The Pitch: Best of Kansas City 2023 by The Pitch KC

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CHRISTMAS AT RESURRECTION 2023 Join us for this great y a t d r i l a o dit ion! h y l i m a f

SING CHOIRS OF

DECEMBER 7–10 ChristmasatResurrection.org THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

November 2023 THEPITCHKC.COM

4 LETTER Editor-in-Chief Brock Wilbur President & Chief Operating Officer Andrew Miller Director of Marketing & Promotions Jason Dockery Managing Editor Steph Castor Community Manager & Food Editor Sarah Sipple Sales Executive Erin Carey Music Editor Nick Spacek Film Editor Abby Olcese Little Village Creative Services Jordan Sellergren Art Director Cassondra Jones Contributing Writers Michael Mackie, Barb Shelly, Beth Lipoff, Kristen Thomas, Jordan Baranowski, Lauren Textor, Adrian Torres, Kate Frick, Scott Poore, Hana Kim, Patrick Sprehe, Ivy Anderegg, Tyler Schneider Editorial Interns Mar’Che Boggess, Joe Ellett, Emily Jacobs, Hayden Kalp, Zoe Strohm Contributing Photographers Zach Bauman, Brooke Tramel, Maura Dayton, Isabella Galvan, Allison Scavo, Pilsen Photo Co-op Contributing Designers and Illustrators Alex Peak, Jake Edmisten

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DISTRIBUTION The Pitch distributes 20,000 copies a month and is available free throughout Greater Kansas City, limited to one copy per reader. Additional copies may be purchased for $5 each, payable at The Pitch’s office in advance. The Pitch may be distributed only by The Pitch’s authorized independent contractors or authorized distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of The Pitch, take more than one copy of each week’s issue. Mail subscriptions: $22.50 for six months or $45 per year, payable in advance. Application to mail at second-class postage rates is pending at Kansas City, MO 64108.

Letter from the Editor High Scores Ahead In the unending side-scroller of life in the big city, this is our chance to come together as a community and celebrate the folks and businesses who earned the chance for (temporary) immortality by inputting their initials. BY BROCK WILBUR

6 BEST OF KANSAS CITY 2023

Our Picks From the rock stars on the football field to actual rock stars—with some crossover—here’s what made 2023 a raucous time for the writers of this magazine. BY THE PITCH STAFF

16 Your Picks

The metro cast 679,500 votes in 505 categories to signify every standout from “Best Bartender” to “Best Doctor” to “Best Place to Shake Your Booty”—and everything in between. BY PITCH READERS

Cover by Cassondra Jones

Letter from the Editor High Scores Ahead By Brock Wilbur Greetings, dear reader, and welcome to our favorite issue of the year. For 43 years, The Pitch has been a cornerstone of the KC community, from its humble beginnings at Penny Lane Records to the multi-faceted outlet you know and love today. As is tradition, we always put together a “Best Of” magazine that takes an extensive look at everything that makes this metro—and its surrounding areas—one of the greatest places in America to live/visit/celebrate/get rekt/fall in love/lose your mind/go hard in the paint. This yearly tentpole issue serves as both a victory lap to all those involved and as a beacon that welcomes new blood to the city. I should know, as a Best Of issue picked up during a visit to KC was a cornerstone in the decision of my wife and I uprooting our lives from Los Angeles to come be part of

this absolute rager happening in the center of everything. As per usual, the issue is divided right down the middle. In the “Our Picks” section, the writers from The Pitch tossed out some thoughts and feelings on what we thought made KC into the all-star that she was this year—from our favorite rock stars on the football field to our favorite rock stars who blew stadiums away. Yes, obviously there’s a little crossover between those two subjects these days, which also just absolutely rips. In the “Your Picks” section, the people of KC cast 679,500 votes in 505 categories, selecting their favorite people, restaurants, creators, businesses, and places to just get weird. The second half of the issue is fully hands-off from our internal team, and no weight was placed on any of the scales. The winners and runners-up in these categories were 1000% picked by the city after rounds of nomination and voting. Does this magazine include every local hero and all that they did? Absolutely not. Is this the definitive list of the only people and businesses that are making a difference? Absolutely not. Is this a parade that we get to throw to celebrate the hard work

