Eat this Now: Steamed Mussels at Pot Pie

Steamed Mussels at Pot Pie // Photo by Raymart Dinglas

Tucked away in Old Westport, Pot Pie stands as a beacon of comfort food, charmingly inviting patrons into its warm embrace. This quaint eatery, renowned for its namesake dish, also offers a culinary twist that veers off the beaten path of traditional pot pies. It’s the steamed mussels that are a hidden gem, recommended by those in the know.

Upon entering Pot Pie, you’re greeted by the rustic allure of brick walls and the soft glow of dim lighting, creating an intimate atmosphere that feels like a well-kept secret. It’s the kind of place where memories are made, and the hustle of the outside world fades away with each savory bite.

The mussels, an unassuming appetizer on the menu, arrive with no fanfare, save for their simple name. Yet, as they are presented atop a coupe dish, the anticipation builds. The sight of dark, glossy shells parting to reveal the vibrant orange flesh of the mussels is nothing short of captivating. Each one is plump and tender, with a hint of the sea’s briny kiss, nestled in a pool of aromatic broth.

This broth, a gorgeous blend of garlic, ripe cherry tomatoes, and sweet onions, is a symphony of flavors waiting to be explored. It wants you to take the complimentary toasted bread and plunge it into its depths, ensuring not a single drop of this culinary elixir goes to waste.

As you indulge in this slurp-worthy delight, it becomes clear why this dish comes so highly recommended. It was only a precursor to a sharable chicken pot pie paired with a glass of white wine, but the spotlight remained on the mussels.

Pot Pie may have built its reputation on its namesake dish, but it’s the steamed mussels that will capture your heart and palate, urging you to return time and again to this cozy corner of Westport.

Pot Pie is located at 1904 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111.