Little Learners Early Childhood Center offers children the opportunity to explore, create, and imagine while they develop academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. These opportunities take place in a safe, nurturing environment under the guidance of a highly qualified, caring teaching staff.
Before you go any further, be advised this issue is filled with gastronomic delights. Reading on a full stomach is strongly suggested!
When I started to put together the article lineup for this issue, I realized I was leaning heavily toward restaurants in Shawnee, so I had an idea for a round-up of the best eateries in the city. Local writer Jill Dutton gamely took on the task even though we both realized that readers may have different favorites. So, be gentle. We had fun, and the ensuing debate (I’m anticipating) will prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that Shawnee is a great location for food! You’ll find Jill’s choices on page 22.
Turn to page 20 for more on Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant, a Shawnee staple since 1954, where children of all ages are thrilled to see their food arrive via model train. You’ll always remember your first visit to Fritz’s!
Learn more about District Pour House, Old Shawnee’s neighborhood restaurant and gastropub, on page 8. Advertised as “a beacon of culinary excellence and community spirit,” District Pour House offers great food, signature cocktails, and artisanal libations.
We all know Kansas City is famous for its extraordinary barbecue delights. Don’t leave Shawnee out of that equation—Blind Box BBQ (page 12) may quickly become your favorite spot for delicious local barbecue.
For a unique morning (or any time of day) treat, check out Station 3 Coffee Shop on page 16. The building used to house a fire station, and the business now offers an outstanding array of coffees, teas, espressos and other hot drinks. As you’re sipping your beverage, enjoy the amazing work of Jeremy Collins, the artist who created the murals found inside and outside the building.
To help offset that food buzz, head to page 26 to read about the city’s annual Holiday Treasure Craft Festival set for October 26 at the Civic Centre. You’re guaranteed to find something for anyone and everyone on your holiday shopping list!
May I suggest holding on to this issue for future forays into the culinary creations found in Shawnee? You’ll be glad you did—or at least your taste buds will be happy; your waistline may be another story!
A toast to the tastes of Shawnee!
Jean editor, Shawnee Magazine
Editor Jean Teller
Designer/Art Director Alex Tatro
Copy Editor Leslie Clugston Andres
Account Executive Angie Taylor
Contributing Photographers Brooke Buck City of Shawnee
Molly Kuplen
Sarah Reeves
Contributing Writers Jill Dutton
Corinn Guemmer
Jackie Hostetler
Pamela Spradlin Mahajan
Kari Williams
Publisher Bill Uhler
Director Bob Cucciniello
8 DISTRICT POUR HOUSE IS FAMILY
Small-town feel of Shawnee perfect for this unique dining experience.
12 THE BEST BARBECUE!
Blind Box BBQ sets its sights on community.
16 PERKS OF STATION 3
Former fire station becomes a local coffee hangout.
20 AN AREA ICON WITH DEEP ROOTS
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant comes home to Shawnee. Departments
A writer’s choice of the city’s best restaurants.
26 FESTIVAL
25 YEARS
Shawnee tradition set for October 26. Features
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ProsperU Director
Community Engagement Officer
tracy rainge@centralbank net
Direct: 816-268-5352
300 W 9th St Lawrence, KS 66044
midwestprosperu@centralbank net
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Small-town feel of Shawnee perfect for this unique dining experience.
When District Pour House + Kitchen owner Dan McCall opened the eatery in Waldo in 2013, he was no stranger to the restaurant business. Having worked as general manager at both The Classic Cup Cafe in Country Club Plaza (which he now owns) and Coach’s Bar & Grill in Kansas City, McCall was ready for the next step.
“I hit my max of what I thought I needed to know to go start up my own place,” he says.
At age 32, he opened the first District Pour House location in Waldo’s historic district. After nearly a decade in business, he decided against renewing the lease there and was already in talks to open a new location in Old Shawnee. Originally from a small town of around 1,500 people in Western Kansas, McCall loves the small-town feel of Shawnee. He and his family currently reside in the Shawnee Mission school district.