and unyielding dedication of more people than there is space for naming them? Absolutely yes. One of the reasons we went with this year’s arcade-based theme is that we look at this write-up a bit like the disco cyberspace of a mall games emporium. There’s a marketplace of ideas here, with hundreds of machines to play and so many worlds to see. In each of those spaces, this is a chance for the champions of 2023 to input their initials next to their high score—to be looked upon and adored by all those who step up to try their hand next. But what’s most important here is that these high scores are transitional. This is a city full of new players on the come-up, with quarters stacked next to the screen to indicate that they’ve got next. If your name isn’t sitting at No. 1 in the category where you regularly compete, well, we cannot wait to see what new techniques you bring to the battle in 2024. Pitch in and we’ll make it through,

COPYRIGHT The contents of The Pitch are Copyright 2023 by The Pitch LLC. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without the express written permission of the publisher. The Pitch 3543 Broadway Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64111 For information or to share a story tip, email: tips@thepitchkc.com For advertising: andrew@thepitchkc.com or 816-218-6792

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Saltwell Farm Kitchen launches relief fundraiser after devastating fire

Saltwell Farm Kitchen is a farm-to-table experience that has been near and dear to our hearts for the past two years. In the early hours of October 1, the Overbrook, Kansas farmhouse suffered a fire that damaged the kitchen, prep area, bathrooms, equipment, ingredients, art, and heirloom trinkets passed down by family and community members. On October 3, owner Shantel Grace wrote a lengthy and heartfelt social media post sharing her thoughts on the incident, thanking staff, guests, first responders, local businesses, and friends of friends for their support. “We’re quickly learning that being vulnerable and asking for help to get through life’s difficulties is a part of life, especially for small businesses like us, who exist not because of pockets of money but rather only because of hard work and gumption,” Grace states. The post also included a link to a GoFundMe to help cover lost hours and wages while the staff is out of work that insurance otherwise will not cover due to the nontraditional nature of the homestead/farm/restaurant. Follow the link to learn more about Saltwell’s efforts to move forward and rebuild. Saltwell Farm Kitchen owners Shantel Grace and Rozz Petrozz in April 2022. Steph Castor

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Just like the trees, let’s make a change!

No overnight stays! Convenient Lenexa Location

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BLACK-OWNED BREWERY BREAKS BEER BARRIERS Co-founded by Kemet Coleman, Elliot Ivory, and Woodie Bonds Jr., Vine Street Brewing Company is the first Black-owned brewery in Missouri. They attracted national fanfare with their grand opening in the historic 18th & Vine district back in June, meeting with Vice President Kamala Harris prior to the event. Located within the former Street Department public works building, the brewery features historic limestone architecture covered in graffiti and large arched windows with local artwork. In addition to the upstairs brewery, there’s a downstairs space called The Groove Room—an outdoor beer garden and green space to host events. The building also houses the Warren Harvey Art Gallery and The Prospect KC, both Black-owned businesses. Coleman worked for Boulevard Brewing Company and was inspired to start his own when he learned that African women were the first to brew beer. He met Bonds while working at Boulevard. Bonds was a homebrewer at the time and founded KC’s first hiphop beer festival, Hip Hops Hooray. Ivory was a project manager at Honeywell and had been brewing under the name Wiz Brewing. He joined the project later, meeting Coleman through Bonds, whom he had met at a micro beer festival in KC. The three of them came together to bring their vision to fruition. True to their own roots and the jazz roots of the neighborhood, they’ve made music a major focus of the events, hosting concerts and listening parties in the downstairs and outdoor spaces. They do Thirst Fridays, which include live music, art, food, and board games. Many of the beer names are also music-inspired, including their debut beer, The Jazzman Black Lager. Another beer, the Black is Beautiful Vol. 2 IPA, was released in collaboration with the National Black Brewers

“Best New Brewery” winner Vine Street Brewing Co. Courtesy Kansas City Area Development Council

Association (NB2A) and coincided with the release of Coleman’s new EP, Black is Beautiful 2. The owners of Vine Street Brewing hope they will inspire other Black brewers and that Black-owned breweries will come to be a much larger part of the beer scene.

