Local

We asked, you answered. Here are ALL of Kansas City’s favorite coffee shops, according to you

A cappuccino at PT’s Coffee Roasting Company on Southwest Boulevard near Central in Kansas City.
A cappuccino at PT’s Coffee Roasting Company on Southwest Boulevard near Central in Kansas City. File photo

Kansas City really loves our coffee shops.

We asked you what your favorite coffee shops in the metro area are, and we were overwhelmed by the response.

Nearly 900 of you shared your favorite place with us—adding up to 92 shops—and more than 300 of you added a thoughtful note about what makes the shop your favorite.

Only the coffee shops with the most nominations made it into our 32-place bracket, but we’re not going to leave the rest out.

We compiled a list of every single coffee shop you sent in and some of your notes about why you love them.

Here are the highlights of what you said you value in a top notch KC coffee shop.

  • Community: You appreciate the way that coffee shops can be a community gathering place, hosting events and collaborating with other local businesses and makers.

  • Inclusivity and culture: You shared how some shops make you feel comfortable and at home, or how they celebrate the different cultures that make Kansas City such a vibrant place to live.

  • The people: You made it clear that the people matter, sharing about friendly staff and ownership, including if a shop is owned by a family, a woman or a person of color as something that you value.

  • The vibes: You described your favorites as “immaculate,” “impeccable,” “dope,” and “incredible.”

  • The brew: And obviously, you wrote about some great coffee, noting how the beans are sourced and roasted at your favorite spots, who has homemade ingredients and who makes the best espresso.

Like one of our readers said, “It’s always so cool to see how much Kansas City loves Kansas City.”

So let’s get to it. All 92 coffee shops you recommended in Kansas City, all in one place. Drink up.

Coffee shops are in alphabetical order. Those marked with an asterisk * received enough nominations to make the Top 32 bracket. You can cast your vote here!

Ahadu Coffee, 1531 N.E. Douglas St, Lee’s Summit. 816-600-6068

* Anchor Island Coffee, 4101 Troost Ave. 816-325-3130

Why it’s a favorite: “Their coffee is FIRE and they’re always coming up with new, weirdly delicious concoctions to tantalize my palate. My default fall back is my original order, their blueberry latte, which is more fitting than it sounds... They have begun to partner with Vegan Events KC to have local vegan pop ups every Saturday in their shop. They are partnering with members of the community, including myself to host events. They continue to try new things and form new relationships to push the limits and expectations of what makes a good coffee shop a great one.” -Melissa Ferrer, Manheim

Apogee Coffee and Draft, 670 N. Central St., Olathe. 913-490-4455

Banksia Bakehouse, two locations

  • South Plaza: 4800 Main St 816-569-2186

  • Downtown: 105 W. 9th St. 816-474-9935

Why it’s a favorite: “Has a European feel although it’s an Australian bakery. Sitting at the table by the entrance gives one a view of the street and older buildings downtown unique to Kansas City.” -Kevin Cozad, the Northland

* Black Dog Coffeehouse, 12815 W. 87th Street Parkway, Lenexa. 913-495-5515

Why it’s a favorite: “The coffee, duh! Even their flavored lattes still have that bold, rich but smooth coffee taste. They’re never overly sweet. Also they work with Ibis Bakery!” -Stephanie Hoffman

* Blip Roasters, 1301 Woodswether Rd. 816-514-1541

Why it’s a favorite: “Immaculate vibes and cheap yet delicious coffee! Makes KC coffee accessible for anyone.” -Kayla Schaudt, Crossroads

“I love the overall vibe, and I’m a huge fan of motorcycles. I also think it’s cool that Anchor Moto works out of the back. He regularly rotates out the bikes they put on display in the main space. It’s always fun to go gawk at all the little details of his work. Oh, and the coffee is excellent!” -Cooper Slough, Atchison, Kansas

Brew HaHa Coffeehouse, 10332 Mastin St., Overland Park. 913-904-2099,

Brick House Coffee Bar & Eatery, 205 E. Wall St, Harrisonville. 816-925-4585

* Broadway Roasting Co. & Cafe, 4012 Washington. 816-931-9955

Why it’s a favorite: “They have been doing it the best since specialty coffee became ‘a thing.’” -John Navarre, Rockhill Ridge

