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September 30.2025
3 Minutes Read

Discover Kansas City’s Culinary Gems: New Restaurants and Outdoor Dining

Minimalist design with a plate stating 'Small Bites', silverware in hands.

A Culinary Revitalization: Exciting New Openings in Kansas City

As Kansas City's dining scene continues to evolve, recent openings showcase a blend of creativity, culture, and community spirit. The vibrant city is not only known for its rich barbecue heritage but is also becoming a hub for unique culinary experiences. From an enchanting cocktail lounge to a bakery with French flair, here’s what’s cooking around town.

Introducing The Brass Monkey: A Cozy Speakeasy Vibe

First off, let’s dive into The Brass Monkey, a speakeasy-style cocktail lounge nestled at 307 Admiral Blvd. This newly unveiled gem brings a theatrical flair to Kansas City nightlife, offering jello-based cocktails and magic tricks amidst moody lighting and vintage charm. It’s more than just a bar; it's an immersive experience that promises to intrigue patrons and transport them back in time.

Sweet Treats at Kansas City’s First Paris Baguette

Transitioning from night to day, Kansas City welcomes its first Paris Baguette at 11137 W 95th Street in Overland Park. Owned by local resident Kari Khandelwal, this charming bakery café brings authentic French pastries to the heart of the city. After trading in her pharmacy career, Khandelwal is excited to share her passion for baking while fostering community connections and planning future expansions. Be prepared to indulge in artisan breads, croissants, and exquisite cakes that beckon with a sweet aroma.

Handel’s Ice Cream: A Summer Must-Have in Belton

With warmer days upon us, sweet tooths will surely rejoice at the arrival of Handel’s Handmade Ice Cream in Belton. Opening its doors last week at 1014 E North Ave, this beloved brand is serving up small-batch ice cream made with love and creativity. Known for its extensive range of 48 rotating flavors, including some innovative offerings, Handel’s is set to establish itself as a go-to ice cream paradise in the heart of Missouri.

A New Dawn for Happy Gillis

Meanwhile, good news is in store for fans of Happy Gillis, one of KC’s favorite breakfast spots. After a temporary closure earlier this July, it has recently reopened under new local ownership. Plans for refreshing the beloved brunch spot are being discussed, along with a possible new concept. While the exact future remains vague, the community holds hope for its reimagined transition while still celebrating its local roots.

BBQ By The River: Revamped Menu at Two Birds One Stone

For those who fancy dining with a view, the Two Birds One Stone restaurant on Kansas City’s Berkley Riverfront has added a backyard barbecue-inspired menu. Responding to community feedback, the restaurant aims to provide affordable dining options amidst a charming atmosphere. Menu highlights include BBQ chicken leg quarters, brisket-topped burgers, and playful cocktails that are sure to provide an enjoyable experience with family and friends along the scenic riverside.

Community Connection: Why Supporting Local Matters

As the Kansas City community experiences these exciting changes, it’s crucial to remember the impact that supporting local establishments has on our neighborhoods. Each new restaurant represents both an opportunity for unique dining experiences and a chance to support local entrepreneurs striving to make a difference. By choosing to dine at homegrown eateries, locals contribute to the vibrancy and richness of their culture.

Explore the Best Restaurants in Kansas City

Whether you’re searching for the best BBQ in Kansas City, cozy spots for family dining, or unforgettable outdoor dining experiences, the latest additions to the restaurant scene have something to offer everyone. With delightful choices around town, there’s never a shortage of flavorful adventures just waiting to be explored.

Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.

