An American inspiration from The Hall Family

Urban decay in the heart of Kansas City. In the late 1960’s, J.C. Hall, founder of Hallmark Cards, and his son Donald decided to do something about it.

They built Crown Center. Its crown jewel: the American Restaurant, their vision of a celebration of American cuisine.

To design it, they hired Warren Platner, (architect of legendary Windows on the World, New York, and Water Tower Place, Chicago.)

In 1990, the restaurant was remodeled and updated by architect Jim Calcara of Calcara, Duffendack, Foss, Manlove, Inc., Kansas City. It won the 1991 Allied Arts and Craftsmanship Award from the American Institute of Architects.

To develop the culinary concept, they sought out James Beard, the father of American cuisine, and Joe Baum, the legendary restaurateur.

The American Restaurant has been consistently awarded both the AAA Four Diamonds and the Mobil Travel Guide Four Stars ratings—recognition of the highest levels of cuisine and hospitality.