KC Sipps: Three unique openings, two pop-ups, and one free pancake

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: Snooze has extended its Pancake Day offer to a full Pancake Week. Now through this Friday, guests can enjoy a free pancake, any flavor, with the purchase of any entree. Be sure to mention “Pancake Day” to your server for dine-in and carryout. If you’ve never tried the concept of a “table pancake,” this is the perfect opportunity. Also acceptable at breakfast or brunch: a table cinnamon roll.

You Say Tomato is offering iftar dinner service from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays through the duration of Ramadan. The Midtown restaurant ensures that its beef and chicken are halal year-round.

Opening

Vine Street Chicken Co: In the same building as Vine Street Brewing, Vine Street Chicken Co is currently in its soft-open phase. Grilled and fried chicken are available at the interior window during peak taproom hours, and more dishes and hours will become available over time. Justin Clark, founder of Urban, is behind the concept. I recommend the funnel cake fries and the bone-in fried chicken.

Mocha Point Yemini Coffee Co.: After opening in Saint Charles, MO in 2023, Mocha Point has brought Yemini coffee to the Kansas City metro. The new coffee shop is in its soft-opening phase in Overland Park on 135th near 69 Hwy. It is open today from 4 – 10 p.m. and will announce additional days on social media. Those hours are not a typo. Mocha Point plans to be open as late as 11 p.m. on weekends. 

Ricochet: A new bar and game spot opens in Crossroads on February 24. This is a 21+ establishment with no cover and no cost for game play. Charging for drinks and reserving private sections are how they make money. The games include beer pong, billiards, board games, darts, shuffleboard, skeeball, and many more. There is no kitchen, but Ricochet encourages you to order in from area restaurants or even bring in your own food (but no drinks). This is the second location of Ricochet after starting in Des Moines. It is located in a section of the former Kansas City Star building, across the street from newly-opened Beckett’s and Casual Animal Brewing.

February 21

Tap Ins KC: Starting today, Tap Ins offers a boozy brunch menu each Saturday and Sunday. With the entire food menu at $10, you can fuel your mini-golf game with breakfast tacos, an omelet, and more, and spring for a morning cocktail. No reservations are required, and the brunch menu is available from 9 – 11 a.m. 

February 22

Osteria Bianchi: A variety of seatings are still available for a Sunday supper to celebrate two years of Osteria Bianchi. The northland Italian spot will feature a family-style menu and $32 bottles of wine. The dinner is $65 per person and features three appetizers, two entrees, and tiramisu cheesecake for dessert. Bread courses can be hit or miss, but at Osteria Biachi, it’s not just a hit, it’s a must. Don’t skimp on the focaccia and “parmesan salsa”.

Plan Ahead

Barbacoa: On February 24, James Beard Award semifinalist Jeff “Cheffrey” Workman and Hannah Jones are taking over the Barbacoa kitchen for a special dinner service. A few seatings remain. The menu is inspired by midwest mom and pop shops and homey kitchens… think meatloaf, casserole, and potato salad with expert preparation. The dishes range from $14-26 on this concise menu. 

Newhouse: The holiday pop-up bar season has passed, but March brings a new opportunity for limited-time drinks and fun. On March 6 and 7, Newhouse is putting on their annual Worthy Pop-up Bar at The Maverick in Crossroads. I’m part of a bartending duo helping to raise money for the domestic violence shelter, so be sure to say hi if you attend on Friday, March 6! Tickets start at $50 and include two drink tickets.