Drinking Coffee in Kansas City: Waterbird Coffee
We’re reviving a series that helped launch Explore– we take our coffee seriously, over here!
Photos by Meredith Schneider
I wandered into this familiar space early on a lazy, overcast Sunday morning. The barista turned around, distracted from whatever he had chosen to spend his time doing. I was the only person in there, a first for me, as every other time I had visited this storefront, it had been buzzing with activity.
A concrete haven nestled between buildings in downtown Kansas City, Waterbird is a charming spot to spend some time. Their espresso menu is pretty solid, and their pastry and donut offerings come from local partners.
On this particular Sunday morning, I asked my barista - Ernesto, it turns out - to get me his favorite sweet treat. He chose a berry crumble donut from Donutology. I was thrilled.
To go with my donut, I ordered the cold brew with vanilla sweet foam. He fixed it quickly while talking to me about how his cat Charlie loved the storm that morning. My cat had tried to claw my face off at around the same time they peacefully woke up, he explained as he showed me a picture of Charlie.
The kindness of the staff at this location is always striking to me.
I sat at a table while people began to wake up, suit up, and filter in and out. A few women in joggers, a few teenagers in volleyball uniforms. A couple or two. A Scottish Terrier. This location is open for just 4 hours on Sundays, but is a great spot for people watching, with all of the events, conventions, tournaments, and otherwise happening in the surrounding areas.
Plants line the space, with beautiful art for sale and a warmth to the storefront you won’t find anywhere else - both vibe-wise and temperature-wise. The windows are large and bring in some great natural light, but don’t dress for cold weather in here!
If you aren't familiar with the area, do be aware that McGee - and many surrounding streets - have moved to paid parking 7 days a week and more strict parking rules overall. Please mind posted parking placards.
I enjoyed my donut and coffee, reading a book until my friend showed up to enjoy a hot latte and raisin donut – both of which he was a big fan.