LEGAL WEED STAMPEDE Missouri took immense steps within the cannabis industry in 2023 when the first legal and licensed sale of recreational cannabis took place February 3 of this year. The state’s economy brought in over $5 million in gross sales on the first day, according to KMBC. Since 2020, Missouri has raised nearly $1.5 billion in total sales as of August 2023, according to Missouri’s Division of Cannabis Regulations. But dispensary sales are not the only thing keeping the cannabis industry afloat in Kansas City. Multiple events have been held in the city in an attempt to bring marijuana enthusiasts together in safe spaces. Large events such as the Major Cannabis Expo, Cannafest, and 420 Fest were a few of the

bigger cannabis commencements. After a successful first year of recreational legalization, Kansas City and Missouri as a whole are eager to continue raking in dough from those searching for relief through cannabis.

ELIZABETH DANIEL’S THROWBACK TO THE FUTURE Tucked away in Tonganoxie, KS, lives Elizabeth Daniel in what appears to be a house of wonders. Complete with a ‘sherage’ (like a garage, but with a twist) and a giant Lorax, you can find just about anything you need for an anachronistic photo montage… and then some. When The Pitch initially met Daniel, her home was in the midst of transformation for our June 2023 cover shoot. Need your backyard turned into a cookout ad straight from the ‘60s/’70s? Daniel is your best bet. While setting up for the shoot, it was as if she could read everyone’s mind. Daniel would pop in with an “I have one of those in my garage” before ever

Elizabeth Daniel “takes a call” in her vintage dining booth. Pilsen Photo Co-op

being asked, and sure enough, it would meet the exact vision. Since our June drag BBQ photoshoot, local director and producer Christopher Good (Kevin Morby, Joyce Manor, Yeah Yeah Yeahs) has been in touch with Daniel to help stage an upcoming film he’s been working on. While Daniel’s home is now Kansas City’s unofficial prop house, she has one main goal: to get people to thrift more. A firm believer that you can find anything secondhand, she wants to inspire others to do their own vintage shopping, find the things that would otherwise end up on the curb, and turn them into home decor treasures.

KC TENANTS CLEANED HOUSE IN PERSON AND IN ELECTIONS We’re not ashamed to admit that KC Tenants seems to make our Best of Kansas City editorial list every year. With what they’ve been able to ac-

KC Tenants Power. Courtesy Twitter THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

complish since they helped establish the Tenant Bill of Rights with the city in 2019, few would argue the nonprofit tenant union’s efforts don’t already place them amongst the top regional political efforts of the decade. After securing a $50 million bond “to house the people” in Nov. 2022, The Tenants continued to rack up wins this year through a new sister organization, KC Tenants Power. The legislative arm of the organization hit the scene “focused on winning governing power for tenants.” In a wildly successful citywide effort, the faction issued its own endorsements in the June 20 City Council election. A definitive win came in the city’s 6th District, where KC Tenants Power leader and Iraq veteran Jonathan Duncan earned 56.50% of the vote to cap a 13-point upset over longtime Jackson County Legislator Dan T. Tarwater III. Duncan’s success here was the headliner, but perhaps equally as impressive was the margin by which another KC Tenant leader, Jenay Manley, lost to a candidate with significantly greater resources in the 2nd District AtLarge race. Pulling ahead by just 1,304 votes, Lindsay French (51.61%, 20,937 votes) topped Manley (48.39%. 19,633) in what should be remembered as a moral victory for the movement. To become substantial enough in message and organization to garner an actual city council seat in a matter of just five years is not the norm in the political

world. This movement is special, and we, as Kansas Citians, should continue to recognize and appreciate that.

