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MADE IN KANSAS CITY Fall in love with
Dear Readers,
October is here, and with it comes a season that invites us to slow down, gather around, and savor the simple joys that make life truly special. As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to blush with autumn hues, we are reminded of the warmth and comfort that this time of year brings. And what better way to celebrate fall than by embracing the theme of Food and Drink?
This month, we delve into the heart of what makes food so extraordinary—not just as nourishment, but as a way of bringing people together. There is something magical about sharing a meal with loved ones, whether it’s a lavish feast, a cozy Sunday brunch, or an impromptu gathering by the fire. Food has a way of connecting us, of telling stories, and of celebrating the moments that matter most.
Within these pages, you’ll discover local dining gems, talented chefs, and artisans who bring passion to every bite and sip. From farm-to-table delights to the art of crafting the perfect cocktail, October is a celebration of flavors that warm the soul. It is a reminder to explore new tastes, cherish old favorites, and appreciate the art of food in all its forms.
So, as the season unfolds, we encourage you to embrace all the flavors and experiences that fall has to offer. Cook a new recipe, host a dinner party, or simply enjoy a quiet meal with family. After all, it is around the table that some of life’s most treasured memories are made.
Here’s to a month filled with good food, great company, and the joy of savoring every moment!
Sincerely,
SARAH JOHNS, PUBLISHER @MISSIONHILLSCITYLIFESTYLE
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Sarah Johns | sarah.johns@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATORS
Victoria Moore | victoria.moore@citylifestyle.com
Chelsey Juarez | chelsey.juarez@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ashley Beebe, Kristin Smith
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
José Gomez, Sherri Holloway, Anna Petrow, Todd Riggins, Michael Scherzberg, Kristin Smith, Zach Tuttle, Trell West, CreatorsID
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
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Sojourn
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1 – 7: Guests enjoyed KC Wine Co. in full bloom during August’s Sunflower Festival and pumpkin patch.
Face Foundrié is an all-inclusive focused facial bar, located on the Country Club Plaza. They empower their clients to look and feel their best by providing cutting-edge services, accessible pricing, and an extensively trained staff of experts who deeply care. They pride themselves on impeccable service experience and strive for 100% client satisfaction in facials, lashes, brows, and skincare. Book a service today online: facefoundrie.com
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Coffee and pastries by day, drinks and dinner vibes by night—The French Market in Prairie Village is a cozy dining experience every season of the year. Known for their live music, Thursday evenings at the restaurant are especially popular with performances from local musicians who transport you to the streets of Paris from 5:30p.m. to 8:00p.m. Dine at the French Market every day of the week for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Founded by veteran esthetician, Alexia Wambua, Native Atlas was born with the intention to provide simple, clean, effective products sourced globally from their local origins. With an emphasis on self-care, these meticulously crafted products are infused with global experience, made with love, compassion, and sustainability in mind. Blends feature wildcrafted or organic plant botanicals and oils for potent beauty solutions. Visit nativeatlas.com/ for your free daily ritual skincare guide.
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ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHERRI HOLLOWAY, ANNA PETROW, ZACH TUTTLE, CREATORSID
TWO
Bursting onto the Kansas City restaurant scene with flavor and flair, the Plaza’s newest dining destination is rooted in a rich Mexican indigenous heritage that can be seen in its design and experienced in its taste. T’ähä Mexican Kitchen quite literally means “dream,” a reflection of Chef Fidel Gomez’s 25-year pursuit to acquaint the Midwest with a taste of his home.
Gomez immigrated from Hidalgo, Mexico, and worked as a dishwasher at local Mexican restaurants. After opening his own restaurants and serving the communities of Branson and Hollister for over 20 years, Gomez turned his sights toward Kansas City. T’ähä aims to bring tradition and quality ingredients to the forefront using ancestral recipes.
“We are a true scratch kitchen,” Operations Manager José Gomez said. “Everything from our tortillas, moles, and salsas are made in-house using quality ingredients. Some of our recipes are from my own grandmother.”
