Drinking Coffee in Kansas City: Chambre Coffee
We’ve revived the series that helped launch Explore–
we take our coffee seriously, over here!
Photos by Meredith Schneider
You may have noticed that a long-time Westport resident of almost 30 years, Westport Coffeehouse, packed up and moved out of the neighborhood this spring. Within two months, a new storefront popped up in its place, quietly working its way into the local vernacular like an urban legend. I had heard of this place far before I had the opportunity to stop in, and was thrilled to have gotten the low-down on it in advance.
The front cabinet has far less dessert and breakfast pastry items than its predecessor. However, bottles and cans of tasty sodas, juices, and waters line the bottom shelf, and the top shelf seems dedicated – at least for the time being – to baked goods like cheesecake and cookies. The shelving above had a couple of bread items in it as well to choose from.
While the shop is minimally decorated, there are several wooden tables and backed chairs to the right of the counter. Clean, white walls bring a sense of calm to the space, with ample lighting and natural light from the windows for those who are visiting, studying, or working. The absence of clutter in the space is a focal point in itself.
To the left of the ordering counter, there is an even more spacious area. It honestly looks more like a small physical therapy or yoga space, but has an array of pillows for both floor seating and to sit along one of two attached wall benches. A tree brings greenery into the area, and a well-placed floor-length archway mirror adds depth to the space.
I was lucky to get a few moments of quiet time in this space, having one side of the coffee shop entirely to myself. I allowed myself to spread out and slowly enjoy a Caramel Banana Matcha Latte, which is currently my favorite matcha drink in the Kansas City metro. I have heard that their mango and strawberry matcha lattes are just as delightful.
While I don’t have experience with their coffee menu yet – which looks to include a buttery Popcorn Latte right now – I am very keen on trying their light snack options in the near future.
Chambre continues to operate its coffee and matcha truck around the Prairie Village area, so look out for them to grab some caffeine in an outdoor environment. The spacious storefront often hosts events and DJ sets, so keep your eyes peeled on their social media for upcoming events, too.
