KC Sipps: Lula Southern Cookhouse expands, a KC Current player-owned coffee shop opens, plus foodie festivals this weekend
KC Sipps logo by Theodore Rosen
Life in KC is pretty delicious. In fact, there is often so much going on that it can be hard to decide where to go and what to try.
That’s where I come in.
I’ve curated this weekly list of events, openings, deals, and celebrations to keep you in-the-know. Cheers!
Something New
News Bites: Adding to the list of n/a friendly spots around town, Blue Palm Tiki now offers non-alcoholic cocktail flights. The fruity trio runs $15 at the Strawberry Hill bar.
Opening
Plaza Provisions: After the closing of Strang Chef Collective on the Plaza late last year, a new concept has opened this week. Attached to the Cascade Hotel, the same food-hall idea remains, but instead of being an incubator for new talent, Plaza Provisions drew in established local joints. J. Rieger & Co. stocks the bar, while Guy’s Deli, Hawg Jaw BBQ, and Lula Southern Cookhouse offer signature dishes for the food side of things. Also different from other local food halls, guests can make reservations for dining, and can enjoy tableside service rather than walking up to each individual counter. A new rooftop bar, Momentum, is also in the process of opening on the Cascade Hotel site.
Pitchside Coffee: A new cafe, this one owned by a group of KC Current players, will open in Crossroads on August 31. A grand opening will be held from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. In addition to serving Pitchside coffee drinks, food will be available from Nivi’s Minis, Buck Tui, and Sugar Skull at the opening event.
August 29
Irish Fest: Crown Center will host Kansas City’s 22nd Irish Fest this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The family-friendly weekend event features cultural performances, live music, food and drink, art, vendors, and more. Adult tickets start at $28.50. Debuting this weekend is a Shaun Brady cookbook, featuring Irish comfort food recipes from the late chef. The Shaun and Seamus Brady Cookbook will be available at the festival for $30, with all proceeds benefitting Shaun’s wife and children.
August 30
Mimosas in the Park: At Theis Park, a relaxed mimosa and vendor fair will take over the space from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Mimosas in the Park is a free festival, though RSVPing online is encouraged. The event kicks off with a free yoga class, then offers plenty of chances to purchase mimosas, food, and goods.
August 31
Origin Cội Nguồn: A combo made in sweet Sunday heaven: Vietnamese coffee and gourmet filled donuts in the Northland! Slow Rise will start slinging their popular sourdough donuts at 11 a.m., but Origin will open before that at 7 a.m., ready to fuel the line that will likely form for Slow Rise. I recommend The Timmy coffee drink.
Natsu Matsuri: Natsu Matsuri, or “summer festival” in Japanese, is happening at Merriam Marketplace from 4 – 9 p.m. Tickets are required and cost $5 in advance, $7 at the door. In addition to Japanese performances, food vendors will be on site, such as KC Craft Ramen, Tian Tea House, Mooyuei Baker, Irvzilla’s Hawaiian Grill, and more.
September 1
Taste of Kansas City: At Harris Park, the Taste of Kansas City festival is happening from 12 – 7 p.m. The event is free to attend and features a variety of vendors, live music, a kids’ zone, and more. Food vendors include Taste of Potosi, Brain Freeze, GoChew, KC Cocktail Company, and many more.
Plan Ahead
Lawrence Restaurant Association: From September 4 – 7, LRA is partnering with restaurants and bars across Lawrence to raise money for the Hospitality Workers Relief Fund. $1 from each cocktail served on the 4th Annual Cocktail Trail goes to support and stabilize hospitality workers in times of need. My recs from the list of participants include Culinaria, Merchants Pub & Plate, The Roost, Bon Bon, and 715.
