By Sheridan Wimmer on September 10, 2024

Kansas State Fair Bites: The Tastiest Food You Can’t Miss

What's your favorite food at the Kansas State Fair?

state fair_pronto pup

Every year, the Kansas State Fair draws visitors from across the state and beyond, each eager to experience the sights, sounds and—most importantly—the flavors that make this event a culinary adventure. From classic comfort foods to creative new concoctions, the fairgrounds are a feast for the senses, offering a diverse array of treats that celebrate the best of Kansas' agricultural bounty. Whether you're a fan of deep-fried delights or looking to indulge in sweet sensations, these fair foods are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you with a taste of tradition you won’t soon forget.

1. Pronto Pup

Pronto Pups are an icon at the state fair. A hot dog on a stick dipped into a special batter and fried to an amazing golden brown makes for a great item for walking around the fairgrounds to see the exhibits. 

state fair_pronto pup

2. Cinnamon Rolls, Apple Dumplings and More

At Wheatland Cafe in the Pride of Kansas building, don't miss out on the cinnamon rolls or apple dumplings. Get the apple dumplings a la mode for an incredibly sweet treat. 

state fair_cinnamon rolls

3. Lamb Gyro

Some say these are the best lamb gyros they've had without traveling to the Mediterranean. Get them loaded with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers and onions, plus a delicious slathering of tzatziki and a sprinkle of feta cheese. All of this loaded in a warm, soft pita - it's delicious! Not a fan of lamb? They also have chicken, beef, shrimp and veggie pitas. 

state fair_gyros

4. Moink Balls

These meatballs combine the "moo" of beef and the "oink" of bacon in a convenient meatball on a stick, wrapped in bacon and slathered in barbecue sauce. These are savory and delicious and won't last long!

state fair_moink balls

5. Cheese Curds

If you're from the Midwest, you probably love cheese curds, and there's something extra special about the ones offered at the Kansas State Fair. They're freshly fried, delicious dipped in ranch and very filling. 

state fair_cheese curds

6. Pineapple Whip

Also known as Dole Whip, this treat perfect for a hot State Fair day is a soft-serve frozen dessert created by Dole Food Company in 1983. Prior to 2023, when Dole Whip began to be sold at retailers, Dole Whip was served at Disney theme parks and Dole Soft Serve was sold elsewhere. Thank you for your service, Dole! This is a top cold treat at the Kansas State Fair - but be sure to eat it fast before it melts!

state fair_pineapple whip

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  • Sheridan Wimmer

    Sheridan Wimmer

    Born and raised in Kansas, Sheridan Wimmer has an appreciation for the state’s agricultural diversity. Representing the best interests of Kansas farmers and ranchers is Sheridan’s jam (or jelly, no discrimination). Great food and wine are at the top of Sheridan’s sustenance list and she knows it wouldn’t be here... Read more