DRAFT FEVER OFFERS A GLIMPSE OF OUR WORLD STAGE PROWESS Kansas City became the seventh city to host the National Football League Draft from April 27-29, drawing 312,000 fans to the National WWI Museum and Union Station campus and generating $164.3 million for the local economy. The latter figure topped the widely circulated projection of $100 million, while the former swung right on the prospect of bucking the attendance record of 600,000 set by Nashville in 2019. With a footprint of 3.1 million square feet, the NFL Draft was also notable in that it served as the largest site in the event’s 88-year history (and also marked the first time the ceremonies occurred in the same city that won the Super Bowl that year). With visitors praising the experience, the city has expressed interest in hosting the event again in the future. Before that can happen, though, we can’t pretend we didn’t want the 2026 World Cup—because we got it. With games set to be hosted at a revamped Arrowhead Stadium that year, KC is

busy setting in motion plans to shine on an international scale, with efforts bound to ramp up as the date gets closer. In late September, a delegation of over 30 FIFA organizers visited the City of Fountains to assess our preparation. Local businesses are now vying to become base camps for national teams looking to centralize themselves between the 16 North American host cities. KC is one of 11 such cities in the United States. Like it or not, major sporting events look to remain a fixture in our city for decades to come.

OUR DIRELY NEEDED NEW AIRPORT MAKES FLIGHT DELAYS MUCH EASIER TO STOMACH

Last February, the long-anticipated new airport terminal finally opened. In sharp contrast to the dark and crowded horseshoe terminals of the old airport, the new terminal has larger waiting areas around each of the 39 gates, along with open hallways, all-glass jet bridges, and a sky bridge with two moving walkways connecting the two concourses. Another issue with the old airport was the lack of restroom facilities, which the new airport rectifies with family restrooms, multi-user re-

Taylor Swift at sold-the-fuck-out Arrowhead Stadium in July. Chris Ortiz

strooms, gendered restrooms, service animal relief areas, and water bottle stations. There are 10 rooms for nursing mothers and infants as well. The new terminal features 50 places to eat and shop, with many of these being local businesses. This includes a miniature City Market at the center of the airport that includes Pigwich, Buffalo State Pizza, Taste of Brazil, and Bo Ling’s. We also love the addition of a Pitch convenience store. Notably, a large majority of these are inside the security checkpoint, so no need to worry about having to ditch purchased food or drink items. One of the most controversial aspects of the new airport, which has drawn a torrent of complaints on social media platforms, is the new pick-up/ drop-off area. Previously, it had been easy for people to simply pull up their cars and wait for the person they were picking up. Now, there are separate levels for arriving and departing flights, and these areas are smaller by comparison when considering that they serve the entire airport. People who are picking up passengers have been advised to park and wait in the cell phone lot, which is roughly a three-minute drive from the airport, where parking is free for an hour. The pick-up/drop-off areas continue to be congested and have long wait times, but are slowly improving as people get the hang of it. Aside from a few kinks, the new airport is a major improvement. New flights have already been added since the terminal opened, with more to come. It will much better serve KC and accommodate its growth—especially the large influx of visitors for the World Cup in 2026—and now provides a much better first impression of our city to first-time visitors. NFL Draft 2023 at Union Station. Chris Ortiz

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

James Beard “Outstanding Bakery” Award-winner Yoli Tortilleria is giving nixtamal and rainbows. Zach Bauman

TAYLOR SWIFT KINDA-SORTA LIVES HERE NOW Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour stop the weekend of July 7-8 sent Kansas City into a frenzy. She announced a new song and music video and brought Taylor Lautner and Joey King up on stage to celebrate with her. Jennifer Garner and Presley Cash were also spotted at the show with their fair share of friend-

ship bracelets. North Kansas City Mayor Bryant DeLong even renamed two streets off Armour Road: “Honorary Swift Street (Taylor’s Version)” and “Honorary Cornelia Street.” Not only were these shows a major Swiftie event, but they had a huge economic impact on the city itself. Mayor Quinton Lucas announced that both shows resulted in a $47.8 million dollar boost to the economy. On July 7, Speak Now (Taylor’s Version) was released, just in time for

her July 8 performance of her secret song “Last Kiss.” The Koi Fish Guitar that had been displayed in the Country Music Hall of Fame was removed for this song, being played for the first time since the 2012 Speak Now World Tour. These shows also lead to our very own Chiefs player Travis Kelce attempting to shoot his shot with a friendship bracelet with his phone number. While he didn’t get a chance to pass it on to her at the show, the attempt was noticed, and dating rumors began to fly, coming to a head with Taylor being seen sitting with Donna Kelce at multiple Chiefs games. They reportedly paid for the dinners of everyone at Prime Social and were eventually seen confirming the relationship by holding hands in public in New York following a mid-October SNL appearance. You could say Kansas City is in its “Red Era.”

