There are a lot of great options for a business lunch in Kansas City. It’s a growing place with new restaurants popping up left and right. But which place is right for you? And how can you be sure you’ll have a successful business lunch?
Whether you are searching for business lunch ideas, a place to bring a new client or a spot to take an old client, Parkway Social Kitchen has you covered. Centrally located and featuring a great menu, it makes for the perfect Kansas City lunch meeting location.
But you need more than the right place to host a Kansas City business lunch; you need the tools and tips to make it successful. Luckily, we have those things, too.
Choosing the Right Restaurant
A Kansas City business lunch is only as good as the venue you choose. If the food is off, the atmosphere is too stiff and the service is poor, your client (or potential client) will remember all of that much more than what you said. Along with a good business plan, you have to have a good time. Parkway is the perfect place to do just that.
At the corner of Ward Parkway and Jefferson Street, Parkway’s location is perfect for in-town clients and those clients who are just visiting. The Plaza is centrally located, so the drive over will be easy. It’s also one of the most uniquely beautiful districts in Kansas City, which is something that can be especially nice for out-of-town clients. Your business lunch will be off to a good start before you even get in the door.
Be Prepared
Great business lunches don’t happen on a whim. Even if you have a great personality and are good at improvising, a successful business lunch in Kansas City is the result of planning and preparation. Make sure you know what you want to say. Have a goal in mind, and work toward that goal. A client can tell when the conversation is wandering — keep it focused and on target, while still having a good time.
Speaking of being prepared, you can make a reservation at Parkway online or by calling in. Don’t get caught in a busy rush with a long wait when you can plan ahead and secure you spot.
Need room for a larger party? Check out the Scarlet Room, Parkway’s private event space. If your business lunch involves a large party, you can inquire about reserving the whole space ahead of time.
Know the Relationship
Different clients require different interactions. If it’s a first-time client, or a potential client, maybe skip the bar. You can have a good time without drinks, and you can present yourself in an appealingly professional manner in this new client relationship.
If this is a decade-long relationship, why not enjoy a cocktail from Parkway’s extensive bar menu? Parkway’s community-centric atmosphere and amazing bar make for a great “thank you” business lunch for a longtime client. Relax and have a drink. Fun memories make relationships better — in business and in life.
Order the Right Food
This may seem obvious, but you’d be amazed how many people order a messy plate and realize too late that they’ve made a mistake. You’re trying to make a good impression on a client, and making a mess with your lunch isn’t going to accomplish that.
Parkway’s menu has a little bit of everything. The upscale comfort food selection offers plenty of plates that are both delicious and clean. The spinach artichoke dip or Norwegian smoked salmon make for nice appetizers — a perfect blend of classy and comforting. Moving on, salads and soups are always a good way to go for a Kansas City business lunch. Or, you could enjoy one of Parkway’s many sandwich and entrée options. With making a good impression in mind, the oven-roasted salmon fillet is always a good choice.
Whatever it is you’re looking for, and whatever your client is looking for during this lunch meeting, you’ll find it on the Parkway menu.
End on a Clear Note
You’ve had a great lunch. The location is great, the food is satisfying, the conversation was successful, and now you’re ready to get back to the rest of the day. Don’t let your Kansas City business lunch end on a low note. Circle back around and end with purpose. Without being too forward or aggressive, remind your client the purpose of the business lunch.
Make sure to be especially thankful that they joined you for a lunch meeting, and, of course, pick up the tab. While Parkway’s menu is upscale, it’s also affordable. You won’t break the company bank for a nice Kansas City business lunch here.
So, what are you waiting for? Start prepping for your successful business lunch in Kansas City today with a reservation at Parkway Social Kitchen. We’ll see you soon.