Head on over to KCK and explore Rosedale!

Kelly Bunch is a Fairway resident and Kansas City–based writer who loves telling stories about the people and places that make her community feel like home. When she’s not exploring KC, you can find her reading, traveling, or having full conversations with her dog.

The Rosedale neighborhood is known for its neighborly atmosphere and welcoming vibe. Hidden gems are around every corner in this KCK locale. Come as you are to any of the places on this list to enjoy friendly faces and killer service.

Casita de Lil Chingu | 1639 Southwest Blvd

Chef Keeyoung Kim, the brains behind Sura Eats, Chingu Coffee, and the former Chingu restaurant in Westport, is bringing fresh, Korean-Mexican flavors to Rosedale at Casita de Lil Chingu. You can find breakfast and lunch on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 8:30 - 2:00 pm. Fridays and Saturdays, it reopens from 5:00 - 9:00 pm for dinner, just in time to pair your meal with a margarita from Sagebrush. The space is a little hidden, but don’t be discouraged – the door is located on the back of the building behind Garden House Cafe.

Dagwood’s Cafe | 1117 Southwest Blvd

A good ol’ fashioned diner is hard to beat, and Dagwood’s is a KCK classic. Nothing fancy, but just plain good. Open for breakfast and lunch only, come hungry for biscuits and gravy, a BLT, or the Dagwood breakfast sandwich – a favorite among regulars. Cover it in gravy if you dare.

Garden House Cafe | 1639 Southwest Blvd

Equal parts coffee, plants, and shopping, Garden House truly delivers a full experience. Enjoy your espresso in the sunny front window among lush greenery before perusing the clothing, gifts, and homewares in the back. This inviting space is sure to help you romanticize your way through town.'

Rosedale Bar-B-Q | 600 Southwest Blvd

In a city known for barbeque, Rosedale Bar-B-Q was one of the first. Neighbors have been enjoying burnt ends, pork ribs, and BBQ chicken at this family-owned joint for 90 years. If it’s your first time, try the Belt Buster sandwich (your choice of three meats) or the Combo Deluxe (two sliced meats and a long end of ribs).

Sagebrush | 1639 Southwest Blvd

Sagebrush embodies everything you could want in a neighborhood cocktail bar – friendly service, an inviting space, vinyl spinning in the background, and, of course, a killer cocktail menu courtesy of the same folks behind The Campground. The Sagebrush, Margarita, and Negroni are best sellers, but branch out to find your favorite – including creative mocktails.

Strasser Hardware | 910 Southwest Blvd

Strasser Hardware, first named Rosedale Plumbing and Electric, has been an icon in Rosedale since 1917. There’s almost nothing you won’t find in this expansive shop, including UHaul rentals. Whether you need someone to walk you through the hardware aisle or give suggestions on a plumbing issue, knowledgeable staff is always available to help neighbors find what they need.

Sway Coffee Roasters | 2700 W 43rd Ave

Brought to you by the same people behind McLain’s Bakery + Markets, Sway sources beans from smaller producers with quality farming practices. The beans are roasted right in the shop for a fresh, crop-to-cup taste. Easy parking and plenty of seating make this stop a no brainer for your next mid-morning pick-me-up.

Three Bees Pottery & Coffee | 925 Southwest Blvd

Behind an ivy-covered facade, splendors await. Coffee and tamales mingle with hand-crafted pottery in this charming shop on Southwest Boulevard. Try a Dirty Horchata and the 2 Tamale Meal (comes with rice & beans) for the full experience.