Kansas City Welcomes a New Culinary Gem: Orange By: Devoured
Kansas City has a buzz in the air, and it’s not just the summer heat! Just recently, the vibrant Martini Corner welcomed its latest culinary neighbor, Orange By: Devoured, a unique pizzeria that opened its doors on August 15, 2024. The woman behind this exciting venture is Jhy Coulter, a passionate chef and entrepreneur who blends her love for food and community into every slice served.
From Backyard Pop-Up to Brick-and-Mortar
Jhy’s culinary journey is nothing short of inspiring. It all started in her own backyard back in 2017 while she was a student at the University of Missouri – Kansas City. After submitting a design project—unbeknownst to her, the seed for her future restaurant—she found herself turning to cooking during the pandemic. In 2020, she launched a pop-up called Devoured Pizza, originally named Backyard Specials, which quickly won the hearts of her family and friends.
Before diving headfirst into the world of pizza, Jhy explored various careers—everything from graphic design to teaching English abroad. After training under the talented chef Brandon Winn at Webster House, Jhy realized her heart belonged in the kitchen. In 2019, her big break came when she won an Instagram contest hosted by renowned chef Matty Matheson, earning a coveted Gozney Roccbox portable pizza oven. This was the spark she needed to kickstart her passion for pizza making.
A Flavorful Evolution
Fast forward to 2020 when Jhy began volunteering at Webster House, where she cooked for those in need. This experience reignited her passion, leading to countless hours of experimenting with dough, sauces, and exciting flavor combinations. As Devoured Pizza popped up in various venues throughout Kansas City, it became known not just for its delicious pizzas, but for the experiences it created.
The transition to a permanent location was a natural next step. “I just knew that Devoured needed a home,” Jhy shares enthusiastically. “I wanted something larger that could evolve.” After much searching and planning, she found her dream spot in the lively Martini Corner.
Orange – More than Just a Color
The name Orange By: Devoured isn’t just a catchy gimmick; Jhy chose it to embody a sense of positivity and energy. “Orange is a powerful color, but it’s not overpowering,” she explains. Her time in Spain, surrounded by tapas and social gatherings, heavily influenced her vision for the restaurant. With a focus on sharing, Jhy created a menu designed for communal enjoyment, featuring both pizzas and small plates that invite creativity and collaboration.
A Delicious Menu Awaits
What exactly can you expect from the menu? A delightful array of pizzas formed on the meticulously crafted dough that Jhy spent months perfecting. Each crust is light, airy, and crispy—ideal for supporting a medley of props ranging from the classic to the adventurous. Picture a pizza topped with prosciutto and figs, drizzled with balsamic glaze, or perhaps a roasted garlic and ricotta option adorned with herbs.
Meanwhile, the tapas-inspired offerings will include dishes perfect for sharing with friends, such as marinated olives, artisanal cheeses, or charred vegetables—perfect accompaniments to the star of the show: the pizza!
What’s Next for Orange By: Devoured?
As Jhy embarks on this new chapter, she’s already brimming with plans for the future. “This is just the start,” she promises. Kansas City has become a remarkable destination for food lovers, and Orange By: Devoured aims to carve out its own special place within the community.
For the locals and adventurous visitors alike, this new spot doesn’t just serve pizza; it offers an atmosphere filled with connection and warmth. So if you find yourself in the heart of Kansas City, make sure to swing by Orange By: Devoured at 325 E 31st St. Come for the food, stay for the community vibe!