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09.28.2025

Discover Why Kansas City Is the World’s Top Slow Travel Destination

Update Why Kansas City Is the Perfect Destination for Slow Travelers In a world that often rushes past, Kansas City has emerged as a sanctuary for slow travel—a refreshing escape from the hectic pace of modern life. Recently, an analysis by Icelandair named Kansas City the number-one destination for slow travel, surpassing iconic European cities like Vienna and Copenhagen. This recognition is more than just a feather in the city's cap; it reflects a growing recognition of the balance Kansas City offers between urban excitement and relaxing simplicity. Slow Travel Defined: More Than Just a Trend Slow travel is defined as the opportunity to explore a place at a relaxed pace, often allowing for remote work opportunities during the day. Imagine finishing your workweek in a cozy coffee shop, tapping away on your laptop surrounded by the aroma of freshly brewed local coffee, and then venturing out to experience your city. Kansas City provides a plethora of options—from the lively atmosphere at its trendy bars to cultural gems like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and local favorite spots for the best BBQ in Kansas City. The Pulse of Kansas City: A Blend of Work and Play One major draw for slow travelers is the unique combination of professional and recreation opportunities in Kansas City. After a productive day, you can wind down by catching a Kansas City Chiefs game at Arrowhead Stadium, or take a stroll through the stunning landscapes of Loose Park. Places to eat in Kansas City are abundant and varied. Whether you’re searching for outdoor dining options or family-friendly restaurants, rest assured you’ll find a cuisine that tantalizes your taste buds. Embracing Local Culture: Experiences That Enrich Local culture plays a significant role in slow travel, and Kansas City excels in this regard. When you visit, immerse yourself in authentic experiences—listen to live jazz at a small venue, savor the city's famous burnt ends, or even participate in community events. As you explore these unique offerings, you’ll find the rhythm of the city inviting you to stay longer, discover more, and form deeper connections. Why Kansas City Stands Out Among Travel Destinations Unlike more commercialized tourist hotspots, slow travel encourages visitors to savor their journey. Kansas City's charm lies in its blend of urban vibrancy and community warmth. You can wander through bustling neighborhoods, check out emerging restaurants near you, and experience the joy of discovering those hidden treasures that make the city unique. The recent recognition as the top slow travel destination reinforces this identity, inviting travelers to reconsider what makes a place memorable. The Future of Travel: Growing Your Business Through Slow Travel As slow travel gains momentum, it represents a fantastic opportunity for local businesses. Entrepreneurs can position their businesses—from chic restaurants to craft breweries—within this narrative of exploration and experience. By focusing on offering quality, unique offerings, and engaging with guests’ stories, Kansas City businesses can attract a customer base eager for such meaningful interactions. Ways to Enjoy Kansas City While Traveling 1. Explore Local Dining: Make a list of the best restaurants in Kansas City you wish to visit, perhaps starting at a renowned BBQ joint for those pitmaster-crafted burnt ends. 2. Experience the Outdoors: Choose evening strolls in parks or hit up places with outdoor dining, perfect for unwinding after a day of work. 3. Engage with Bar and Live Music Scenes: Empty your work gear for the night and join the locals. Kansans love their music, and many establishments offer live sessions. As Kansas City's recognition continues to grow, its character, charm, and opportunities mirror a new trend in how people choose to vacation and connect. Join the Slow Travel Movement! Are you inspired to experience Kansas City through a lens of slow travel? Discover how the city's unique offerings can enrich your life. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's a friendlier and more vibrant community waiting to be discovered. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.

