Drink This Now: The Valtrex at Incline on 9th

Valtrex at Incline on 9th // Photo by Tiffany Watts

Kansas City’s West Bottoms has a new addition that’s making waves not just for its food but for its creative cocktails. Tucked into a historic building with an ambiance that’s equal parts industrial chic and cozy lounge, Incline on 9th has the area buzzing.

I recently had the pleasure of visiting on a date night with my girlfriend, and while we were eager to dive into the menu, it was the cocktail selection that caught us by surprise. Enter the Valtrex—a cocktail that completely stole the show.

Made with tequila reposado and a smoky hint of mezcal, it’s layered with bright citrus and balanced by a touch of honey. This drink delivers everything I love in a cocktail: complexity, a hint of sweetness, and that smoky, savory edge from the mezcal that makes you savor each sip.

What made our experience even more memorable is that my girlfriend has never been a fan of Mezcal, often finding its smoky profile a bit too overpowering. But the Valtrex managed to win her over, thanks to its deliciously balanced flavors. The subtle smokiness of the mezcal didn’t dominate but rather harmonized with the tequila and honey.

Out of all the cocktails we tried that evening, the Valtrex stood out as our number one—a drink we both loved and would definitely go back for. It’s the kind of drink that invites you to slow down and savor each sip, fitting perfectly with Incline on 9th’s cozy-meets-industrial vibe.

Incline on 9th is located at 1414 W 9th St, Kansas City, MO 64101.