Today we’d like to introduce you to Cynthia Samsel.
Hi Cynthia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
A Legacy of Hospitality: The Story of The Historic Browning Bed & Breakfast
For Kevin and I, our love story has always been seasoned with hospitality. From our honeymoon stay at a quaint bed-and-breakfast to a lifelong tradition of celebrating anniversaries in charming inns, we often dreamed of owning a bed and breakfast of our own.
With a background as a chef and caterer for Bill Graham Presents in San Francisco, I’ve spent years perfecting the art of creating memorable meals. Meanwhile, Kevin built a successful career in public service with the county. Together, we raised two children of our own, fostered children —and hosted over 20 international exchange students—filling our home with laughter, love, and cultural connections.
In 2016, we relocated to Kansas City, Missouri, to be closer to our daughter, who had moved there for school and later married. Kevin launched a Handyman Services, while I started a private chef business and began teaching culinary classes at A Thyme for Everything and The Culinary Center of Kansas City.
Then, in the spring of 2022, a stay at a bed-and-breakfast in Independence, Missouri, rekindled our old dream. Within days, we discovered The Historic Browning—a beautifully preserved 1889 home that had once operated as a B&B—and knew it was meant to be. By October of that year, we opened the doors once again to travelers, restoring the home’s legacy of gracious hospitality.
Today, The Historic Browning offers elegant accommodations in the heart of Lee’s Summit. With over 3,000 square feet of living space, the home features three guest rooms, three bathrooms, and inviting common areas including a living room, dining room, and cozy kitchen spaces. Guests are treated to freshly baked treats and evening beverages upon arrival, followed by a full gourmet breakfast the next morning. Complimentary snacks, fruits, and drinks are available throughout each stay. The Browning also offers private dinners, romance packages, and hands-on cooking classes, sharing my passion for culinary creativity.
Our family roots have deepened in Lee’s Summit as well. Our daughter with son-in-law and family recently purchased The Whistle Coffee Company downtown, where she also provides catering services. Their son, a professionally trained chef, relocated from California in 2023 with his family and launched his own handyman business, along with Ojas Organics. With both children and five grandchildren nearby, Kevin and I are surrounded by family—and by the joy of doing what we love most: creating warmth, connection, and community for every guest who walks through the door.
For visitors seeking a blend of historic charm, luxury, and heartfelt hospitality, The Historic Browning Bed & Breakfast is a true Missouri treasure.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The biggest challenge is that I have had three knee surgeries since opening the Browning including a bilateral knee replacement. On the mend now, I am feeling stronger and excited to continue with more gusto!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
With a degree in art, I enjoy painting, photography, and other forms of artistic expression. As a young adult catering backstage, I carved a fruit and vegetable platter for Dianna Ross which she personally came into the kitchen to thank me for. This was a pivotal moment I realized I could be a “food artist”. With my cooking style being focused on World Cuisine, I’ve taught over 3000 people how to make sushi, and other international specialties. Currently, I am writing an autobiographical cookbook with recipes and stories from my culinary journey and the years with Bill Graham Presents catering backstage to rock stars.
Any big plans?
Kevin and I love what we do here at The Historic Browning, and as long as we still enjoy it, we will continue into the unforeseeable future.
Pricing:
- Rooms range 169. to 209.
- Multi course Private dinners w/wine and dessert 45. to 75.
- Cooking classes 75..
Contact Info:
- Website: thebrowningls.com
- Instagram: thehistoricbrowning
- Facebook: The Historic Browning
