THE Food and Drink ISSUE
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Letter from the Editor
Food has a way of sticking with us. So many of our best memories involve something shared around a table — a favorite family recipe, a casual dinner and drinks with friends that stretched late into the night, or perhaps baking with your grandma as a child. They all have one thing in common: connecting us with the people who mean the most. Food shows up in all kinds of moments, big and small, and somehow becomes part of the memory itself.
Some of my favorite memories from childhood and early adulthood were spent sharing a meal or dessert with my grandad. He lived down the street from us and was a widower, so we visited him often. He always had a fresh baked cake on the counter, ready to share at his kitchen table with anyone who happened to stop by. If the weather was nice, we would sit on his screened-in porch, listen to records, and enjoy a slice of cake and a cold glass of milk.
If I was lucky and timed it right, my dad would stop by Grandad’s during his lunch break to eat a quick meal, and, of course, get a “sliver” or two (or three) of cake for dessert. Those moments were so simple, but I cherish them deeply. The cakes weren’t anything fancy, just a Betty Crocker box mix — alternating week to week between lemon, butter pecan, strawberry, and vanilla. Still to this day, every time I walk down the baking aisle at the grocery store and see the box cake mixes, I think of my grandad and smile.
I know most of you can relate in your own way to a memory or tradition that brings back fond memories of the important people in your life. And that’s what makes food so special — the moments shared around it.
In this Food & Drink issue, we’re looking at the many ways food and drinks connect us. They can comfort or celebrate. They can bring us together or simply help us take better care of ourselves. They can be nostalgic, like a dish you grew up with, or totally new and unexpected. And sometimes, it’s just about enjoying something really, really good.
At the end of the day, food is one of the most basic parts of life, but also one of the most powerful. It brings us together. It gives us something to share. We hope this issue inspires you to cook, gather, try something new, or just slow down and enjoy.
ANGELA BROOCKERD, EDITOR @JOHNSONCOUNTYCITYLIFESTYLE
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Nolan Williams | nolan.williams@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Eva Williams | eva.williams@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Allison Swan, Lauren Powers, Judy Goppert
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
3:5-6
Kareem Rush Photography: Janie Jones
Tired Of Waking Up Tired?
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Tea-Biotics:
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Brewing Health and Community in Johnson County
When Lisa Bledsoe first discovered kombucha, it wasn’t in a trendy café or a grocery aisle. It was on a local farm while picking up goat’s milk. “I fell in love with the fizziness and the taste,” she recalls. “I felt like this was my new pop replacement, and it would also come with many health benefits.” What began as a single jar of homemade kombucha quickly grew into a passion and eventually a thriving business rooted right here in Johnson County.
Founded in 2010, Tea-Biotics has grown from humble garage brewing into the largest local kombucha supplier in Kansas City. By 2015, Bledsoe took a leap of faith, securing a loan and building her first facility to meet the growing demand. Today, Tea-Biotics is a regional staple with a strong following of loyal customers who swear by both the flavor and the health benefits.
The journey started with a personal health wake-up call. After reading a study about aspartame, Bledsoe decided to give up soda. “I was shocked to discover that I had unknowingly been poisoning myself,” she says. Kombucha quickly became her natural, fizzy alternative. What began as a hobby turned into a mission: to brew a healthier, more natural drink without the chemicals, dyes, or additives so common in commercial beverages.
Tea-Biotics now offers a wide variety of flavors, including seasonal favorites like Spiced Cider and Cranberry Apple, perfect for fall. The kombucha is made with all organic ingredients, structured reverse osmosis water, and brewed organic tea, a commitment to quality that sets them apart. “Not all kombucha is created equal,” Bledsoe explains. “We go the extra mile using all organic ingredients, never any chemicals, dyes, or emulsifiers.”
“Every time I hear testimony
about how Tea-Biotics
kombucha changes people’s lives it makes me smile.
Let food be thy medicine! That’s why I love what I do.”
ranging from improved digestion and blood sugar control to increased energy and immune support. Many also credit kombucha with mood enhancement, weight management, and easing joint pain. For Bledsoe, hearing these stories never gets old. “Every time I hear testimony about how Tea-Biotics kombucha changes people’s lives it makes me smile. Let food be thy medicine! That’s why I love what I do.”
The brand’s growth shows no signs of slowing. TeaBiotics is now exploring opportunities to franchise its signature kombucha taprooms in other states, bringing the fizz and flavor to even more communities.