“Shawnee reminded me of what Waldo was in 2013,” McCall says. “It’s a small community. We are a family-oriented restaurant, with my wife and I owning it, and our three children who—especially in the summer—were here a lot
running about the place. It was a community that I thought the restaurant, and me personally, would fit into.”
At the new District Pour House + Kitchen, which McCall owns with his wife, Jenny Meyer-McCall, they have retained some of the old details from the Waldo location while making the most of their current space. Meyer-McCall is an artist who has used her talents to decorate the restaurant.
They have found creative ways to make the space, formerly a bank, work for its current purpose. Cocooned near the back of the restaurant is The Vault. Once a safety deposit box vault, the space can be reserved for private gatherings and holds up to 35 people.
While McCall had to refine the menu to fit the new, slightly smaller location, he is happy with the result. With fewer options to sift through, customers are less overwhelmed and able to select their perfect choice.
The menu is thoughtfully designed by McCall, his team, and executive chef John Magno. McCall and Magno regularly
Savor delicious dishes like Pork Chops with Vegetable Tumble and House Chimichuri in the warm, inviting atmosphere of this neighborhood gastropub.
$10K The amount of money owner Dan McCall and executive chef John Magno helped a friend win by working together to create an award-winning burger at the World Food Championships. It is now available on their menu.
2013 The year the restaurant originally opened in Waldo’s historic district.
17+ The number of unique cocktails on the District Pour House menu.
32 The age of owner Dan McCall when he opened the first District Pour House location.
10 The approximate number of employees who moved over from the Waldo location to the Shawnee location.
35 The number of people their private party space, The Vault, can accommodate.
11101 Johnson Drive
Hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to midnight Friday; 10 a.m. to midnight Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.
Phone: 913-283-8585 www.districtks.com
compete in the World Food Championships. They recently helped a friend create a burger that won $10,000 in the competition, which patrons can find on their menu as the WFC Burger. It is described as “a culinary champion on a brioche bun, featuring an Angus steak grind patty topped with the richness of Gruyere, the zest of lemon aioli, the freshness of arugula, a perfectly runny egg, and a decadent bacon bourbon jam.” Other options include KC cheesesteak, duck risotto, and raspberry lemon drop sponge cake, as well as a variety of signature cocktails, draft beers, and bottle brews.
In addition to the main restaurant, they have a food truck called The Good Part, available for on-site catering. Upcoming events include Moonlight Market, which takes place from 4 to 8 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month at 11110 Johnson Drive in Shawnee; the event features a variety of food, drinks, locally crafted items, and live music.
McCall and Meyer-McCall also go all out decorating the restaurant for the holidays. “If you haven’t been by, you need to come by and see it; it’s pretty fun,” McCall says.
Patrons who once frequented the restaurant’s former Waldo location might spot a few familiar faces while dining in Shawnee.
“We still have around 10 staff members who all came from the Waldo store and work over here. We tried to keep as many of us together as we could … we have a nice core group that has stuck together,” says McCall. “It makes life a lot easier, not only for us because we know each other so well, but for customers because it’s still some of the same faces you got to see over in Waldo.”
People assume Joe Tulipana has a background in barbecue competition because of his restaurant’s namesake. But the owner of Shawnee’s Blind Box BBQ reverse-engineered his way into the business.
Instead of following the path of many barbecue restaurateur and starting on the competition circuit, he opened the restaurant and then dipped his toes in the competitive arena.
“I found out it was such a big time commitment, like a whole weekend,” Tulipana says, “and at that time, the restaurant was getting busier, so I just couldn’t do it. I kind of did it in reverse order compared to a lot of restaurants [that] open up from their success in competitions.”
Blind Box BBQ, 13214 W. 62nd Terrace, opened in 2015—when Tulipana was 24 years old—in a former hibachi restaurant.
