Eat This Now: Crab Rangoon at Sayachi

Crab rangoons at Sayachi. // Photo by Emily Wheeler

As a self-proclaimed crab rangoon connoisseur, I have spent my time in Kansas City scouring for the best in the city.

Brookside sushi restaurant Sayachi offers some of the most flavorful crab rangoons I’ve tried around the metro. I’ve returned to Sayachi many times over the past couple of years, and have yet to leave without having an order of their crab rangoons.

The wonton wrappers are light and crispy, never greasy. Inside, a balanced mix of blue crab meat and cream cheese. They avoid the common blunder of cream cheese overload, and the chunks of crab are substantial enough to give these rangoons a distinct, fresh crab flavor—living up to their name. While full of flavor, these rangoons are smaller than most, and one person could easily polish off an order of four in no time.

Rather than the classic sweet and sour sauce, these delicious wontons are served with a side of spicy mayo. While an unexpected pairing at first, the kick of spice from the mayo puts these rangoons in a class of their own.

To add a random, fun touch, a robot server delivers your food with a polite prompt to “Please take your food.” However, the tone might come across as slightly passive-aggressive.

Sayachi marks the third restaurant for owner Carlos Falcon in the Kansas City area, following the success of his other ventures, Jaracho and Jaracho South, which blend Asian techniques with Mexican cuisine.

In 2019, Carlos and his wife, Sayaka Falcon—a native of Okinawa, Japan—opened Sayachi together. The restaurant’s name, “Sayachi,” is inspired by Sayaka’s childhood nickname.

The dining area maintains a simple and comfortable atmosphere, staying quiet and relaxed throughout the evening. The sushi bar and open kitchen create a fluid atmosphere that is still able to maintain a relaxed and quiet vibe.

Sayachi is located at 6322 Brookside Plaza, Kansas City, MO 64113