Weekend Series: North KC
I had heard that North Kansas City was growing into quite the new hangout spot, but it wasn’t until I ventured across the river that I found out why. The downtown area, now lined with everything from bakeries, to coffee shops and eateries, is buzzing with people walking from shop to shop, enjoying all NKC has to offer.
My day started with a visit to the new Tyler Kingston Wood Co. retail shop. Natural light fills every inch of the space. You can shop new homewares and furniture, made by shop owners Ryan & Jess Mead. This husband and wife team started by making furniture for their own Northland home, and soon friends wanted the pieces for themselves. They continued their work by turning their home garage into a workshop, and the rest is history! The new shop is located at 422 Armour Road, and hours are Wednesdays through Fridays, 11- 6 p.m., and Saturdays 9-6 p.m.
The next stop on my venture led me to 312 Armour Road, home to Colony Coffee, whose motto states, ‘Coffee, Beer and Community in Northtowne’. Kansas City is blessed with amazing coffee shops that seem to line city streets as of late; but something about Colony is really special. Not only do they have an amazing espresso & coffee bar, but they are home to a wide scope of cocktails and beer with an environment all their own; that happens to be filled with snacks, games, and music.
Nestled between the first two stops on my list lies stop number three, Chappell's Restaurant. This cozy sports bar and grill opened in 1986, and has been serving athletes and sports fans every since. The walls are covered in so much memorabilia, it’s hard to tell if anything else could be added! Helmets line the ceilings, while sports games play on the surrounding TVs. Food is top notch, and even if you’re not the biggest sports enthusiast, it’s worth stopping in to get a look around. Chappell’s is located off of 323 Armour Road, and open Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
My last stop in North KC is now a new favorite, Cinder Block Brewery, started by brewer Bryce Schaffter. For a long time, he balanced a full-time job while experimenting with beer recipes on the side. He finally left his garage workspace and in 2013 started what would soon become Cinder Block. From amazing barrel aged beers, beautiful patio space & trivia nights, this brewery is becoming a well-known name in the craft beer world here in KC. Cinder Block is located within walking distance of Chicken N Pickle at 110 E. 18th Ave.
I hope you’ve enjoyed a day with me through North KC, and are able to plan one of your own soon. Here’s to even more spots to love in this beautiful city!