Nestled in the heart of Brookside, City Barrel Pizza + Patio is more than just another brewery; it’s a local love letter to beer, pizza, and community. As the second location from the team behind City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen in the Crossroads, this new spot brings approachable craft beers, playful food, and a patio built for everyone (including the pups).
Started by Joe Giammanco and friends, City Barrel was born out of a love of great beer, community, and tasty food. Joe, a Waldo/Brookside local for nearly two decades, felt called to give back to the neighborhood that’s given him so much. “City Barrel Pizza + Patio was started as a place neighbors and families can come together, where kids can play, and where all are welcome,” he shared.
Though their Crossroads location is known for its bustling downtown energy, the Brookside offshoot was built with a different vibe. “The main difference is, of course, the pizza! We serve thin, chewy NYC-inspired pizza on our huge patio, while serving great local crafted beers, refreshing patio cocktails, and hand-selected wines,” the team explained. “Our Waldo/Brookside location is perfect for families and groups of adults!”
The design of the space nods to a simpler time: “We wanted to channel an early 90’s Pizza Hut vibe, with a modern twist! This space was meant to be a place where adults have nostalgic memories from their childhood, and be able to share them with their kiddos.”
On the beer side, City Barrel continues to stand out in Kansas City’s crowded craft scene by leaning into bold, flavorful creations. “City Barrel’s RAD AF, an award-winning hazy IPA, is our most popular and celebrated beer,” they said. But there’s more than just hop bombs here. From the “RAD AF Creamsicle” to the “Strawberry Shortcake” and even a dry Irish stout inspired by the original Guinness recipe, City Barrel brews with playful curiosity. “Our slogan is ‘beer is fun!’ – because we think it is!”
And if you’re planning a visit this summer, make sure to try two of their seasonal standouts, the Chocko Taco and the Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy. “The Chocko Taco is especially unique, with flavors of vanilla and chocolate to create the perfect way to start or end a meal, while the Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy is a crisp and refreshing Kolsch with flavors of lemon peel that make this drink perfect for the last of the summertime heat.”
While beer is front and center, the food is far from an afterthought. “Have you ever craved something comforting that also surprises you? That's our sweet spot,” they said. Dough is made fresh daily, then fermented for 24 hours to get that perfect NYC-style crust. Fan favorites include the Chicken Bacon Ranch pizza with house-made RAD AF ranch, the balsamic-drizzled Margherita, and the classic Pepperoni “with the crispy crunch of the caramelized edges on our cupping pepperonis.” Pro tip: add their house candied jalapeños for a Sweet Heat twist.
And yes — they know how to pair. “Pizza and beer are a combo like PB&J! Our Spicy Margarita cocktail is made with jalapeño simple syrup, a product made in-house with our candied jalapeños, and goes so well with our Sweet Heat pizza. Feels like a family reunion in your mouth!”
Families will appreciate the relaxed daytime atmosphere, complete with patio games, an arcade room for older kids, and plenty of space to run into familiar faces. It’s the kind of spot where a casual lunch can quickly turn into an impromptu neighborhood hangout, while parents unwind with a cold cocktail or a local favorite like RAD AF.
Dogs aren’t just allowed, they’re spoiled. The pet-friendly patio includes a specialty dog menu with clever treats like “The Cheese Tax” and “Pupper Nutter,” a peanut butter delight that’s almost tempting enough for humans. It’s one more way City Barrel makes everyone feel welcome, four legs or two.
The Brookside neighborhood has welcomed City Barrel Pizza + Patio with open arms. On any given day, the bike rack outside is packed — not just with bikes, but with strollers and wagons too. The team has also leaned into local partnerships, working with nearby schools, supporting animal rescues, and collaborating with small businesses to keep the community connection strong.
Looking ahead, they hope to expand into other family-focused neighborhoods around Kansas City, but for now, they’re exactly where they want to be: right in the heart of Brookside, serving up pizza, pints, and good times.