“While we were doing the demo, I left one of the hood vents up, pulled a little smoker in here and was testing recipes and cooking processes all at the same time as building out the restaurant,” he says.
The young restaurateur goal was to create a comfortable, casual space for everyone.
“Whether it’s date night or a business lunch, or you’re coming from church, coming from the gym, etc.— everybody’s welcome, obviously, and we try to keep that vibe pretty relaxed,” Tulipana says.
Blind Box’s made-from-scratch take on classic Kansas City barbecue has led to a variety of menu items, including some that aren’t strictly barbecue—such as barbecue nachos or barbecue wontons (Blind Box’s version of crab rangoon).
The restaurant also has a bourbon bar, Sunday brunch, live music, drop-and-go orders, catering and all-day happy hour on Thursdays.
Tulipana says he didn’t know what to expect when Blind Box opened, but Shawnee has been loyal since the start.
“It’s been a great community,” he says. “We were a lot busier than expected right off the bat, which was great, but it also pointed out areas of opportunity for us to improve.”
Nine years later, Tulipana says Blind Box is constantly improving and learning to keep up with the market.
“That’s what I love about it,” he says. “Every single day is different. Every single day is a challenge. But at the end of the day, it’s seeing guests’ faces, seeing them taking pictures; bringing joy from something you’re able to cook and create over a long 9-, 12-, 15-hour process is pretty awesome.”
What makes Blind Box stand out, says Tulipana, is a combination of the guest experience and the menu variety. As a small business, Blind Box has “a lot of leeway” when it comes to the menu, he says.
“We like to be creative and offer specials whenever we want, and I think the people really enjoy that too,” he says. “If it’s just the same barbecue menu over and over and over, I don’t think you can survive like that. So we’re always trying to change or improve and keep it fun and light.”
While serving the best barbecue is Blind Box’s goal, Tulipana says their guests come first.
“I just don’t want to make this feel like a corporate transaction,” he says. “In an oversaturated barbecue market, it’s easy to go somewhere else. My No. 1 priority is taking care of our guests.”
When Blind Box’s second location opened in 2019 inside Nebraska Furniture Mart at the Legends, it presented the opportunity to expand into coffee.
“They were looking for a coffee vendor at the time, so we jumped on board,” Tulipana says.
A shared dining room includes Blind Box on one side and The Pressed Pig, offering Thou Mayest coffee, pastries and snacks, on the other.
“We try to be the best partner we can be to [Nebraska Furniture Mart] to continue that relationship and keep building, and the biggest thing with it is … we’re never satisfied, in the sense of [we’re] always learning,” Tulipana says. “Whether it’s new barbecue, new cuisines, new coffee, it’s always building and recognizing there’s always room to improve.”
Since 2015, Blind Box’s original Shawnee location has added two additional spaces, allowing for the expansion of the patio. They also are wrapping up what Tulipana considers the final expansion in Shawnee—having two walk-ins, one for the main kitchen and one for the carryout kitchen.
“That said, I think there’s still a lot of opportunity for growth here in Shawnee, and that’s where my main focus is right now,” he says. “You know, I’d love to open up more locations. That’s definitely the goal, but the last thing I’d want to do is not have all the right processes in place, and rush it when there’s a lot more we can do here in Shawnee.”
13214 W. 62nd Terrace
913-268-4227, ext 2
Monday to Thursday: 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Sunday: 9 a.m.–8 p.m. www.blindboxbbq.com/about-us
1601 Village West Pkwy
Kansas City, KS 66111
913-268-4227, ext 3
Sunday to Friday: 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
“Blind box” is a barbecue competition term for the boxes the competitors use to anonymously submit their food for judging.
Beyond its traditional restaurant offerings, Blind Box offers specials and catering. One of its longest-running specials is its holiday offerings for Thanksgiving and Christmas meals. They offer carry-out the day before the holiday with hot and cold options that include whole turkeys, prime rib, cornbread casserole and other traditional dishes. The cold option comes with reheating instructions.
