Dish & Drink KC: Northland coziness at BC Bistro and Renegade Coffee
BC Bistro
BC Bistro was the perfect spot for a casual lunch with my mom and daughter. The ambiance felt effortlessly festive, with a cozy, holiday-inspired touch that made the space warm and inviting without going overboard. The service was just as welcoming—attentive and efficient, with hot, fresh food arriving at our table right on time.
We started with the calamari, which offered an unexpected twist. Instead of sticking to tradition, BC Bistro adds fried mozzarella to the mix. The calamari itself was crisp and well-seasoned, and the melted cheese inside gave it a playful, indulgent feel. Paired with marinara and spicy aioli, the dish was a hit for my mom and daughter, who loved the cheesy addition. While I skipped the cheese, I could appreciate the creativity.
For my entrée, I was happy to see a vegan burger option on the menu. While they don’t offer vegan cheese or mayo, they do carry a plant-based patty that’s perfect for customizing. I loaded mine with grilled and raw onions, mushrooms, jalapeños, lettuce, and mustard. It was hearty, flavorful, and just what I was craving.
My mom and daughter opted for the hot honey chicken sandwich, a juicy fried chicken breast drizzled with hot honey. While the honey wasn’t as spicy as the name might suggest, the chicken itself was tender and well-cooked, making it a satisfying choice.
I was pleasantly surprised by the variety on their menu. Dishes like lobster mac and cheese, Cajun tortellini, and a pork chop meal with mushroom and parmesan potatoes, oven-roasted veggies, and a spiced pecan glaze really stood out. It’s clear that BC Bistro goes beyond the typical offerings you’d expect from a small spot in North Kansas City, which is a win for anyone who loves great food at budget-friendly prices.
BC Bistro is located at 7749 NW Prairie View Rd, Kansas City, MO.
Renegade Coffee // Photo By Tiffany Watts
Renegade Coffee
Tucked away in the Kansas City Northland, Renegade is a neighborhood coffee shop with a little more going on than meets the eye. At first glance, it feels like your classic, family-owned café—a cozy spot for a quick coffee or tea. But step inside, and it’s clear there’s much more to this place.
Their downstairs space has serious speakeasy vibes, a surprise twist that makes it feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem. And if the weather’s nice, the outdoor patio is the perfect spot for catching up with friends over drinks.
Renegade takes pride in doing things themselves. They roast their own beans and source high-quality loose-leaf tea, which shows in every sip. During my visit, I kept it simple with a latte. It was just the right balance of smooth and bold, which was exactly what I needed to kick off my day.
While sipping my drink, I spent some time working in their quiet, conversation-friendly space. Renegade is a fantastic option for those needing a change of scenery for meetings or coffee dates. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, making it easy to lose track of time while chatting or reading.
Books are also a big part of the experience here. With a curated selection of classics, local reads, and thought-provoking titles in philosophy, history, and theology, it’s a reminder that coffee and conversation go hand in hand.
Renegade is located at 8708 N. Oak Trafficway, Kansas City, Missouri 64155.
