Front Range: A Slice of Mountain Life
Kansas is renowned for being one of the nation’s flattest states. This lack of topography led residents to develop an infatuation with Colorado’s great Rockies. Families cram into vans, find their way to I-70 and cruise for hours through the Plains. These travelers go in search of log cabins, mountainous peaks and sporty outdoor activities. A new concept from the minds behind Made in KC is quietly nestled in Fairway, Kansas. Front Range Coffeehouse and Provisions aims to provide a taste of Colorado life to those who hear the mountain’s call. We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Keith Bradley, co-owner of Front Range, along with Thomas McIntyre and Tyler Enders, to learn more.
Photos by Emily Bordner
Keith spoke to us about the idea being based on numerous vacations he had taken with his family to the Front Range Mountains in Breckenridge. Keith wanted to hone in on many Kansas Citians’ infatuation with getting out to Colorado and approached his partners to figure out how to recreate it. As you walk up to the door off you’re welcomed by a large wooden bench held up by two welcoming bears, which sets the general tone and is an appetizer of what is to come.
A point of great pride was how quickly the space came together. Keith approached his partners in the summer of 2018 and the doors opened around Fourth of July weekend this year. The quaint, intimate family cabin vibe fell together. It also doesn’t feel like any other bar in the Kansas City area because of its utter nostalgia. It focuses on more of the bar side of the business than coffee, which makes it stand out from any of their other locations and businesses.
When they were approached by the Fairway Shops when the space came available, Made in KC founders jumped at the opportunity. Keith pointed out that many family members and friends he knew in the area frequently commented on not having any local watering holes in the Fairway neighborhood. The Shops had been part of the community for 50-plus years and it seemed like a natural fit. It provides cozy, boozy respite for those not looking to find their way deep into the heart of the city.
Front Range offers a diverse menu of beverages and delectable items. For drinks, Keith mentioned their Vanilla Latte made with Boozy Botanicals Vanilla Allspice Syrup; a Blood and Sand, made with orange juice, chartreuse and scotch; and the Kansas City Old Fashioned which can also be found in the Made in KC Marketplace. They additionally have a variety of other coffees, teas and kombucha. They are looking to slowly expand their food menu, and currently have pastries from Heirloom Bakery, breakfast sandwiches from Parisi, and sandwiches and frittatas from Fletcher’s.
So, if you’re looking to subdue your Rocky Mountain fever, swing by Front Range for a tasty beverage. They have a Happy Hour daily from 4 pm - 7 pm, with $1 off beer and $2 off wine. They have seven different beers on tap and a fully stocked bar. Take a walk around the corner, belly up and settle in to the contentment. You won’t regret it!
Front Range Coffeehouse and Provisions
2718 W 53rd Street, Fairway, KS 66205
Monday - Wednesday 7 am - 8 pm
Thursday - Saturday 7 am - 11 pm
Sunday 8 am - 6 pm