ZAMBEZI ZINGER ZIPS THROUGH TIME

If you were a kid in Kansas City in the ‘80s and ‘90s, the Zambezi Zinger was a staple of Worlds of Fun. As one of

the first three original coasters in the park, no wonder it was one of the most popular rides. In 1997, WOF made the decision to relocate the ride to Montenegro, Colombia, much to the disappointment of parkgoers. For its 50th anniversary, Worlds of Fun opted to bring its most remembered ride back to its original location. This steel-wood hybrid coaster reopened for business on June 19 and was greeted with a warm welcome from those who remember the ride as a kid and those who have yet to experience it.

YOLI TORTILLERIA BRINGS HOME FIRST EVER JAMES BEARD AWARD FOR “OUTSTANDING BAKERY” Kansas City’s special spot for tortillas in Westside isn’t a secret anymore. The national spotlight is shining on Yoli Tortilleria after it took the first-ever

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“Outstanding Bakery” award from the James Beard Foundation, a category introduced earlier this year. Co-owner Marissa Gencarelli credits a lot of the quality of Yoli’s tortillas to sourcing good, local ingredients and combining that with traditional Mexican methods. She says that many people think the only way to make an authentic tortilla is to use Mexican corn, but in Marissa’s view, that’s a mistake. By shipping it in from so far away, the corn can lose its flavor. Marissa estimates they get through 15,000 pounds of corn every week. They’ve been partnering with the University of Missouri’s College of Agriculture to find new varieties that can work for Yoli’s products. If all this has your mouth watering for tortillas, you can pick some up at Yoli’s retail location at 1668 Jefferson St. #100, Kansas City, MO 64108. You can also visit them at the Overland Park Farmers’ Market or sample some at local restaurants such as Chicken N Pickle and Tiki Taco.

LIGHT THE LAMP Since formally incorporating as a league in May of 2022, the Kansas City Women’s Hockey League has provided women throughout the metro the opportunity to find themselves and gain confidence while learning a new sport. Team leaders focus their efforts on creating a supportive environment for new players so women of any skill level feel empowered to play. While there are games against local men’s recreation teams and other women’s teams across the region, the KCWHL isn’t about winning. Instead, it’s about developing skills and a love of hockey. The league encourages and accepts new members at any time of the year. Practices and scrimmages run on Saturdays at 5 p.m. at the Line Creek Community Center, with games and other learning opportunities set throughout the schedule.

case, it’s also a wildly disconnected summation of how great this team has been. KC is known for finding ways to make its own fun around perennially losing squads, but you’d be hardpressed to say many of the Current matches this year felt like anything except strong victories. Sure, we were hampered by some injuries, and more than once it appeared like our happygo-lucky crowd might not let a ref leave the stadium alive, but KC Current made for some of our favorite nights and afternoons in 2023. On the pitch, Lo’eau LaBonta, Alex Spaanstra, Cece Kizer, Michelle Cooper, Mimmi Larsson, and Kristen Hamilton were nothing less than bright shining stars. AD Franch didn’t get the season she deserved, and few things felt as otherworldly powerful as screaming “DEBINHA!” after one of her many goals or assists. But as is always the case, the Current is so much more than the players on the green. KC Blue Crew leads the crowd chants and drumline music that fills the stadium, and their dedication to the craft of supporting our heroes in song earned them a full feature in our May issue. Assistant Coach Caroline Sjöblom was called up to head coach, after the team parted ways on a game day with former coach Matt Potter. Back in January, Brittany Mahomes was joined in co-ownership of the club by new investor Patrick Ma-

KC CURRENT ELECTRIFIES EVEN IN A REBUILDING YEAR, WHILE BUILDING ITS OWN STADIUM

In the NWSL 2023 season, KC Current placed 11th out of 12 teams in women’s soccer. “We didn’t take dead last!” is rarely a good rallying cry, but in this Patrick Mahomes and team celebrate Chiefs’ Super Bowl LVII win in February. Jim Nimmo

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

Chiefsaholic in his wolf disguise. Illustration by W David Keith

homes, whose name might be familiar from other regional sports activities. The final touches are also being put on the new CPKC Stadium that the Current will occupy next season—the first stadium built for a women’s professional sports team. In keeping with the team’s ethos, the venue will give back to the community in so many ways, as it will also serve as a concert venue and weekend farmer’s market. We’d love to see the new Royals stadium strive to be anything as utilitarian as that!