That dedication has fueled impressive growth. Today, Tea-Biotics can be found across Kansas City and beyond at the Overland Park and Lee’s Summit Farmers Markets, Hen House, Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, and dozens of local coffee shops, restaurants, and hospitals. Their reach even extends to Missouri universities and distributors who supply kombucha to colleges and cafés across the state.
Beyond great taste, kombucha has built its reputation on wellness. Fans of Tea-Biotics report benefits
For Johnson County residents, Tea-Biotics is more than just a drink. It is a homegrown success story rooted in passion, health, and community. What started with one woman’s decision to ditch diet soda has blossomed into a thriving local brand with a mission to offer a better-for-you beverage that brings joy, vitality, and connection with every sip.
For more information, visit tea-biotics.com or follow on Instagram @teabiotics
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THE RED DOOR GROUP
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
When you think of a red door, you might picture warmth, welcome, and the sense of being home. That’s exactly what The Red Door Group with Keller Williams Realty Partners in Overland Park brings to the Kansas City real estate landscape.
“The Red Door Group stands out among other teams with our ‘small but mighty’ demeanor and the fact that we do not specialize in a certain price point,” says Sulek.
Since launching their team in 2012, partners Teresa Hoffman and Donna Sulek’s mission has been simple: put clients first, create an elevated experience that is seamless and drama-free, and make sure every buyer or seller client feels The Red Door Group is their home for all things real estate, from the very first conversation, to the closing table, and beyond.
That philosophy has resonated. Today, an impressive 95% of their business is referral based. Referrals from past clients, friends and neighbors, lender partners, vendors, and out of state realtors needing a trusted experienced agent in Kansas or Missouri.
“The Red Door Group stands out among other teams with our “small but mighty” demeanor and
the fact that we do not specialize in a certain price point,” says Sulek. “Over our combined 59 years of experience, we’ve learned and recognized what works and have curated a streamline experience for every one of our clients that is not only successful and effective but top-tier in quality for all regardless of price point. We also feel that our clients should be informed and educated about the process of buying and selling a home, and we’re willing to do as much hand holding as necessary. We also believe that it’s important to roll up your sleeves and do whatever is necessary to help clients get their homes ready to sell so they’re in the best possible condition to get the highest amount of money for their home.”
One of the most talked-about communities in Johnson County is Meadowbrook Park, a neighborhood that feels like a resort tucked into the heart of Prairie Village. Nestled beside Meadowbrook Park and just steps from the Inn at Meadowbrook, this development quickly became one of the most sought-after addresses in the metro.
Hoffman was part of the team that helped bring this community to life. She worked directly with the developers, land planners, builders, and buyers.
“It was a unique product that Johnson County really hadn't seen before—small lots, rear garages, developed around an 85 acre park, but also luxury homes,” says Hoffman. “Working with VanTrust Real Estate as the developer, the land planner LRK out of Florida, and the five hand-picked approved builders (all of whom I had worked with before) was amazing. Selling the developer's vision of what that community could look like was a challenge since it was so different from anything Johnson County had seen, but it was truly a privilege and joy to sell that vision to the buyers. How it turned out is beyond everyone's expectations. Seeing how creative the builders, buyers, architects, and developers were as they approached this unique community was so fun to be a part of and I loved every minute of it!”
The creativity of the architects, builders, and homeowners led to streets filled with charming, one-of-a-kind homes that blend seamlessly with the green spaces around them.
“People tell me all the time, the community just feels different, like a resort in the middle of the city.”
The Red Door Group’s expertise extends beyond Meadowbrook. Hoffman’s new construction background complements Sulek’s specialty in relocation and working with multiple relocation companies across the country, making the team a perfect fit for their wide range of clients. Their team also includes Mercedes Burdick, who keeps operations
“People tell me all the time, the community just feels different, like a resort in the middle of the city.”
running smoothly, and their newest agent, Rick Kingcade, who has been a client of Teresa's for the past 20 years and has a background in commercial real estate. Ian Harns is also a parttime agent on the team and also a former client. Whether you’re moving across town, across the country, or simply across the street, they’ve guided people through every kind of transition, from first homes, downsizing, investing, and everything in between.
Hoffman and Sulek offer their secrets to success for anyone seeking to find their dream home.