“The best latte I’ve ever had in my life was at Broadway Roasting Co. Just a straight latte, nothing in it. As soon as I finished it, I bought another, which I’ve never done before.” -Wesley Slawson, River Market

* Cafe Cà Phê, 1717 Washington St. 816-514-7066

Why it’s a favorite:”They have super unique (and dope af) drinks, support the community, and are POC-owned! From the staff to the product this company is amazing.” -Samantha Panzner, Rivermarket

“Cafe Cà Phê has the. best. vibe. in addition to amazing coffee. They are super inclusive and go out of their way to make sure everyone feels welcome.” -Amanda Bach, the Northland

Jackie Nguyen, owner of Cafe Cà Phê, helps a customer at her mobile coffee shop Thursday in the West Bottoms. A vigil to honor the eight people killed in Georgia this month, most of them Asian women, will be held outside her cafe on Sunday, March 28, 2021.
Jackie Nguyen, owner of Cafe Cà Phê, helps a customer at her mobile coffee shop Thursday in the West Bottoms. A vigil to honor the eight people killed in Georgia this month, most of them Asian women, will be held outside her cafe on Sunday, March 28, 2021. Jill Toyoshiba jtoyoshiba@kcstar.com


* Café Corazón, 1721 Westport Road. 816-205-8010

Why it’s a favorite: “Coffee is delish (Herba Mate) and don’t get me started on the tamales! Family owned and you can taste and feel that in the whole vibe.” -Sharynna Herrera, Grandview, Mo

“They have such fun drinks and the atmosphere is bright and energetic! I always go there when I’m craving something different than a plain coffee!” -Alexis Larson, North Hyde Park

* Café Ollama, 523 Southwest Blvd. 816-730-9972

Why it’s a favorite: “The owners are just great people, they do a lot to bring the community together and help support other local small businesses. The coffee connects my Mexican roots and my city life together at Ollama. My favorite is the Chatita Iced!” -Silvia Marin, Argentine neighborhood in KCK

Cause Coffee, 33180 W. 83rd St., De Soto. 913-709-8235

Why it’s a favorite: “Best and most consistent craft coffee quality I’ve ever experienced in a shop. The vibe is also incredible, and they donate to important local and international ‘causes’ making them uniquely intentional with their business.” -Cat Uebelein, Lenexa, KS

Chez Elle Crêperie and Coffeehouse, 1713 Summit St. 816-471-2616

City Market Coffee, 305 Main St. 816-718-3005

Why it’s a favorite: “City Market coffee has the best roasted coffee beans in all of KC.” -Morgan Jefferson, Rockhurst

CoffeeFreshAF, order online here

* Crows Coffee, three locations

  • 304 E. 51st St. 816-912-2703

  • 7440 Washington St. 816-912-2483

  • 535 E. Red Bridge Road. 816-255-3419

Why it’s a favorite: “The coffee really is THAT good, plus my husband and I’s first date was at the location near UMKC.” -Lauren Sours, Liberty, MO

Filling Station, three locations

  • 1010 Westport Road. 816-960-6448

  • 2980 McGee Trafficway. 816-931-4335

  • 7420 Johnson Drive, Overland Park. 913-831-3326

Why it’s a favorite: “Camper vibes, nice people and great drinks at all of them.” -Sarah Blattner

French Market, 6943 Tomahawk Road, Prairie Village. 913-362-0803

Friendly Bean Coffee, 420 NE. Barry Road. 816-468-5444

Why it’s a favorite: “The coffee is amazing and the staff is always friendly. It is nice to have a locally owned coffee place in the northland.” -Nikki Sowell, the Northland

Front Range Coffeehouse & Provisions, 2718 W. 53rd St., Fairway. 913-620-3343

Front Range also has a retail area selling books, specialty food products, branded merchandise and more.
Front Range also has a retail area selling books, specialty food products, branded merchandise and more. Joyce Smith jsmith@kcstar.com

Ginna’s Cafe, 6503 W, 135th St., Overland Park. 913-897-3030

Why it’s a favorite: “The coffee is good!! And most of the cafe employees have been trained well and have a great knowledge of the product and love to help you figure out something new to order or just what may sound good based on your preferences.” -Megan Minkoff, Overland Park

