The Gates menu prices tell a story of slow-smoked tradition, where every dollar buys a plate of Kansas City history. You don’t just eat here—you experience a legacy that started in 1946 with George W. Gates. The prices reflect decades of perfecting barbecue, not just covering food costs. Whether you are a first-timer or a regular, knowing what to expect helps you plan your meal.
This guide breaks down the full Gates Bar-B-Q menu with current prices. You will find everything from signature sandwiches to family feasts. We also cover sides, desserts, and drinks. By the end, you will know exactly how much to bring for your next visit.
Gates Menu Prices Overview
The menu at Gates is straightforward. You choose your meat, your sauce, and your sides. Prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes. Most main dishes fall between $8 and $25. Family meals and platters offer better value for groups.
Here is a quick look at the price ranges you can expect:
- Sandwiches: $8.49 to $12.49
- Dinner Plates: $13.49 to $19.99
- Family Packs: $34.99 to $59.99
- Sides: $2.49 to $5.99
- Desserts: $3.49 to $5.49
- Drinks: $1.99 to $3.49
These prices are current as of early 2025. They may vary slightly by location. Always check the specific store for the most accurate pricing.
Sandwiches And Their Prices
Sandwiches are the most popular choice for a quick meal. Each sandwich comes on a bun with your choice of sauce. You can get them as a combo with fries and a drink for an extra $3.00.
- Beef Brisket Sandwich: $10.49
- Pork Rib Sandwich: $9.99
- Ham Sandwich: $8.49
- Turkey Sandwich: $9.49
- Polish Sausage Sandwich: $8.99
- Burnt End Sandwich: $12.49
The Burnt End Sandwich is a fan favorite. It uses the crispy, caramelized ends of the brisket. It costs a bit more but is worth every penny.
Dinner Plates And Platters
Dinner plates come with two sides and bread. They are filling and perfect for a hearty meal. Platters are similar but include more meat.
- Beef Brisket Plate: $16.99
- Pork Rib Plate: $15.49
- Mixed Meat Plate (choose two meats): $18.49
- Burnt End Plate: $19.99
- Chicken Plate: $13.49
- Fish Plate (Friday only): $14.99
Platters are ideal if you want extra meat. They usually cost $2 to $4 more than the plate version.
Family Packs And Group Meals
If you are feeding a crowd, family packs save you money. They include large portions of meat, several sides, and plenty of bread. These are perfect for parties, game days, or big family dinners.
- Small Family Pack (serves 3-4): $34.99
- Medium Family Pack (serves 5-6): $44.99
- Large Family Pack (serves 7-8): $59.99
Each family pack includes your choice of meat. You can mix and match. The small pack comes with one pound of meat, the medium with two pounds, and the large with three pounds.
Sides included in family packs:
- Two quarts of beans or slaw
- One loaf of bread
- Pickles and onions
You can add extra sides for $4.99 each. This is a great option if you have picky eaters.
Side Dishes And Their Prices
Gates sides are classic and simple. They complement the smoky meat without overpowering it. Here are the current side prices:
- French Fries: $2.49
- Onion Rings: $3.99
- Baked Beans: $2.99
- Cole Slaw: $2.49
- Potato Salad: $2.99
- Mac and Cheese: $3.49
- Green Beans: $2.99
- Corn on the Cob: $3.49
You can order sides individually or as part of a plate. The portions are generous. One side is usually enough for one person.
Baked Beans Details
The baked beans are a signature side. They are sweet and smoky with bits of brisket mixed in. They cost $2.99 for a regular size. A large is $4.99.
Mac And Cheese Details
The mac and cheese is creamy but not overly rich. It is a popular choice for kids. A regular is $3.49, and a large is $5.49.
Desserts And Drinks
Finish your meal with a sweet treat. Gates offers a few classic desserts. Drinks are standard but affordable.
Dessert Menu
- Peach Cobbler: $4.49
- Banana Pudding: $3.99
- Brownie: $3.49
- Ice Cream (vanilla or chocolate): $3.49
The peach cobbler is served warm. It is a favorite among regulars. The banana pudding is also very popular.
Drink Menu
- Soft Drinks (Coke, Sprite, etc.): $2.49
- Iced Tea: $2.49
- Lemonade: $2.99
- Bottled Water: $1.99
- Milk: $2.49
- Juice: $2.49
You can get free refills on soft drinks and iced tea. That is a nice touch for a barbecue joint.
How To Order At Gates Bar-B-Q
Ordering at Gates is a unique experience. The staff is known for being loud and direct. Do not be intimidated. It is part of the charm.
- Walk up to the counter.
- Tell them what meat you want.
- Choose your sauce (mild, hot, or sweet).
- Pick your sides.
- Pay at the register.
