If you’re looking to shop local while supporting veteran-owned businesses this Veteran’s Day, this is the list for you! Here are a few of our favorite spots in KC’s Northland that are owned by former military service members.
1. Fitti’s Espresso
7612 NW Prairie View Road, Kansas City
Located behind LC’s Hamburgers, Fitti’s offers all the classic morning pick-me-ups you’d expect, plus fresh pastries and breakfast goodies! Don’t forget to try their shaved ice. Fitti’s also hosts events such as yoga meetups and networking opportunities for community entrepreneurs.
Whether you’re looking to grab something quick or to stay and sip, you need to add Fitti’s to your morning routine.
2. KC Cattle Company
110 Main Street, Parkville
KC Cattle Company has quickly established itself as the Wagyu specialists in Kansas City. In fact, their Wagyu hotdogs were rated by Food and Wine magazine as the best hotdogs in the country! If hotdogs aren’t your thing, don’t worry. They have a broad selection of locally raised beef products, as well as pasture-raised chicken and pork.
If you want to give the gift of high-quality protein, they offer a subscription service, corporate gift packages, and have a robust online store. Don’t forget to check out their blog and recipe section for your next favorite meal preparation! You can check out their storefront in Parkville or order online — they have $5 home delivery for the Kansas City area.
3. RoKC
1501 Howell Street, North Kansas City
If you’re looking for a great climbing gym, RoKC has locations in Olathe, Kansas City, and North Kansas City! You’ll find a variety of climbing opportunities, from beginner to advanced. RoKC offers private events for your next birthday bash and also hosts community-wide climbing events! You can also receive training on belay certification or climbing techniques.
4. Call Sign Brewery
1340 Burlington Street, North Kansas City
Call Sign Brewery started in the garage of the founders Steve and Morris. Their beers are named to honor the call signs of fallen aircraft and they are active in raising support for military veterans.
Their tap room, which recently relocated to a larger building in North Kansas City, features regular offerings, such as their Freedom Lager, Bomber Brown Ale, and Jolly Hazy IPA, as well as rotating seasonal and small-batch beers. Stop in every Thursday for Trivia and check out their website for more local events, such as comedy nights!
5. Mad Potter Studio
525 Main St, Weston
Next time you’re in Weston, make sure you stop by the Mad Potter pottery studio, tucked just off of Main Street in Weston. Featuring a wide variety of ceramics, Mad Potter is a great place to find a unique, locally made craft. If you can’t make it to Weston, Mad Potter has many of their offerings for sale online.
6. Fizzolino Tap Truck
Though it’s a mobile business, this little tap truck was purchased in Italy by a Northland couple who were stationed overseas with the U.S. Army. They renovated their 1997 Piaggio Ape into a mobile bartending truck and now rent it out for private parties and events. They love to tap Prosecco on Fizzolino — their favorite Italian drink — but also serve local beers, craft cocktails and other fun drinks so even kids can enjoy! Check them out if you’ve got a party coming up!