Dish & Drink KC: Weekend visits to Electric Park Garden Bar and Grinders

Electric Park Garden Bar at J Rieger & Co. // Photo by Tiffany Watts

Patio season is in full swing, and Electric Park Garden Bar at J. Rieger & Co. Distillery wasted no time setting the tone, kicking things off with a Kentucky Derby Watch Party that was as lively as it was elegant.

I’ve been to Electric Park Garden Bar before and always leave impressed by its lovely blend of laid-back charm and elevated style. But experiencing it during the Derby Watch Party was something entirely different. It felt like being transported to a vibrant Southern garden party, right in the heart of Kansas City. 

With friends by my side, we stepped into a scene bursting with bold colors, statement suits, flowing sundresses, and, of course, the hats. Wide-brimmed, feathered, floral, and downright fabulous, the hat game was unmatched, and the energy? Dare I say, electric.

The space was buzzing with activity: live music on the lawn, people mingling over frozen cocktails, couples tossing bean bags in lawn games, and a few pop-up surprises throughout the day. The weather was stunning too. Clear skies, a warm breeze, and sunshine that made the entire space glow. If you’re going to spend a day outside drinking bourbon and watching horses sprint on a screen, this is where you want to do it.

Electric Park Garden Bar Derby Party at J Rieger & Co. // Photo by Tiffany Watts

Naturally, I had to try the Mint Julep, the Derby’s signature cocktail and a true icon of Southern sipping. J. Rieger’s version used their award-winning Kansas City bourbon, and it was everything a julep should be: icy cold, refreshingly minty, and strong enough to remind you it’s the drink of champions. 

There’s history behind this cocktail, too. It’s been associated with Kentucky horse racing since the 1800s, when silver julep cups were awarded to winning jockeys. What started as a simple mix of bourbon (or rum), sugar, and mint became a symbol of Southern sophistication.

If you’re soaking up every bit of patio season like I am, Electric Park Garden Bar should be high on your list of places to pop by soon. And if the Derby party wasn’t on your calendar this time around, that’s okay. There’s still a whole season of good weather and even better hangouts ahead.

J Rieger & Co. is located at 2700 Guinotte Ave, Kansas City, MO 64120.

Grinders Death Wings // Photo by Tiffany Watts

Are you even Kansas City-ing right if you haven’t made it to Grinders?

Tucked into the heart of the Crossroads Arts District, Grinders is known for its unapologetic attitude, grungy vibes, and a menu that brings the heat. Literally. It’s been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives and Guy’s Big Bite, but as a longtime fan, I’m here to tell you: this isn’t just a TV-famous novelty stop. It’s a local institution.

Grinders slings New York-style pizzas with attitude, authentic Philly cheese steaks, burgers, stacked sandwiches, fresh salads, and a beer list worthy of its loyal KC fanbase. But let’s be real: I don’t come here for pizza or even the dive bar ambiance. I come for one thing and one thing only—their world famous Death Wings.

These wings are a rite of passage for spice lovers. 

With a lineup of signature sauces ranging from flavorful to ferocious, there’s something for every level of heat-seeker. I’ve tested my limits in the past. Near Death once had me questioning my life choices, but this time, I played it smart and ordered their 15-piece Death Wings with BRW/molten sauce ($20). It’s still fiery, but balanced. The heat builds slow, coating your tastebuds with a warm, smoky spice that lingers long enough to remind you who’s boss. 

As a woman who genuinely enjoys spicy food, these wings still brought a satisfying kick. I did wish they were saucier, but a side of that same molten magic for dipping took care of that. Every bite was juicy, tender, and cooked to perfection.

We also branched out and tried a new-to-us appetizer: the Crispy Fried Mushrooms ($10.50). Described as “a generous portion of delicious batter-fried mushrooms for those who appreciate the fungus among us,” these golden bites came out steaming hot, and that first bite delivered an audible crunch. While I would’ve loved a little more flavor punched into the breading, a dip into that molten wing sauce took things up a notch.

Grinders is located at 417 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108 and 10240 Pflumm Rd, Lenexa, KS 66216.