Their mole rojo and mole verde sauces are both made in-house using Gomez’s grandmother’s recipes. They each take 24 ingredients and several hours to make. One of their signature dishes is the lamb barbacoa. Traditionally wrapped in maguey leaves and buried along with hot coals, Chef Gomez uses different techniques to pull off the same flavor.
“We can’t exactly dig holes along Roanoke Parkway, but we’ve focused on seasoning the lamb with mesquite flavors and pairing it with our homemade hummus,” José said. “If you were to ask any Mexican where the best lamb barbacoa in all of Mexico is served, they would tell you Hidalgo.”
Even down to their cocktail menu, T’ähä goes the extra mile in providing customers with the best and most thoughtful ingredients. Instead of flavoring their margarita with artificial flavors, they use a natural corn liqueur with toasted notes of roasted corn, vanilla and caramel.
As for the look and atmosphere of the restaurant, the Gomez family selected bc Design Group of Overland Park to help bring the inspiration of Mexico City and their indigenous roots to life.
“Mexico City is unique,” José said. “In one block you can see indigenous, colonial and modern architecture. This mix of old world and new world aesthetics inspired the design.”
The elevated and intimate atmosphere of T’ähä is what draws customers in, and the rest of the experience is what converts them into regulars.
“It is our hope that our guests become immersed in our culture through exceptional food, drink and service. We hope that people can taste the love and thought behind every dish and food. All the while enjoying the elevated ambiance of our space,” José said.
Very few restaurants capture the idea of “connecting over a meal” better than Kansas City’s first hand roll bar, Kata Nori. The Japanese dining concept was created as a space where guests can connect—not just with the food, but with the chefs, servers, and each other, if they so choose.
“We’ve crafted a place where people can come together over exceptional food, a vibrant atmosphere, and great music. Our restaurant brings together people from all walks of life,” owner Nam Phan said.
“We are in the business of serving people first, and happen to serve exceptional food.”
-Nam Phan of Kata Nori
The three owners of Kata Nori—Nam, KK, and Chef Bass—met through mutual friends and bonded over the vision of bringing a novel food idea to the city they love. Located in the Crossroads, the bar setup offers a personalized one-on-one experience with the chef and servers, while the lounge encourages guests to relax and enjoy the carefully curated music by the owners.
“Kata,” derived from the Japanese word for “form,” embodies a disciplined approach to mastering a skill, emphasizing practice and precision. “Nori,” means “seaweed.” Together, Kata Nori represents the pursuit of perfecting the art of hand rolls and service.
“We are in the business of serving people first, and happen to serve exceptional food,” Nam said. “Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, we strive to always create a positive experience for our guests.”
Kata Nori has witnessed incredible business since opening in 2023. A new demographic of guests who have never indulged in progressive sushi are gracing its doors, and Kansas City’s support is encouraging bigger plans for its future. Stay up-to-date with the latest news and exciting projects by following them on social media: @katanorikc
ARTICLE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTIN SMITH
MOMENTS OF MAGIC TRAVEL’S KRISTIN SMITH SELECTS BEST CUISINE-INSPIRED DESTINATIONS
What do you get when you pair
Michelin star chefs and the high seas?
Crafted with skill and care, highlighting unique flavors and presentations, Virgin Voyages offers 20+ eateries onboard their cruise fleet to explore worldwide culinary tastes.
Experience Italy’s culinary magic with every bite: from rustic pizzas and creamy risottos to savory pastas and indulgent gelatos. Each dish reflects tradition, passion, and regional flavors, offering a true taste of Italy’s rich food heritage.
Immerse yourself in Japan’s culinary artistry: savor delicate sushi, flavorful ramen, and crispy tempura. Each dish reflects meticulous preparation, fresh ingredients, and a deep cultural heritage, offering an unforgettable taste of Japan’s vibrant food scene.
Savor Spain’s culinary treasures: vibrant tapas, rich paella, succulent jamón, and zesty churros. Each bite bursts with authentic flavors, celebrating local ingredients and time-honored traditions.