Catering services are provided for occasions ranging from corporate events to weddings and rehearsal dinners.
Patrons can also hold an in-house event in one of Blind Box’s private rooms
Former fire station becomes a local coffee hangout.
Residents of Shawnee and the surrounding Kansas City metro area are fortunate to have a host of perks to satisfy any variety of interests. Historical sites, beautiful parks, unique artwork, and delicious coffee and treats are just a few things that keep locals busy. What could be better than having all of those options in one place? All of these perks, and more, can be found at Station 3 Coffee Shop located off Midland Drive in Shawnee.
Station 3 holds a wealth of history. Some of that history is local, but much of it is the family history of owners Courtney and John Nelson.
The Nelsons have owned the adjacent property, Twin Mill Farms, since 1996. They run a stable on the property, and the small building that now houses the coffee shop is an ideal buffer between the stables and Midland Drive. The Nelsons eventually acquired the building from its previous owners, Goode Brothers’ Asphalt, and turned it into the ultimate hangout spot for their children.
“We renovated the property in 2017 as a hangout for our kids. It always had a big screen TV for [football] games, and it was just a fun place to hang out,” Courtney Nelson says.
Once the children moved out, John and Courtney had more time to explore other interests, like going out for coffee every morning. This eventually led the Nelsons to transform the former hangout into Station 3 Coffee Shop.
The new coffee shop was born on March 1, 2024, with help from Courtney’s sister-in-law, Betsy Merckens, who serves as manager. Things haven’t slowed down since.
“We really had no idea what to expect. Opening weekend was more than we had thought it would be, and we’ve been really steady since,” says Merckens.
In terms of local history, the small building was originally a gas station in the 1930s. As area infrastructure changed, the need for a gas station lessened. Later, the building was an armory office before being converted to Shawnee Fire Station #3 in March 1971. The building remained a volunteer-only station until the property was sold to Goode Brothers’ Asphalt Co. in 1985.
Station 3 is just steps away from the trailhead of Streamway Park, which winds all the way to the Kansas River.
Nelson reports that, among the many groups that frequent the coffee shop, runners are some of the most prominent. “We see runners park near the shop and go for an early run and then come back for coffee.”
The coffee shop not only boasts the beautiful backdrop of the trail but also is surrounded by lush landscape on all sides, courtesy of John Nelson.
“We have a scenic place to enjoy the outside,” Courtney says of her husband’s work.
According to Merckens, the view makes Station 3 a popular destination. “We have regulars come in on their way to work. We have a lot of moms’ groups, running groups, and biking groups,” she says.
“We get a lot of out-of-towners with the ballfields on Johnson Drive, too,” Courtney adds.
The coffee shop also features a variety of art and crafts, both inside and out. Two exterior walls display a giant sunflower mural that bleeds into a Grand Canyon landscape painted by local artist Jeremy Collins (see sidebar).
A large metal robot, affectionately known as Conductor Jobot, stands guard near a decommissioned caboose just behind the coffee shop. The robot acts as conductor for the vintage rail car, which Courtney Nelson’s father acquired in the 1990s.
The robot, created by artist Baker Medlock, has become a bit of a mascot for the shop—so much so that the Nelsons commissioned Medlock to create another, smaller robot, for the coffee shop. Station 3 celebrates National Robot Day on September 26 with robot-themed coffees and merchandise.
Custom goods crafted by Courtney Nelson are also available in the shop. Beeswax lip balm, lamb’s wool dryer balls, cat toys, and handmade beaded earrings are products of the adjacent Twin Mill Farms.
The centerpiece of the coffee shop is, of course, the coffee, provided by Hammerhand Coffee out of Liberty, Missouri.
Merckens and Nelson pride themselves on sourcing their other treats locally as well. Baked goods are handmade by Scratch KC in North Kansas City, Missouri. Macro-friendly protein balls are provided by Lite Bites KC in Prairie Village. Kombucha is made by Daily Culture out of Kansas City, and teas are provided by North Kansas City purveyor Hugo Tea Co.
