KC Sipps: New upscale Asian fare, oyster training, & restaurant pivots

Art by Cassondra Jones

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: Between St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, the men’s Big 12 basketball tournament, and overall good weather, places like Westport, Crossroads, River Market, and more will be hoppin’ this weekend. Just something to keep in mind if you’re out and about. Don’t shy away from busy neighborhoods or stressful parking–instead, revel in the good energy of the weekend and try something new. 

Broadway Butcher Shop: The midtown butcher shop is diversifying with a week of dessert features! Pastry chef Anna Morrow, formerly of Cafe Europa, is offering a variety of specialty tarts through March 16.

The Sentinel Room: This newspaper-inspired bar in Independence is celebrating its one-year anniversary. Through March 15, stop by the whiskey-focused joint for specialty cocktails and bites, all with a celebratory Irish flair. 

KC Wineworks: Since announcing its closure this April 5, KC Wineworks is running a sale on wine. To help clear out their inventory, the crew is selling bottles of Norton and Chambourcin at buy one, get one 50% off while supplies last. Visit the Crossroads storefront Wednesdays through Saturdays before 8 p.m. to stock up.

Aqua Penny’s: Have you wanted to enjoy, or even just try, oysters and appear like you know what the shuck you’re doing? Chef Brandon Hayden–a certified “oyster ambassador”–is putting on educational and experiential oyster-tasting classes at Aqua Penny’s in Leawood each Thursday this month. Taste, learn, and look like a pro next time.

Opening

Jerusalem Cafe: A fourth location of Jerusalem Cafe is celebrating a grand opening in Mission on March 16. The Mediterranean restaurant replaces Tortilla Ranch at 61st and Metcalf. I happened to have highlighted the vegetarian options in our March magazine, so here’s a new location to try out!

Heritage by Bo Lings: After renovations and menu additions, the Bo Lings Plaza location officially reopened today as Heritage. I previewed the swanky spot this week, and the design caught my attention first and foremost. Embracing the low light of the location’s position, Heritage leans into moody hues and rich natural elements with wood detailing and raw-edge stone. In addition to the existing Chinese fare, Heritage now offers Japanese and Thai dishes. I enjoyed more sushi than I want to admit, and the Sichuan Chicken dish ($16) was great as a starter for the table. 

Vetta: Replacing Calaveras in Lee’s Summit is a new Italian eatery called Vetta. The Edwards family behind Calaveras and Smoke Brewing Co revamped the space and menu, drawing inspiration from Italian eateries of “The Hill” in St. Louis. It is open now and features a patio, happy hour, and a membership program.

March 15

Gaels Public House: KC Baby! If you’re not attending the KC Current season opener or planning to join the hubbub in River Market or Berkley Riverfront, Gaels is the place to be. As an official watch party host, Gaels will offer giveaways and unmatched spirit. I recommend making reservations. 

KC Wine Co: From 2 – 5 p.m. the Olathe winery is going full neon and tease by featuring free 80’s music bingo. The game is free, but food and drink will be available for purchase, such as KC Wine Co wine and cider, beer, flatbread pizza, and more.

March 16

Café Ollama: Café Ollama on Southwest Boulevard is hosting 3Q1 Prints for a pitch-perfect fundraiser. From 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., stop by for coffee and pick up a keychain to help support Band of Angels, which provides instruments to KC kids who couldn’t otherwise afford them so that they can join their school’s band and orchestra.