KC Sipps: Two Spots Closing Soon, Plus All-You-Can-Eat BBQ Festivals

Opening, Closing, and Upcoming Special Events

In Kansas City, there’s never a short supply of delicious food and exhilarating events. The city’s dining scene is constantly changing, with new establishments opening their doors, old favorites saying goodbye, and special events taking center stage. This week, we bring you the latest from our vibrant Kansas City dining landscape.

Opening: Banksia

The Australian bakery and brunch spot Banksia has reopened in a larger location, now at 12th and Main St. Despite the construction fencing surrounding most of the restaurant, it’s open for business. The Almond Frangipane Croissant and savory pies come highly recommended.

Closing: Chuy’s Tex-Mex & Wild Way Coffee

Chuy’s Tex-Mex at the Country Club Plaza announced an immediate closure in late June. Popular coffee pit stop, Wild Way Coffee, after six years of service, is also preparing for closure with its final day set for June 30.

Special Events: FlipSwitch VR & Servaes Brewing

For two days only, FlipSwitch VR transformed into a retro sci-fi immersive experience, entertaining patrons with alien-themed food and drinks, games, and dancing. Across town, Servaes Brewing hosted a charitable drag performance with proceeds benefiting Pride Haven KC.

Upcoming Events

Jane 18: Chubby Traveler Pop-Up Dinner at The Antler Room

The Antler Room is offering Chef Sam Edelson latitude to showcase his culinary creativity for a distinctive dinner. Reservations are almost filled, so act fast to grab this unique gastronomic experience.

June 19: Juneteenth Celebration at Nighthawk

Nighthawk, in collaboration with Uncle Nearest, is commemorating Juneteenth with a musical evening with local band, The Phantastics. Uncle Nearest is a prestigious whiskey and bourbon brand, honoring the legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green, a formerly enslaved man who mentored young Jack Daniel in distilling in Tennessee.

Plan Ahead: Great Lenexa BBQ Battle & All-You-Can-Eat Q BBQ Fest

On the horizon are two major BBQ events for the meat lovers out there. The Great Lenexa BBQ Battle at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park kicks off on June 21, complete with live music, food vendors, and free children’s activities.

Followed closely by The Q BBQ Fest at GEHA Field on June 21-22, an all-you-can-eat BBQ extravaganza, featuring award-winning pitmasters from all over the country, including local favorites Buck Tui BBQ, Meat Mitch, and Arthur Bryant’s.

Don’t miss out on these culinary experiences and community events that make Kansas City’s dining scene so vibrant. Mark your calendars and savor the flavors and fun that our city has to offer.