Drinking Coffee in KC: Paisley Perk
We’ve revived the series that helped launch Explore–
we take our coffee seriously, over here!
Photos by Meredith Schneider
While there isn’t much that could beckon me to Kearney as a city girl, there is a very cute spot just off the main drag that serves up both caffeine and delicious pastries. Paisley Perk is located just off of Jefferson Street, a strikingly contrasted storefront with charm and personality to match the exterior offered by the baristas inside. There is an outdoor dining setup out front that is just as inviting as the striped awning.
When you enter the front door, you don’t necessarily expect a grand entryway. But the space is big, naturally well-lit, and incredibly welcoming. To your left is a staircase that opens up into the second floor seating area. Straight across from the entrance – tucked underneath a second-floor overhang – you will find a little market space that features coffee and kitchen accessories.
If you want to dine inside, head up the stairs to find several small two top tables available. There are plenty of outlets if you choose to work, and a couple of comfy chairs set up to lounge or socialize. It really is an intentionally warm space that feels cozy like home.
As you turn to your immediate right just inside the door, you will encounter the ordering space. I can only imagine how cram packed this area must get during high-traffic times, however we were there for an afternoon hang so it was much more manageable. The menu is along the back wall, with specials and limited offerings on signs along the countertop. I love how cute the signs are, and that they are at eye level and so easy to identify!
The pastry cabinet at Paisley Perk is full of deliciousness that is just waiting to be selected and heated up for you. While I was truly torn between several items and almost got a croissant, they happened to have one of my staple favorites in stock. So, I indulged in awildberry homemade pop tart. My friend enjoyed two protein balls, and they were gone quickly so I know they were a fantastic idea.
Because of the accessibility of the signage, I was able to really get a feel for how many drink specials they are currently running at Paisley Perk. The Honey Bee and Spicy Aztec Mocha are on tap right now, but since we are still within a few weeks of the 4th of July, they are still offering the Fire Work Latte. This delicious beverage is a cherry and white mocha latte with blue raspberry cold foam. It even came with little patriotic sprinkles on top and was, admittedly, a dream!
We chose to spend some time on the back patio while the shade was still in an ideal spot. It was warm, and we parked ourselves in some wicker chairs in the corner to enjoy our food and some of our beverages. Butterflies flitted past us and enjoyed the native plants, and the hang kind of felt like a fairytale. It felt fitting of the shop itself, honestly.
