Neighborhood Guide: 39th Street
We love a long block to wander around!
Photos by Anna Petrow
One of KC’s most beloved corridors, the 39th Street district is home to a wide variety of businesses, restaurants, shops and more. While we’re talking 39th— we’d be remiss not to mention 43rd, & 45th and State Line, three streets on the borders of Westport and West Plaza that are home to many hidden gems. We couldn’t help but mention the spots just up the road that deserve some recognition too!
EAT & DRINK
Goat & Rabbit | 1804 W 39th St, Kansas City, MO 64111
One of KC’s famous cocktail bars, Goat & Rabbit is always a good stop. Out of all the cocktail bars I’ve been to, G&R is at the top for most thought and creation gone into their drinks. The bartenders are passionate about the drinks they’ve added to the menu and what they’re currently working on. So if you want to talk about locally-made spirits and house-made syrups, this is the place for you! They also offer wine, beer, non-alcoholic drinks, and randomly coffee, so there is something here for everyone. Plus the ambiance at G&R is stunning with a backlit bar. No complaints here!
OUR HOUSE | 1815 W 39th St, Kansas City, MO 64111
Our House KC + their coffee shop next door are a must if you’re walking down 39th! Some of the best brunch and coffee is served here. They have many different signature coffee drinks this time of year. I tried the Cinnamon Roll latte and may never go back (recognition for the S’mores latte too). With friendly staff and homey feel, Our House is perfect as a casual dining experience that’s hard to beat! The rooftop is the best when weather permits, but is currently home to the “Wonder Dome” (aka the rooftop but covered).
TIKI TACO | 1710 W 39th St, Kansas City, MO 64111
With a walk up window as well as inside seating, Tiki Taco has the best vibes and best street tacos (bold statement, I know). While they have soon-to-be three locations, this one has the OG taco window. If you’re a fan of street tacos, you’ll love Tiki Taco.They have fresh ingredients and good prices, what more could you ask for! Their bright and colorful branding and interiors just add to the experience. They are open late night (midnight on weekends) and at 11am the next day for breakfast tacos and burritos (my favorite).
cupini’s | 1809 Westport Rd Ste 200, Kansas City, MO 64111
In 2013, Cupini’s was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, now if that isn’t captivating I don’t know what is! Cupini’s is special for many reasons, mostly because of the delicious fresh pasta and homemade food, but also for the environment it creates. It’s a walk up and order situation, so you can get good Italian food without the sit-down dining experience.
Some other important details- Cupini's sent the world's first meatball into space, and also attempted to set the Guinness world record for the longest noodle ever at 2,125 feet. If this tells you anything about how the owners at Cupini’s roll, you’re already on your way there!
rOOm 39 | 1719 W 39th St, Kansas City, MO 64111
I’m a sucker for farm to table, but isn’t everyone? Room 39 serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and let me just say their menu is unreal. If you’re looking for cozy vibes with delicious local food, look no further. Whether you’re stopping by for brunch, happy hour, or just dessert, Room 39 is worth the visit!
RUDY’S TENAMPA | 1611 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111
Open since 1993, Rudy still uses some of his mother’s recipes today! Rudy’s has just about any authentic Mexican cuisine you could want. + they have happy hour daily! This place is famous for their food for good reason.
CAFE CORAZON | 1721 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111
Specializing in Latin and Indigenous flavors, Café Corazón is a unique coffee experience. And one of the few cafes with traditional Yerba Mate tea. My favorite thing about Café Corazón is that they offer coffee flights! The current lineup is: 1. Mocha Navidad: Azteca, Peruvian chocolate, marshmallow fluff 2. Blue Corn Atole: piloncillo, atole, cinnamon 3. Champurrado: Peruvian, chocolate, spiced atole, cinnamon. If you’re up to try some new flavors, head here!
SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP
Prospero’s books | 1800 W 39th St, Kansas City, MO 64111
Prospero’s is a three tiered bookstore sitting on a corner in the middle of 39th. It’s a used bookstore, so they have good prices but don’t come looking for a specific book. Let the book you need find you (haha). And a major bonus, they have a psychic, Janet Planet, upstairs “offering spiritual consultations, clearings, chair reiki,” on Saturday afternoons.
Boomerang | 3900 Pennsylvania Ave #2940, Kansas City, MO 64111
This vintage store is an experience. If you’re looking for unique vintage pieces or an outfit for funkytown, Boomerang will have just what you need and more. Travel back in time sifting through these clothing racks, or rent a retro tux!
CHRISTOPHER FILEY ANTIQUES + OTHERS | 45TH & STATE LINE
45th street must be home to a secret society of antiquaries, because there are antique stores scattered around this street. While some might be mazes to weed through, who knows what treasures there are to be found! Check out this guide to the district!
Yarn Social | 1707 W 45th St, Kansas City, MO 64111
Not only do they sell yarn and craft supplies, Yarn Social offers knitting, crochet, and spinning classes to people of all ages! As well as one on one lessons. If your New Year's resolution was to pick up a craft or new hobby, here’s the place to learn.
