Address: 7700 East Kellogg Drive, Wichita, KS 67207

Phone: +1 316 226 6460

Price Range: $$$$

Hot Potato Bar

You might not expect much from a kiosk in the middle of Towne East Square in Wichita, but Hot Potato Bar is here to change your mind about that. Founded over four years ago, this family-owned establishment has managed to carve out its niche as the go-to spot for loaded baked potatoes. It's the quintessential build-your-own experience where your cravings dictate your meal, and trust me, the results are nothing short of spectacular. 🌟

Hot Potato Bar's unique selling point is the sheer customizability of their menu. Start with a mammoth-sized potato, sourced directly from Texas, cooked to perfection in specialized European machines. These spuds are then turned over to you to unleash your culinary creativity. Potatoes are mixed with their special butter and cheese blend, setting the perfect base for the toppings. You can choose between a plain potato, veggie potato, or a meat & veggie potato, all generously loaded with an array of toppings.

Let me just highlight some epic choices. First up, the BBQ Chicken Potato 🥔. Imagine a potato filled with salt, pepper, butter, and cheese, mashed to your liking. Add BBQ chicken, every vegetable under the sun, and finish it off with macaroni salad, BBQ sauce, and a generous drizzle of sriracha for that spicy kick. It’s a symphony of flavors that works exceptionally well together.

Don't miss out on the Beef Chili Potato if you're a meat lover. This version pairs beef chili with unlimited veggies and the signature butter and cheese mixture. The potato is then heated and topped as you wish. You could go all out with items like coleslaw, pickles, or macaroni salad. It's filling, satisfying, and ridiculously indulgent for just around $8.49.

For those who prefer their spuds sans meat, the Veggie Potato is a fantastic option. It allows unlimited veggie toppings mixed with their buttery-cheese base, making each bite a flavor explosion. Add in some popular choices like broccoli, bell peppers, and corn, and elevate it with their various sauces. Believe me, it doesn’t skimp on flavor even without the meat.

Another standout is the Macaroni Salad, available as a topping or a separate side. It's creamy and perfectly complements the warmth of the baked potato, adding another layer of texture and taste to the meal. If you're a fan of combining different elements for distinct flavors and textures, their veggie potato with macaroni salad as a topping is a must-try.

When planning your visit, note that Hot Potato Bar is open from 11 AM to 7 PM from Monday to Saturday, and from 12 PM to 6 PM on Sundays. As a pro tip, hitting them up on off-peak hours might be your best bet to avoid the rush. They don't take reservations, but the line moves quickly, and the staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, making the wait all the more bearable.

Hot Potato Bar is not just about the food, though the food is undeniably excellent. The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming, creating a vibe that makes you want to become a regular. The owner's dedication to quality and customer experience is evident in every loaded spud they dish out. It’s a rare find that offers hearty, affordable food that doesn’t compromise on taste or portion size. So if you find yourself wandering around Towne East Square, do yourself a favor and stop by Hot Potato Bar. 🍴