09.26.2025

Discover Kansas City's Best BBQ at Phat Turtle in Phoenix

Update From Kansas City to the Valley: The Journey of Phat TurtleIn the heart of Phoenix, right where the cacti abound and the sun shines brightly, lies Phat Turtle, a barbecue joint that serves up Kansas City-style barbecue. Nestled amidst the hustle and bustle, this establishment brings a taste of the Midwest to the desert Southwest, and it's an absolute gem for locals and visitors alike.The Sloans, Mike and Kelly, who hail from Kansas City, opened Phat Turtle after years of searching for the perfect barbecue. "After sampling local spots, we realized none had the authentic taste we missed," Kelly recalls. Their culinary journey led them to recreate traditional recipes and methods that echo the vibrant barbecue culture of KC, culminating in what they believe is the best burnt ends in Kansas City—right here in Arizona.What Makes This BBQ Joint Stand Out?Phat Turtle’s charm is palpable from the moment you walk in. The decor immerses you in a Kansas City vibe with its array of red and gold colors, and the collection of arrowheads adorning the walls transports you to a true BBQ lover’s paradise. Yet, it’s not just the aesthetics that captivate; it’s the promise of mouthwatering barbecue that keeps patrons coming back for more.The menu features all the classic plates you’d expect to find in a KC barbecue joint. The star? The burnt ends, a cut of brisket that Mike and Kelly have perfected in their smoker. The crunchy exterior and tender interior evoke the depth of flavor and sweetness that true KC barbecue aficionados crave.Connecting With Community and Sports CulturePhat Turtle isn't just a restaurant; it's a community hub. With a massive billiards room that attracts sports enthusiasts, it’s the place to be for Chiefs fans on game days. Former Chiefs kicker Nick Lowery has stopped by to lend his star power, helping spread the word about this hidden treasure. From local football rivalries to festive gatherings, Phat Turtle embodies the community spirit that is central to both barbecue culture and life in Kansas City.Future of BBQ in PhoenixThe future looks bright for Phat Turtle as they continue to attract barbecue lovers and sports fans alike. As the Sloans invest in their menu and community, they’re poised to make Phat Turtle not just a favorite among locals, but a must-visit for anyone traveling through Phoenix looking for authentic BBQ.Why You Should Visit Phat TurtleIf you find yourself searching for “bbq near me” or “family-friendly restaurants Kansas City-style,” look no further than Phat Turtle. With its combination of delectable food, vibrant atmosphere, and community connection, it's not just another meal; it’s a feast for the senses.Whether you’re craving the best burnt ends in Kansas City or just a satisfying meal that will invoke nostalgia, Phat Turtle is ready to serve up a plate filled with tradition, warmth, and flavor. So gather your friends and family, and immerse yourself in the unique blend of cultures that this barbecue joint offers.Call to Action: Experience It YourselfDon't miss your chance to enjoy the delicious flavors of Kansas City right in Phoenix's backyard. Head to Phat Turtle, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a true culinary experience that's sure to delight! Your taste buds will thank you.

09.25.2025

Discover the Artistic Charm of Cinderella at Lyric Opera of Kansas City

Update The Enchantment of Cinderella: More than Just a Fairytale As the lights dimmed at the Muriel Kauffman Theatre, magic didn’t come from a fairy godmother or a magical pumpkin carriage, but from the meticulous artistry of the Lyric Opera of Kansas City’s production team. If you thought Cinderella was just an age-old Disney story, you might want to visit this September's production, where Italian composer Gioachino Rossini gives the tale an unexpected twist. A Center for Creativity Lyric Opera’s unique approach to production takes center stage with a crew of 75 dedicated professionals. Under the leadership of director of production Tracy Davis-Singh, the collaboration extends to talented designers and technicians like Steven Kemp, who brings his local passion to the projects staged in his "home environment." The in-house production capabilities not only save costs but create a kinship between the creators and the crafted work. Layering Visual Magic with Homegrown Talent The beauty of this production lies in the details. With costume designs that aestheticize the feel of Wes Anderson's unique style and scenic designs that echo a rustic charm, every element complements the comedy embedded in the opera. The choices reflect not only artistic vision but also practical considerations to ensure reusability, making sustainability part of their charm. Bringing Community Spirit to the Stage The production's inception began last July, showcasing the commitment of Kansas City artisans crafting each set and costume. This approach is not merely cost-effective; it also nurtures community spirit and pride in the production. As Kemp aptly puts it, "There’s more inherent care and concern and pride in the whole project." This local pride extends beyond the stage when the same artisans who build the intricate designs become a part of the audience experience. Conveying Stories Through Set Design With each set piece designed not simply to tell Cinderella’s story but to invite the audience into a world where magic and humor intertwine, the production is a testament to Kansas City’s vibrant cultural scene. Patrons will find themselves enthralled by the spirit of teamwork and artistic ingenuity that echoes through the theatre and beyond. Making Great Memories Beyond the Opera While attending a performance of Cinderella, consider making a day or evening of it! Kansas City boasts a variety of family-friendly restaurants nearby that cater to all tastes. Whether it's savoring the best BBQ in Kansas City or discovering hidden gems in the dining scene, visitors can enhance their outing. For those looking for an outdoor dining experience, many of our top spots feature charming patios perfect for an after-show meal. A Lasting Impression: More than Just a Night Out As the curtains close on this engaging performance, audiences will carry the artistry of Lyric Opera beyond the theatre doors. This is an opportunity not just to appreciate the dramatic retelling of a classic fairytale, but to immerse oneself in a community dedicated to the arts, dining culture, and shared experiences. So grab your tickets, settle into your seat, and prepare for an enchanting evening that celebrates local artistry and humor!

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