Openings & Closings

Johnson County bar of 16 years has closed. A new one, with mini golf, will open

The Bar sells elevated bar food, cocktails, beer and more.
The Bar sells elevated bar food, cocktails, beer and more. The Bar

After 16 years of serving pints and potato skins, a local bar chain says it’s time to put its original location “out to pasture.”

The good news: a new location with nine miniature golf holes is on its way.

The Bar announced via social media Monday that it was saying goodbye to its most senior location, The Bar West, at 7174 Renner Road in Shawnee.

“What a ride these last 16 years have been,” the chain said via Facebook. “Thank you to everyone who made The Bar West feel like home over the years. You became more than guests, you became family.”

Eric Gonsher and Mike Johnson opened The Bar in the summer of 2010. Its elevated sports bar-centric menu includes cocktails, beers, burgers, salads and nachos.

Amy Turpin, director of operations said that, as The Bar has grown, its original spot no longer fit with its vision.

“We love Bar West. This was our first location in 2010. As The Bars KC has expanded, the concept developed into larger locations with more to offer the community, including outdoor patio spaces and VIP party rooms,” Turpin said in a written statement.

“We appreciate all of the customers and employees who have supported Bar West throughout the years.”

As part of its evolution, the brand will open a new location in Olathe this September, at 17927 W. 119th St.

In addition to its miniature golf course, the upcoming spot will have a 2,000 square-foot patio. It’ll be 5,600 square feet inside, including a 1,400 square-foot VIP party room.

Fans can still visit one of The Bar’s other locations: 5316 W 95th St. in Prairie Village, 1121 W 47th St. in the West Plaza neighborhood, 14871 W 151st St. in Olathe, and 6101 Johnson Drive in Mission.

Related Stories from Kansas City Star
Jenna Thompson
The Kansas City Star
Jenna Thompson covers retail news for The Kansas City Star. A native of Lincoln, Nebraska, she previously reported for the Lincoln Journal Star and graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she studied journalism and English.
Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER