Lilly's Cantina, nestled at 900 Southwest Blvd in Kansas City, MO, is a charming family-owned Mexican restaurant that stands out for its authentic cuisine and warm atmosphere. Patrons rave about the thoughtfully crafted dishes, with a particular nod to their unique use of mole and enchilada sauces, creating a delightful culinary experience. Guests like Celeste appreciated the attentive service, highlighting how the staff genuinely cares for each visitor’s experience, making it feel like home. The puffy tacos and their rich tamales are crowd favorites, while the vibrant salsas and refreshing margaritas elevate the meal. Calvin Caylor notes that while other venues may be larger and louder, few can match the love infused into Lilly's offerings. The cozy setting can present some challenges, like tight seating for larger groups, but as Janet noted, the exceptional food and outstanding service more than compensate. With dishes like the Chorizo & Eggs and the standout Big Bob's Burrito Spread, it’s easy to see why first-time visitors leave eager to return. In summary, Lilly's Cantina excels in delivering not just meals, but heartfelt dining experiences that feel like family gatherings, making it a must-try for both locals and visitors alike.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
On-site services not available
Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great cocktails
Good for watching sport
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves happy-hour food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Has counter service
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Transgender safe space
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Photos
Reviews For Lilly's Cantina
Celeste
May 26,2025
Visited for the first time on my birthday. Tried basically one of everything between myself and everyone else. For me, a unique use of mole and enchilada sauce almost interchangeably, but I like! Everyone is working their tail off there and really cares about your experience, and I love that! It's a small space, so if you've got a group of 8 or more, you have to get lucky to get a spot together. One person in our group had a knee scooter and was able to amble around the space well. I like it here!
Janet Klein
May 15,2025
Had our monthly family dinner last night at Lilly’s. What a wonderful experience. This little family owned restaurant may be small and parking can be a challenge, but the excellent food and outstanding service is well worth the trip. The puffy taco is loaded with chicken, the tamales have the perfect amount of pork and masa, the cheese dip was delicious, nice margaritas, great hot salsa. The service was so good. Everyone was friendly and always making sure we had what we needed. Very, very nice experience. Will be back!
Georgette T
May 8,2025
The owner and staff are absolutely amazing! The food is delicious, and the portion sizes exceeded my expectations. My fried tacos and rice were so tasty. My daughter brought me here for Mother's Day, and I really enjoyed it.
Georgiana Lawley
Apr 30,2025
The food and service was top notch! The atmosphere was so friendly and inviting. The customer service was the most outstanding service I've ever received. Between everything, it was so homey. We will definitely be back
Calvin Caylor
Apr 3,2025
Located just about four blocks west of the Crossroads District and just south of the Guadalupe District, Lilly's Cantina offers authentic Mexican dishes in a cozy, comfortable setting. It is clear that the owner, Teresa, is all about family. You can feel that by how the staff interact with the guests and other staff. My favorite is the Big Bob's Burrito Spread. You would expect the tortilla chips that come with a meal to be thin and tasty and you won't be disappointed. You can go to bigger and noisier venues on Southwest Boulevard but you won't find one where things are done with more love. Try it once and I promise you it will immediately be on your rotation of favorite places to eat.
its a beer life
Mar 9,2025
What a great family run Mexican restaurant. Kids waiting tables and mom in the kitchen cooking up some great Mexican food. The service was amazing and very attentive. We were never for a want. The drinks and chips were perfect. We tried the puffy chicken taco, beef tostada, and big pork burrito. The pork in the burrito was to die for. Best burrito I’ve had in a long time and will be back for more. The wife had the taco gone before I could even get a bite. Must have been great. The tostada was excellent too. While we’re there the customers just kept coming and going. Mom came around to each table and made sure everyone was happy and satisfied. Order to plate time was great and everything was cooked from scratch. The salsa and chips kept us busy along with the delicious margaritas. 5 stars to you all at Lilly’s Cantina. Thanks for a great time and an even better meal.
Gloria Shanahan
Feb 13,2025
It’s the family owned little places that have the best food. Pork tamales, Fried tacos, wonderful rice that was not dry and flaky, great salsa, and cheese dip. The service by Amy was warm and personal as well as the owner Teresa. Will definitely go back for the food and the quaint atmosphere. Don’t expect fancy. It’s refreshingly homey.
Mattie Beard
Feb 9,2025
Great food and fantastic service! Family owned and operated restaurant with killer margaritas and delicious food. We tried the puffy tacos, tostadas, and chicken flautas with their fresh salsa and house made cheese dip. Everything was a 10/10. Great prices as well. We will definitely be back and would recommend to anyone!
Reviews For Lilly's Cantina