Small Bites: Openings, Closings & Other Restaurant News

Openings

Zen Donkey Wellness Cafe & Juicery (2812 W 53rd St., zendonkeyfarms.com)

Known for its delicious line of raw organic cold-pressed juices and unique mission of rescuing donkeys, Zen Donkey Farms is expanding. Locals will be able to purchase their favorite Zen Donkey products and more at its new wellness cafe, Zen Donkey Wellness Cafe and Juicery.

To learn more about the cafe and its nutritious offerings, read here.

Photo Courtesy Of Zen Donkey Farms

The Go To (1 S. Broadway St., Louisburg)

Chef Brett DeHart made a name for himself helming two kitchens, Fénix and Tora Zushi, at downtown Overland Park’s food hall Strang Hall. After working at Strang for five years, the chef decided to start his own restaurant in Louisburg, which officially opened last month.

The Go To is a chef-driven casual joint that serves smash burgers, sourdough pizzas, wings and tallow-fried fries. The restaurant was a former gas station that DeHart has turned into a retro diner.

To keep updated on The Go To, follow along on the restaurant’s Facebook page.

Closings

Groundhouse Coffee & Bakery (18855 S. Gardner Rd., Gardner, KS, groundhousecoffee.com)

Gardner’s drive-thru coffee shop has closed after nine years in business. 

Owner Keith Davenport told The Star that business slowed as several national chains began opening locations nearby. Groundhouse closed its doors officially right before Fourth of July weekend. 

“We’re really grateful for all of our customers and the relationships we have there,” Davenport said.

Other News

Sweet KC

Last week, Dolce Bakery posted an Instagram picture of the Plaza, teasing a potential second location, or so we thought. As it turns out, Dolce will not be opening another storefront, but lovers of the bakery still have reason to get excited. The bakery recently began a partnership with Made In KC.

To read more about the bakery and KC gift shop’s partnership, read here.

Photo Courtesy Of Dolce Bakery

Chocolate From The Corazón

Café Corazón has teamed up with Christopher Elbow Chocolates to create an exclusive line of handcrafted chocolates. 

Each of the bonbons represent a signature flavor of Café Corazón. Flavors of horchata latte, dulce de leche Latte, spicy Mayan mocha, and mocha sevilla come in limited-edition gift boxes and individual pieces that can be found in-store.

“This collaboration is more than just a pairing of coffee and chocolate,” says Dulcinea Herrera, CEO of Café Corazon. “It’s a celebration of shared values, craftsmanship, and Kansas City roots.”

Fan Fare

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice has announced a partnership with Blind Box BBQ in Shawnee (13214 W. 62nd Terr., Shawnee, KS).

Blind Box BBQ is my go-to spot in KC,” stated Rice in a press release. “Their food is fire, and the vibe feels like home. I respect what they’ve built and how they show up for the city. I’m excited to be part of that.”

So what can fans expect from this partnership? According to the press release, customers and fans alike can expect exclusive in-store appearances and events with Rice, Rice-inspired menu items, VIP giveaways and fan experiences during the season.

“This collaboration goes beyond BBQ,” said Joe Tulipana, owner of Blind Box BBQ.

“Rashee is a beast on the field, but he’s also an authentic, grounded guy who loves KC like we do. It’s a natural fit, and we’re excited to build something fun for our guests and the fans.”

Photo by Square Peg Marketing & Branding for Blind Box BBQ

Social Media

Get The Latest Updates

Subscribe to our newsletters

Kansas City magazine keeps readers updated on the latest news in twice-weekly newsletter. 

On Tuesdays, Dish brings you food news and our critic picks. 

On Thursdays, The Loop offers exclusive news reports and our curated events picks.

RELATED