KC Sipps: New Cosmo Burger, July 4th eats, and a 1985 throwback pricing special

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: Vine Street Brewing is celebrating 2 years of brewing in the historic 18th & Vine District. In honor of the young milestone, the brewery has a variety of events all week, such as Thursday night BINGO, live music on Sunday, and its even open on July 4. 

Green Dirt Farm (and Green Dirt on Oak by extension) is no stranger to winning awards. This week, Green Dirt Farm revealed that their Dirt Lover cheese has been recognized once more with a Good Food Award—this time as part of 15 Years of Good Food Awards. Congratulations!

Niecie’s Restaurant is celebrating 40 years of serving soul food and more, and the party lasts all month! Niecie’s is offering throwback pricing every Tuesday and Wednesday in July, from 5:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. This includes signature dishes at their original 1985 prices. 

Opening

Cosmo Burger: One of KC’s favorite smashburger joints opens a new location in Crossroads on July 7. This new location is just around the corner from Grinders and Take Care. Compared to the established location at Dodson’s in Waldo, this will have extended hours and exclusive menu items. At a preview event last night, I had my first taste of the KC-fave. I loved that the fries were crispy and the cookies chewy, but I think this location’s star may be the ridiculously customizable drink menu. We’re talking shakes, lemonades, phosphates, vegan options, boozy options… oh, and a pickle margarita. That one was well-crafted: just enough vinegar to balance the sweetness, and vice versa. And, not to full-on rave about a spot I’ve tried only once, but Cosmo Burger might have my new favorite chocolate chip cookie in the city. 

KC Döner: The Turkish cuisine pop-up, KC Döner, now has a permanent spot in Lenexa Public Market. Döner kebab, wraps, baklava, and more are available for lunch and dinner Wednesday through Sunday at the food hall. 

Homestead Kitchen + Bakery: Also new to Lenexa Public Market is Homestead Kitchen + Bakery, which started in Baldwin City, KS, near my hometown. This location is open each day of the week for breakfast and lunch, plus extended hours Tuesday – Saturday for dinner. The bakery features breakfast sandwiches and toasts, burgers, wraps, and pastries.

Closing
Pilgrim Coffeehouse: Pilgrim Coffeehouse, the cafe in Beacon Hill, has announced closure. The final day of operation will be July 11. 

July 4

Open on July 4th: Whether or not your favorite spot will be open on July 4th is a toss-up. If your grill breaks down, or you’re in the mood to stay inside, here are the places (confirmed to be open) that I would go if I were in town:

Meshuggah Bagels for some special edition festive bagels, Vine Street Brewing or Mean Mule for some reliable drinks (patio optional), Casual Animal where Cerberus will be on site for a First Friday taco pop-up, Blue Palm Tiki is throwing a shrimp boil, and The Savoy is offering half-price oysters. And last but not least, Triune will be open for dinner service, and whatever you do, be sure to start with the bread plate.

Plan ahead

Wild Child: Jay Sanders of Wild Child has created another combination event you didn’t know you wanted to try. Reservations are available now for Donut Brunch on July 12. The downtown Shawnee bar will host Fullproof Donuts, a local microbakery, for a feast of sparkling wines and filled sourdough donuts.