YET ANOTHER SUPER BOWL RING TO ADD TO OUR COLLECTION The Kansas City Chiefs continue to produce success for football lovers in the city. After experiencing a devastating loss to the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2021 AFC Championship, the Chiefs bounced back during the 2022-23 season, defeating the Philadelphia Eagles in the Super Bowl. With much talk and speculation that the Chiefs would not be a top-tier team after trading Tyreek Hill, Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes quickly si-

lenced those rumors with a 14-3 season. Nick Bolton, Trent McDuffie, Isiah Pacheco, George Karlaftis, and Jaylen Watson are just five of the many young pivotal players who helped this team bring back hardware to the city. Of course, we would have never been able to go on to win a Super Bowl Championship without stars quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce. This dynamic duo is the foundation of Chiefs football, and it is pretty clear to see. With the loss of Hill, Kelce knew that he would need to take on an even heavier workload, which he did with ease, finishing the season with over 1,300 yards and 12 touchdowns. Mahomes continued his hall-of-fame

A full spread at “Best New Restaurant” winner Barbacoa. Brooke Tramel

ments to enjoy at your leisure. Nostalgia Room is designed as a resort for the sober and sober-curious. Careful scrutiny is implemented with each concoction, dedicated to the absence of mind-altering substances. This way, all guests are welcome to enjoy a night out without the anxiety or consequences of intoxicative ingredients.

AZTEC SHAWNEE THEATER BRINGS LIVE MUSIC TO THE ‘BURBS

run of a career, accumulating 5,250 passing yards and 41 touchdowns to regain the MVP crown. As the Chiefs start the 2023-24 season off, the future looks bright for another memorable Super Bowl run for the football-loving city.

CHIEFSAHOLIC TURNED SUPERFANDOM INTO WOLF DAY AFTERNOON With the continued success of the Kansas City Chiefs, fandom in the city has reached an all-time high. So towering that one diehard fan even turned to robbing banks, as long as it meant that he could watch his beloved football team take the field on Sundays. Xaviar Babudar, better known as ChiefsAholic, received national publicity last December for all of the wrong things. He was charged with bank robbery in Tulsa County, Oklahoma, after he had allegedly robbed the Tulsa Teachers Federal Credit Union, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Babudar was released on bond in February of this year and later removed his ankle monitor in an attempt to flee prosecution in March. Three months later, he was found in Lincoln, California, and taken into custody once again. In August, Badudar was indicted on one count of bank theft, three counts of armed bank robbery, four counts of transporting stolen property across state lines, and 11 counts of

money laundering. He pleaded not guilty to all charges, and his trial is set for January 8, 2024.

VIBES ON VIBES ON VIBES AT LE LOUNGE

All the cool kids hang out at Le Lounge—it’s one of the Crossroads’ hidden gems, located in the upstairs portion of boutique hotel, No Vacancy. Le Lounge has indoor and outdoor seating and a rotating bar menu. Rich textures and eclectic art welcome you into the narrow space with booths and bistro tables. DJs, unique food vendors, and expert bartenders pop in for evening service. The offerings vary by week, but in general, the lounge is open Thursday nights from 5-11 p.m. Keep an eye on their Instagram account (@le___lounge) for details. A $5 cover will be added to your tab—a small price to pay for a spot at the most relaxed little hangout. No reservations are required—simply meander in through the alley door and up the wooden staircase.

