FOOD & DRINK
Brunch and Ballads for All Who Enter THE PHOENIX BRINGS CLASSIC COMFORT AND MUSICAL VERSATILITY TOGETHER By Liz Goodwin The Phoenix has a history of throwing down. Although this jazz bar and eatery didn’t come into its current form until 1990, the building’s roots go back another century. It’s been a party spot of sorts for decades, but its modern era is bringing folks together in the name of music, French toast, and signature old fashioneds. The staple institution draws everyone from grandmothers in their Sunday best, to young couples recovering from a long night (or still in the midst), to families stopping in for music and mimosas. No matter who you are, the staff will treat you like a regular until you become one. “The staff is really the reason everyone comes back,” says Carisa Lynch, general manager at The Phoenix. “If you don’t have great service, then you have nothing. It’s totally about the experience.” That’s something that Lynch, affectionately known by her bar nickname as “Cola,” takes to heart. Her jovial laugh and remembrance of your drink order embodies the ethos of the joint: comfort. It’s reflected in both the music and the menu, with an offering for everyone. The bands vary in genre and overall vibe, bringing in a Broadway-style party and often transporting listeners back to the 1940s with the echo of brass instruments. Regular acts include Tayla Groves, Tim Reid Jr., and Millie Edwards with Dan Sturdevant. “I want people to come because they love music, they’re comfortable, and they’re having a great time,” says Lynch. “We want to have a good mix because we want it to be
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THE PITCH | July 2022 | THEPITCHKC.COM
an open environment where there is something for everyone.” The daily menu is an homage to your favorite diner with a few twists, sampling bar staples like sliders and buffalo chicken wraps while venturing into other territories. Lynch’s personal favorite is the Phoenix Mac made with wine and garlic. All of the offerings are fresh to order, and the portions are huge, to put it lightly. “I wanted it to be a big plate. It’s always been about comfort and sharing,” Lynch says. “Our chicken tender basket, alone, gets people calling us crazy. We want it to be enough to where you take your time and, of course, get some leftovers to bring back with you.” If you find yourself lucky enough to get a table for weekend brunch, you’ll see similar stick-to-your-ribs dishes like chicken and waffles, biscuits and gravy, and even a
THE PHOENIX 302 W 8th St. Kansas City, MO 64105
