Drinking Coffee in Kansas City: Solideo
We’ve revived the series that helped launch Explore–
we take our coffee seriously, over here!
Photos by Meredith Schneider
If you are on the lookout for a coffee shop that feels more like you stepped into it from the streets of Italy or France than somewhere in the Kansas City metropolitan area, then Soli Deo is the spot for you. This coffee shop and bakery (once Enchanté on Main) has gotten a new name and fresh layout– but you can expect the same moody decor and plenty of delicious offerings.
Their dried floral chandelier is muted and beautiful, hanging charmingly above the display case and ordering counter. It is a focal point in the shop, and serves as a delicate accessory to the buttery pastries and full-bodied coffee beverages they have to choose from.
The dark teal walls are the perfect backdrop to an eclectic mix of empty gold frames, mirrors, shelving, and knick knacks. A mix of antique - namely French Provincial - furniture items are scattered around the space, beginning with a community table just to the left of the door, in the bright light of the front window. A couple of bar stools sit to the side as overflow seating for the bar area when necessary.
On the other side of the entrance, you can find a comfortable couch to spread out on, perfect for conversing with friends or enjoying a good book. The coffee table has a tray where you can set your food items, keeping the space clean and elevated. The exposed brick makes the already warm and inviting space feel amplified in that regard.
I tried an iced Spring Bloom Latte, which features lavender, blackberry, and honey flavors with milk and espresso. It was incredibly well balanced. I also tried the Rose Water Croissant which featured a light, sweet glaze on top and I was floored by the delicate flavor and crispy, buttery layers of the pastry.
Another great offering I wouldn’t normally go for? The blackberry espresso tonic. My friend ordered it and let me take a sip, and I have to say that while I did not believe that fruity and fizzy would pair with espresso, I was proven wrong. It was both refreshing and energizing in the best ways, and it could be a fun go-to while it’s still on their featured springtime menu.
The rustic, old world feel of this space really transports you back in time. While cities on the east coast and in Europe often host narrow, unique, storied spaces like this for community– it is rare to find something this specifically adorable in the midwest. So add Soli Deo to your list of “musts” in Kansas City, and be sure to include it on any “staycation” lists you have tucked away!