Station 3 offers a variety of coffee flavors, many of which change monthly or to reflect the season. All syrups are made in-house with simple and natural ingredients. Additionally, Station 3 uses compostable plastic cups and utensils, achieving the goals of being both eco-friendly and delicious.
Perhaps the best perks are that Station 3 fills a void within the Shawnee community and fosters a sense of community.
“We’ve heard from many of our customers that this is something that was needed—a local spot that is something other than a big chain,” says Merckens. “We have lots of regulars who come in. We know them by name, we know what they drink. You get that personal touch when you come here.”
“From a personal standpoint, it’s been really fun seeing the neighbors come in, and I get to know some of them,” says Courtney Nelson. “It feels good to provide a gathering spot for our community.”
19115 Midland Drive
913-210-0980
Open daily 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Local artist Jeremy Collins is the artist behind the large murals in and outside Station 3 Coffee.
The Nelsons reached out to Collins after seeing him drop a post on Instagram that floated the idea of painting the entire interior and exterior of a building.
Based in the Kansas City metro, Collins jumped at the opportunity to help the Nelsons give Station 3 a personal touch.
In addition to the sunflowers and Grand Canyon scene on the building’s exterior, Collins painted the café’s interior with a depiction of Little Mill Creek and Big Mill Creek, which converge on the property of Twin Creek Farms.
The shop’s dining room contains a mural of Bishop, California, a popular rockclimbing spot visited by Collins and one of the Nelson children.
“The Nelsons have been fantastic patrons of my work over the years and have a genuine desire to infuse art into their local community,” Collins says. “Before Station 3 was a coffee shop, it was a family clubhouse where they hosted guests. Not much has changed. It’s still a gathering place for those in their community, and it feels great to know I play a small part in adding to the vibe.”
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant comes home to Shawnee.
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant, a Kansas City staple, has been providing familyfriendly fun and delicious food since 1954. Founded by Fritz and Virginia Kropf, the restaurant is famous for its unique train delivery system and classic diner menu. Today, the restaurant remains a local icon, with locations in Crown Center, Kansas City, and Shawnee.
The story of Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant begins with Fritz Kropf, an entrepreneur with a passion for creating memorable experiences. After serving in the Navy during World War II, including an assignment on the USS San Francisco stationed at Pearl Harbor during the 1941 attack, Fritz returned to Kansas City with a dream of starting his own restaurant. In 1954, Fritz and Virginia opened their first 50s-style drive-in restaurant at 32nd and Brown Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas. It wasn’t long before Fritz’s became known for its old-fashioned hamburgers made with 100% choice ground beef, grilled onions seared in the meat, and toasted buns—just the way Fritz’s dad served them at his Kansas City, Kansas, location, John’s Place, beginning in the 1920s.
In the mid-1960s, Fritz expanded his business by opening a second location on 18th Street in Kansas City, Kansas. However, managing two restaurants proved to be a challenge, especially with the constant struggle to find reliable staff. To solve this issue, Fritz began experimenting with ways to automate food delivery. Working in the basement of his home, he developed a system that would later become the restaurant’s signature feature: the train delivery system.
Originally called the “Skat Kat,” the system was first introduced at the 18th Street location in the early 1970s. Initially, Fritz downplayed the railroad theme, but customers quickly embraced the concept. “He was always innovating and tinkering,” says Freddie Kropf, Fritz’s grandson. “His basement had the original train delivery concept that he built, and we loved spending time there as children. My grandfather was always ahead of his time, constantly thinking of ways to improve the business.”
The train delivery system soon became the distinctive trait of Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant, and, today, it’s difficult to imagine the restaurant without it. The trains, which deliver meals directly to the tables, have become a beloved part of the dining experience. Children and adults alike get a kick out of watching their food arrive by train, making it a tradition that brings joy to everyone who visits. Adding to the fun is the option to place your order using the phone at your table, dialing in for a unique and nostalgic experience.