Indulge in France’s culinary elegance: from buttery croissants and rich coq au vin to decadent pastries and fine cheeses. Each dish is a masterpiece of flavor, showcasing the art of French cooking and gourmet tradition.
LOCAL NEIGHBORHOOD WINE BAR RECEIVES WORLDWIDE RECOGNITION FOR THEIR WINE
ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL SCHERZBERG
Downtown Overland Park is home to a handful of popular attractions, drawing locals and tourists alike. The incredibly popular Farmer’s Market, a couple of crowd-pleasing coffee shops and spunky clothing boutiques have been staples in the community for many years. But after only two years in operation, another local business is adding its name, not only to the Downtown Overland Park hype, but to critically acclaimed wine lists around the world.
For the past two years, Vintage ‘78 Wine Bar has been recognized for their excellence in wine by all three worldwide wine lists–Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards, World’s Best Wine Lists Awards and the Star Wine List Award. However, the honor reached a new level this year when the World’s Best Wine Lists Awards named Vintage ‘78 the Regional Winner of “Best Wine-by-the-Glass List (without Coravin)” in North America.
“I couldn’t believe it,” owner Michael Scherzberg said when asked about the award. “I knew we had a great list, and I was expecting to receive the same Three Star Award we got last year. I was shocked when I was looking through the categories and saw ‘Vintage ‘78 Wine Bar’ listed. I thought there must have been a mistake.”
To even be considered for the list, a panel of the most renowned judges in the industry evaluates the lists based on 20 award categories. All four regional award winners were invited to Europe for the World’s Best Wine Lists awards in September.
“We knew it was important to go and represent the Kansas City Metro area and ensure that representatives from some of the finest restaurants in the world know that we have great things happening in our little city.”
It was certainly worth the trip. With a 20% chance of winning, Vintage ‘78 Wine Bar was named the Best Wine-by-the-Glass List (without Coravin), putting Kansas City on the map with top restaurants and bars all over the world.
Scherzberg’s 20 years of experience in fine dining, luxury hospitality and Michelin-starred restaurants have certainly played a role in his management of Vintage ‘78 Wine Bar. Knowing that wine carries a certain stigma, he set out to create an environment where quality wine tasting was more casual and approachable.
“This allows us to demystify wine a bit and allow people to enjoy the best quality, in the best glassware, at the right temperature, without feeling like they are in a snooty or uncomfortable environment,” he said. “We wanted to create a space like ‘Cheers’ –a local spot where everybody knows your name– and for the most part, we’ve done that.”
Not only does Vintage ‘78 offer a neighborhood-friendly environment, but the guests’ best interests are always considered first in pricing and service. Maintaining an exceptional wine program is especially difficult to uphold in the state of Kansas where, according to Scherzberg, certain wines are difficult to source and pay for.
“To me, this means I’m doing something right and the wine world is taking notice,” he said. “We want our guests to know that while we may not be inexpensive, we offer exceptional value and a one-of-a-kind experience and we always want our guests to leave feeling good about the money they spent–never having buyer’s remorse.”
Recently, Vintage ‘78 started getting creative with the food options offered on their daily menu. They make fresh pasta every day, which Scherzberg said has been incredibly popular with our guests. They also brought in some of the finest caviar in the world from Browne Trading Company in Portland, Maine. These additions have gained the little wine bar even more popularity with their guests. In fact, one of their best guests said he was going to be known as their “Norm” from Cheers, and he has a plaque on the bar that reads “Norm” in front of his seat.
“We have had tremendous support from our local community since opening our doors!” Scherzberg said. “The majority of our guests every day are repeat guests, though we still have many who have just learned about us.”
Scherzberg was confident they could compete internationally, but ultimately, he is content proving that Vintage ‘78 is the greatest at being the best neighborhood wine bar it can be.