“Be very clear about what you want and what you are willing to give up when designing or finding your dream home. Make a list of must
haves, nice to haves, and definitely don't wants,” says Hoffman. “Create a Pinterest board, take photos of homes you like or interiors you like, and bring it all to your builder and architect at your first meeting,” says Hoffman.
“My most valuable advice on searching for your dream home is to start the process as early as possible,” says Sulek. “It’s important to get to know the homes in the areas that you’re looking in and what an expected price to pay for those homes are. This makes the process much easier when you’re ready to buy so you’re comfortable moving forward when you find the right home.”
Together their team ensures every client, no matter the price point, receives the same level of service and care.
THE RUSH BROTHERS:
Kansas City’s Basketball Royalty
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
There’s something about Kansas City that breeds hometown pride and loyalty. It’s a city with deep roots, strong families, and the love of all things local—whether jazz, barbecue, sports, locally crafted items or beloved legends. For the Rush brothers—JaRon, Kareem and Brandon—those roots ran deep enough to take three boys from the inner city to basketball greatness. For those who remember the late ‘90s basketball scene, the Rush name still rings out with a certain reverence. Long before they played on college and NBA courts, JaRon, Kareem, and Brandon Rush were just three kids from the inner city, playing at the Boys & Girls Club gyms, unknowingly paving a way into local sports history. Their mother, working multiple jobs, would drop them off for safety and structure, but it quickly became clear that something special was happening, especially with the oldest, JaRon. By the time JaRon was ten, he was dominating the court. He soon caught the attention of coaches around the city and met Tom Grant, a local Kansas City business man who sponsored AAU programs and the team that became their launchpad.
Photo credit Getty Images
“Mr. Grant, God rest his soul, was a key reason we got our start,” Kareem recalls. “That’s how we got noticed, and ultimately, how we landed at Pembroke Hill in seventh grade and eighth grade.”
Pembroke Hill, an elite private school, was a world away from their previous school environments. “It was definitely a culture shock,” Kareem says. “We were inner-city kids, so Pembroke was different for us, but our experience in AAU helped. We were used to playing with kids from all backgrounds, so we adjusted quickly. Pembroke was an amazing experience. All of my closest friends are still my Pembroke boys.”
The academic and cultural exposure at Pembroke changed their outlook. “It wasn’t just about basketball,” he adds. “Pembroke
let me explore other interests. That shaped me just as much.”
But basketball was always the headline. JaRon, the eldest, was a prodigy. Kareem followed closely behind, driven by classic sibling rivalry. “You always want to be better than your big brother,” he laughs. “And then Brandon came along, trying to one-up both of us.” Together, JaRon and Kareem turned Pembroke into a powerhouse. They delivered three state championship titles in a row and filled local gyms with fans who knew they were watching something rare. Scouts and coaches from the most prestigious college basketball programs frequently attended games.
All three brothers eventually took their own collegiate path, carving out unique legacies.
“Long before they played on college and NBA courts, JaRon, Kareem, and Brandon Rush were just three kids from the inner city, playing at the Boys & Girls Club gyms, unknowingly paving a way into local sports history.”
JaRon, the eldest, was one of the most heralded high school prospects in the country and landed at UCLA, where his game was a natural fit for the West Coast. Kareem stayed closer to home, choosing Mizzou over KU after the Jayhawks pulled back on recruiting JaRon—a move that had ripple effects through the Rush family.
“KU had stopped recruiting JaRon, so I told people I’d never go there,” Kareem says. “I probably would have followed him if they had. But when I stayed home and went to Mizzou, it worked out. Quinn Snyder had just taken over, and I felt a real connection.” Kareem was recently inducted into the Mizzouri basketball hall of fame for his impact and contributions to the program.
Brandon, the youngest, eventually broke the KU barrier, playing for the Jayhawks and becoming a key part of their 2008 national championship team. “We didn’t have a rivalry,” Kareem says. “It just made sense for Brandon. And for him to go on and win both an NCAA title and an NBA championship was special.”
The younger brothers made it to the NBA, both 1st round draft picks—Kareem with the Lakers in 2002, where he shared a locker room with Shaq and Kobe (including a Finals run in his second year), and Brandon with the Pacers in 2008 and most notably with the Warriors, where he was part of the Championship team in 2015. “Watching Brandon go on and win at both levels—it felt like a win for all of us.”
For a single Kansas City family, it was a remarkable feat.
LIFE AFTER THE GAME
JaRon is now deeply embedded in player development. He’s built a successful training program, Rush Training works with hundreds of kids developing basketball and life skills.