Goat Hill Coffee & Soda, 811 W. 17th St. 816-491-3832

Why it’s a favorite: “Beautiful people, beautiful neighborhood AMAZING coffee.” -Madison Schmerbach, River Market

Gusto! Coffee, 3390 S.W. Fascination Drive, Lee’s Summit. 816-767-1100

Hammerhand Coffee, 249 W. Mill St, Liberty. 816-476-2556

Why it’s a favorite: “Their coffee is extremely good and they have the best Belgian Liege Waffles. Very cool atmosphere.” -Beth Anderson, Northbrook

Hattie’s Fine Coffee, 4195 Somerset Drive, Prairie Village, 913-648-2326

Why it’s a favorite: “BEST coffee; their large lattes come with 4 shots. Great espresso blend: Nice, attentive staff who take care with special orders; super nice owners; cozy atmosphere; delicious scones, baked just right; gluten free snacks/breakfast options; delicious egg Sammie’s; fun and tasty seasonal drinks. Awesome patio!” -Molly Wendland, Prairie Village

* Headrush Roasters Coffee & Tea, two locations

  • 4115 N. Mulberry Drive. 816-888-4685

  • 7108 N. Oak Trafficway, Gladstone. 816-888-4675

Why it’s a favorite: “Their coffee just rocks, the service is always on point, and their baked goods never disappoint. The giant PB cookies in particular are absolutely fantastic.” -Lucy Perry, The Northland

* Hi Hat Coffee, 5012 State Line Road, Mission Woods. 913-722-5000

Why it’s a favorite: “The coffee is just THAT good! The baristas are super nice, chill, and good at what they do; and the vibes of the place and outdoor seating are great!” -Lauren Wells, Lee’s Summit

HITIDES Coffee, 519 E. 18th St. 816-325-9573

Homer’s Coffee House, 7216 W. 80th St., Overland Park. 913-381-6022

Java Junction, 112 N. Holden St.

* Jinkies! Coffee and Hangout, 8350 W. 151st St., Overland Park. 913-766-0920

Why it’s a favorite: “I keep going back because the coffee is delicious and the 70’s pop culture decor tickles me as a millennial. The space is bright, welcoming, and playfully retro. Not to mention the PASTRIES! Everything nice I have to say about the coffee and Blip Roasters goes double for the handmade “pop tarts” and strudel.” -Montana Grier, Westport

Joy Coffee, 14300 E. U.S. Highway 40, Independence. 816-514-0316

Kinship Cafe, 719 N. 6th St, Kansas City, Kansas. 913-258-5613

TJ Roberts, owner of Kinship Cafe in Kansas City on Tuesday October 19, 2021.
TJ Roberts, owner of Kinship Cafe in Kansas City on Tuesday October 19, 2021. Emily Curiel ecuriel@kcstar.com

Made in KC Cafe, five locations

  • 306 W. 47th St. 816-718-0806

  • 426 Delaware. 816-905-9618

  • 1114 Baltimore Ave. 816-585-2459

  • 860-U N.W. Blue Parkway. 816-585-2405

  • 8703 Penrose Lane, Lenexa. 913-944-6298

Maps Coffee & Chocolate, 13440 Santa Fe Trail Drive, Lenexa. 913-281-6508

Why it’s a favorite: “They have the best beans in town! Every pour over is hand crafted and brewed to perfection!” -Rachel Hare, Shawnee

* Martin City Coffee, 13115 Holmes Road. 816-535-1055

Why it’s a favorite: “Great coffee, awesome pastries, chorizo breakfast burrito that’s to die for (my personal favorite), and overall great people working there.” -Cole Hancock, Red Bridge

* Messenger Coffee Company, three locations

  • 1624 Grand Blvd. 913-669-9883

  • 4771 Jefferson St. 816-437-8445

  • 318 W. 47th St. 816-326-8644

The two Messenger coffee shops on the Plaza are serving pastries from Ibis Bakery.
The two Messenger coffee shops on the Plaza are serving pastries from Ibis Bakery. Messenger Coffee

* Meta Coffee Roasting Co., 1639 Southwest Blvd.

