Dish & Drink KC: A lunch date at Swifts Cajun Cuisine and tea time at Grand Coffee Company
Swifts Cajun Cuisine // Photo by Tiffany Watts
Swifts Cajun Cuisine
New-ish kids on the block, Swifts Cajun Cuisine, recently went from food-truck-famous to opening a restaurant on Main St., which promises to bring the vibrant flavors of the bayou to the heart of the Midwest.
My girlfriend and I decided to check out this newly opened spot on a spontaneous lunch date, and our experience left us eager to return.
As soon as we walked in, the restaurant’s ambiance set the tone for what we hoped would be a memorable meal. The decor is beautifully done, with a classy and upscale vibe that combines the boldness of black, red, and white with elegant hints of gold. It’s the kind of place that feels both inviting and sophisticated—a perfect backdrop for a date, whether casual or special.
Knowing that Cajun fried rice ($11) is their specialty, I couldn’t resist ordering it. I opted to add shrimp (+$7), broccoli (+$5), and scallops ($16) to the dish. My girlfriend went with the fried catfish ($17), which came with a side of the famous Cajun fried rice, minus the meat.
Both dishes were delicious, though I found myself wishing for a bit more spice. The flavors were rich and well-balanced, but I was expecting a little more heat, which is something to consider if you’re someone who craves that signature Cajun kick.
Service was another highlight of our visit. The staff was attentive and friendly, and our food arrived quickly—an appreciated touch for our lunchtime outing. However, one thing that was missing during our visit was the option to try any cocktails or mocktails, as alcohol wasn’t available at the time.
I am looking forward to seeing what kind of drinks Swifts Cajun Cuisine will offer in the future because the food certainly sets the stage for some creative pairings.
Swifts Cajun Cuisine is located at 3415 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64111.
Grand Coffee Company’s Shawnee location // Photo By Tiffany Watts
Grand Coffee Company’s new Shawnee location
Speaking of newly opened spaces, Grand Coffee Company has expanded its presence with a second location in Shawnee, and it’s a cozy retreat that perfectly blends traditional Italian café vibes with the convenience of modern amenities.
Tucked inside a bank, this new spot might surprise you with how much it has to offer—whether you’re looking for a quick coffee on the go, a quiet place to work, or a spot to catch up with friends.
Despite its unique corporate setting, Grand Coffee Company doesn’t compromise on comfort. The space is inviting, with plenty of comfy seating. For those who prefer a bit of fresh air, the semi-shaded patio is an adorable feature, offering a peaceful place to relax. But what really caught my attention was the abundance of natural light flooding the interior. If you’re like me and find that sunlight fuels your energy and focus, this is the place to be.
I recently met up with a friend here for tea, and our time together was delightful. The setting was just right for a leisurely chat, and the atmosphere made it easy to settle in and enjoy our conversation.
Beyond the ambiance, the staff truly added to the experience. They were super friendly and even funny, making our visit all the more enjoyable.
Grand Coffee Company has two locations at 2345 Grand Blvd Suite A, Kansas City, MO 64108, and now at 10610 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Shawnee, Kansas 66203.
