KC and SF Get Ready for the Big Game

With the big game just a few days away, there’s a cross-country rivalry in full force. Before the Kansas City Chiefs take on the San Francisco 49ers, take a look at how the two teams’ host cities compare in a few all-important categories—signature dishes, craft beer and more.

There’s an obvious first step in introducing San Francisco to Kansas City culture: the smoker. Whether you prefers brisket, pork, chicken or even vegan-friendly jackfruit, Kansas City barbecue is without equal.

San Francisco feasts on local seafood, especially sweet, rich Dungeness Crab.

Of course, both cities are quintessentially creative, with some artistic touches in common. Each city has a beloved and oversized work by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen on display. In Kansas City, it’s “Shuttlecocks” at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

In San Francisco, “Cupid’s Span” graces the Embarcadero just north of the Bay Bridge.

Since 1989, Boulevard Brewing Co. has been brewing some of Kansas City’s favorite drinks in the Westside neighborhood. Today, the Boulevard Beer Hall & Rec Deck’s test taps, shuffleboard courts and special events of all kinds provide a bona fide pale ale paradise.

In San Francisco, Anchor Steam has been the local brew since the California Gold Rush of 1849. The brewery spawned the distillery, Hotaling & Co.

As the big game arrives, one extra commonality is evident on the streets of both cities—the Paris of the Plains and the City by the Bay are both painted in red.

In Kansas City, it's the historic Union Station and Spanish-inspired Country Club Plaza.

On the West Coast, San Francisco’s City Hall and Coit Tower are ready for kickoff.

The leaders of the two cities’ tourism offices are adding to the action before the big game officially begins. Jason Fulvi, Visit KC President & CEO, and Joe D’Alessandro, San Francisco Travel President & CEO, have agreed that depending on Sunday’s outcome, the city that leaves Miami without a victory will supply a few of their signature flavors to be enjoyed by the winning destination.

The rivalry is all in good fun, but this weekend is serious. Although our similarities stretch directly onto the field—for good reason, some outlets have begun nicknaming this year’s game the Joe Montana Bowl—only one team is going to leave with a win. Best of luck, SF. We’ll be sure to send you a photo of the Lombardi Trophy when it arrives in Chiefs Kingdom!