Kansas City’s restaurant scene is constantly changing as new eateries regularly pop up across the area. This summer is no exception.
From an international cocktail bar in the West Bottoms to a Mexican seafood concept in the South Plaza, there’s always something fresh for everyone to try. Here are 10 new and noteworthy restaurants, bars and coffee shops that have recently opened or are on the horizon this summer.
Laila Lounge
This new West Bottoms cocktail bar is ready to bring an international flair to Kansas City’s nightlife. Laila Lounge, located in an area once known as the “Wettest Block in the World,” will host live music, themed shows and acts like cabaret, fire dancers and aerial performers.
Flame Grill & Mediterranean Bakery
Newly opened in the Northland, Flame Grill is serving up Mediterranean specialties like chicken shawarma, falafel sandwiches, hummus and pita and baklava. Customers can grab all this and more for lunch and dinner by dining in or taking it to go.
Sea Capitán Cocina Costera
They already own an oyster bar and an Italian restaurant; now two local restauranteurs are opening an upscale Mexican seafood concept. Sea Capitán Cocina Costera will take over the former Blu Hwy spot in the South Plaza neighborhood. Diners can enjoy ceviche, oysters, aguachiles and even some non-seafood items as they dine in a space inspired by coastal Mexico.
Two Birds, One Stone
The newest piece to join Kansas City’s Riverfront is Two Birds, One Stone – a beer garden and restaurant located near CPKC Stadium. Guests will find beers on tap from local breweries like Boulevard and Cinder Block, plus cocktails and a down-to-earth menu. The owners also plan to open a second concept upstairs called Moonstone with fine dining and craft cocktails.
American Way Smokehouse
A new barbecue restaurant is coming to the Kansas City area. American Way Smokehouse plans to open Aug. 1 in Independence, serving up low-and-slow ribs, burnt ends, pulled pork and more. The new eatery will also double as a bakery specializing in fresh-baked cookies and is located adjacent to antique store Merchant Square.
1888 Coffee
Newly opened in KC’s Hyde Park, 1888 Coffee is committed to its community and building connections. Even the coffee shop’s name comes from the year the neighborhood was established, and inside, guests will find vintage furniture and postcards from the area. Customers can enjoy specialty lattes, energy drinks, fruit-forward matcha creations, smoothies and a breakfast and lunch menu for everyone.
Kohinoor
One of Kansas City’s newest bars is ready to fuse bold flavors and luxury. Kohinoor, a reference to one of the largest cut diamonds in the world, plans to open in Downtown KC this summer. The Latin American cocktail bar’s menu will emphasize traditional spirits like tequila and mezcal, but still offer plenty of classic drinks, beer and wine.
The Commons
North Kansas City’s Cinder Block Brewery is making big moves with a game bar extension and sandwich shop in the kitchen. The Commons, which just opened in May, has vintage national park vibes, complete with Adirondack chairs, lawn games and arcade games. Local brand Bay Boy Specialty Sandwiches is taking over the kitchen, serving its 10 of its most popular sandwiches on Dutch Crunch bread.
Le Champion
From coffee and pastries in the morning to shareables and drinks in the evening, Westport’s newest restaurant is an all-day hangout. Le Champion opened in June with a vintage sports theme highlighted by yellowed bowling pins, rusty trophies and old lockers. Don’t skip the garden-style patio to enjoy your Le Golden latte or petit charcuterie plate.
Anjin
The owners of the Antler Room, three-time James Beard Award nominees, have just opened Japanese-inspired eatery Anjin. The izakaya-style bar and restaurant — Japan’s version of an English pub – features a seafood-heavy menu of small bites and sake, of course. Reservations are encouraged at this cozy restaurant where guests sit around the kitchen to see their drinks and food prepared right in front of them.