Despite the novelty of the train delivery system, Fritz’s has never wavered in its commitment to quality. The restaurant’s menu features an array of classic American foods, from juicy burgers to creamy milkshakes, all made to order and served fresh. “We focus on providing a fun family experience and delicious food—the same way Fritz did in 1954,” Freddie says. This dedication to quality has ensured that customers receive the same high level of service that Fritz envisioned.
13803 W. 63rd St. Shawnee, KS 66216
913-375-1000
Monday: 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Tuesday: Friday: 7 a.m.–9 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m.–9 p.m.
Sunday: 8 a.m.–8:30 p.m.
Breakfast served until 11 a.m. Tuesday–Friday, and until 11:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.
In the mid-1980s, Fritz’s son, Fred, along with his wife, Mary, took over the business. Under their leadership, the restaurant expanded its reach. In 1999, they opened a location at Crown Center, followed by the Shawnee location in 2009. “Expanding to Shawnee was a big step for us,” Freddie says. “It allowed us to bring the Fritz’s experience to even more families in the Kansas City area.”
For the Kropf family, the Shawnee location holds special significance. “Fred and Mary raised our family in Shawnee, so opening a restaurant there felt like coming home,” Freddie says. The Shawnee location quickly became a local favorite, offering families a convenient way to enjoy the Fritz’s experience without making the trip to downtown Kansas City. “Having a location in Shawnee has expanded our customer base and provided local families with the opportunity to visit Fritz’s at any time,” Freddie says.
Fritz’s is still family-owned and operated, with the third generation of Kropfs now involved in the business. Freddie, who currently manages operations, is committed to preserving the traditions that have made Fritz’s a Kansas City icon while looking toward the future. “My goal is to continue to honor my grandfather’s original vision and values and to stay true to who we are: a small, family-owned business,” Freddie says. “We hope to be here for many generations to come.”
Fred and Mary Kropf were instrumental in the restaurant’s growth and success, ensuring that Fritz’s remained a family-run business even as it expanded. Today, the family’s legacy lives on in the quality of the food and the joyful atmosphere that has made Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant a Kansas City favorite for decades.
“We’re ‘full steam ahead,’ and we’re excited to see what the future holds for Fritz’s in Shawnee and beyond,” Freddie says.
For residents of Shawnee and the surrounding areas, Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a part of the community where memories are made and Fritz Kropf’s legacy lives on. With the dedication of the Kropf family and the support of loyal customers, Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant is sure to remain a beloved Kansas City fixture for years to come.
For a small city, when it comes to restaurants, Shawnee has big-city choices. No matter your craving, whether it’s a special occasion at Wandering Vine at the Castle, American fare at Pegah’s, or a burger and fries with the kids at Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant (turn to page 20), there’s something for every taste.
There are beloved classics like Old Shawnee Pizza, Hereford House, and Pine & Bamboo Garden as well as newer-to-Shawnee spots establishing their following, such as Mother Clucker! and McClain’s.
Learning I was to choose my favorite restaurants in Shawnee left me in a pickle. Should I highlight the historic spots locals have long cherished, or should I focus on the newer, contemporary eateries that bring fresh flavors to the city? I decided to offer a bit of both.
In this selection, you’ll find a mix of Shawnee’s time-honored favorites and the exciting new places quickly becoming part of our community’s culinary flavor.
10952 W. 74th Terrace
www.phogoodkc.com
Pho Good serves up some of the best pho in town, with deeply flavorful broth and perfectly cooked noodles. Their traditional Vietnamese dishes, particularly the beef pho, have become a go-to comfort food for many. With a welcoming atmosphere and consistent quality, Pho Good is my go-to for a soothing bowl of pho.