Brandon has dabbled in coaching and training, keeping close to the game that gave so much to their family. Currently coaching his oldest son's basketball team and is an avid golfer.
Kareem, a deeply creative and innovative entrepreneur, took a different route. In 2023, Kareem launched his own bourbon label. What started as Educated Spirits has since rebranded as University Spirits. It’s a business rooted in nostalgia, legacy, and the spirit of college basketball.
UNIVERSITY SPIRITS
“I got pitched an idea to start a spirit brand,” Kareem says. “I’m a bourbon guy, so it made sense. But instead of doing it for just me, I thought: what if we built a brand around college legends? Around the rivalries, the fan bases, the schools we love?”
That idea took off. University Spirits now creates limited-edition bourbon collections tied to specific universities and their most beloved alumni. So far, KU and Mizzou have gotten the treatment. The brand will expand to include other schools, including Kentucky, Louisville, Maryland, Purdue, K-State, Wichita State, UMKC, and SLU. There's also a broader retail rollout coming soon starting with Gomer’s in Kansas City and hopeful placement in other Kansas City retailers like Made in KC.
Kareem isn’t just the face of the brand. He’s the designer, the marketer, the connector. “I’m involved in every part, from the mash bills to the bottle design,” he says. “Even the artwork on the labels—that’s all me.”
Each bottle is designed with thoughtful touches. There are also signature glasses, and even “golden ticket” promotions hidden inside where fans can win a chance to attend games with former college stars. Premium gift boxes under the Giftitude label are available, a new business Kareem co-founded with his partner, Brooke Marsalla.
“The juice is great, we source from big brands like Wild Turkey, Buffalo trace and I loved crafting my own blend. It definitely stacks up with anything out there,” Kareem says. “But what we’re really selling is the connection people have with their school. It’s about those Saturdays on campus, the March Madness runs, the tailgates. Bourbon just gives us a way to bottle that feeling.”
“But what we’re really selling is the connection people have with their school. It’s about those Saturdays on campus, the March Madness runs, the tailgates. Bourbon just gives us a way to bottle that feeling.”
University Spirits is expanding quickly, with plans to launch in major college towns across the country. Each new market opens up a chance to reconnect players with their fan bases and offer a product that feels personal, not just profitable.
Later this year, they’re debuting a mobile bourbon lounge which is a tailgate-ready shipping container that converts into a bar, complete with a rooftop basketball hoop and cocktail station. “We’ll bring it to campuses, games, company events—you name it,” Kareem says. “It’s gonna be a whole vibe.”
Beyond bourbon, phase two of Kareem's business plan includes University Roast, a coffee line created in partnership with Kansasbased PT’s Coffee. Just like the spirits, each roast will feature unique labels tied to different schools and players, with single origin beans for the “legendary” tier.
Five percent of proceeds from University Spirits go toward scholarship funds at participating schools. Kareem still volunteers with the Boys & Girls Club and other youth programs, and finds time to speak to kids about finding purpose after sports.
“I’m proud of my basketball career,” he says. “But I’m even more proud of how I’ve kept building since then—rebranding myself and launching my businesses, and just staying locked in on what really matters.”
Visit universityspirits.com for online ordering, custom gift sets, bourbon accessories, and upcoming releases. Local availability is expanding—starting with Gomer’s in KC. And yes, bottles will be signed.
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Nolan turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
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IT’S TIME TO DREAM IN COLOR!
AT THE 14TH ANNUAL HOPE GALA BENEFITTING BRADEN’S HOPE
ARTICLE BY JUDY GOPPERT
On October 4th, you can step into a night of inspiration and impact as guests gather at the Overland Park Convention Center for one of the most uplifting and purpose-filled evenings in Kansas City - the 14th Annual Hope Gala benefitting Braden’s Hope for Childhood Cancer. This unforgettable evening brings together families, donors, and community leaders for a powerful celebration of progress. It’s an event where stories inspire, cancer research shines, and a united community drives change. The theme of this year’s Gala is ‘Hope in Color.’
“While gold represents childhood cancer awareness, we know every child brings their own color to the world,” shared Azure Miller, Chief Marketing Officer at Braden’s Hope. “This theme is a celebration of the vibrant hope and resilience within our community. It honors the children still fighting, those who are survivors, and the angels who fight with us in spirit.”
