Kansas City Bids Farewell to Beloved KC Daiquiri Shop as Closure Date Approaches

Kansas City Says Goodbye to KC Daiquiri Shop: A Heartfelt Farewell

Kansas City, get ready to raise a glass and shed a tear! The beloved KC Daiquiri Shop, a vibrant and cherished venue known for its dazzling daiquiris and festive atmosphere, is set to close its doors for good on December 1st. Owners Kinley Strickland and Calvin Vick made the emotional announcement via social media, citing challenges like a sluggish economy and ongoing local government hurdles.

A Celebration of Community

KC Daiquiri Shop, which opened its doors back in 2019 at 1116 Grand Boulevard, quickly became a staple for many locals and visitors alike. Its lively charms and delicious frozen cocktails beckoned people in from across the region, making it a hot spot for celebrations and a true escape from everyday life. “This decision has not come lightly,” the owners expressed, highlighting the difficulties they faced in recent years, which included navigating through legal battles with less-than-supportive neighboring businesses.

The shop’s closure follows a string of recent losses in the Black-owned food scene, with fellow establishments like Soiree, The Krave, and Privee also shutting their doors. Each of these restaurants brought unique flavors and experiences to Kansas City, making their departures feel all the more significant. The community is clearly feeling the impact of losing these beloved establishments.

A Unique Experience

The journey for Strickland and Vick is truly inspiring. These two entrepreneurs swapped their corporate jobs in 2018 for the excitement of owning a business, inspired by a dream to share New Orleans vibes right here in the Midwest. Their background included support from their sister company in Dallas and connections to authentically Cajun and Creole cuisine, setting the stage for the unique experience they aimed to create.

“We knew we’d be successful. A lot of people didn’t believe in the concept in the Midwest, but we knew it would work,” Strickland shared in one interview. This determination led them to lobby for changes in city ordinance so they could offer to-go cocktails during the pandemic, giving a much-needed boost to their business while also helping the community regain a sense of normalcy.

More than Just a Shop

Strickland and Vick wanted KC Daiquiri Shop to be more than just a place to grab a drink. They aimed to foster community, connect with their customers, and provide job opportunities — especially for those looking for a second chance. “Throughout our journey, we have been proud to provide not just delicious food and drinks, but also a place where our community could gather, connect, and celebrate,” they mentioned in their heartfelt goodbye.

Even after finding post-pandemic success, expanding operations to include a seasonal stand at Legends Field and a standalone restaurant called KC Daiquiri Shop: Bistreaux, they still struggled with the ever-changing landscape of the dining industry. Just last month, the Bistreaux concept came to an end, marking another chapter of change for the team.

What’s Next?

While this announcement leaves a bittersweet taste in the mouths of loyal patrons, Strickland and Vick are optimistic. They’re taking a moment to regroup and reflect, assuring everyone that this is not the end for them. “We believe in the resilience of our community and the power of support we have always shared. We trust that this moment will lead to new beginnings and opportunities for us all,” they stated thoughtfully, leaving fans with a glimmer of hope for what lies ahead.

As Kansas City gathers its memories from the *KC Daiquiri Shop*, it’s clear that the impact of this establishment will resonate far beyond its walls. So let’s raise a toast to all the joy and unforgettable moments that have been shared, and keep an eye out for the next adventure for Strickland and Vick — the community is rooting for you!