MONARCHS REIGN AS ROYALTY WITH CHAMPIONSHIP SEASON While Kansas City’s beloved Royals have continued their run of disappointment, the Kansas City Monarchs gave baseball fans in the city something to cheer about. On the west side of the metro in Legends Field, the

Monarchs finished the regular season 59-40, claiming the best record in the American Association of Professional Baseball. They then went on to beat the Chicago Dogs 3-1 in the Miles Wolff Cup Finals to be crowned American Association champions. Catcher Chris Herrmann, second baseman Justin Wylie, catcher and infielder Gavin Collins, and pitchers Jalen Miller, Trey Jeans, and Grant Gavin paved the way for the team this year after all were selected as all-stars. Their stellar performance this year season ensured a playoff run for the team and ultimately propelled them to win it all in September. Manager Joe Calfapietra secured his third championship with the team, previously winning in 2018 and 2021.

A TASTE OF NOSTALGIA After a decade in the making, in late 2022, owner Emily Kate Johnson was able to form Nostalgia Room—the first fully temperate bar in Lawrence. Located at 412 E 9th St., the bar and coffee lounge was born from a woven community and family—a love letter to those with us, entranced in a homely atmosphere and conversation, and those we remember sitting idly in our countertop picture frames or loveseat mementos. The menu features thoughtfully selected spirits and sophisticated, handmade elixirs and coffee creations. The walls are dressed with a rotating display of local artists, and the recently added bottleshop offers take-home souvenirs and imbibe-

Closed since 1974, Aztec Shawnee Theater reopened in the winter of 2020 after three years of renovations. It’s been a slow come-up since, but over the past year, the Aztec Shawnee Theater has not only become a place for film lovers to catch classic flicks but for music lovers to catch shows outside the hustle and bustle of the Crossroads. The mix of cover bands and original music sell the place out on a regular basis, thanks to booking acts as varied as country duo Jenna & Martin, punks Sirens in the Suburbs, or tributes to the Judds, KISS, Tom Petty, Hall & Oates, and every other act under the sun. Add in the healthy support of their fellow local businesses and a robust social media presence, and heading down Johnson Drive seems like a better idea every weekend.

ROMAN RAYA’S BARBACOA KNOWS THAT THE SPICE MUST FLOW Barbacoa was a unanimous staff pick— turns out it was your pick, too. Chef Roman Raya has always been driven to bring his nostalgic favorites to life on the plate and then to share those tastes with others. He believes he now has the vehicle to do just that with Barbacoa, his new restaurant located on the corner of 55th and Troost and winner of “Best New Restaurant” in 2023. After trying most of Barbacoa’s drinks and dishes, we’re inclined to agree. Barbacoa hits the sweet spot of being experientially casual, but a well-crafted menu and expert service make it feel special. The limited menu of chef-driven dishes is thoughtfully built for brunch, dinner, and cocktails. Raya and his brother, Phillip, are co-owners, and they run the kitchen at Barbacoa as executive chef and THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

Missouri Senator Greg Razer hit up a local farmer’s market. Zach Bauman

with 18-year Japanese whiskey, oxidized Syrah, coconut sugar, mirin, and bonito-infused Campari.

CHAMOY BOI SERVES UP FUEGO SNACKS AND FAMILY ROOTS

sous chef. Mixing up a devilishly delicious drink menu is another co-owner, Madeline Buechter. The menu is inspired by the Mexican flavors and dishes that the Raya brothers grew up enjoying at backyard family gatherings. That said, Raya wants to clarify the style of cooking the restaurant is doing. “Barbecue means a lot of things to a lot of people, especially in Kansas City,” he says. “Our dishes are inspired by the flavors of traditional Mexican food, told through the cooking style of barbecue. You’re going to get a lot of smoky, tender meats. You’re going to get a huge depth of flavor. There are a lot of spices and a lot of big, bold tastes. This is the type of food I remember from my childhood, but elevated and adapted for a new audience.”

MERCURY ROOM IS NEVER IN RETROGRADE

Remember lunchroom currency? Sometimes, it was a Pop-Tart, a stowaway mini-candy bar, or, if you were super lucky, a package of Gushers. With their bright colors, gooey center, and flavor mash-ups, Gushers were a hot commodity in the ‘90s. Fast forward to treat-yo-self adult snack time, and you have the intersection of sweet, spicy, and salty Chamoy Boi candy. The craving-crusher pop-up was founded by Michael Ho during the pandemic following a nail salon shut-down. He needed to make money and thought, “I should make some candy.” One batch and a social media post later, and here we are. Chamoy Boi candies marry Vietnamese, Mexican, Cambodian, and Thai cultures to form mouthwatering morsels and his newest development: Red Honey. Yes, you can buy chamoy by the bottle. We recommend putting it on literally everything.

