Celebrate National Coffee Month by expanding your family’s understanding of the drink that brings a unique sense of community to those who enjoy it. Whether you are habitual drinkers or not, there will always be more to learn about the history, culture and preparation of coffee.
Kansas City has one of the most vibrant coffee cultures going—why not check out the scene?
Broadway Café and Roasting Company
Deep in the gritty heart of Westport, under its iconic black-and-white striped awning is Broadway Café, home of outstanding coffee artisanship since 1993 and current winner of the prestigious National Good Foods award. Visiting Broadway is a multi-faceted experience: You are entering a tradition in Kansas City, a café with a following so strong that it once put a nearby Starbucks out of business and filled with some of the city’s most eccentric and interesting individuals. Local art lines the walls and delicious food offerings complement the coffee.
Not that it needs any help. Try a shot of espresso and savor the rich flavor, the silky feel and the tiger-striped brick color. Or, order a traditional cappuccino and explore the classic union of coffee and half-and-half.
Benetti’s Coffee Experience
Benetti’s Coffee Experience in Raytown is the quintessential coffeehouse—a warm, comfortable space with knowledgeable baristas, nearly any kind of drink you could desire and baked goods prepared in-house. A second drive-through/walk-up location in Independence recently opened and is also wildly popular.
The folks at Benetti’s are deeply passionate about creating an incredible coffee experience. From sourcing the perfect green beans to roasting and brewing, the treat coffee with respect and appreciation. A shot here will be served in a unique cup and will be a revelation in sweet, caramelized molasses and fruit cobbler.
Benetti’s shines at customer education, offering many resources for home roasters, hosting coffee events and even scheduling in-home classes in brewing techniques for the perfect home cup. Don’t hesitate to engage your barista with questions and offer your own unique take on your beverage.
About the Coffee
If you’re looking to learn about coffee, take your family to visit About the Coffee, in partnership with LAB 5702. Expect to spend at least an hour chatting with Marty, Jason or any of the incredible staff, possibly pulling a shot on a shining espresso machine and tasting coffees from around the nation to compare and discuss. It’s a friendly space and a great place to explore various preparations.
Other cafés worthy of your attention include:
- Oddly Correct, a small pour over-only bar.
- The Friendly Bean
- The Filling Station
Emily McIntyre is a Kansas City-based freelance writer, barista and harpist who has placed work in a wide variety of publications. She and her husband have a coffee catering company; visit her website at EmilyMcIntyrre.com for more information.