With many eateries and bars prepping to open in Kansas City, there’s plenty to look forward to in 2026. Here are the newest places to hide away this winter.
The Blacklist
Tucked away in Leawood’s Mission Farms, The Blacklist brings a Victorian-era speakeasy to life with small-batch wines, inventive cocktails and shareable bites. The venue is split between light and dark, one side inviting guests into bright, social conversation and the other offering a moodier, more intimate setting. Sneak behind the bookcase for a mysterious escape best enjoyed on a winter night.
West Plaza Bodega
A bodega‑style coffeehouse and bakery from the owner of Blackhole Bakery, West Plaza Bodega lets customers explore a menu of pastries, grab‑and‑go treats and java creations made with its own espresso blend. While visitors can pick from a creative selection of French treats to be enjoyed on the run, this space offers a nostalgic vibe that invites you to stay and savor the moment.
Bella’s Italian
This cozy hideaway in Lee’s Summit serves traditional family recipes in a warm, old‑world setting. Enjoy comforting classics like chicken parmesan, lasagna and spaghetti with family, friends or on a romantic date night amid the warm ambiance of Bella’s Italian.
La Fetta Delicatessen
Indulge in fresh, locally made bread paired with specialty imported meats and cheeses. Aside from nearly 20 sandwich combinations, customers can also shop from a selection of wine, pasta sauces and salads.
Scratch Gourmet Kitchen
Expanding from a catering company, Scratch Gourmet Kitchen now calls Prairie Village home. The Kansas City native behind it brings experience from a two-Michelin-starred restaurant in San Francisco, serving elevated American comfort foods.
Jade Jaguar
Choose from a dozen Mexico City-inspired cocktails at this late‑night spot with Latin flair. Settle into a plush velvet seat surrounded by greenery that transforms the space into a nighttime oasis.
Hemma Hemma Dinette
Hemma Hemma began as a daytime eatery in Waldo. Its new concept will be found downtown in the Lightwell building, and will take the form of a dinette with retro Swedish vibes. The menu will include breakfast and lunch options, as well as weekend brunch.
Lilico’s Taverna
Lilico’s Taverna is a cozy neighborhood tavern in the Crossroads Arts District, offering a taste of Spanish tradition through thoughtful small plates. Charcuterie boards, tinned fish and other shareable bites are complemented by cocktails that feel crafted for unhurried evenings.
Ricochet
The former Kansas City Star building has been reimagined into a sprawling 21+ bar and entertainment playground packed with darts, ping pong, skee‑ball, shuffleboard, foosball and more. This late‑night venue brings an electrifying, competitive energy to the Crossroads Arts District.