Kansas City knows barbecue, yet few agree on which place has the best—and what makes it so, whether it’s the sauce, the rub, or even the sides. In Shawnee, two favorites vie for my attention with their smoky goodness.
Bates City BBQ
6493 Quivira Road www.shawneesbatescitybbq.com
Bates City BBQ, a local institution for barbecue lovers, has offered mouthwatering smoked meats and classic sides for 24 years. Always a hit, their ribs and brisket are slow-cooked to perfection— with that signature Kansas City-style flavor Shawnee knows and loves. And speaking of sides, be sure to order an enormous portion of homemade french fries with a side of baked beans.
Blind Box BBQ
13214 W. 62nd Terrace
www.blindboxbbq.com
Known for its modern take on classic barbecue, Blind Box delivers tender, flavorful meats with a creative twist. Their burnt ends and pulled pork make Blind Box BBQ one of the top spots for barbecue in Shawnee, and, dare I say, in all of KC. With a laid-back atmosphere and robust menu, it’s a great place to enjoy a hearty meal with friends or family. Be sure to try the charcuterie board.
Aoyoma Ramen
13225 Shawnee Mission Parkway www.aoyamaramenshawnee.com
If you’re craving ramen, Aoyoma Ramen offers the perfect bowl. Aoyoma serves authentic flavors and tender noodles in a rich, savory broth. Whether you prefer tonkotsu or miso-based ramen, this spot provides a memorable dining experience.
Sushi Mido
6010 Nieman Road | www.sushimidoks.com
Glory Days Pizza
13107 Shawnee Mission Parkway www.glorydayspizza.com
While the first Glory Days Pizza opened in Topeka in 1985, this long-standing favorite is known for its homemade sauce, fresh dough, crispy crusts, and generous toppings. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic pepperoni or something more adventurous like their Baked Potato pizza (lattice-cut potatoes, three cheeses, ranch dressing and smoked bacon dressed with sour cream and chives), Glory Days delivers bold flavors and a friendly, casual vibe.
Pizza West
5436 Roberts Street www.gopizzawest.com
Sushi Mido has almost a cult following, and it’s well deserved (and worth the wait if you visit on a weekend evening). This spot is known for its fresh ingredients and extensive menu, including everything from classic rolls to creative specialty rolls. Their all-you-can-eat sushi option is particularly popular, but ordering à la carte is always a hit because their soups and appetizers make a meal on their own. Or enjoy one of their Japanese-style entrees served with rice and crab rangoon.
For a different slice, Pizza West offers a variety of creative and loaded options that keep customers coming back. Their specialty pies, like the Mill Valley Muchacho—their version of a taco pizza—stand out, and their cozy setting makes it an excellent spot for a casual pizza night.
Knub’s Pub
5386 Roberts Street www.knubspub.com
Since 2015, Knub’s Pub has been Shawnee’s go-to spot for burgers. Known for their juicy, hand-crafted burgers and laid-back pub atmosphere, Knub’s offers a delicious range of burger options that never disappoint. From the classic cheeseburger to inventive specialty burgers, they have something for every craving.
McLain’s Market
5833 Nieman Road www.mclainskc.com/shawnee
McClain’s Market moved to Shawnee in 2020, bringing an array of baked-daily pastries, cookies, and breads to the city. Their sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients, perfect for a quick lunch or a leisurely brunch. With a cozy atmosphere and friendly service, McLain’s Market is the perfect place to enjoy a sweet treat or a satisfying meal.
Jose Peppers
16605 Midland Drive www.josepeppers.com
Jose Pepper’s is a local staple in Mexican cuisine in Shawnee. Known for vibrant flavors and generous portions, this restaurant offers all the classics, from enchiladas to fajitas, along with some unique dishes that are local favorites. Their signature Espinaca Queso Dip is a must, and their margaritas perfectly complement a flavorful meal.
Shawnee tradition set for October 26.
