Central Kansas isn’t the most cosmopolitan part of the United States, and it’s true that Salina is a great place to find steaks, burgers, and American cuisine. However, America is a nation of immigrants and that’s just as true of Salina as it is about the rest of the country. If you want to dine out at a place with an international flavor, you can stop by any of the spots below.
Martinelli’s Little Italy
Martinelli’s Little Italy sits at the corner where Walnut Street meets South Santa Fe Avenue. The restaurant combines a relaxed atmosphere with fine dishes made in an authentically Italian way starting with the handmade sauces and ending with the carefully selected wine list. Toasted ravioli appetizers can start off your meal of chicken or steak, or you can try something different and get a St. Louis-style pizza with an ultra-thin crust packed to the edge with toppings. Martinelli’s also has a gluten-free menu and desserts worth leaving room for.
Jalisco Mexican Restaurant
There are several Mexican places in Salina, but the best of the bunch would probably have to be Jalisco. The restaurant is just off the Old Highway on Market Place between West Key Avenue and Belmont Boulevard. The atmosphere isn’t as amazing as it could be, but the menu offers a very nice variety of authentic Mexican food with great portions for the price. Even the complimentary salsa has a good taste, and the margaritas are a great value.
Seoul USA Korean Restaurant
There’s more to Asian food than Chinese dishes, and Seoul USA proves it for the people of Salina. You’ll find this surprising spot just south of where West Crawford Street and South Broadway Boulevard meet, and on the menu you’ll find kimchi, tofu pancakes, bibimbab stir fry, curry rice, and the Seoul Sampler, a dish that combines a bit of every meat the restaurant offers. All the tofu options make Seoul USA a great choice for vegans and vegetarians, and they roll out a lunch buffet every day for big eaters.
Joselyn’s Philippine Kitchen
Also known as the Pinoy Po Tayo Café, Joselyn’s Philippine Kitchen is a small restaurant that sits on South Santa Fe Avenue and East Jewell Avenue. The small building makes it a better place for takeout than for eating in, but it’s a great place to eat if you’re looking for food that sounds like your usual East Asian fare but tastes completely different. The egg rolls are especially delicious and the meat skewers have such a thick layer of sauce you’ll think it came from an American barbecue place.
Every American city over a certain size has people who came from other countries, and many of them are happy to share the flavors of home with locals who love variety. So if you live in Salina or you find yourself passing through the central plains of Kansas, be sure to take some time and stop by one of the international restaurants that can add a little extra spice to your life.
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