Dish & Drink KC: A hidden gem in Green Hills Library and game day vibes at Sido’s Cuisine
Novella Cafe at the Green Hills Library Center by Mid-Continent Public Library // Photo by Tiffany Watts
Sipping at Novella Café
On a recent visit to the Green Hills Library Center by Mid-Continent Public Library, my daughter and I discovered Novella Café, a cozy spot tucked inside this spacious community hub. We were in the mood for something to sip on while we browsed, and Novella’s menu didn’t disappoint.
My daughter went for their iced Maple Cinnamon Latte, crafted with homemade cinnamon syrup, espresso, and oat milk. The blend of warm spices and smooth oat milk was a perfect balance, especially with the espresso’s boldness shining through. I opted for a sugar-free vanilla latte with oat milk—because, let’s be real, sometimes it’s nice to enjoy a latte without all the sugar. And let me tell you, it was just as satisfying. Both drinks were deliciously prepared and the perfect accompaniment to our library adventure.
The atmosphere at Novella Café is warm and inviting. The café is bathed in natural light, making it an ideal spot for reading or working. Creative artwork, including installations of coffee mugs and light bulbs suspended from the ceiling, adds a whimsical touch to the decor. The café’s beauty only enhances the calm, studious vibe of the library itself.
Novella Cafe at the Green Hills Library Center by Mid-Continent Public Library // Photo by Tiffany Watts
After finishing our drinks, we spent some time browsing the shelves and finally settled into one of the cubicles to get a bit of work done. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel productive just by being there.
On a side note, if you have any overdue fines from MCPL, now’s the time to clear them. Through their “Food for Fines” program, you can donate boxed or canned non-perishable items, and the library will knock $1.50 off your fine per item. Even if you don’t have fines, donating at any branch is a great chance to support the community.
Novella Cafe is located inside the Green Hills Library Center by Mid-Continent Public Library at 8581 North Green Hills Rd, Kansas City MO. 64154.
Sidos Cuisine at The Iron District // Photo By Tiffany Watts
Savoring Mediterranean Flavors at Sido’s Cuisine
Last week I found myself at Sido’s Cuisine, one of the culinary highlights nestled inside the vibrant Iron District. With Kansas City buzzing in anticipation of a Chiefs game, the atmosphere was electric, and I couldn’t think of a better way to fuel up than with some delicious Mediterranean fare.
Sido’s Shish Tawook is always a win for me, and this visit was no exception. The dish features perfectly marinated chicken spread across two skewers and grilled to juicy perfection. It’s served on a bed of fluffy rice, with a fresh, crisp side salad that balances the heartiness of the chicken. Every bite was a flavorful experience, as the herbs and spices infused into the chicken came through beautifully.
Sidos Cuisine at The Iron District // Photo By Tiffany Watts
Of course, no visit to Sido’s is complete without an order of their hummus and pita bread. I’m obsessed, and for good reason. Their hummus is creamy, rich, and packed with that authentic, garlicky goodness I crave. Paired with their warm, soft pita bread, it’s the kind of appetizer that could easily be a meal on its own—though I’d never skip out on the Shish Tawook.
The Iron District, with its outdoor setting and colorful container-style eateries, was alive with energy as people prepared for the big game. With the Chiefs gearing up to take the field, you could feel the excitement everywhere, and Sido’s Cuisine provided the perfect backdrop for a pre-game feast.
Sido’s has two locations at 1599 Iron St ste g, North Kansas City, MO 64116 and 1707 Locust St, Kansas City, MO 64108.
