Foodies Topeka – This is Topeka https://thisistopeka.com Wed, 24 Sep 2025 12:04:47 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://thisistopeka.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/TIT-150x150.png Foodies Topeka – This is Topeka https://thisistopeka.com 32 32 Alyssa Eats: Sauce, Service, and Sweet Endings at Chef’s Kiss https://thisistopeka.com/2025/09/alyssa-eats-sauce-service-and-sweet-endings-at-chefs-kiss/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=alyssa-eats-sauce-service-and-sweet-endings-at-chefs-kiss https://thisistopeka.com/2025/09/alyssa-eats-sauce-service-and-sweet-endings-at-chefs-kiss/#respond Wed, 24 Sep 2025 12:03:07 +0000 https://thisistopeka.com/?p=4870 You know that feeling when you find a restaurant that just gets it? That’s Chef’s Kiss in
Topeka, Kansas. It’s Italian comfort food meets laid-back charm, and if you haven’t been
yet, go hungry and go soon.

IMG 5986 - Alyssa Eats: Sauce, Service, and Sweet Endings at Chef’s Kiss


I rolled in with a craving for something creamy and something garlicky, and Chef’s Kiss
delivered both with flair. The shrimp scampi? Bright, buttery, and loaded with garlic in
the best way. The shrimp were plump and perfectly cooked, nestled in a bed of pasta
that soaked up every drop of that lemony goodness. And the chicken Alfredo? Creamy,
dreamy, and rich without being heavy. The sauce was clearly made fresh, none of that
gloopy, over-thick stuff. Just smooth, savory perfection.

IMG 5994 - Alyssa Eats: Sauce, Service, and Sweet Endings at Chef’s Kiss


Cannoli Goals Achieved


Just when I thought the night couldn’t get better, out came the cannoli and let me tell
you, it was chef’s kiss in dessert form. The shell was crisp and golden, with just the right
snap when you bite in. The filling? Sweet, creamy, and flecked with chocolate chips that
added a little crunch and a lot of joy. It wasn’t too heavy, wasn’t too sweet, just that
perfect end-of-meal treat that makes you close your eyes and smile. If you’re the type
who “doesn’t do dessert,” these cannoli might just change your mind.
Service That Deserves Its Own Applause
Let’s talk about the servers. They were on it. Fast without rushing us and somehow
always nearby when we needed something but never hovering. It felt like dining with
people who genuinely cared whether we were having a good time.
They made the whole experience feel effortless. Like we were regulars, even though it
was our first visit.

IMG 6002 - Alyssa Eats: Sauce, Service, and Sweet Endings at Chef’s Kiss


Cozy, Family-Oriented, and Totally Chill


Chef’s Kiss isn’t trying to be trendy—it’s trying to be home. Families were laughing over
shared plates, couples were tucked into corners with wine and pasta, and the whole
vibe was relaxed and welcoming. No pressure, no pretension—just good food and good
people.


Final Scoop


If you’re in Topeka and craving Italian, Chef’s Kiss is the move. Whether you’re diving
into shrimp scampi or swimming in Alfredo sauce, you’ll leave full, happy, and maybe
planning your next visit before you even hit the parking lot.

Want your restaurant reviewed?
Alyssa Eats is always looking for the best food experiences in Topeka. If you’d like your restaurant to be featured, contact us at [email protected].

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Raising Cane’s Opening Sooner Than Expected in Topeka| Here’s the Inside Scoop https://thisistopeka.com/2025/07/raising-canes-opening-sooner-than-expected-in-topeka-heres-the-inside-scoop/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=raising-canes-opening-sooner-than-expected-in-topeka-heres-the-inside-scoop https://thisistopeka.com/2025/07/raising-canes-opening-sooner-than-expected-in-topeka-heres-the-inside-scoop/#respond Fri, 18 Jul 2025 13:23:41 +0000 https://thisistopeka.com/?p=3981 TOPEKA, KS — Chicken finger fanatics, get ready to Caniac Commence a little earlier than planned.
If you’ve been counting down the days until Raising Cane’s finally opens its doors in Topeka, you might want to grab a Sharpie and update that calendar. Originally slated for a May grand opening, sources close to the build have confirmed that the wildly popular chicken chain is pushing that date up now aiming for a March or April debut.

That’s right the golden fried dreams of Topekans are about to become reality even sooner.

Construction crews have been spotted out working overtime at the Wanamaker location, right in the heart of the city’s busiest corridor. The energy is buzzing, the foundation is laid, and the red Cane’s signage is getting closer to teasing fans driving by.

While Raising Cane’s has remained quiet about the official launch date, my insider (who has a crispy connection to the project) tells me things are progressing fast and on schedule by the hardworking crew that’s been “moving like it’s chicken time.”

If you’ve never had Raising Cane’s before, here’s what you can expect: hand-battered chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, Texas toast, coleslaw, and their signature Cane’s Sauce that has a cult following all its own. That’s it no burgers, no distractions just quality chicken done right. And if you know, you know.

The Topeka location will be the latest addition to the chicken chain’s rapid Kansas expansion, which already includes locations in Overland Park, Lawrence, and Wichita. Locals can expect the same sleek drive-thru experience, fast service, and signature Cane’s hospitality with a possible ribbon-cutting and opening-week giveaways if trends from other store openings hold true.

So whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-timer wondering what all the hype is about, get ready: Cane’s is coming to Topeka sooner than you think.

Follow ThisIsTopeka.com and my socials for real-time updates, sneak peeks, and — you guessed it — first bites.

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OhMyGoodies: Baking Connection, Community, and Creativity in Topeka https://thisistopeka.com/2024/12/ohmygoodies-baking-connection-community-and-creativity-in-topeka/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ohmygoodies-baking-connection-community-and-creativity-in-topeka https://thisistopeka.com/2024/12/ohmygoodies-baking-connection-community-and-creativity-in-topeka/#respond Thu, 12 Dec 2024 17:05:48 +0000 https://thisistopeka.com/?p=873 When it comes to food in Topeka, KS, few businesses capture the heart and taste buds of the community like OhMyGoodies, a home-based bakery led by owner Sara Jean. Known for her custom cakes and unforgettable cinnamon rolls, Sara has turned her passion for baking into a business that not only delivers delicious treats but also gives back to the community in meaningful ways.

Each year, Sara’s Christmas cinnamon roll fundraiser has become a hallmark event, selling out in record time. This year, it took just seven minutes for all the rolls to be claimed. When asked what makes her cinnamon rolls so irresistible, Sara points to her mom’s “not-so-secret” recipe and her commitment to quality.

“I start with yeast and give the dough the proper time to rise—it’s a bit of magic,” she explains. “It’s a labor of love that involves multitasking, with four double batches going at once. Over two days, I work up to 20 hours a day to ensure the rolls are fresh for families to enjoy on Christmas morning. It’s hard work, but seeing how much joy they bring makes it all worth it.”

Baking for a Cause

One of the most inspiring aspects of OhMyGoodies is how Sara uses her business to support others. The fundraiser proceeds are donated to local organizations and individuals in need. For Sara, choosing recipients is deeply personal.

“Every year, at least one recipient is someone or an organization that has touched my heart. Four years ago, I supported Heartland Horse Riding Clinic in memory of Hunter and a scholarship fund in honor of Brady Smith. Those moments stick with me,” she says.

Sara also asks her followers to suggest causes, creating a ripple effect of kindness throughout Topeka. “Even if I can’t pick them all, their names are out there for others to see, donate to, or volunteer with,” she adds.

Home kitchen of Sara from OhMyGoodies, featuring baking tools, ingredients, and custom cake decorations for her unique creations in Topeka, KS
The cozy kitchen where Sara of OhMyGoodies crafts her irresistible custom cakes and iconic cinnamon rolls, bringing joy to Topeka, KS.

The Power of Community

Sara credits the success of her business to her loyal customers and supporters. Having lived in north Topeka for over 26 years, she’s built a strong connection to the community.

“I don’t advertise; it’s all word of mouth,” she says. “People know that when they support OhMyGoodies, they’re not just buying a cake—they’re helping make someone else’s life better. That’s why they keep coming back.”

Unique Flavors and Creative Creations

OhMyGoodies is known for more than cinnamon rolls. Sara’s custom cakes and willingness to experiment with flavors keep her customers intrigued. Last year, she hosted a contest to find the most unique flavor idea. The winner? Pineapple mojito.

“It was a vanilla lime cake layered with caramelized pineapple in rum, topped with buttercream, mint simple syrup, and lime zest,” Sara recalls. “It was a hit, and the winner has already requested it again for her birthday!”

For Sara, every cake tells a story. One of her most memorable creations was a chicken cake for Maddie, a young girl with special needs.

“Maddie had the biggest personality, and her reaction to the cake—a chicken perched on a red coop—was priceless. Tragically, Maddie passed away not long after, but her family and I still celebrate her memory with a special cake every summer.”

A custom-designed chicken-shaped birthday cake perched on a bright red coop, made by OhMyGoodies in Topeka, KS.
A heartfelt creation by OhMyGoodies: Maddie’s custom chicken cake perched on a vibrant red coop, capturing joy and love through dessert art.

The Future of OhMyGoodies

While Sara has no plans to expand to a storefront or hire employees, she remains dedicated to growing her online presence and sharing her journey with a wider audience.

“I believe my personal touch is why people come to me,” she says. “I do all the baking, designing, and creating myself. That connection is what makes my business special.”

Her advice to other entrepreneurs looking to incorporate philanthropy into their work? “If you’re passionate about what you do, it shows. Use that passion to make a difference. Whether it’s donating, volunteering, or simply inspiring others, you can create something bigger than yourself.”

More Than Just Cake

For Sara, OhMyGoodies is about more than just food. It’s about building community, spreading kindness, and creating lasting memories.

“When I see how my cakes bring joy to people or how a fundraiser helps someone in need, I know I’m doing exactly what I’m meant to do,” she says.

As the holidays approach, it’s clear that Sara’s impact on the Topeka community goes far beyond the kitchen. OhMyGoodies is a shining example of how a small business can make a big difference, one cinnamon roll—and one cake—at a time.


For those in search of exceptional food in Topeka, KS, OhMyGoodies offers not just delicious desserts but also a heartwarming reminder of the power of community and creativity.

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