A Guide to The Country Club Plaza
The Country Club Plaza (typically called “The Plaza” by locals) is a shopping district that was founded over 100 years ago in Kansas City. Based on the architecture of Seville, Spain, the Plaza is a gorgeous setting to shop, dine, or stay. If you’re looking for a guide to the Plaza (and surrounding areas), this is the blog post for you!
Coffee Shops:
If you're anything like me, starting the day with caffeine is a must! The plaza has 4 great options for coffee shops (three of which are local), so you’re never too far from your next coffee fix.
Messenger Coffee Co. (4771 Jefferson Street, Kansas City, MO 64112 and 318 W. 47th Street, Kansas City, MO 64112): With two locations on the plaza, Messenger Coffee Co. is never too far away! They offer a cozy and inviting atmosphere to enjoy their specialty coffee drinks. This is a local favorite!
Capital One Café (4730 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64112): The Capital One Café is relatively new to the KC area. If you're a Capital One customer - you get 50% off all drink orders! It's a great way to save money (so you can spend more during your shopping trip!). You don't have to be a Capital One member to visit this café, of course!
Made in KC Café (306 W. 47th St., Kansas City, MO 64112) - located inside the Made in KC Marketplace, this coffee shop offers tons of specialty drink options! The location is great because you can get some shopping in while you enjoy your coffee.
Where to Eat:
The Plaza has so many great dining options - from Kansas City BBQ to Comfort Food and even sushi, there is truly an option for any dining preference!
Jack Stack Barbecue ( 4747 Wyandotte St, Kansas City, MO 64112) - If you're in Kansas City for the first time, you can't miss out on some BBQ! Jack Stack is a very well-known barbecue restaurant in Kansas City, known for its delicious smoked meats and hearty sides, offering a cozy atmosphere on the Plaza perfect for indulging in Kansas City's barbecue scene.
Gram & Dun (600 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64112) - If you're looking for one of the best patios in Kansas City, Gram & Dun is it! This is a vibrant dining experience in Kansas City's Country Club Plaza district, offering a diverse menu of American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, served in a stylish and inviting setting. Their cocktail menu is great as well!
True Food Kitchen (4749 Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, MO 64112) - True Food Kitchen offers a menu with plenty of healthy options. The menu has a diverse selection of healthy, seasonal dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. With options catering to various dietary preferences including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free, the restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy nourishing meals in the heart of the Plaza.
Rye (4646 Mill Creek Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64112) - This is a charming restaurant in the heart of the Plaza offering a contemporary take on Midwestern comfort food. They do a great job highlighting seasonal ingredients and their hospitality is second to none!.
Kura Revolving Sushi Bar (200 W 47th St, Kansas City, MO 64112) - This unique dining experience is new in Kansas City, Missouri! Featuring a conveyor belt sushi concept, you are able to enjoy a variety of fresh and flavorful sushi dishes as they rotate by their table.
The Classic Cup (301 W 47th St, Kansas City, MO 64112) - This is a beloved bistro among locals in Kansas City! Offering classic American fare alongside an extensive selection of wines and cocktails, This restaurant is a cozy yet elevated spot to grab a table and enjoy a meal.
Hokibar (100 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64112) - Another great sushi option on the plaza is Hokibar! They're known for their innovative sushi rolls, creative cocktails, and lively ambiance, making it a popular spot for sushi enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike. Order the Money Bags for an appetizer - they're amazing!
Strang Chef Collective (4620 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO 64112) - This contemporary food hall is not to be missed! Featuring diverse culinary vendors offering cuisines ranging from Asian street food to artisanal pasta, this spot provides a unique dining experience for all tastes. Their cocktail menu is top notch as well!
Chuy's (209 W 46th Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64112) - Sometimes all you need is some chips and salsa and a good marg! If that's how you feel after a long day, Chuy's is the place for you! This is a Tex-Mex restaurant in Kansas City, Missouri, known for its vibrant and eclectic decor, lively atmosphere, and menu featuring Tex-Mex classics such as fajitas, enchiladas, and margaritas, perfect for a fun and flavorful dining experience. My personal favorite is the Tortilla Soup (and the creamy jalapeño dip is a MUST).
Shopping:
The Country Club Plaza is a shopping destination in Kansas City, with classics like Anthropologie, Athleta, and J. Crew. If you're looking for local shops on the Plaza, these five spots are my favorites!
Charlie Hustle (316 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64112) - Located in the heart of the Country Club Plaza is local favorite, Charlie Hustle! This is the perfect place to get a souvenir - they have a range of stylish and comfortable apparel featuring vintage-inspired designs and iconic Kansas City motifs, making it a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike seeking trendy and nostalgic clothing items.
