Dish & Drink KC: Leisurely lunching at Paleteria La Monarca and Third Street Social
Paleteria La Monarca // Photo By Tiffany Watts
My daughter is one of my best friends, so even the most mundane weekend errands feel like quality time when we’re together. We swap stories, catch up on the little things we forgot to mention during the week, and just enjoy each other’s company. But when hunger hits, all productivity stops and food must be eaten.
That’s exactly how we found ourselves at Paleteria La Monarca over the weekend—a bright, spacious spot known for its authentic Mexican food and indulgent desserts. The perfect place to hit reset and refuel.
After my stomach practically announced its hunger to the entire restaurant, I wasted no time ordering four tacos ($2.99 each)—one steak, three chicken—loaded with extra onion and cilantro and a side of verde salsa because, in my world, the spicier, the better. Each bite was a tasty balance of textures and flavors: tender, juicy meat, crisp, fragrant toppings, and warm, soft corn tortillas tying it all together. The steak was rich and savory, the chicken was juicy and well seasoned, and the salsa brought just the right kick of tangy heat. Simple, fresh, and exactly what I needed.
My daughter–always one to go for something hearty–chose a chicken burrito packed with beans, rice, lettuce, and sour cream. Before she could even finish, she turned to me with big, pleading eyes and begged for ice cream. And, well… I caved.
I didn’t get any for myself, but I lived vicariously through her, watching as she savored every single bite. Paleteria La Monarca is known for its ice cream, so naturally, I had to ask her for a full review. Based on her pure joy and complete lack of willingness to share, I think it’s safe to say it was a hit.
As we ate, we laughed, we talked, and I even read her a few poems from one of my new favorite books, Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur. It was one of those unexpectedly perfect afternoons—good food, sweet moments, and the simple joy of watching my daughter enjoy something she loves.
Paleteria La Monarca is located at 6928 N Oak Trafficway, Gladstone, MO 64118.
Third Street Social// Photo By Tiffany Watts
After too much time apart, one of my closest friends and I finally made plans to catch up over lunch at Third Street Social in Lee’s Summit.
Our server was amazing—attentive without hovering, always checking in at just the right moment. When it was time to order, I went with the Impossible Burger ($18)—but full disclosure, while the patty itself is plant-based, the sandwich as a whole isn’t fully vegan. I didn’t realize that at first, even though it was written on the menu, so when my burger arrived topped with American cheese and sauce, our server quickly clarified that it was actually vegetarian.
Luckily, they were more than happy to make it right, and in no time, my burger was back just how I like it—stacked with heavy onion and a side of mustard. Sure, it was plainer than the original version, but it was still delicious.
And the fries? Delicious. Hot, crispy, fresh. Something so simple, yet not always guaranteed. My friend ordered the grilled salmon with mashed potatoes and roasted broccoli, and while I didn’t steal a bite of the salmon (self-control), I did snag a few pieces of her broccoli, and they were incredibly flavorful.
Third Street Social has three locations. I visited the original location at 123 SE 3rd St., Lee’s Summit, MO 64063.
