An American inspiration from The Hall Family
J.C. Hall
J.C. Hall
Urban decay in the heart of Kansas City. In the late 1960’s, J.C. Hall, founder of Hallmark Cards, and his son Donald decided to do something about it.
Westin Crown Center
Westin Crown Center
They built Crown Center. Its crown jewel: The American Restaurant, their vision of a celebration of American cuisine.
Warren Platner
Warren Platner
To design it, they hired Warren Platner, architect of legendary Windows on the World, New York, and Water Tower Place, Chicago.
Jim Calcara
Jim Calcara
In 1990, the restaurant was remodeled and updated by architect Jim Calcara of Calcara, Duffendack, Foss, Manlove, Inc., Kansas City. It won the 1991 Allied Arts and Craftsmanship Award from the American Institute of Architects.
James Beard
James Beard
To develop the culinary concept, they sought out James Beard, the father of American cuisine, and Joe Baum, the legendary restaurateur.
The American Restaurant
The American Restaurant
The American Restaurant has been consistently awarded both the AAA Four Diamonds and the Mobil Travel Guide Four Stars ratings—recognition of the highest levels of cuisine and hospitality.
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