KC Sipps: Three openings and delicious festivals to plan your weekend around

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!

Opening

The Outsiders Social Club: Westport’s newest resident, Outsiders Social Club, or OSC, is celebrating its grand opening with a masquerade party on May 2. Members attend for free, and non-member tickets for the event are $20. The new space is an art-forward cafe, bar, and networking spot for members, but open to anyone who purchases a day pass. 

Third Street Social: Lee’s Summit-based restaurant Third Street Social is opening its fourth location. The newest spot, located in downtown Olathe, opens April 30. Never skip dessert here! 

The Culinary Center of Kansas City: In the former Ombra restaurant space, The Culinary Center of Kansas City has just opened its second location. Cooking classes started this week at the Briarcliff location, featuring a variety of options for all levels, ages, and cuisines.  

May 1

Goat & Rabbit: At 4 p.m., Goat & Rabbit is hosting a guided sake tasting with BÖKEN. Tickets are $54.85 all-in, and include a detailed education and tasting of five sakes and a BÖKEN gift bag.

Feastival: One of Harvesters’ biggest events of the year is happening this weekend! It’s a popular event that combines some of KC’s best restaurants with opportunities to give and serve others, all at the stunning Union Station. The Feastival weekend includes a dinner on Friday night, a brunch sampling party on Saturday, and food drive and volunteer opportunities on both days. Separate tickets are available for the events, and 100% of Feastival proceeds help feed neighbors facing food insecurity in our community. 

May 2

The Art of Being AANHPI: One of my favorite cultural events in KC returns to Zhou B. Art Center. Tickets are just $10 for entrance to this day of non-stop performances, art exhibits, activities, and food/maker pop-ups. I’m looking forward to seeing Ethereal, Richi Ramos, Lana Luxx, and the youth haka. As far as food, I know I’ll be starting with a Café Cà Phê drink!

Taste of AAPI: The 5th Annual Taste of AAPI Food & Cultural Festival is back in West Bottoms from 12 – 8 p.m., offering a celebration of “Culture You Can Taste.” The event is free to attend, and features 20+ Asian-American & Pacific Islander performers, makers, vendors, and food pop-ups.

Plan Ahead

Buck Tui: In honor of AAPI Month, Buck Tui and ABC Cafe are joining forces for one night only. On May 12, Buck Tui will host ABC Cafe for a dinner featuring a creative dumpling and K-pop-themed cocktail reception, a Chinese dragon parade, Thai dancers, and a six-course dinner. Tickets are $159 before taxes and gratuity. 

Kon Tiki: The Crossroads tiki bar is hosting a special sushi dinner with Chef Joshua Morales on May 12. Only 24 tickets are available for this Baja sushi experience, featuring four courses of seasonal sushi and an Una Familia tequila cocktail. Tickets are $55, and there are two evening seatings to choose from.