They will ask “Whatcha want?” in a booming voice. Just answer clearly. They are friendly once you get the hang of it.
If you are ordering for a group, write it down. The staff moves fast. Having your order ready helps everyone.
Tips For First-Timers
- Try the Burnt Ends first. They are the signature item.
- Get the Original sauce. It is the classic.
- Order a combo to save money.
- Bring cash. Some locations prefer it.
- Do not skip the baked beans.
These tips will help you enjoy your first visit. Gates is not fancy, but the food is outstanding.
Gates Menu Prices Vs Competitors
How does Gates compare to other Kansas City barbecue joints? Let us look at a few.
| Restaurant | Sandwich Price | Plate Price |
|---|---|---|
| Gates Bar-B-Q | $10.49 | $16.99 |
| Arthur Bryant’s | $11.99 | $18.49 |
| Joe’s Kansas City | $12.49 | $19.99 |
| Q39 | $13.99 | $22.99 |
Gates is generally cheaper than its main competitors. You get good value for the price. The portions are also larger at Gates.
However, some people prefer the flavor at other places. It is a matter of personal taste. Gates has a distinct, tangy sauce that not everyone loves.
Seasonal And Limited-Time Offers
Gates sometimes runs specials. These are not always advertised. You have to ask or check their social media.
- Friday Fish Fry: $14.99 plate
- Holiday Family Packs: $49.99 (serves 6-8)
- Burnt End Specials: occasional discounts
These offers can save you money. If you see a sign for a special, take advantage of it.
Holiday Meals
During Thanksgiving and Christmas, Gates sells whole smoked turkeys. They cost around $45.00. You can also get ham and brisket for holidays.
These meals need to be pre-ordered. Call at least a week in advance. They sell out fast.
Gates Menu Prices For Catering
If you are hosting an event, Gates offers catering. The prices are reasonable for large groups.
- Meat by the pound: $12.99 to $16.99
- Full Catering Package (serves 20): $299.99
- Half Catering Package (serves 10): $169.99
Catering packages include meat, sides, bread, and utensils. You can customize the menu. Delivery is available for an extra fee.
For a small gathering, the family packs are a better deal. For larger events, catering is the way to go.
How Gates Menu Prices Have Changed Over Time
Like most restaurants, Gates has raised prices over the years. In 2020, a brisket sandwich was $8.99. Now it is $10.49. That is about a 17% increase.
Inflation and higher meat costs are the main reasons. Despite the increases, Gates remains affordable compared to other barbecue spots.
Here is a rough timeline of price changes:
- 2018: Brisket sandwich $7.99
- 2020: Brisket sandwich $8.99
- 2022: Brisket sandwich $9.49
- 2024: Brisket sandwich $10.49
The increases are gradual. Regulars do not seem to mind. The quality stays consistent.
What Customers Say About Gates Menu Prices
Most customers think the prices are fair. Online reviews often mention the value. People say you get a lot of food for the cost.
Some complaints include:
- Prices are higher than fast food.
- Some sides are overpriced.
- Drinks are expensive for what they are.
Overall, the consensus is positive. Gates is not the cheapest barbecue, but it is not the most expensive either.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the current Gates menu prices?
Sandwiches range from $8.49 to $12.49. Dinner plates are $13.49 to $19.99. Family packs start at $34.99. Prices vary by location.
Does Gates offer any discounts or coupons?
Rarely. Gates does not run many promotions. You can check their website or social media for occasional deals. Some locations have senior discounts.
Are Gates menu prices the same at all locations?
No. Prices can differ slightly between locations. The Kansas City stores are usually the cheapest. Airport and mall locations may charge more.
Can I see a Gates menu with prices online?
Yes. The official Gates website has a menu with prices. Third-party sites like MenuPages also list them. Always verify with the restaurant.
Is Gates Bar-B-Q expensive for a family?
Not really. A family of four can eat for around $40 to $60. That is good value for barbecue. The family packs are the best option.
Final Thoughts On Gates Menu Prices
Gates Bar-B-Q offers solid value for Kansas City barbecue. The prices are reasonable, especially for the portion sizes. You get a taste of history with every bite.
Whether you order a simple sandwich or a family pack, you will leave full and satisfied. The menu is straightforward. The staff is memorable. The food speaks for itself.
Next time you are in Kansas City, stop by Gates. Bring cash, be ready to order fast, and enjoy some of the best barbecue in the country. The Gates menu prices are just the beginning of a great meal.
If you want to save money, stick to sandwiches or family packs. Avoid extras like desserts and drinks if you are on a budget. The meat is the star anyway.
Remember to check the location-specific menu before you go. Prices can change. But one thing stays the same: the quality of the barbecue.
So go ahead, try the Burnt Ends. Get the Original sauce. And do not forget the baked beans. Your wallet and your stomach will thank you.