Dish & Drink KC: Lunch meetings at Made In KC Cafe and Al’s Bar & Grill
Made In Kc Cafe Taproom // Photo By Tiffany Watts
Made In KC Cafe & Taproom
In the heart of Downtown Kansas City, Made in KC Café & Taproom offers a little bit of everything—coffee, local craft drinks, and a welcoming space to gather. It’s a spot that brings together coffee lovers, craft beverage enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a comfortable place to connect.
Up front, the coffee bar offers all the go-to favorites—chai, matcha, cold brew, and more. Whether you’re a fan of the classics or prefer something a bit trendier, it is here.
In the back, the taproom feels like a nod to KC’s vibrant craft scene, with drinks from local breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Between the two, there’s a cozy space perfect for catching up with friends, browsing locally made goods, or just soaking in the creative energy.
During my visit, I opted for a little indulgence—something hot and satisfying. I ordered a matcha latte with oat milk and sugar-free vanilla, paired with their savory vegan burrito. The matcha latte was perfectly balanced, its earthy notes complemented by the creamy oat milk and subtle sweetness of the vanilla. The vegan burrito was hearty and packed with flavor, a delightful option for anyone seeking a plant-based bite.
It’s not just about the drinks or food here—it’s a celebration of KC’s creativity. Before I enjoyed my burrito and matcha, I couldn’t help but wander over to the shelves, filled with goods from local bakers, makers, artists, and roasters. Browsing through everything felt like taking a mini tour of Kansas City’s talent and craftsmanship.
I was there for a meeting, so after taking some time to explore, I found a cozy spot in the seating area to settle in. When my guest arrived, we sipped our coffee and chatted, enjoying the café’s relaxed yet lively vibe.
Made in KC Cafe & Taproom is located at 1114 Baltimore Avenue Kansas City, MO 64105.
Al’s Bar & Grill // Photo By Tiffany Watts
Al’s Bar & Grill
Most Thursdays, my friends and I get together for lunch, a few drinks, and a good catch-up session. This week, we decided to hit up Al’s Bar & Grill in Parkville, a spot that’s been a local favorite since 2010. With its cozy, laid-back vibe, Al’s has become a neighborhood hangout where the food is always hearty and the atmosphere is just right for unwinding with friends.
I was in work mode that day, so I passed on the drinks, but I wasn’t about to miss out on the food. I ordered the 10-piece hot buffalo wings and a side of fried pickles—two dishes I like to test out at every bar I visit, just to see how they stand up. I made sure to tell the bartender to let the cook know I like my wings crispy and saucy, and they delivered perfectly on that request.
The wings arrived exactly how I requested—crispy with that perfect crunch. The buffalo sauce was generous, sticky, and tangy, with just the right hint of heat. The fried pickles were just as pleasing: crispy on the outside and paired with a dipping sauce on the side.
What really stands out about Al’s is the energy. There’s something special about a place that makes you feel welcome right from the start, like the staff is genuinely excited to have you there and hopes you’ll come back. They make you feel like you’re just stopping by a friend’s house for a bite, and that kind of energy and service is hard to replicate.
Al’s Bar & Grill is located at 10911 MO-45, Parkville, MO 64152.