What began as a small gathering of supporters has grown into one of the most impactful childhood cancer fundraising galas in the region and Braden’s Hope’s largest fundraising event of the year. Every dollar raised supports research projects that are focused exclusively on childhood cancers, many of which are led right here in Kansas City at institutions like Children’s Mercy Research Institute and the University of Kansas Cancer Center.
THE MISSION BEHIND THE HOPE
At Braden’s Hope, the mission is clear: To raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer research to advance cures for kids.
By the end of this year, Braden’s Hope will have funded more than $6.7 million in research grants for childhood cancers. These funds support innovative, best-in-class targeted research that is not only essential but often underfunded by traditional sources.
FAST FACTS:
• Childhood cancer receives less than 4% of the National Cancer Institute’s budget.
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN:
Braden’s Hope was born from one family’s unimaginable journey but has since become the story of thousands of families
and a community committed to making a difference for kids fighting cancer.
When the namesake of the organization, Braden Hofen, was just three years old, he was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of childhood cancer. He fought through grueling treatments and reached remission only to face relapse twice more. Three battles. Each one more devastating than the last. Against all odds, Braden is still here today.
In the midst of Braden’s fight, his mother Deliece Hofen was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her prognosis came with options. Braden’s did not. That realization changed everything.
“Braden’s Hope never started as a mission to help just one child,” shared Deliece Hofen, Founder of Braden’s Hope. “It started with my desperation as a mom who refused to accept that there was no hope for my son or for the children fighting alongside him. That’s when Braden’s Hope was born.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Braden’s Hope is a powerful movement of researchers, donors, families, and community partners united by one purpose: To make a difference for all children and families fighting cancer.
“The Hope Gala is a powerful celebration and a catalyst for continued growth,” shared Kim Stanley, Executive Director of Braden’s Hope. “It’s a beautiful evening that unites our community and fuels life-changing research honoring the children at the heart of our mission. This event inspires a future where every child has hope!”
Whether you attend the Hope Gala, make a donation, or simply share their story, you are part of this mission.
To learn more or get involved, visit bradenshope.org
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J OHN N Y BOY
A Hospitality-Driven Mission with Heart
When Steve Greer’s son Johnny was born with Fragile X Syndrome and Autism, it became clear that their family’s journey would be different. As Johnny approached adulthood, the lack of vocational opportunities for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) became painfully apparent. That’s when Steve, a Kansas City hospitality veteran with over 50 years in the industry, decided to turn a personal challenge into a purposeful mission.
Drawing from his decades of experience—as VP of Gilbert Robinson (Houlihan’s, Bristol, Plaza III), longtime owner of the Golden Ox, and former President of the Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association—Steve began bringing Johnny to work. Whether vacuuming, filling ice bins, or pouring beer at the American Royal, Johnny thrived in the restaurant environment. Steve quickly saw a greater need: Johnny wasn’t the only one capable and eager to work—there were many others with IDD facing the same barriers.
In 2017, Steve founded Johnny Boy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on vocational training in the hospitality industry for individuals with IDD, including Autism and Down Syndrome.
At the heart of the foundation is the “Hand in Hand” Program, developed by Steve himself. It offers:
• On-Site Training for workplace-ready individuals, integrating them into real restaurant or hotel jobs over 1–3 weeks.
• Exploratory Training, a 6–8 week program for small groups to rotate through various hospitality roles—from hosting and dishwashing to bussing and cleaning.
This unique model is made possible through deep industry ties. With board members rooted in hospitality and endorsements from major organizations like the GKCRA, MRA, and Kansas City Chefs Association, Johnny Boy has strong community backing. Partners like Minsky’s, SPIN Pizza, Jack Stack BBQ, and the Hilton President Hotel provide real-world training grounds.
Collaboration is key. Johnny Boy works closely with local organizations such as Inclusion Connections, Down Syndrome Innovations, and Easter Seals—offering its program at no cost, unlike many others.
As Kansas City gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Steve and his team are on a mission: train and place at least 100 individuals in meaningful hospitality roles. For Johnny and so many others, this isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to belong, to contribute, and to shine.
Learn more at https://johnnyboy-foundation.org/
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A TOAST TO FALL AT THE ARBORETUM
Botanical Brewfest
ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS
“
“We hope guests leave feeling like Brewfest was a must-do fall experience,” Waye says.
Over 40 breweries, live music, and vibrant autumn gardens come together for a one-of-a-kind fundraiser supporting the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens.