Why it’s a favorite: “The beansmiths at Meta Coffee are the masters of simplicity. No fancy drinks, just good elegant cups. Everything from the space to the espresso to the roasted beans are executed to perfection. And they are, in my opinion, the only place in KC that does cappuccino correctly.” -Noah Ottinger, Waldo

Mildred’s, two locations

  • 1901 Wyandotte St. 816-507-6837

  • 908 Baltimore Ave. 816-507-6409

Mokaska Coffee Company, 705 Edmond St., St. Joseph. 816-273-0627

* Monarch Coffee, 3550 Broadway Blvd.

Midtown’s Monarch Coffee has opened a second location near the Crossroads.
Midtown’s Monarch Coffee has opened a second location near the Crossroads. Joyce Smith jsmith@kcstar.com

Mother Earth Coffee Co., 3504 Gillham Road. 816-453-8255

Why it’s a favorite: “Great coffee, great location, and it’s a good place to get out of the house and get some work done.” -Jeff Krakenberg, Midtown

Mud Pie Vegan Bakery, two locations

  • 1615 W. 39th St. 816-931-4539

  • 7319 W. 95th St., Overland Park. 913-283-8060

Why it’s a favorite: “THE best snacks to go with the tastiest handcrafted vegan beverages. So many fun and interesting flavors and seasonal options! Also when you bring your reusable mug, sometimes you get a little extra!” -Lexie Clark, Waldo

* My Play Café, 659 SW 2nd Street, Lees Summit. 816-287-0621

Why it’s a favorite: “The best coffee spot for me to take my two young kids to! Their s’mores cold brew is my favorite!! Great staff - very welcoming environment.” -Excene Spencer, Lees Summit

Notion Coffee, 12905 S. U.S. 71 Hwy, Grandview.

* Oddly Correct, 4141 Troost Ave.

Why it’s a favorite: “Oddly Correct is BY FAR Kansas City’s, and maybe the United States, best coffee shop!!! They roast a lot of their own beans, use tons of local ingredients, and best of all, they treat their baristas like valued professionals who deserve a living wage, benefits, and time off.” -Mia Berg, Blue Hills

Opera House, 500 Walnut. 816-888-4858

* OurHouseKC, 1815 W. 39th Street. 816-442-8569

Why it’s a favorite: “As you enter, the smell of freshly brewed coffee, the sound of people catching up with friends, and the taste of a specialty blend, bring me pure joy. The staff are so welcoming, and the prices for coffee are amazing. There is Wifi and lovely seating. It is a great coffee shop to meet new people in, as well as it is very centrally located. All in all a wonderful ambiance!” -Ruthie Becker-Clark, Independence

Outta The Blue, 5291 W. 116th Place, Leawood. 913-217-8220

* Parisi Coffee, two locations:

  • Union Station, 30 W Pershing Rd. #100 816-569-2399

  • Overland Park, 7261 W 80th St. 913-677-8686

* Parkville Coffee, 103 Main St. Parkville. 816-216-6560

Why it’s a favorite: “Coffee is amazing! Pastries made fresh in house and are delicious, lunch items offered as well are fantastic. Staff are always super friendly and know regulars by name. It is in downtown Parkville and the shop has all the vintage vibes and feels homey!!” -Kyla Galate, Hills of Walden

PH Coffee, 2200 Lexington Avenue.

Why it’s a favorite: “Cares about its neighborhood. Supports residents in return for supporting them.” -Diane Hershberger, Marlborough

Pilgrim Coffee, 12643 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park. 913-258-5415

Why it’s a favorite: “Its coffee is good, and it is an inviting and popular place to hang out.” -Jeff Forker, Overland Park

PJs, 1401 Branch Street, Platte City

* Post Coffee, 4 locations:

  • 1000 NE Colbern Rd, Lee’s Summit

  • 312 Armour Rd, North Kansas City

  • 811 West 17th St.

