KC Sipps: Three openings match three closures, and a brewery celebrates a $100,000 milestone

KC Sipps logo by Theodore Rosen

Life in KC is pretty delicious. In fact, there is often so much going on that it can be hard to decide where to go and what to try.

That’s where I come in. 

I’ve curated this weekly list of events, openings, deals, and celebrations to keep you in-the-know. Cheers!

Something New

News Bites: Servaes Brewing in Shawnee and Atchison just reached a generous milestone that most breweries, or small businesses in general, may never achieve. Through music bingo and other events, as well as a variety of other donation types, Servaes Brewing Company has now donated $100,000 to Kansas City and Atchison-area nonprofit organizations. These impactful community contributions started when the brewery opened in 2019. 

Congratulations to Andy Rieger, President and Co-Founder of J. Rieger & Co., who was recently elected to the Board of Directors of the American Craft Spirits Association, a nonprofit trade association for craft distilleries, where he will represent Kansas and Missouri. 

Garden House Cafe has been purchased by Novella Cafes. The Rosedale cafe and retail space, one of my personal favorites, is now under the name and management of Novella. Before now, Novella operated a cafe inside Mid-Continent Public Library and roasted beans for sale in a unique, refillable package.

Opening

Tiki Taco: Tiki Taco, which started as a walk-up window on West 39th Street, has now opened its sixth location. Now open in Liberty, it’s known for Cali-Mex tacos, a bright and playful aesthetic, and rotating monthly specials. However, I’m incapable of visiting without ordering a Thai fried chicken taco… the heat, the textures, it’s a fun one. 

The Fold: Taking over the former Corvino restaurant is The Fold. It is open now for happy hour and dinner service Tuesday through Saturday. From the team behind Roots Seasonal Cuisine in Lee’s Summit, The Fold offers an elevated American menu with dishes such as snap pea salad, potato gnocchi, ahi crudo, duck, and more. 

Uncle Jim’s Pool Hall: The newest addition to Westport Bars is now open. Uncle Jim’s is a pool hall bar, with eight free pool tables and as many free dart boards. It is open Wednesday through Sunday from 7 p.m. – 3 a.m., and once you enter through any of six connected bars, you can roam freely between them. Those include Bar & Rec, Patio, and more. 

Closing

Va Bene Italian Eatery: In a social media post, Va Bene announced that it will be closing at the end of this month. The announcement cited an impasse between the restaurant group (VinZant Restaurants) and First Washington Realty, representing The Shops of Prairie Village. 

Aqua Penny’s: Aqua Penny’s in Leawood’s Park Place has closed. The seafood-focused restaurant from Pitch reader favorite, Chef Penny Mufuka, points to a struggle to nail down a menu identity early enough as the closure reason. It sounds like they plan to refocus on the vibrant Thai dishes they’re known for at Bamboo Penny’s when they consider future expansions. 

Block 15: The River Market bar, Block 15, will close as of July 19. After that, it will close for renovations while it creates a new concept. They’re closing out the final days of service with $5 drafts, $15 margarita pitchers, and a free shot for its 21+ guests. 

Plan Ahead

Clay & Fire: On July 22, Clay & Fire in the Westside neighborhood is hosting a special dinner inspired by Georgian cuisine, featuring dishes like multi-course mezes, khachipouri bread, soups, and roasted proteins. The $120 ticket includes a multicourse menu and four wine tastings from the country of Georgia. 

Jasper’s: Tomatoes are one of the purest joys of summer. Though lately, it’s best to eat them thoroughly washed or cooked. Chef Jasper has two opportunities for going all in on tomato love. On July 25, Jasper is hosting a two-hour cooking demonstration that covers a variety of tomato-based dishes and other fresh Italian classics. Then, on July 27, Jasper is hosting the 20th annual heirloom tomato dinner featuring produce from The Kurlbaums in KCK.