Every October, the Overland Park Arboretum transforms into a vibrant celebration of fall flavors, local craft culture, and community spirit. Botanical Brewfest returns Saturday, October 18, from 12 - 3 PM, filling the gardens with the energy of live music, the aroma of seasonal treats, and the clink of tasting glasses. The event is presented by Friends of the Arboretum, a nonprofit fundraising arm of The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.
What began as a cozy Oktoberfest-style gathering with firepits and flannel has grown into one of the Arboretum’s most anticipated annual fundraisers. Each year, proceeds from Brewfest flow directly back into the Arboretum, supporting projects that inspire and educate the community. From interpretive signage and pollination exhibits to youth field trips, library enhancements, and hands-on educational programs, every ticket sold helps sustain the Arboretum’s mission of learning, discovery, and connection. The event also fuels community favorites like Kite Fest, Arbor Day giveaways, and Night at the Arboretum.
This year’s Brewfest is returning to daytime hours, giving guests the perfect chance to enjoy crisp air, golden leaves, and the gardens at their most colorful. “The fall gardens are at the heart of Botanical Brewfest,” says Brit Waye, Community Engagement Manager. Visitors can stroll through the whimsical Train Garden, where model trains weave past seasonal blooms, or take in sweeping views of Margaret’s Pond framed by fiery mums and autumn foliage. The setting is a showstopper in its own right, meticulously designed by Horticulture Supervisor, Anne Wildeboor, and her team to create an immersive fall dreamscape.
Of course, the festival isn’t just about scenery. More than 40 breweries, distilleries, and beverage makers will be on hand, offering over 120 different pours from spicy pumpkin ales and rich stouts to ciders, spiked teas, and canned cocktails. Local favorites such as KC Bier Co., Free State, Transparent, and Sandhills will be joined by newcomers, including Broken Hatchet, Rochester, and Smoke Brewing. For those who prefer to skip the alcohol, non-alcoholic options like hop waters, sodas, and seltzers ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.
Food trucks and local vendors round out the afternoon with something for every craving. Guests can dig into Hawaiian teriyaki chicken or pork from Irvzilla’s Hawaiian Grill, fresh tacos from Pink Taco Truck, and fall staples like Donutology donuts, Jack’s Kettle Corn, and WildSide seasoned pretzels.
The soundtrack to the day comes courtesy of Kansas City musicians, from the classic rock stylings of 3 Guys and 3 Guitars to the upbeat oom-pah rhythms of The Jolly Dutchmen, creating a lively backdrop that keeps the celebration moving.
Behind the scenes, it takes an enormous volunteer effort to bring Brewfest to life, as more than 80 volunteers donated 480 hours of service last year alone. From pouring drinks to helping with setup and logistics, their work ensures guests experience nothing but seamless fun.
At its core, Botanical Brewfest is about more than sampling seasonal flavors. “We hope guests leave feeling like Brewfest was a must-do fall experience,” Waye says, “one that rivals pumpkin patches and cider mill weekends and knowing their day helped make a lasting impact on the Arboretum.”
With its perfect blend of brews, bites, and blooms, Botanical Brewfest has become a signature fall tradition in Overland Park and one that only promises to keep growing.
realty report
JOIN US FOR AN AMAZING
Saturday, October 25th, 2025 | 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM 6850 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66211
“Trick or Treating Food and Drinks Costumes and Kid Prizes” Share the scare with your friends, and let them know that we’re going all out for Halloween! See you there!
Bamboo Penny’s
Since 2020, Bamboo Penny's has been a beloved staple in Leawood serving authentic Thai cuisine. Now, the celebrated restaurant group has expanded to its fourth location, Penny's in the Village, offering a new setting to discover its signature dishes, creative cocktails, and warm hospitality that have made the original location a local favorite.
Michael Werner, Corporate Concept Design and Business Development Director, has been working with Chef Penny to reimagine the Thai dining experience and deliver her vision for her food and hospitality.
"Bamboo Penny's offers guests the opportunity to experience Chef Penny Mufuka's interpretation of authentic Thai cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and an extensive selection of premium spirits in a beautiful, welcoming atmosphere," says Werner. "Moreover, Bamboo has become the benchmark for diners wanting to experience modern Thai cuisine in the Kansas City Metro. Something we are very proud of and take seriously. Guests can expect exceptional service and hospitality on their first visit. Bamboo Penny's also provides
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
a one-of-a-kind dining and special events experience in the Bamboo Room, which features elevator service, rooftop dining, a full-service bar, and a retractable roof for stargazing when the weather permits."