The Holiday Treasures Craft Festival in Shawnee is a cherished community tradition that has grown and evolved over the years. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the festival is set for October 26. The festival was revived in 1999 thanks to Tonya Lecuru, the current Parks and Recreation director. Inspired by the retired Spirit of Shawnee Holiday Craft Festival that ended in the 1990s, Lecuru saw an opportunity to bring back a beloved fall tradition. Her dedication to the event has helped transform it into a highly anticipated occasion, drawing vendors and attendees from across the Kansas City metro area.
Located in the Shawnee Civic Centre, the annual festival hosts a wide range of creativity and craftsmanship. In recognizing the festival’s 25th anniversary, organizers saw it as a perfect time to celebrate the artisans who continue to create and sell handmade items. The event focuses on the variety and quality of crafts, with an impressive lineup of vendors offering everything from holiday décor and fine arts to wood crafts, jewelry, ceramics, candles, and floral arrangements.
For first-time attendees, it’s worth noting that the event tends to be busiest before and after lunch. Parks and Recreation recreation program manager Matt Mann, who is involved with the festival’s organization, advises arriving around noon or 3 p.m. to secure a closer parking spot. “The entrance to the Civic Centre is at the front, and there’s no lower entrance to the facility, so plan accordingly,” Mann says. The best part? There’s no admission fee, so visitors can simply head to 13817 Johnson Drive and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
One of the most appealing aspects of the festival is the emphasis on handmade items. All the participating vendors create their products themselves, ensuring that attendees are purchasing original, high-quality crafts. From traditional jewelry makers and wood turners to those offering more contemporary items, such as 3D-printed creatures and charcuterie boards, there’s something for everyone.
Among the many talented vendors is Brenda Mize, who has been participating in the Shawnee Holiday Treasures Craft Festival for 18 years. What began as a hobby for Mize—creating unique craft items for friends and family— quickly turned into a business.
“Focusing on craft shows and custom orders allows me to create unique items and the flexibility to work on orders around my daily schedule,” Mize says. This year, her booth will feature a variety of holiday paper crafts, earrings, ornaments, laser-engraved trivets, coasters, and serving boards. “Our most popular items are our cork trivets, which we laser engrave with funny sayings or trending images. We try to offer a few new items each year along with our usual crafts,” she says.
Mize’s favorite part of the festival is her connection with customers. “The Shawnee Civic Center staff really makes it a seamless process, and all the vendors are so friendly. But the best part is when the customers step into our booth and find joy in our products. Many customers say they come every year to buy items for friends, family, teachers, students, and events. That connection makes all the hard work worth it,” she says.
The festival is not just a professional opportunity for Mize; it’s also personally significant. “The first time I participated in the festival was just to get myself outside of my comfort zone. It has evolved into a business that allows me to create and sell products that make others happy. It’s a group effort with my husband, sons, and a close friend all working together to make it happen. We look forward to seeing all the familiar faces every year at the craft festival.”
What sets the Holiday Treasures Craft Festival apart from other craft shows is its combination of community spirit and convenience. Since it’s held indoors, attendees can count on being able to shop comfortably, regardless of the weather.
Shawnee Civic Centre 12817 Johnson Drive
Call Matt Mann with questions or for more information, 913-742-6405 Visit www.cityofshawnee.org and search for Holiday Treasures Craft Festival
The festival showcases the talent of local crafters, and a local Boy Scout troop offers concessions, making it easy to grab a meal or treat while shopping.
As the festival celebrates its 25th year, its organizers are excited about the possibilities for the future. Mann shares that there are hopes to enhance the holiday atmosphere in the coming years, perhaps with live music or a visit from Santa.
The Holiday Treasures Craft Festival is a testament to the appeal of handmade crafts and the importance of community support. Whether you’re a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, the festival offers a unique opportunity to discover beautiful, one-of-a-kind items while supporting local small businesses. As Mize says, “It’s a gift that keeps on giving,” and for the Shawnee community, it’s a tradition worth celebrating.
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