Dish & Drink KC: Saying goodbye to a legend, plus a visit to Thou Mayest

Courtesy Of Anita’s Famous Rolls

On my recent visit to Anita’s Famous Rolls, I was met with the cozy, nostalgic scent of cinnamon and freshly baked rolls wafting through the air—instantly transporting me back to childhood Christmas mornings. More than just a bakery, Anita’s is a heartwarming spot where tradition and a genuine love for baking take center stage. It’s also a place that, after December, Kansas City will have to say goodbye to as Anita herself prepares to retire.

Anita, the passionate owner and baker, has been sharing her creations for decades. A San Diego native, she got her start on a food truck in the early ’80s, later opening a small diner in the mountains near El Cajon, California. In 1992, she moved to Columbia, Missouri, launching Anita’s Home Style Catering, which made her rolls famous across the state. Known as “the Lady that makes those Famous Rolls” on a local NBC television show, she became a holiday hero, selling thousands of pans of rolls each year.

In September 2020, amid the challenges of the pandemic, Anita opened Anita’s Famous Rolls in Kansas City. With its beautiful, modern decor and welcoming atmosphere, it quickly became a beloved spot for classic baked goods and lunchtime sandwiches. 

Anita’s Famous Rolls // Photo by Tiffany Watts

When I stopped in, I couldn’t leave without trying one of her iconic rolls. Soft, airy, and infused with just the right amount of sweetness, it was every bit as delicious as I had imagined. Her cinnamon rolls, too, are legendary, making the bakery smell like the best part of the holidays year-round.

But as Anita prepares to retire in December, she plans to either sell or close the shop, marking the end of an era. It’s bittersweet, and we owe her a huge congratulations for everything she’s achieved. With decades of sharing joy through her baking, Anita is setting out on a new journey, and we can’t thank her enough for the memories she’s created here. 

If you haven’t yet had the chance to try Anita’s rolls or are a longtime fan, now’s the time to stock up before they’re no longer around. Place your holiday orders soon, as Thanksgiving week alone sees thousands of rolls flying out the door. Let’s send her off in style by filling our tables—and our hearts—with her delicious creations. Cheers to Anita, and best wishes for the next chapter!

Anita’s Famous Rolls is located at 7715 NW Prairie View Road, Kansas City, MO 64151.

Thou Mayest // Photo by Tiffany Watts

Thou Mayest isn’t your average coffee shop—it’s a charming fusion of cozy café vibes and craft cocktail culture, making it a true Kansas City gem. While the idea of sipping a cocktail in a coffee shop is appealing, I decided to pass on the bar’s offerings this time since many of the drinks lean sweet. Instead, I opted for a decaf, unsweetened option to stick with my goal of cutting back on both caffeine and sugar.

I decided to try the Pollinated Lavender Latte with oat milk ($6 each) in both iced and hot versions—don’t judge me, I just had to know which would be the winner! The friendly baristas whipped up both drinks in no time, and I was impressed by how spot-on they were.

The hot lavender latte was a revelation: delicate floral notes blended beautifully with the creamy oat milk, creating a soothing, aromatic experience that felt perfect on that chilly, rainy day. It was rich and comforting without any added sweetness, just the right balance of warmth and flavor. The iced version was also delightful—light, refreshing, and subtly floral—but on a damp day, the hot latte truly hit the spot.

Thou Mayest // Photo by Tiffany Watts

Thou Mayest is more than just great drinks, though. It’s a go-to for Kansas City’s remote-working crowd, and for good reason. The space is cozy and welcoming, with comfortable seating, lush green plants, and a laid-back ambiance that feels like a calming retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

At its heart, Thou Mayest embodies a thoughtful mission. Founded in a garage back in 2012, the brand reflects the philosophy that “life is a journey.” They’ve since become a beloved part of KC’s coffee scene, inviting everyone who walks in to see life as “a vast, glowing, empty page” waiting to be filled.

Thou Mayest is located at 412 Delaware St B, Kansas City, MO 64105.

Categories: Food & Drink