Walking into the new Prairie Village location, guests are immediately welcomed into a bright and inviting space designed for gathering with family and friends. Just like the Leawood restaurant, this location blends exceptional service with an atmosphere that feels both elevated and approachable. The decor reflects a modern, tropical feel that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the menu, making it a spot where guests can linger for both special occasions and casual dinners. The location also offers expansive alfresco dining options with both covered and open-air selections.
The menu features the same fan favorites that diners have come to crave, with a few new additions.
"Some of our most popular shareable dishes to start a meal include Penny's Rangoon, crunchy salad rolls, lobster egg rolls, Bangkok
bits, and my personal favorite, Thai spicy sausage. When it comes to authentic Thai salads, the Nam Khao Tod, a crispy rice and pork salad, and the Mint Salad with your choice of pan-seared salmon or hanger steak are personal favorites. Specialties like Penny's Special Pad Thai, Mango Duck, and Salmon Panang Curry are always crowd-pleasers. Chef Penny and our culinary teams are masters of the wok, so our stir-fries and noodle dishes of Thailand, as well as Thai Curry dishes, offer guests wonderful options. Guests also appreciate how customizable many of the menu items are, from your choice of protein to the spice level."
Chef Penny has built a team that has been with her for years, creating a sense of loyalty and camaraderie that translates into every dish served. This family-like atmosphere extends to the guests, who quickly feel part of something special.
"We chose the Prairie Village location due to the strong sense of community in the area. The location has been incredibly well-received by Prairie Village and the surrounding neighborhoods. We offer guests similar menu favorites as Bamboo Penny's with the addition of several authentic street food items that we are currently testing. Penny's in the Village also features delicious craft cocktails, premium spirits, and expansive alfresco dining areas that are both open-air and covered, and offers lunch, happy hour, and dinner daily."
Chef Penny's restaurants are hosting a lineup of creative events designed to bring people together. In October, her award-winning Aqua Penny's, located in Leawood's Park Place, will welcome diners for Cafe Romanov x Aqua Penny's, a one-night collaboration blending Eastern European and Thai flavors with wines and vodkas on October 9th. Families won't want to miss Penny's in the Village Halloween celebration on October 25th, complete with a kid-friendly haunted house, candy, and games. November brings the Immortali-Tea Party on November 1st, where Chef Penny and Pastry Chef Amanda Bruner will pair classic teas with Thai-inspired bites at Aqua Penny's.
Beyond the neighborhood, Chef Penny will also showcase her talents
at the prestigious Culinary Classic at Hallbrook Country Club, part of the Friends of James Beard series on September 16th. In December, Santa Saturday on December 6th offers a chance to sip Thai hot chocolate under the Clock Tower at the shops in the Village, while little ones meet Santa himself.
The recognition has already begun to follow the restaurant's growth. Chef Penny was recently named Johnson County's Chef of the Year for 2025, while Bamboo Penny's earned Best Thai Restaurant. Aqua Penny's, her seafood & raw bar concept, has also been honored as Best New Restaurant in the county and more.
The expansion into Prairie Village feels like a natural next step. For longtime fans, it's a chance to enjoy more of what they love in a new setting. For newcomers, it's an invitation to discover the vibrant flavors and welcoming spirit that have made Bamboo Penny's a local favorite.
Bamboo Penny's is located at 5270 West 116th Place in Leawood. Aqua Penny's is located at 11652 Ash Street in Leawood. Penny's in the Village is located at 4160 West 71st Street in Prairie Village. For more information, visit bamboopennys.com, AquaPennys.com, and pennysinthevillage.com.
Of Course. Kitchen & Company
Experience the unique blend of South Indian flavors and American ingredients at Of Course, where warm, modern interiors create an inviting upscale atmosphere. Founded by Swetha and Jesse Newcomb, the restaurant offers thoughtfully, shareable plates that highlight seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and a bold menu rooted in global cuisine with American influences.
Chef Swetha's culinary journey began with intimate private dinners, crafting personalized menus that brought people together through exceptional food. Whether at our table or yours, Of Course continues this tradition by offering private dinners and catering, so you can enjoy the experience wherever you are. To book a private event visit our website or send us an email.