KC Sipps: Three closures, two tasty fundraisers, and one doughnut beer

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: Swordfish Tom’s and Drastic Measures cocktail bars are mourning the loss of teammates Simone Mele and Justin Burnell. Do not expect regular service and hours from the bars this week. Drastic Measures already had takeovers from Jade Jaguar and Highball planned for this weekend, and Swordfish Tom’s has closed for the week.

Slow Rise Doughnuts: Slow Rise’s filled sourdough doughnuts have people lining up hours in advance at their weekend pop-ups. (It’s me, I’m people.) Yes, even in chilly February. However, there’s one special release you won’t have to wait in the cold for. Boulevard Brewing Co has partnered with Slow Rise for a special Brewhouse One Series: Pandan Coconut Doughnut Ale. It will launch on March 9 at Boulevard, and the launch event will include the famed doughnuts.

Closing

Kinship Cafe: Kinship Cafe’s final day in Strawberry Hill was Thursday, February 27. It will be closed for a period of moving and setting up the next location in Independence. For anyone interested in supporting a small business with your time rather than cash, they’re accepting volunteers to help move and clean out the Strawberry Hill location on February 28 starting at 9 a.m.

Ixtapa Fine Mexican Cuisine: The Overland Park location of local Mexican restaurant, Ixtapa, has closed, citing rising costs. I recently highlighted the tortilla soup as a favorite dish, and thankfully, the original location near Zona Rosa remains open. 

Toni’s Italian Restaurant: The Olathe location of Toni’s has announced closure due to a major upcoming construction project at Santa Fe and I-35. The locally owned Italian restaurant’s Shawnee location will remain open.

February 27

The Brass Onion: The Prairiefire restaurant, The Brass Onion, is kicking off a long weekend of Mardi Gras celebrations. Now through March 4, enjoy Fat Tuesday specials culminating in a dueling piano performance on Tuesday.

March 2

Chingu: First, if you love ramen you simply must check out KC’s YouTube and social media sensation, Lisa Nguyen. Now, whether or not you’re already a fan, the ramen takeover night at Chingu starting at 4:30 is sure to be a hit. Reservations are available for this special event with Nguyen, where guests can enjoy instant-ramen-inspired dishes and snacks.  

Plan Ahead

AIDS WALK Open: On March 8, the AIDS WALK Open is an event fit for foodies and fitness pals alike. Walk, ride, putt-putt, eat, and drink along the many stops like Gaels Public House, Ragazza, Tiki Taco, Kelly’s, and even brand new Q Kansas City. Registration for a team of four is $180.

Muse: A “soirée celebrating women in food, drinks, & the arts” at The Guild? Count me in! Muse is the latest event put on by Rose Productions. On March 9, the lovely Guild event space will host many of KC’s top culinary talents for an evening of sips and samples–all benefitting Girls on the Run. Tickets are $150.