Eat This Now: Rasta pasta at Wah Gwan
Rasta Pasta at Wah Gwan // Photo by Sarah Sipple
Over at University Academy on Holmes Rd., Mr. Ryan Hall’s 8th-grade English class has a long-running practice of learning about food writing through the “Eat This Now” column from The Pitch. Given the chance to put words to any restaurant in town using our format, the students have a rare opportunity to tackle the twisty skillset of blending persuasive and descriptive language with culinary concoctions. As part of a very special project and contest this year, The Pitch has decided to publish the top three submissions from these 8th-graders—getting their first byline in a major publication, as a reward for going above and beyond in Hall’s class. The following is one of three stories selected for this series, composed by Lataya Reid. We hope you enjoy it as much as we have.
“You have to try this Taya, it will change your life, fam.”
That is what my friend told me before we even walked through the doors of Wah Gwan.
The restaurant stands out on the street with its bright, colorful mural of a tropical beach, making it impossible to miss. Inside, the vibe is super chill. There are old school reggae records on the walls, and the smell of spicy grilled chicken fills the air. It feels like a small, cozy hangout spot where the music is always playing just loud enough to make you want to nod your head.
Wah Gwan // Photo by Sarah Sipple
If you’re going to order one thing, it has to be the Rasta Pasta.
The first thing you notice is how bright it is. The bowl is packed with red, green, and yellow bell peppers that look like the colors of a flame. The pasta is covered in a thick, orange cream sauce that is incredibly smooth.
When you take a bite, you get backhanded, sucker punched, drop-kicked, smacked, prime Mike Tysoned on June 28, 1997, upper-cutted, leg sweeped, and gently laid to rest by savory jerk seasoning. You know it’s going to be a little bit spicy, but the coconut milk makes it also kind of sweet. The peppers stay nice and crunchy, too, which is a great break from the soft, cheesy noodles. The contrasts are out of control.
Honestly, this Rasta Pasta is the best fusion dish I’ve ever had. You can tell it’s high quality because the sauce isn’t watery at all. It’s rich and coats every single piece of pasta perfectly. Most people who visit Wah Gwan end up clearing their entire plate, which is all the proof you need that it’s amazing.
Wah Gwan // Photo by Sarah SippleKC V
If you want a meal that actually has a ton of flavor and leaves you full, you need to go to Wah Gwan and order this right now. You will NOT be disappointed, trust!
Wah Gwan is located at 6228 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO 64110.
