink, CoffeeHead is unmatched. Circle Coffee makes for a special splurge. HuHot brings the entertainment factor, and Camequaro offers authentic, bold Mexican flavors. Barker is a beautiful morning getaway in Lawrence, while Billie’s Grocery is a true Kansas City treasure for anyone who loves creative, high-quality food and drinks.

Stay adventurous, eat good food, and stay tuned.

Comment your favorite foodie finds where you live or your favorite food.

xoxo,

Lily