This year, Osteria IL Centro has once again earned Wine Spectator magazine’s prestigious Best of Award of Excellence, an achievement that reflects OIC’s passion for providing Kansas City diners with the best wine experiences.
The Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence
Wine Spectator magazine presents its Best of Awards of Excellence annually to restaurants around the world whose carefully and thoughtfully curated wine programs make them noteworthy. Founded in 1976, the publication is one of the world’s leading authorities on all things wine, providing its millions of readers with everything from expert reviews to industry news and wine education.
To earn this award from Wine Spectator, restaurants must offer:
- An extensive selection of quality wines spanning several wine-growing regions, producers, and styles.
- Vintage depth with vertical selections from notable wineries.
- A wine program that complements the restaurant’s cuisine.
- Wine service provided by knowledgeable staff who can assist with food and wine pairings.
In short, it takes more than a long wine list to earn this recognition. Only a select number of restaurants globally earn this award recognizing the commitment these establishments have made to maintaining high standards in their wine programs. Around 4,000 restaurants received the award worldwide in 2026, of which only ten, including OIC, are located in Kansas City.
29 Year Wine Legacy
2026 is the 29th consecutive year that Osteria IL Centro’s has been recognized by Wine Spectator for its exceptional wine program. The restaurant’s meticulously curated wine reserve list exceeds 1,000 bottles, representing varietals from Italy, of course, as well as wines from other top-growing regions from around the world.
Wine enthusiasts can expect to find both familiar favorites and hidden gems on the list, making each dining experience at OIC fresh and exciting. The list features bottles fit for any occasion, from an impromptu date night to celebrating an milestones, birthdays, holidays or anniversaries. Anyone looking to learn more about wine finds themselves welcome at OIC, where the staff is always ready to answer questions and make expert pairing suggestions.
OIC Wine Club
IL Centro’s recognition from Wine Spectator highlights a true passion for exceptional wine. Share that love for vino? Join the OIC Wine Club. Membership is free and offers exclusive access to private events, limited-release selections, and special member pricing, all designed to give both casual drinkers and connoisseurs the award-winning wine experience OIC is known for!
