It feels like I’ve been awaiting the arrival of Kansas City’s Loews hotel for years as my husband became obsessed with it the moment the deal was circulated through the local banking community. He doesn’t work for the bank that landed the mega deal of this 800-room super hotel, but he’s still managed to stay up to date on all the little details. We watched it climb further & further into the Kansas City skyline each time we drove into downtown, and dreamt of the luxurious launch party it would have.
Of course, as luck would have it, the opening of the Loews KC arrived within the Covid-19 stay home order, and no such party was even remotely possible. Party or not, I still needed to see what all the rumors were about. I found an unexpected hour of free time this afternoon and decided it fell in my lap for this reason—to the Loews! As it turns out, multiple layers of fate were acting in my favor as I happened to visit the first day that the terrace bar & restaurant, Horse Feather Social, was open. I was a little early for the restaurant opening so I went down to the lobby bar, Bar Stilwell, to wait it out. For the record, I have zero complaints about a hotel that creates bar-hopping opportunities within its own building.
The lobby bar felt grand and inviting all at the same time. I sat at the bar and was comforted by the fact that all my necessary social distancing was done for me. Velvet ropes stretched 6 feet wide separated each coupling of seats. Additional seating was available in lounge chairs and traditional tables throughout the bar and adjacent balcony. I was promptly welcomed and handed a menu, and while literally everything sounded delicious, my eyes were drawn to three unmistakably perfect words—Spicy Whipped Feta. I made quick work of putting in an order, along with a glass of sparkling rosé.
While I waited for my food, I sat back and admired the skyline view behind the bar. I’ve always been a city girl, and I really, really like a meal with my favorite view in focus.
My food arrived and if I wasn’t already getting enough glares for being the only one in a bar alone taking an obsessive amount of pictures, I definitely got a ton for the velocity at which I devoured this whipped feta. Imagine the savory-sweet deliciousness of thick cut Ibis sourdough smothered in whipped feta and tomato jam, then sprinkled with cucumber, jalapeño and melon. It was every bit a treat. Alas, 5:00 had arrived and it was time for me to move my people watching and messy eating upstairs to Horse Feather Social.
Up on the 7th floor, Horse Feather Social is a casual fare open air restaurant with an extensive patio facing one of Kansas City’s most beloved landmarks, Kauffman Center. Inside seating was available, but I decided melting in the heat was worth the view. The patio area definitely exudes all things social with seating ranging from neat tables set for 4 to large sectionals complete with in-table fire elements.
It was tough to pass on another glass of the most perfect sparkling rosé I’d ever had, but the friendly bartender at The Stilwell had recommended the Sweet Heat Margarita, so that’s what I ordered, throwing in a shrimp flatbread to go with it.
Aside from the view, the most noticeable feature of Horse Feather Social was the extremely attentive service. From the prompt wait staff, the busser constantly circulating to clear extra plates and glasses, and management visibly on stand by, no needs could possibly go unmet.
My Sweet Heat Margarita was presented martini-style. The strawberry-jalapeño combination was the perfect compliment to my shrimp flatbread—a southwest inspired medley of shrimp, house made verde sauce, and corn chow chow. I will absolutely be repeating this order.
I wrapped up my solo happy hour feeling rested and treated. I enjoyed two completely delightful experiences, and have already begun plotting excuses to go back. If you’re looking for an excuse to visit downtown, this is your answer!
The Highlights
Good for: Happy Hour, Date Night, Treating a client, Friends Night Out, Celebrating something special
Kid-friendly: Not really
Investment: $$
Attire: No specific attire required.
Parking: Yes. Free with validation.