Dish & Drink KC: Feeling fresh at Nekter Juice Bar and Taco Tuesday at Jalapeño Tacos KC
Nekter Juice Bar // Photo by Tiffany Watts
Nekter Juice Bar
When it comes to food and drink in Kansas City, I usually find myself diving into the rich, hearty world of local restaurants, breweries, and lounges. But every now and then, I like to hit pause on comfort food and explore something a little lighter; something that still leaves me feeling satisfied but in a fresh and nourishing way.
That’s where Nektar Juice Bar comes in, and honestly, it’s one of my favorite spots when I need to fuel up with something healthy.
Nektar Juice Bar is all about real ingredients—everything on their menu is made fresh to order, which I love. From their refreshing juices to their handcrafted bowls, the focus is on wholesome, natural flavors. They use housemade cashew milk, crafted daily, along with fresh fruits and a variety of superfood add-ons. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a light meal that won’t weigh you down but will still keep you full, energized, and feeling good.
On my recent visit, I was on the move and didn’t have time to sit down for one of their Handcrafted Bowls. Instead, I went for one of their smoothies—the Berry Banana Burst ($10.79).
This blend of strawberry, banana, blueberry, housemade cashew milk, and agave nectar was the perfect choice. I like to add a scoop of their pea protein (+$1.00) for an extra boost, making it a more substantial option that still works as a light, refreshing meal I can sip on the go.
What I appreciate about Nektar is the balance of indulgence and healthiness.
The Berry Banana Burst felt like a treat, but I knew every ingredient was working for me, not against me. The creaminess of the housemade cashew milk brings a rich texture that complements the natural sweetness of the fruit, and the agave adds just the right touch without being overly sweet. Plus, with the pea protein added in, it’s filling enough to power me through the rest of the day without needing a mid-afternoon snack.
Now, full disclosure—since everything is made fresh to order, you might find yourself waiting a bit, especially during peak hours. But here’s a pro tip: Nektar has an app that lets you order ahead, so you can just swing by and pick up your drink without the wait. This is especially handy if you’re on a tight schedule and want to get your smoothie or juice fix quickly.
Nekter Juice Bar is located at 6513 NW Barry Rd, Kansas City, MO 64154, and has five additional locations throughout the city.
Jalapeño Tacos KC // Photo by Tiffany Watts
Jalapeño Tacos KC
When it comes to great taco deals in Kansas City, Jalapeño Tacos KC has quickly become one of my go-to spots.
As someone who’s always on the hunt for a budget-friendly, family-sized meal that doesn’t skimp on quality, this place checks all the boxes. Their Taco Tuesday deal is practically unbeatable—just $6.99 for three tacos—and it’s not just about the price; it’s about the flavor-packed experience that keeps me coming back.
Every Tuesday, you can choose between two classics: hard shell tacos stuffed with seasoned ground beef, lettuce, shredded cheese, and pico de gallo or street-style chicken tacos topped with onions and cilantro.
Naturally, I went for the street chicken tacos because they’re my absolute favorite. Seriously, you can’t go wrong with that tender, perfectly seasoned chicken. Plus, I can feed my entire family for under $20 and everyone leaves happy. That’s a major win in my book.
Jalapeño Tacos KC // Photo by Tiffany Watts
Of course, I don’t stop at the basics—I like to dress my tacos to the nines.
I start by adding extra onions and cilantro to enhance that fresh, authentic flavor. Then, I pile on their tangy verde salsa, which gives the perfect kick of heat without being too overpowering. I’m also obsessed with their pickled onions and jalapeños, which add a crunchy, spicy bite. And finally, a generous squeeze of fresh lemon to brighten everything up.
Just like that, I’ve transformed simple street tacos into a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s super satisfying—and still under $10.
Another thing that keeps me coming back is the speed and convenience. Jalapeño Tacos KC runs like a well-oiled machine. I’m always in and out quickly with a bag full of hot, delicious food. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout, they keep things moving, making it easy to pick up dinner after a long day without the wait.
Jalapeño Tacos Kc is located at 8140 NW Prairie View Rd, Kansas City, Missouri 64152.
