Dish & Drink KC: Crossroads stops at Elephant Wings and Café Ollama bring comfort
Dish & Drink KC logo by Theodore Rosen
There’s an indian fusion restaurant inside Paror, and I’m surprised that I’m just now trying it. If you’re late to the party, too, let me introduce you to Elephant Wings. They offer Indian-inspired flavors with approachable fusion dishes designed for a wide range of palates and dietary needs.
During my visit, I ordered the yellow thrasher curry ($17), made dairy-free with chicken as my protein. One of the strongest things about the dish is its flexibility. The curry can be made gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan, making it an easy option for diners with different dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Photo by Tiffany Watts
The dish features a coconut curry base served with chicken, red and green bell peppers, onions, cilantro, and basmati rice. The curry itself was rich without feeling too heavy, balancing warmth and spice with the subtle sweetness from the coconut base. The vegetables added texture and freshness, while the basmati rice helped pull everything together into a filling but still balanced meal.
Part of what makes Elephant Wings compelling is its ability to make Indian fusion feel accessible for the average Midwesterner. The menu blends comfort and creativity in a way that works especially well inside Parlor’s communal dining environment.
Elephant Wings is located inside Parlor at 1707 Locust St, Kansas City, MO 64108.
Photo by Tiffany Watts
I don’t know if it’s the soft, homey atmosphere, the delicious drinks, or the way the new patio naturally pulls people in from the Crossroads streetscape, but Café Ollama just feels… comforting.
One of the strongest additions to the café is its new patio area, which expands the experience beyond the interior while still maintaining the cozy, neighborhood feel that makes the space appealing. The patio creates a relaxed setting for customers to enjoy drinks while taking in the energy of the Crossroads, especially during warmer weather.
Photo by Tiffany Watts
During my visit, I ordered the CDMX Smog ($6.50), a drink made with Té de Manzanilla (chamomile tea), Café de Olla, honey, citrus, and topped with foam. The drink leaned light and refreshing rather than overly sweet or heavy. The chamomile tea softened the spice notes from the Café de Olla, while the honey and citrus added balance and brightness. The foam tied everything together, giving the drink a smooth finish without overpowering the earthy profile.
What worked especially well about the CDMX Smog was its balance. Coffee-based drinks can sometimes feel too rich for an afternoon pick-me-up, but this one remained approachable and easy to drink while still offering complexity from the spiced coffee and citrus combination.
Beyond the menu, Café Ollama succeeds because the experience feels intentional. The intimate layout, welcoming atmosphere, and curated drink menu create a space that feels personal without becoming exclusive or overly polished.
Café Ollama is located at 523 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108.
