Drinking Coffee in Kansas City: Good Karma Coffee
We’ve revived the series that helped launch Explore–
we take our coffee seriously, over here!
Photos by Meredith Schneider
At 9 am on Saturday, February 1st, Brian Roberts cut the red ribbon to open Good Karma Coffee. As part of The Black Pantry - a market and bar in the Martini Corner neighborhood also owned by Roberts - Good Karma Coffee exists in a space that is filled with incredible art, interesting wares, and fun decor. Step down into this inviting space when you first enter, and immediately let the environment influence your mood.
I showed up on Monday February 3rd, right after their barista-confirmed busy first weekend. I can attest to this, as I attempted to hang out there on both Saturday and Sunday to no avail. I took laps around the neighborhood, trying to find reasonable parking to spend some time there en route to other appointments and errands. While people are still learning about the location, mid-morning was a great time to stop in.
The baristas were appreciative that Monday was as quiet as it was after such a hectic weekend. They were playing a mix that included Grammy nominees like Teddy Swims, while Queen Bey’s Cowboy Carter photo was on a coaster nearby. Good Karma feels like it collects artsy souls into its nooks and crannies to dine, listen, watch, and enjoy their space and time.
The specialty lattes are not inexpensive, but they are worth every penny. My beverage was almost $9 before tip, so be prepared for a bit of sticker shock. However, the care and flavor they put into each craft beverage is what you’re paying for. (And the inviting personalities of their staff!) I enjoyed an iced banana pudding latte.
It is a small detail, but I was especially impressed when the barista knew how to spell my name without asking, rarely is it even close to correct elsewhere.
The pastry case had an assortment of sweet treats from local bakeries. In their dedication to fostering community and new experiences, the space will be hosting more pop ups in collaboration with Good Karma Coffee. This includes the pop-up of metro-area favorite Slowrise sourdough donuts.
The space will soon stock beer and wine in collaboration with Vine Street Brewery Co. and, eventually, others.
As you walk around the mostly concrete, basement space, you will find art and books by local and independent artists, endearing details, and great spaces to work and relax from. While I enjoyed my drink from a corner by some plants, I witnessed a group of friends (or students) gathering to hang out, each of them individually ordering their drinks and contributing their joy to the space.
The Black Pantry and Good Karma Coffee are both dedicated to working with and within the Kansas City community. I can see a lot of great experiences like open mic nights and collaborative workshops being hosted here in the coming months. Keep your eyes on their social media for upcoming information and events.
