Kansas City Treats Itself to Puerto Rican Flavors During Royals’ Postseason Run
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — As the Kansas City Royals continue to heat up in the postseason, one local eatery is aiming to deliver an explosive mix of flavors that team spirit and delicious Puerto Rican cuisine can bring together. Inside the cozy Crossroads Food Stop lies Primos, a hidden gem that might just be one of the city’s most vibrant culinary spots.
The owner of Primos, Jorge Ivan Rivera Santiago, is passionate about infusing his love for both cooking and baseball into each dish he serves. This proud Army veteran grew up in Puerto Rico, where the sweet sound of a baseball hitting a bat echoed down the dusty streets. “In Puerto Rico, you could go down the street and see a baseball field on every corner,” Rivera Santiago fondly recalls. Memories of his childhood flood back as he reminisces about playing baseball and enjoying life in a close-knit community.
A Culinary Powerhouse
Rivera Santiago describes Primos as a powerhouse of flavors, showcasing the best of Puerto Rican food right here in Kansas City. “It’s flavorful, vibrant, colorful — just a lot of explosions in your mouth,” he explains, giving potential diners an enticing view of what to expect when they visit.
The menu boasts an array of classic dishes including pincho de pollo (chicken skewers), tostones (fried green plantains), yuca frita (fried cassava), and the unique boribowls that offer a delightful taste of Puerto Rico. Rivera Santiago puts his heart into his cooking, ensuring every bite tells a story, just like every home run connects with the crowd in the stands.
Lessons from the Diamond to the Kitchen
For Rivera Santiago, both his kitchen and the baseball field serve as places of community and growth. *“I set up my kitchen like you got your first base, second base, and when you take it out, you know, you knock it out of the park,”* he explains, likening his culinary creations to scoring big in a game.
As the Royals soar through the postseason, Rivera Santiago is eager to show his support. He believes in recognizing the hard work and spirit of the athletes representing Kansas City, especially those with roots in Puerto Rico. “I definitely want to serve our team and treat them to a nice meal,” he declares with enthusiasm. His plan is to offer a free meal to all Royals players, along with any other local athletes who are making an impact.
Feeling the Beat of Community Spirit
“Isaiah Pacheco, if you’re hearing this, I got you, man, I can also hook it up,” Rivera Santiago calls out warmly, reaching out to the local sports heroes with an open invitation to enjoy Puerto Rican hospitality. His mission extends beyond just feeding players; he wants to celebrate the accomplishments of the Kansas City athletes who represent the rich cultural tapestry of the city and beyond.
With the Royals’ journey igniting community pride, Primos is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place where memories are created over shared meals, where celebrating wins and comforting during losses happens side by side. Rivera Santiago’s passion for his craft and love for baseball embodies the spirit of what makes Kansas City special — a blend of unity, culture, and delightful flavors that come together beautifully.
As the Royals continue their quest for glory, Kansas City residents are encouraged to support local businesses like Primos, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and love for the game and each other. After all, whether it’s enjoying a delicious meal or cheering for the home team, it’s all about coming together and celebrating the vibrant culture that Kansas City radiates.