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY BEEBE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
SOJOURN SPA PROVIDES A PERSONALIZED ESCAPE IN THE HEART OF KANSAS CITY’S SHOPPING AND DINING DISTRICT
“We are dedicated to providing relaxed sophistication and a rejuvenating experience, designed to refresh both body and mind, ensuring that every visit leaves guests feeling revitalized and at peace.”
What is the heart of the people behind Sojourn Spa?
The providers at Sojourn are driven by a passion for helping others and meeting their guests where they are. They aim to offer an overall experience that nurtures both body and mind.
What can guests expect when they walk through the doors?
When guests step into Sojourn Spa, they are immediately surrounded by a warm and inviting atmosphere crafted to foster luxury, relaxation and well-being. We are dedicated to providing relaxed sophistication and a rejuvenating experience, designed to refresh both body and mind, ensuring that every visit leaves guests feeling revitalized and at peace.
What has the community support been like since you opened?
Since opening, Sojourn Spa has garnered a great deal of support and enthusiasm from the local community. Guests frequently rave about their experiences to friends and family, boosting positive, word-of-mouth recommendations. This strong community backing has translated into a loyal customer base, with consistent patronage and glowing endorsements.
What is different about Sojourn Spa compared to others in the KC area?
Sojourn Spa is proud to be the only fully ADA-accessible spa in the area. Its facilities feature a custom-built infra-red sauna designed to accommodate medical equipment, and a specialty ADA table with an extended low-height range, ensuring a comfortable experience for every guest. The spa offers a range of services that blend classic spa treatments with unique, curated offerings. Each treatment is tailored to meet the individual needs and preferences of every guest, ensuring an experience that is as unique as each person who comes in.
We also offer a seasonally changing menu of shareable appetizers and beverages from local chefs at Strang Chef Collective, perfect for your day of selfcare or your group events.
Where would you recommend someone go to eat/drink after treating themselves to a day at Sojourn?
Yessenia - Rye
Devin - Gram & Dunn
Ashley - Ocean Prime
Emma - Cheval or the The Stilwell at Loews
Mikayla - McCormick and Schmidt’s
Andrea - Gram and Dun, or any local pop-up roof top bar for drinks and music!
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
This hearty chicken noodle soup is the perfect comfort food that is packed with nutritious goodness. This pairs perfectly with homemade beer bread or a sourdough loaf.
INGREDIENTS:
• 8 cups chicken broth (add more if desired)
• Whole fryer chicken, cut in chunks or shredded
• 5 celery stalks, sliced
• 8 carrots, sliced
• ½ onion diced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup half and half (optional)
• 1 package egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
•
DIRECTIONS:
In a large stock pot, add 8 cups of chicken broth. Dice carrots, celery and onion and add to the broth. Bring to a boil, and reduce to medium heat until the vegetables are soft. In the meantime, skin and cube 1 whole fryer chicken and add to the stock pot. Next, add egg noodles (frozen Reames homemade egg noodles are my favorite) and let boil until noodles are cooked. Add butter, half and half, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer on low until ready to serve.
Put the carving tools down and check out how you can add some pizzazz to your pumpkins with just a paint brush.
ARTICLE BY NICOLETTE MARTIN
For this design, you’ll need several pumpkins or gourds in various shapes and sizes, some white and metallic acrylic paint, hot glue and some fake creepy crawlers.
Paint your “background” pumpkins in metallic colors. For your centerpiece, use white paint to cover the body, metallic paint for the stem and hot glue your creepy crawlers all around.
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• Cutie Mandarin Oranges
• Celery Sticks
Peel the cutie mandarin oranges and cut celery sticks into 1-inch long sticks.
Cut each slice of celery into thirds or fourths and insert celery sticks into the center of the peeled oranges.
• Oreos
• Candied Eyes
• Chocolate Chips
• Pretzel Logs
Break pretzel rods in half and stuff them into the Oreo cookies to form the spider legs. Melt the chocolate chips until smooth.
Use a toothpick to place the melted chocolate onto the Oreos where the eyes will go.
