Dish & Drink KC: A new pairing at Buffalo State Pizza and authentic Spanish food at The Paella Mix
Dish & Drink KC logo by Theodore Rosen
Last week, Vine Street Brewing and The Epitome/Hood Dude Food Reviews, one of Kansas City’s favorite social media personalities, released and celebrated their latest collaboration: a sour ale appropriately titled Pound Town.
Before the official party, word got around that Buffalo State Pizza already had Pound Town on tap. That was all we needed. I met up with The Epitome, a few friends, and some local creators with a simple plan. Taste the beer, pair it with good pizza, and enjoy the moment.
Photo by Tiffany Watts
This was my first visit to Buffalo State Pizza, and it hasn’t been at the top of my list of places to go. Mostly because pizza spots aren’t always the most accommodating for dietary restrictions. Luckily enough, that hesitation did not last long. The menu offers more flexibility than I expected. And while they’re known for their New York-style pies, I went with a vegan calzone ($15) filled with plant-based cheese and sausage, plus a side of buffalo sauce for dipping. Just because I finally could.
The calzone delivered. The crust had that familiar chew and structure you want from a proper pizza dough, holding everything together without feeling heavy. Inside, the vegan cheese was ooey gooey and married well with the flavor of the sausage, which brought a subtle spice to the bite. Of course, I wanted a sauce too, and opted for buffalo. It did the job, adding a sharp, tangy kick that cut through the richness and gave the whole dish a bit more range.
Photo by Tiffany Watts
The group consensus was that our pizzas paired with Pound Town sour ale was a match made to satisfy. So, if you are not typically a beer drinker, this is an easy and tasty entry point. And if you already enjoy sour ales and you’re a fan of pizza, order a slice and a pint while supplies last.
Buffalo State Pizza is located at 1815 Wyandotte, Kansas City, MO.
Photo by Tiffany Watts
The weather is finally starting to show out in Kansas City, and whenever that happens, City Market is one of my first stops. I’m always on the hunt for a good patio moment, somewhere I can sit, eat, and actually enjoy the day.
With The Paella Mix as one of the newest additions to the market, and a patio that immediately catches your attention, it felt like the perfect place to settle in and try something new.
I started with the calamares fritos ($11), lightly fried calamari served with alioli. In my opinion, starters tend to set the tone for the entire dining experience, and this dish was made very well. The calamari was crisp, tender, and clean, with no excess oil or heaviness. Honestly, it stood strong on its own. The alioli was a nice addition, but not necessary. The flavor was already there.
Photo by Tiffany Watts
For my entrée, I went with a bocadillo, a traditional Spanish sandwich, and landed on the pollo verde ($14). It’s made with grilled chicken, cilantro sauce, red onions, and lime, and each taste was bright and layered. The chicken was well-seasoned and juicy, while the cilantro sauce brought a fresh, herb-forward flavor that carried through the sandwich. Huge fan of the lime on the sandwich. It added just enough acidity to keep everything balanced and sharp.
To drink, I ordered the agua de Valencia ($15), made with freshly squeezed orange juice, champagne, gin, and vodka. It is a classic Spanish cocktail, and this version elevated the entire patio moment. Citrus-forward, lightly sparkling, and refreshing, with enough umph to remind you it is not just juice.
What stood out most is how The Paella Mix stays rooted in its approach. The recipes feel intentional, the flavors are dialed in, and the experience reflects a clear point of view. It is not trying to be everything. It is focused on doing Spanish food well, and it shows.
The Paella Mix is located at 25 E 3rd St, Kansas City, MO 64106.
