CiCo isn't just a neighborhood full of charming homes and leafy streets in Manhattan, KS—it's a culinary hotspot, packed with diverse, delicious, and downright drool-worthy eats. Whether you’re local, hosting visitors, or passing through Wildcats country, CiCo’s dining scene is a treasure trove for food lovers seeking everything from down-home comfort food to GLOBAL bites. Let me walk you through the standouts, hidden gems, and tasty traditions that make CiCo a must for every hungry heart.
Where to Eat in CiCo: The Hotspots
CiCo’s dining scene shines along Kimball Avenue and the streets hugging the CiCo Park area, with clusters of eateries that cater to every craving and occasion.
Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom
Located near the corner of Kimball and Candlewood, Old Chicago is an anchor of CiCo dining. Famous for its hearty Chicago-style pizzas, extensive beer list (locals love the beer tours!), and killer happy hour deals, it’s the go-to for groups, celebrations, and game days. Prices are fair for the hearty portions, with pizzas hovering around $15–$23, and classic pub appetizers in the $8–$12 range. Try the Spicy Pepperoni Rolls or the deep-dish Double Deckeroni if you crave a cheese pull that dreams are made of.
Linear Park Coffee
Tucked by the Linear Trail entrance off Anderson Avenue, Linear Park Coffee is a real gem for early risers and remote workers. The space is bright and inviting, serving expertly brewed PT’s coffee and a rotation of fresh-baked pastries from local bakers—don’t miss the lemon blueberry scones, which disappear fast on Saturdays! The staff here are true aficionados and can walk you through tasting notes and small-batch blends. Lattes are $4–$6, while pastries are a treat at $3–$5.
UMI Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi
For a taste of Tokyo in the Flint Hills, check out UMI Japanese Steakhouse on Kimball Ave., beloved for its hibachi shows and sushi bar. UMI is perfect for a special night out or a show-stopper family dinner—think sizzling filet mignon hibachi and sushi platters that are as beautiful as they are tasty. Most specialty rolls are $10–$15, and the hibachi dinners (which include soup, salad, veggies, and rice) range from $15–$30.
Local Traditions: A Bite of Manhattan History
Part of CiCo’s charm is its local food traditions. Don’t be surprised to see neighbors gathering outside their favorite food trucks (especially near CiCo Park events) or picking up cinnamon rolls at the farmers market. There’s a real sense of “food community” here—sharing a table, trying something new, and always supporting local.
Food Trucks: Flavor on Wheels
The CiCo neighborhood’s event calendar practically guarantees there will be at least one food truck rolling through. The lot near CiCo Park is a favorite gathering spot—especially during soccer games, summer concerts, and local fairs.
- Taco Lucha Express – A mobile offshoot of Aggieville’s mainstay, this truck offers street tacos that rival any SoCal taqueria. Carnitas, chipotle chicken, and even vegan options—all under $4 each.
- 3rd Street Eats – Known for gourmet grilled cheese and loaded fries, this spot is a guilty pleasure. Try their signature “Big Jayhawk” (with local sharp cheddar and thick-cut bacon) if you’re extra hungry.
- Prairie Scoops – On hot days, this homemade ice cream cart is a magnet for kids and grown-ups alike, serving inventive flavors like Flint Hills Lavender Honey and Choco-Cherry Creek for $3–$6 a scoop.
Bakeries and Sweets
If you’re a sweets fanatic, CiCo does not disappoint. While it’s not overflowing with old-fashioned bakeries, there are a few must-try stops:
- Paramount Café & Bakery – A newcomer near Kimball and Seth Child, they serve morning pastries—think almond croissants, cinnamon rolls, and danishes that go perfectly with local coffee. People rave about the chocolate chip muffins and the pecan sticky buns ($2–$5). They also serve savory quiche and offer a small but top-quality lunch menu.
- Crust and Crumb Pop-Up – You have to be quick! This home baker posts weekly to social media, offering pickup-only breads and decadent cookies, which usually sell out in hours. Watch for their pop-up at CiCo Park events—everything from rosemary focaccia to gooey s’mores cookies ($5–$8).
International Flavors
CiCo has a quietly impressive global scene—perfect for those days when you want to branch out. Some go-to favorites include:
- Little Saigon (Kimball Ave.) – The pho here is fragrant, the bánh mì sandwiches are crunchy and savory, and the spring rolls come with addictive peanut sauce. Most entrees are $9–$13. Quick service makes it ideal for lunch breaks or casual evenings.
- El Patron – This spot stands out for its authentic Mexican fare and frosty margaritas, especially on Taco Tuesdays. The carne asada and enchiladas are local favorites. With combo plates starting at $10, it’s a great family stop.
Hidden Gems Worth Seeking Out
No food tour is complete without a few surprises up its sleeve! Here are some lesser-known spots only CiCo insiders are talking about:
- Kimball Asian Market and Deli – This counter tucked inside a vibrant market is the place for steaming hot bún bò Huế (spicy Vietnamese beef noodle soup) and freshly wrapped spring rolls. Everything feels homemade, and meals often cost less than $10.
- Flint Hills Nutrition Bar – Not your average smoothie shop! With protein bowls, energy teas, and a super-creative rotating shake menu (think “Peanut Butter Cookie Dough”), it’s an energizing start to your day. Located just off Kimball, it attracts a loyal crowd post-workout and mid-morning.
Final Bites: What Makes CiCo Special
CiCo’s food adventures are as much about local tradition and neighborly hospitality as they are about bold flavors and global variety. Whether you’re grabbing pizza with friends, treating yourself to matcha and muffins, or sampling street tacos from a festive food truck, this neighborhood delivers warmth with every bite. Next time you’re in Manhattan, KS, don’t stick to Aggieville—spend a day (or a week!) eating your way through CiCo. You won’t leave hungry, and you just might find your new favorite haunt.
Got a favorite CiCo spot I missed? Let’s keep sharing the delicious secrets—because in CiCo, the best meals are those we discover together.