Kansas City’s Best Chef, Penny Mufuka, knows what the people want and delivers
Chef Penny Mufuka // Courtesy of Bamboo Penny’s
This post was paid for by Bamboo Penny’s.
Penny Mufuka earned the title of Best Chef of 2025, but it’s tough to distinguish exactly why.
Was it for her use of color in her recipes? Or for her balanced and aromatic dishes? Maybe it was for the generous portions of her signature Thai foods. No matter the exact reason, each vote likely came from a satisfied customer after enjoying her menu at Bamboo Penny’s.
After years of introducing her Thai flavors to the metro, Chef Penny opened her own spot, Bamboo Penny’s, in Leawood’s Park Place in 2021. Diners are occasionally surprised by a personal tableside greeting from the Chef herself. It’s this holistic and customer-focused approach that sets her restaurant apart from other upscale dining rooms.
Dishes at Bamboo Penny’s are known for striking the balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, using a variety of cooking methods and fresh ingredients with customizable spice levels. Popular items here include spring rolls, a variety of curries, and, of course, pineapple fried rice served in an iconic pineapple display.
The vibrant menu of food and cocktails isn’t the only way to enjoy Chef Penny’s namesake restaurant. The Bamboo Room is a unique event space on the second floor that plays host to a variety of events year-round. From live music and creative themed parties to private rentals for the rooftop views, the team continues to prove that they know how to connect with their community. The restaurant is open every single day of the year as a reliable spot to gather with friends, celebrate date night, treat the family, or grab some comforting take-out.
Chef Penny’s accolades don’t stop with her. The team, menus, and settings that she has helped shape have made a major impression on Kansas City diners. Bamboo Penny’s was also a finalist for Best Thai Restaurant, Best Patio, Best Bowl of Soup, Best Restaurant, and Best Place for a First Date. Another one of Chef Penny’s restaurants, Aqua Penny’s, was a finalist for Best Margarita and Best Seafood Restaurant.
With all of these reader nominations, it is clear that she knows what the people want and thoughtfully delivers it.
Bamboo Penny’s is located at 5270 W 116th Pl, Leawood, KS 66211. Penny’s in the Village is located at 4160 W 71st St, Prairie Village, KS 66208. Aqua Penny’s is located at 11652 Ash Street, Leawood, KS 66211.
