Dish & Drink KC: From sweet lattes to spicy noodles in Crossroads

Penrose Espresso Bar and Pastry Counter // Photo by Tiffany Watts

Some coffee spots are built to impress with flashy seasonal drinks and ten-page menus. Others win you over with charm, intention, and really good coffee. Penrose Espresso Bar and Pastry Counter, the tiny walk-up espresso bar nestled in the Crossroads, does the latter beautifully.

The menu is refreshingly simple: espresso-based drinks, iced and filtered coffee, a few teas, and an espresso tonic if you’re feeling adventurous. Syrups are limited but thoughtful, and oat milk lovers can rejoice, no upcharge here.

I ordered a latte with oat milk and honey. Simple, comforting, and just sweet enough. The espresso was smooth and rich, balanced well by the creamy oat milk and a touch of honey. 

And let’s not forget the beautiful bonus that elevates the whole experience, the patio. Shared with the beloved restaurant Novel (which is now firmly on my must-try list), the shaded outdoor space features swings, comfy seating, and an effortlessly cool vibe. It’s a small urban escape with major personality.

Penrose is located at 1927 McGee, Kansas City, MO 64108.

Lulu’s Thai Noodle Shop // Photo By Tiffany Watts

Birthday lunches don’t always need a reservation or a plan. Sometimes, all it takes is good company, a spicy dish, and a familiar spot that still finds ways to surprise you. That’s exactly how my casual visit to Lulu’s Thai Noodle Shop made its way to these (digital) pages. 

I started with the Thai Hot Wings, tossed in a sweet-and-spicy glaze that was perfectly sticky without being too saucy. They were crispy, flavorful, and just a touch of heat, bold enough to wake up your taste buds, yet still easy to keep reaching for—a solid start.

Then came the star of the show: the Curried Coconut Shrimp & Chicken ($19). This dish is layered with rice vermicelli noodles, red onions, peas, Thai basil, cilantro, and both shrimp and chicken, all coated in a velvety green curry sauce made in-house. I ordered it hot, because mild heat is such a tease. The spice built slowly, warming me from the inside out, while still letting the coconut curry shine through. It was so good.

My only note? It leaned a little heavy on the chicken. I only got five shrimp, which felt a bit uneven. Next time I’ll go shrimp-only or double up, because flavor-wise, this one’s a winner.

LuLu’s Thai Noodle Shop has multiple locations – this location is 2030 Central St., Kansas City, MO 64108.