Torched Again
Austin chain Torchy’s Tacos is opening a third KC-area location, this time in Johnson County. The truckborn Texas taqueria already has locations in the Ward Parkway shopping center and Lawrence. Now, look for Torchy’s tres on South Strang Line Road in Olathe.
Stackin’ Dough
DOP Doughnuts, a breakout success of the pandemic, will stay open through winter, the owners announced. The food truck in downtown Overland Park has drawn long lines of people eager to grab a wedding cake or raspberry old fashioned doughnut and settle in on its stylish pastel patio furniture. The shop’s large, homey astroturf alley is pet friendly and has the advantage of wind-blocking buildings on either side.
Getting Bread
The revitalization of Troost continues with the opening of the new Combine, a deli, pizzeria and bar in the Wonder Shops & Flats (2999 Troost Ave., KCMO). The homey pub is airy, offers a full array of seating options and comes attached to an apartment building. The hangout vibes go well with drink deals and classic Midwestern pizza.
More Morning
Also headed out south from the city, Denver-based Snooze A.M. Eatery, which is coming to south Overland Park some time later this year. Snooze moved into the market through a Westport location last year. The new location will be huge, taking over half the old Thomasville home furnishings store, according to the Star.
Goodbyes
The year ended with another batch of restaurant closures, as many restaurants that had been holding on thanks to a patio made the decision not to continue into a winter of unknowns. That includes Prairie Village’s popular Blue Moose Bar & Grill, which had been a neighborhood staple for two decades before shuttering on New Year’s Eve. Likewise, Midtown ramen spot Shio announced it was closing for good just before Christmas, giving its loyal clientele a few chances to say farewell. One goodbye that won’t necessarily be forever is popular brunch spot Westside Local, whose owner told The Pitch he is closing for good or until the passage of a federal relief package.