  • 200 NE Chipman Rd, Lee’s Summit

Why it’s a favorite: “The coffee is amazing. My husband and I have been going there since it opened. Staff is super friendly and it’s our favorite spot to coffee date.” -Sara Dyer, Independence

Pour Coffeehouse, 11120 S. Lone Elm Rd, Olathe. 913-839-9736

Why it’s a favorite: “Best Coffee - Straight Up (Golden Ticket Brew)” -Karl Geisler, Olathe

A pumpkin spice latte can be paired with a chocolate caramel or strawberry doughnut at Pour Coffeehouse, 11120 S. Lone Elm Road, Olathe.
A pumpkin spice latte can be paired with a chocolate caramel or strawberry doughnut at Pour Coffeehouse, 11120 S. Lone Elm Road, Olathe. Joe Ledford jledford@kcstar.com


* Prefix Coffee, 2 locations

  • 3523 E Red Bridge Rd.

  • 12905 S U.S. 71 Hwy, Grandview.

Why it’s a favorite: “Prefix has the best seasonal drinks! The special syrups are all homemade and blend with the coffee wonderfully. The atmosphere makes you want to sit and read a book or catch up with friends, and maybe play a game or two. All while still being a great place to get work done. Not to mention the daily made pastries that seem to sell out before close (especially the cinnamon rolls or GF chocolate walnut cookie!).” -Abigail Hartwig, Red Bridge

PT’s Coffee, two locations

  • 310 Southwest Blvd. 816-255-2402

  • 1310 Baltimore Ave. 816-895-2223

Why it’s a favorite: “Best espresso.” -David McCormick

Topeak-based PT’s Coffee Co. has opened a new shop at 1310 Baltimore, just a mile from its Crossroads location.
Topeak-based PT’s Coffee Co. has opened a new shop at 1310 Baltimore, just a mile from its Crossroads location. David Eulitt


ReHope, 808 W Main St., Greenwood. 816-623-5918

Why it’s a favorite: “They support women from abusive situations and Restoration House.” -Melissa Roach, Greenwood, MO

Revocup Coffee, 5 locations

  • 301 E 9th St., 816-841-5113

  • 11822 W 135th St., Overland Park. 913-283-9232

  • 17180 W 87th St., Lenexa. 913-549-3743

  • 5037 W. 117th St., Leawood. 913-387-4938

Why it’s a favorite: “Great vibe! Delicious pastries & lattes! Very nice owner!!” -Kelly Goddard, Downtown

* Rochester Brewing & Roasting Co., 2129 Washington St. 816-216-7181

Why it’s a favorite: “It’s unique to have coffee AND beer! Vibes are immaculate and they put on great events (pumpkin carving, roasting classes, etc).” -Erin Leventhal, Midtown

* Rock Island Coffee, 6515 Railroad St., Raytown. 206-427-8712

Why it’s a favorite: “It’s a cute cart located inside of Crane Brewing open on the weekends. It has the best coffee I’ve ever had. They roast their own beans and sell their coffee as well. It’s owned and operated by one guy and you can tell he put his heart and soul into it.” -Tatjana Burovic, South Kansas City

Scooters

Why it’s a favorite: “Great staff at all Scooters locations I have visited.” -Brace Cooper, Lenexa

* Scout Coffee, 1400 W Main St., Blue Springs. 816-699-2745

Why it’s a favorite: “The best specialty lattes, each season holds new, unique flavors. And there is always one using Shatto flavored milk! You haven’t lived until you’ve had a rootbeer float latte! I also love that they are part of a smaller community that doesn’t always get the new and noteworthy places.” -Morgan Crawford, Greenwood, MO

* Second Best Coffee, 328 W 85th St. 816-377-0354

Why it’s a favorite: “The coffee is delicious and the syrups are all made in house. I’ve never been disappointed with any coffee drink from second best!” -Ashlee Bressel, Waldo

Sister Anne’s, 901 E 31st St. 816-531-4890

Soulcentricitea, 1106 E 30th St. Suite E. 816-659-2268

* Splitlog Coffee, 548 Central Ave. 913-549-4904

Why it’s a favorite: “Gorgeous city views, friendly staff, roasted on site! Delicious.” -Annie Richmond, Parkville

Spokes, two locations

  • 1200 Washington St. Ste B. 816-307-2453

  • 929 Walnut St. 816-925-2453

Starbucks

Why it’s a favorite: “The Cold brew is so creamy and delicious and actually contains more caffeine than a hot coffee. My go to morning drink.” -Greg Stockhoff, Kansas City, Kansas

