KC Sipps: New sandwich passport, free coffee Friday, and Ruby Jean’s expands

Art by Cassondra Jones

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!

*Author’s note: I’m relieved to be back in action with KC Sipps. The last month-ish required a pause on most of my work as I investigated a personal medical issue. Now, I’m feeling much better and ready to share the KC-area food and drink scoop with you again. 

Curious about what I chose for my first meals after being essentially home-bound for a few weeks? I recapped it here. 

Something New

Big Rip Brewing Company: Ever drunk Bailey’s from a shoe? Old Gregg served as design inspo for new Big Rip Brewing offering: an apricot honey wine. Why? Why the hell not. It’s got the funk.

Bay Boy Specialty Sandwiches: If you need a little encouragement to step outside of your repeat sandwich order, or want physical proof that you are a dedicated Bay Boy stan–this is for you. Bay Boy now offers a Sandwich Passport. Diners who, eventually, try each sandwich on the menu earn themselves a merch pack and a ticket to the grand opening of the upcoming second location in North KC (called The Commons, btw.) Ask for it on your next visit and tell them you read about it in The Pitch!

News Nibbles: Ruby Jean’s Juicery has now expanded to being offered at over 100 Whole Foods stores! Locally, it will soon open Ruby Jean’s Garden: a one-acre free community garden mere blocks away from the namesake Ruby Jean’s home. In meatier news, one of my monthly staples, Tiki Taco, just received industry recognition. It was named one of the “20 Fast Casual Brands to Watch in 2025” by FastCasual.com. And last but not least for now, The Prospect KC received one of 16 nationwide $10,000 grants for its work serving the community, using culinary training as the vehicle.

Today’s Tip

Among the many hits to living, breathing people and communities, KC’s Ivanhoe neighborhood has been affected by rash government cuts. The USDA has canceled its three-year Farmer’s Market Promotion Program (FMPP) award to Ivanhoe Farmers Market through Ivanhoe Neighborhood Council. The non-profit program supports a community garden, farmers market, free produce days, and educational opportunities to promote urban farming and address food insecurity. To make up for the promised resources, the organization is seeking volunteers and donations.

February 21

Prefix Coffee: It’s free coffee Friday at Prefix! Today and on February 28, all three Prefix Coffee locations are offering customers a free drink. No coupons or codes are needed, and any drink is free. A perfect excuse to try a new spot, and to spring for a baked good as long as you arrive in time!

Tannin Wine Bar: In honor of 14 years in business, Tannin (Crossroads) is bringing back menu faves throughout the years. Make a reservation or pop in during off-peak times to see why this place is still thriving after almost a decade and a half.

February 22

KC Brew Fest: Warm up inside the historic Union Station at the 2025 KC Brew Fest. Tickets start at $50 for unlimited sampling from over 40 breweries pouring 120 beers, plus access to food trucks and music. There’s a fun mix of new and legendary breweries, local and national, and even a few cider brands.

February 24

Jade Jaguar: There’s a new bar pop-up in town, and Muni happens to be its latest host. Jade Jaguar will be at Muni on Monday night for a special event. The agave-centered bartender team will take over the space, bringing in music as well as food from Tacos Ruby’s. Cover is $10 and cocktails start at $13.

Plan Ahead

Murder She Cooked: What do you get when you combine the mob, secret sauce, and Lenexa Public Market? Murder She Cooked: a murder mystery dinner by Hypothesis Theatre Lab. On March 1, the interactive experience will be held in The Kitchen at Lenexa Public Market, and includes dinner from the in-house eatery Topp’d Pizza + Salads. Tickets are about $50 each.

FoodBizCon: The fourth annual Food Business Conference invites you to learn from local entrepreneurs and leaders in the food industry. The conference is designed for those who have a food biz idea (think food truck, pop-up, restaurant) or are already growing one. Attendance is free thanks to sponsors such as Ennovation Center, Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture and Alternative Crops, Kansas City Section of the Institute of Food Technology, the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, and more. It is held at Woodneath Library Center near Liberty.