Immediately place the eye candies onto the melted chocolate. Place the Oreos in the fridge until the chocolate hardens.
ARTICLE BY SAVANNA JAGGEARS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY JAGGEARS
Spook-Cuterie is a cutie Halloween snack for pre- or post-trick-or-treating. This spooky spin on the classic charcuterie board will excite the kids and provide a few nutritious nibbles before they fill up on too much candy. Whether you bring this to the school party or set it up while everyone gets in their costumes, fun MUMMY-ries will be made.
• Nutter Butter Cookies
• White Melting Chocolate
• Mini Chocolate Chips
1. Gather together the items.
2 .Arrange and style according to your party aesthetic.
3. Add extra items, such as crackers, chips and cheeses.
Melt the white chocolate in the microwave in 15-second increments. Stir between increments until the chocolate is fully melted.
Dip the top of each cookie into the melted chocolate and place the coated cookie on wax paper to dry.
Press the mini chocolate chip to make the eyes and mouth before the chocolate dries.
• Bat Shaped Cookie Cutter
• Blackberries
• Candied Eyes
Place the cookie cutter on the charcuterie board and fill with blackberries. Place candied eyes to make the eyes of the bat.
4. Fan out additional fruits and veggies.
5. Celebrate and make the days leading up to October 31st memorable!
OCTOBER 2024
OCTOBER 4TH
KC Oktoberfest 2024
Crown Center | 5:00 PM
Experience the best of German culture in the heart of Kansas City. Indulge in traditional German food, enjoy live music and entertainment, and savor the finest selection of beers. With over 15,000 in attendance in 2023, this year’s celebration is sure to be another fun-filled weekend of celebrating Oktoberfest. Reserved tables and hotel packages are available! Grab your tickets: kcoktoberfest.com/tickets/
OCTOBER 11TH
Night at the Mission
Shawnee Indian Mission | 5:30 PM
Step into the enchanting ambiance of history and heritage at Night at the Mission, a captivating fundraiser supporting the distinguished Shawnee Indian Mission. Be a part of an unforgettable evening rich in cultural influence and community spirit. Don’t miss the Mission’s annual Fall Festival the following day beginning at 9:30a.m. Email salliebluejacket@shawneeindianmission.org for more information and volunteer opportunities.
OCTOBER 12TH
Brew at the Zoo and Wine Too
Kansas City Zoo | 6:30 PM
You are never too old for a night out...at the zoo! This 21-and-over event features live music and drink samples from over 35 breweries and wineries as you peruse through animal exhibits during evening hours. A ticket also includes entrance to GloWild, the zoo’s immersive lantern festival. Learn more and purchase your pass online: kansascityzoo.org/brew-at-the-zoo/
OCTOBER 18TH – 20TH
Cornucopia
Power & Light District
See the Power & Light district draped in all things fall during Kansas City’s ultimate fall festival! Celebrate the season with carnival rides, live entertainment, a petting zoo, food and drink vendors, and more. Mark your calendars and invite your friends and family for a memorable weekend at Cornucopia! Visit powerandlightdistrict.com/cornucopia/festival-info for updated times and information.
OCTOBER 25TH – 27TH
Disney’s Hocus Pocus in Concert
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts | 8:00 PM
The Kansas City Symphony helps the magic of Hocus Pocus come alive like never before! Take in this beloved Halloween classic as the acclaimed film is accompanied by a live orchestra performing the hauntingly beautiful score in Helzberg Hall. This special event will leave you feeling spellbound! Tickets are available online: tickets.kcsymphony.org/hocuspocus
OCTOBER 26TH
Trick-or-Treat in Downtown OP
Downtown Overland Park | 1:00 PM
A spooktacular afternoon of trick-or-treating awaits in Downtown Overland Park! Dress your kids in their favorite Halloween costumes and collect treats from participating neighborhood businesses until 3:00p.m. To top it all off, enjoy the DJ bringing a Monster Mash dance party to the Clock Tower.