Summer Moon, 9127 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park. 913-283-8039

Why it’s a favorite: “The coffee is just that good. The moon milk rocks and they have uniquely flavored featured coffee drinks - my fave is the Cinnamoon latte with oat milk.” -Kim Schott, Overland Park

Sway Coffee Roasters, (913) 961-5665

Sweet Tee’s Coffee Shop, 2063 E Santa Fe St., Olathe. 913-544-9705

The Bean,112 S Main St., Spring Hill. 913-592-0104

* The Golden Scoop, 9540 Nall Ave., Overland Park. 66207

Why it’s a favorite: “The Golden Scoop has AMAZING treats, coffee, and ice cream! Each of the employees has a disability, and the owners make sure that their Super Scoopers are the most successful… The customer service is the best.” -Nikki Sowell, the Northland

Business was brisk at The Golden Scoop, a new shop serving ice cream and coffeeat 9540 Nall Ave., in Overland Park. The shop employs individuals with developmental disabilities to work in all capacities.
Business was brisk at The Golden Scoop, a new shop serving ice cream and coffeeat 9540 Nall Ave., in Overland Park. The shop employs individuals with developmental disabilities to work in all capacities. Tammy Ljungblad tljungblad@kcstar.com


The Lottie, 9502 Lake Lotawana Rd., Lake Lotawana. 816-774-8365

The PantryKC, 7769 Quivira Rd., Lenexa. 913-717-6426

Why it’s a favorite: “The coffee is that good, and the pastries are even better.” -Frederick Richards, Kansas City, Kansas

The Roasterie, 1204 W 27th St. 816-931-4000

* The Wild Way, 708 E 19th St. 913-240-4172

Why it’s a favorite: “The coffee is AMAZING and an actual science - they care about every detail from their water to their homemade syrups. The seasonal drinks are absolutely delicious and the space is so cute and warm - you just want to stay there all day!” -Lauren Bruniges, Leavenworth, KS

The Windmill, 840 S 55th St. 913-291-0006

Third Space Coffee, 226 Oak St., Bonner Springs. 913-745-4564

Why it’s a favorite: “Amazing food and coffee, comfortable environment with books to read while you are there. They have a play area for the children who come in. It has become a home away from home for most people who go there.” -Michelle Hicks, Bonner Springs, KS

Thou Mayest, 412 Delaware St. B. 816-897-0505

Why it’s a favorite: “A cafe with good coffee AND seating in a greenhouse is hard to beat! Especially in the dead of winter.” -Holly Bastin, Volker

Three Bees, 925 Southwest Blvd. 913-703-7229

* Urban Prairie Coffee, 5606b Johnson Dr., Mission. 913-214-2255

Why it’s a favorite: “They have the best staff, and the best waffles!! Also very neighborhood friendly. I walk there every Saturday morning with my husband!” -Courtney Bernard, Roeland Park

* Vested, 310 W 8th St. 816-490-7898

Why it’s a favorite: “Love Onyx coffee; welcoming and cozy vibe; great place to read, work, or study.” -Beverly White, Ashford Manor

* Weston Coffee Roastery, 413 Main St., Weston. 816-640-7045

Why it’s a favorite: “The coffee here is amazing and the small town atmosphere makes you feel like you’re at home. Everyone here feels like family and you are always greeted with a smile (and possibly your name if you go as often as I do. Hehe).” -Kylie Keltner and Bentley King, Weston

Westport Coffeehouse, 4010 Pennsylvania Ave. 816-756-3222

This story was originally published February 7, 2022 at 12:00 PM.

Joseph Hernandez
The Kansas City Star
Joseph Hernandez joined The Kansas City Star’s service journalism team in 2021. A Cristo Rey Kansas City High School and Mizzou graduate, he now covers trending topics and finds things for readers to do around the metro.
Kynala Phillips
The Kansas City Star
Kynala Phillips was a Service Journalism Reporter at The Kansas City Star, where she worked to answer readers questions about the resources and services in the community. She attended the Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and is originally from Madison, Wisconsin.
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