Rachael Zarda

Coffee is one of the many things I do my research on and seek out when I travel. I really enjoy experiencing other city’s coffee shops for both the atmosphere and the drinks. There’s nothing better than starting your day in a well-designed space for a boost of caffeine. Those outside of Kansas City might not know that it actually has a large, thriving coffee scene. I feel lucky to live in a place with so many great options!

I grew up in a house that smelled of coffee 24/7 – there was always a pot brewing. My parents very much passed down their addiction love for coffee to me and both of my siblings. I’m a morning person; waking up early and having a cup of coffee before the day begins is a form of self care – it’s time to myself that I look forward to each day. I’ve done a fair amount of coffee shop hopping for both working and leisure purposes. I’m hoping this list will be helpful for those visiting KC, I’ll continue to add my favorites to the list as they pop up.

Monarch Coffee
Kansas City’s newest coffee shop might also be the most beautiful. You may recognize it from Instagram, the black and white interior takes me back to the charming cafes on the street corners of Paris.

3550 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64111

Goat Hill Coffee & Soda
The Westside is full of beautiful old homes and some of my favorite local spots, including this cozy place that was converted from a soda and snow cone shop, Little Freshie, a few years back. They still serve Little Freshie sodas (try the blackberry lavender!) as well as your traditional coffee drinks. My favorite weekends include a trip to the Westside for brunch, shopping and a Goat Hill coffee stop.

811 W 17th St, Kansas City, MO 64108

The Filling Station
There are several Filling Stations around town, but the one closest to where I live is the tiniest version in Westport. If I’m being honest, I just really love that I can get great local coffee from a drive-thru. They make the best iced almond milk latte in the city, IMO.

1010 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111

Kilo Charlie
Tucked inside the newly renovated Hotel Phillips (it’s seriously gorgeous), Kilo Charlie is a hidden gem downtown. They’re the only place in the city that has La Colombe nitro brew on draft.

106 W 12th St, Kansas City, MO 64105

Thou Mayest
Thou Mayest serves both coffee and alcohol at their bar. The back of the building faces Grinder’s outdoor stage, making it a prime spot to watch live music. They have a great patio and an upstairs with cozy lounge seating that I like working from. As a designer, their killer packaging design cannot go without mentioning.

419 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108

Hammerhand
Hammerhand is a bit of a drive for those of us living in the city, but it’s conveniently located within walking distance of my office. It’s one of my favorite places to work when I need a change of scenery.

22 N Main St, Liberty, MO 64068

There are so many coffee spots around the city, and more are popping up ever day, these are just the ones I frequent. What’s your favorite KC spot? Do you have a favorite in your city? I’d love to add it to my list of places to visit.