Wichita, Kansas, famously known as the “Air Capital of the World,” is a hub of aviation, innovation, and, perhaps less known, a thriving food scene. Beneath the hum of aircraft engines and the hustle of aerospace manufacturing, there’s a burgeoning community of chefs, farmers, food entrepreneurs, and culinary innovators. These are the individuals and businesses working to shape the flavor of the Air Capital—creating a rich tapestry of food culture that reflects both the city’s history and its modern evolution.
In this survey of the people and places working in and around the food business in Wichita, we explore how local chefs are reimagining traditional flavors, how farmers are championing sustainability, and how restaurants, markets, and local businesses are fostering a stronger sense of community through food.
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Gaeddert Farms corn, it has the juice
August 15, 2026
Summer means sizzling heat. But it also can mean fresh produce including locally grown corn - if you're lucky. Chef Travis Russell tells us more on this week's Flyover Food.
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Seven wonderful years of Paella Fest
July 21, 2026
Chef Travis Russell recently attended the annual "Paella Fest" — hosted by KMUW's own Ellie Keppy and her partner Arietta. He discovered the event was more than just a delicious meal.
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Getting Messi at Argentinas Empanadas
July 17, 2026
Chef Travis Russell has been one of the many soccer enthusiasts enjoying the World Cup. He and his family recently attended a watch party at Argentina's Empanadas in Wichita. He tells us more on this week's Flyover Food.
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A little sweet detour
July 3, 2026
Chef Travis Russell discovered a new eatery on a recent trip to Kansas City. He tells us about it on this week's Flyover Food.
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After the Storm
June 5, 2026
Sometimes, a disaster shows how much support there is in a community. Chef Travis Russell witnessed this recently.
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Cyanotypes at Kangrow Farms
May 22, 2026
On today's Flyover Food, Chef Travis Russell returns to one of his favorite places for dinner - and a workshop.
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Donuts that are a dream
May 8, 2026
An established place for local collaboration is now serving as a place for culinary pop-ups. Chef Travis Russell tells us more in today's Flyover Food.
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Against the Clock in the Kitchen
April 10, 2026
Last time, Chef Travis Russell shared his visit to the Pro Start Invitational - a contest for high school students who want to enter the world of restaurants and hospitality. He tells us about the culinary arts portion of the competition on today's "Flyover Food."
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Kansas high schoolers try their hand at becoming the next generation of hospitality leaders
March 27, 2026
On this week’s Flyover Food, Chef Travis Russell takes us inside the next generation of hospitality leaders.
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How Chefs Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day
March 13, 2026
For Chef Travis Russell, St. Patrick’s Day has always been the real start of spring so, to celebrate the season and the holiday, he’s sharing some area chefs’ specialties on today’s Flyover Food.