Popular Southern Food Chain Opening New Location This Summer

A growing Southern cuisine chain is expanding into the Kansas City area this summer.

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar, which opened in 2000 in Asheville, North Carolina and has spread its roots to include more than 20 different locations in 16 states, is opening a new outpost in Lenexa, Kansas next month.

The chain first announced it was coming to Lenexa's “Restaurant Row” at some point in 2025 two years ago. Now, there's an official opening date: July 15, per The Kansas City Star.

"As we think about where to build our newest Tupelo Honey locations, we always consider the communities that are growing and thriving in a big way – and that’s Lenexa,” Tupelo Honey chief operating officer Caroline Skinner said in a press release. “We can’t wait to join the Lenexa and greater Kansas City area communities in the coming weeks.”

Over the last two-plus decades, Tupelo Honey has become known for its fried chicken, shrimp and grits, famous biscuits and other traditional Southern classics. 

"Tupelo Honey is a revival of Southern food and traditions rooted in the Carolina mountains we call home," reads the company's official website. "For over 20 years, we have infused our Southern & Appalachian spirit into every bite. Our recipes are simply crafted with fresh ingredients that bring the best of every season."

When it opens next month, the Lenexa Tupelo Honey location will be one of four restaurants in the 16720 City Center Drive development, along with local Tex-Mex establishment Cactus Grill, healthy restaurant Enjoy Pure Food and fast-casual eatery Zhoug Mediterranean.