Nickel & Suede (4704 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64112) - Situated on Broadway Boulevard in Kansas City, Missouri, Nickel & Suede specializes in handcrafted leather earrings and accessories, known for their lightweight and statement-making designs, offering shoppers a unique blend of fashion-forward style and artisan craftsmanship.
Made in KC Marketplace (306 W 47th St, Kansas City, MO 64112) - Positioned on West 47th Street in Kansas City's Country Club Plaza, Made in KC Marketplace showcases a curated selection of locally made goods and artisanal products, including artwork, home decor, jewelry, and gourmet foods, providing shoppers with an opportunity to support and celebrate Kansas City's vibrant creative community.
EB and Co. (320 Ward Pkwy #104, Kansas City, MO 64112) - Located in the heart of Kansas City's Country Club Plaza, EB and Co. is a local company offering a chic and contemporary shopping experience featuring a curated collection of women's accessories and gifts, characterized by modern elegance and timeless style, making it a destination for fashion-forward individuals seeking sophisticated wardrobe essentials. Even Taylor Swift is a fan of this brand!
Topsy's Popcorn (4740 Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, MO 64112) - Nestled on Pennsylvania Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri, Topsy's is a beloved local shop specializing in gourmet popcorn and confections, offering a wide array of delicious flavors and gift options, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and finding unique treats to enjoy or share with loved ones.
Happy Hour/Cocktails:
The Plaza has tons of different options for cocktails, whether you're looking for a happy hour special, a cold beer, or an elevated bar with top-notch drinks.
Fogo De Chao (222 W 47th St, Kansas City, MO 64112) - Situated in the heart of Kansas City's Country Club Plaza, Fogo De Chao has one of the best happy hours in town! Their happy hour is all day, every day (in the bar area only). The menu is much lighter than you may be used to from a Brazilian steakhouse, but just as flavorful! Order a caipirinha - you will love it!
Kona Grill (444 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64112) - Known for their happy hours, Kona Grill offers a diverse menu of contemporary American dishes and sushi, complemented by a selection of handcrafted cocktails. With several happy hours every day, you can almost always plan your evening around taking advantage of these deals!
Granfalloon (608 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64112) - This is a Kansas City staple! Granfalloon offers a casual yet inviting atmosphere where patrons can enjoy a variety of local beer or cocktails from their menu.
The Monarch Bar (4808 Roanoke Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64112) - Nestled on Roanoke Parkway in Kansas City's Country Club Plaza district, The Monarch Bar is a sophisticated cocktail lounge known for its innovative and expertly crafted drinks. The bar features a rotating menu of seasonal cocktails made with high-quality ingredients (often house-made!). While not offering a traditional happy hour, guests can indulge in the bar's exquisite creations while enjoying the elegant ambiance and attentive service.
Nine Zero One Rooftop Bar (900 W 48th Pl, Kansas City, MO 64112) - Located atop the luxury hotel, The Fontaine, in Kansas City's Country Club Plaza, the Nine Zero One Rooftop Bar offers stunning views of the city skyline along with a selection of handcrafted cocktails and small plates.
Strang Chef Collective (4620 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO 64112) - This contemporary food hall is not to be missed! Featuring diverse culinary vendors offering cuisines ranging from Asian street food to artisanal pasta, this spot provides a unique dining experience for all tastes. Their cocktail menu is top notch as well!
Nearby Attractions:
If you have a car and some time to explore the surrounding areas, these are some of my favorites!
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Situated adjacent to the Plaza, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is one of the premier art museums in the country. It features an extensive collection spanning thousands of years and various cultures, including renowned works of European and American art, as well as impressive outdoor sculptures in the sculpture park.
Crossroads Arts District: Located southeast of the Plaza, the Crossroads Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood filled with art galleries, studios, breweries, and hip eateries. It's known for its First Friday art walks (where galleries open their doors to the public for special exhibitions and events) but a good time can be had any day of the week!
National WWI Museum and Memorial: Located just south of downtown Kansas City, the National WWI Museum and Memorial is dedicated to preserving the history of World War I and honoring the individuals who served in the conflict. It features immersive exhibits, artifacts, and a memorial tower offering panoramic views of the city skyline.
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: Just a short drive from the Plaza, the Kauffman Center is a stunning architectural landmark and home to the Kansas City Symphony, Kansas City Ballet, and Lyric Opera of Kansas City. Visitors can catch world-class performances in its state-of-the-art concert halls. The venue itself is beautiful and well worth a drive by at least!
Union Station: South of the Plaza, Union Station is a historic train station turned cultural center. The space is gorgeous and well worth a visit!
The West Bottoms: Located northwest of the Plaza, the West Bottoms is a historic industrial area known for its antique shops, vintage boutiques, and unique event spaces. It's a popular destination for treasure hunters and those seeking one-of-a-kind finds.
