Spanish-style ‘snacks and sangria’ spot opens in Kansas City’s Crossroads
So far, customers have been fairly open to trying the new bar’s lineup of tinned fish, employees at Lilico’s Taverna told The Star.
The sometimes-loved, sometimes-disliked food is one of several at the new space. So readers will likely find something they enjoy whether they’re super fans of sardines or not.
An extensive list of pinchos (skewered appetizers), alcoholic cocktails and nonalcoholic spirits are also on the menu. The casual, Spanish-style space offers “snacks and sangria” with nods to Salvador Dalí throughout its decor.
Lilico’s Taverna softly opened days ago at 1615 Oak St. But the Crossroads bar was a longtime passion project for owner Shawn McClenny.
Previously owning One Block South at 119th Street and Metcalf Avenue in Overland Park, McClenny underwent a cancer battle two years ago.
At the time, doctors estimated he had six months to live. He promised himself that he’d open Lilico’s if he went into remission.
And here he is now, with alt-rock playing in the newly opened, colorful space formerly home to The Pairing wine grocer.
“It’s just a casual Spanish café,” McClenny previously told The Star. “No reservations, it’s not upscale … if there’s an open table, you come in and have happy hour.”
In the dining room, a print of “The Persistence of Memory” hangs above booths. Several other abstract paintings and portraits, including one of Dalí, line the walls.
Cooks slice bread and craft pinchos in an open space, allowing onlookers to view the process.
The spot is inspired by McClenny’s father-in-law, who hailed from Cuba. His Cuban nickname was “Lilico,” and an epigraph tells his story on the front of the menu.
“Lilico was the life of the party. He never met a stranger, and if you were his friend, you were family,” the description reads. “Have a seat, share some sangria & snacks, and partake in sobremesa.”
A canvas hanging above the open kitchen defines sobremesa as the “cherished moments of conversation” that take place after a meal is shared between friends.
Nods to both Cuba and Spain are evident throughout the bar. McClenny said Cuba takes some of its cultural influence from Spain.
When it comes to cocktails, Lilico’s serves sangria, palomas, a Madrid mule (360 vanilla vodka, simple syrup and limes), Agua de Sevilla (Buffalo trace bourbon, Freixenet sparkling Cava, orange liqueur, and pineapple and orange juices) and more.
A range of nonalcoholic beverages are also served, including fully nonalcoholic prosecco, nonalcoholic red and white wine, “Nojito” (the zero-proof version of a Mojito), and ponche de sangria (aka “sangria punch” with a mango Zoa energy drink, orange juice and fruit).
Pinchos include prosciutto and Parmesan, salami genoa and gouda, and pan con tomate and mozzarella.
Charcuterie boards, cheese and crackers, olives, and other snacks are available.
Lilico’s is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 3:33 p.m. until 11:11 p.m. or whenever the party ends. Happy hour is 3:33 to 6 p.m.
This story was originally published December 2, 2025 at 5:00 AM.