April 25, 2025
When Jen Ray, the owner of The Monarch, first opened in Delanoict in Wichita,Kansas, the area was much different — to say it kindly it was not the happening spot it is today. And I am sure, like any restaurant, there were struggles.
So it made me happy when I stopped by recently on a weekday evening and observed this 12-yr old restaurant have a nice dinner/after work drink crowd.
I ordered three items I had never ordered before.
First, an Old Fashioned. I thought it was solid. Not too syrupy or sweet. I’ve decided the most common way to screw up an Old Fashioned is making it too sweet and it happens a lot. Not this one.
Second, the Mushroom Caps. Now I have to give credit to Fert The Foodie for this order. He has talked many times about this order. I like mushrooms, but it is not something I would ordinarily order. Even Gertie (my sort-of girlfriend) enjoyed them despite being hesitant. The mushroom caps are filled with cream cheese, burnt ends and smoked cheddar cheese.
Third, the Turkey and Cream Cheese. It comes with smoked turkey, alfalfa sprouts, tomato and provolone cheese with a creamy ranch cream cheese spread. Based upon the recommendation of my server, I had it prepared as a wrap. I REALLY liked this wrap a lot. I was surprised. But that cream sauce and provolone just worked well with the turkey and toasted wrap.
The Monarch is located at 579 W. Douglas in Wichita in the Delano District.
— TKG
