Wandering Downtown and Underground: Experiencing Swordfish Tom’s
Underneath a historic buildings in the Crossroads lies one of KC’s most unique bars.
All photos by Anna Petrow
Before I begin, let me be absolutely transparent and forthright — Swordfish Tom’s is my favorite bar in town. While this article might come across as a bit biased, the energy, atmosphere and overall enjoyable experience that owner Jill Cockson has developed warrants every bit of the praise it receives.
Alright, enough gushing. Let’s dive in. If you’ve heard about Swordfish Tom’s (for the sake of brevity, let’s refer to it as STs) and tried visiting, it’s possible that pinning down its exact location made you come up a bit short. Frankly, it can be a little tricky to find, which adds to the mystique and allure of the bar. But once you venture down the alleyway, find the unassuming door and toss your face mask on, head down a few flights of decoratively painted stairs and you will arrive at a dimly lit room that doubles as the entry into the bar.
Once there, it’s important to understand the rules for entry. First, you have to be vaccinated and it’s non-negotiable. Patron safety and enjoyable experiences are Jill’s utmost priority and one of the many reasons why I’m a big fan of hers. Second, it’s cash only but there is an ATM on-site if you forget. Thirdly and most importantly, check the lantern. If illuminated red, have a seat because STs is at capacity (around 25 people). If the lantern shines green, green is good and green means go, so knock on the door and wait to be escorted in by one of the incredible STs team (whoever greets you, tell them that Weston says hi).
Okay, pick your seat — for me, this is where I suddenly go ‘deer in headlights.’ STs is one of those places where charm and intrigue seeps from every thoughtfully-decorated corner. The lighting flows naturally into the furniture, which complements the decor, so choosing the perfect spot to enjoy the surroundings and conversation can cause quite the internal struggle.
Breathe in the atmosphere and take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the menus. One highlights the permanent, Manhattan-style creations and the other is seasonal in nature. The latter is refreshed quarterly and where Jill and her team really showcase their mixology magic. On numerous occasions, I’ve tried drinks that featured ingredients I don’t normally gravitate toward, but fell in love with. It’s easy because Jill et al are good at what they do. Plus, the unique glassware and crystal-clear ice, made in house, enhance the flavor and enjoyability.
While all these pieces put together make for a truly remarkable experience, it’s the Swordfish team that has breathed true life into the establishment. Jill, the captain of the proverbial ship, Tim, Simone, Caleb, Saranya and Kimmon make this a place that’s not only enjoyable but puts you front-and-center — from helping you determine the perfect cocktail based on your preferences to keeping you healthy, safe and comfortable during your visit. If hospitality is an art, consider these folks Rembrandt (or Picasso, Monet or whatever artist you enjoy most).
Personally, I’ve often found myself staring at all the elements that make this underground bar so appealing. Attention to detail is something that Jill and her team take seriously and it radiates through all they do. The ambiance, space, furniture, drinks — everything is carefully thought through. Yet my words and pictures don’t do Swordfish Tom’s justice. So grab a few friends, head toward that green lantern and enjoy one of best bars in Kansas City.
