KC Sipps: Three restaurant closures and a low-abv event with high-vibes

Art by Cassondra Jones

Looking for delicious plans? Whether you want to impress a date, show your fam the best of KC, or just get out of the house, we’ve got you covered… all while supporting (mostly) local. 

Here is your weekly roundup of the best food and drink offerings around Kansas City. Cheers!

Something New

Boulevard Brewing Company: Boulevard’s fun and vibrant seltzer brand, Quirk, has a new product. Papaya Acai Berry Superfruit Seltzer is a non-alcoholic option. Straight from a chilled can or prime for a creative mocktail, Quirk has you covered for dry January.

Opening

Fern Bar: The new agave bar that Pitch writer, Jordan Baranowski, covered in our December issue is now open in Crossroads! Check their website or social media for specific hours, but they’re now open Tuesday through Sunday. 

Closing

Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar: After ten years on the Country Club Plaza, Jax has closed to focus on the restaurants in their home state of Colorado. 

Wingstand by Jefferson’s: The State Line location of Wingstand has closed as the owners search for a location that better suits their needs. The Johnson Drive location remains open. 

Wyandot Barbeque: The “#2” location of Wyandot Barbeque has closed after 44 years. The original location in KCK remains, but the Overland Park spot is closed. 

Taking a Break

Drastic Measures and Wild Child in Shawnee have both given employees a winter break and will reopen on January 12. Panther’s Place in Westside has closed until spring, and Bijou in Westport has announced an indefinite break pending new ownership and lease agreements. French Custard in Brookside is taking a break and will reopen on February 1.

January 5

Casual Animal Brewing: From 4 – 10 p.m., Casual Animal is hosting Goldie’s Flea Market for an evening of vintage shopping. Treat yourself to a beer, cider, or non-alcoholic kombucha before browsing at the homey and comfortable brewery in Crossroads.

Plan Ahead

SipSteady: Paradise Garden Club is transforming for a zero-proof celebration. SipSteady and DryVibes are partnering to offer a full day of brunch and non-alcoholic drinks, a sound bath, a zero-proof cocktail workshop from Jay Sanders of Wild Child & Drastic Measures, a dance party, and more. Tickets start at $35.

Restaurant Week: I’ve already mentioned Kansas City Restaurant Week a few times, but here’s another option for your dining adventures–Lawrence Restaurant Week. 23 eateries, bars, and cafes in Lawrence will offer specials to entice customers from January 18-28. My favorites from the participating restaurants list include Merchants Pub & Plate, The Burger Stand at the Casbah, and The Mad Greek.

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