GREG RAZER AND THE FIGHT FOR ACCEPTANCE

In the midst of transgender rights being stripped from Missouri and Kansas youth, Missouri Senator Greg Razer has

The Mercury Room in the Crossroads is the closest thing you can get to sitting in the stars. Nested on top of the Reverb Apartments at 18th and Walnut, the high-end bar overlooks the hustle and bustle of the nightlife below. At 800 square feet, the venue seats 28 guests and includes a small patio. The ceiling is lined with over 9,000 LED lights, which reflect off the floor-to-ceiling windows, shiny black floor, and reflective bar and tables to mimic the feeling of being amongst the cosmos. Apologies, casual bar-goers—reservations are necessary. Standard reservations require a $20 deposit per person and a three-course cocktail tasting at a $75 deposit per person. Cocktails start at $20, with the most expensive being the Lux Perpetua at $52, made An assortment of flavor bombs by Chamoy Boi. Zach Bauman

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

been one of the leading voices standing up against the recent changes. The push against the trans youth community by the two states initially stripped access to school bathrooms that aligned with an individual’s gender identity, but as residents of the neighboring states have seen throughout the year, it has not stopped there. In April, Kansas passed laws that banned trans athletes from competing in any organized women’s sports between the early elementary years up to collegiate level play. Along with this, they also banned gender-affirming care for transgender youth, placing restrictions on puberty blockers, hormone prescriptions, and gender-affirming surgeries. In June, Missouri took the same path, making these states two of 24 total states that have placed bans on either gender-affirming care, sports participation, or both, according to the Human Rights Campaign. Razer, who grew up as a closeted gay in Cooter, Missouri, has been one of the lead voices in the Missouri Senate fighting for equal rights for transgender youth. As a lead advocate who can truly empathize with trans youth in the state, Razer has been at the forefront of the battle for obtaining equal opportunities for these individuals.

HALLEY VINCENT IS THE SHAPE OF PUNKS TO COME

Teenage activist and entrepreneur Halley Vincent is making waves in the Shawnee community by spearheading literacy in her neighborhood and beyond. After spending much of her time

volunteering at her local animal shelter reading books to dogs and cats awaiting homes, she knew she had to take her passion full force. At eight years old, she founded her nonprofit organization, Paws Up KC, with a mission to tackle community service issues of animal adoption and literacy at the same time. All of the organization’s proceeds go towards local charities such as Chain of Hope, Great Plains SPCA, and the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City. “I think people don’t realize that books, literacy, and animals really do connect in many ways,” says Halley. “I like to say that the same people that have a stack of books next to their beds are usually the same people that have a cat in their lap or a dog at their feet.” To further expand her mission, Vincent put Paws Up KC on wheels by transforming a broken lawn mower into a bookmobile, which she uses to provide free books to the community while seeking donations to benefit local animal shelters. In addition to her nonprofit, Halley has also worked to fight injustices in her local community. One of the most notable is moving Shawnee Mission North High School to change its mascot after nearly 100 years in 2021.

POURING ONE OUT FOR THE TOILET BOWL’S FINAL FLUSH Fem-ran, pro-LGBTQ+ icon venue Toilet Bowl has sadly flushed for the final time. For the community, it’s like losing a limb. Operating as a safe-space music venue spawned from the sewage

of a once-flooded basement, the Toilet Bowl was a haven for musicians all throughout the KC and LFK scene. The notoriety of the Toilet Bowl was forged by word of mouth and a sizable but tight-knit Instagram following. After a year of serving and fortifying the community, persistent police presence, among other things, caused the Bowl to shut its doors. Although the greater KC DIY music scene has now lost an icon, it served as a catalyst for other venues such as The Dungeon and BauHaus. Rest in p(e)eace, Toilet Bowl.

next morning, we met with owner Wes Grimm as he smoked a cigarette, standing on the still-smoldering rubble of his family business. “There just hasn’t been time to cry,” the man in a black cowboy hat and bolo-tie told us, as he listed off all the work that he needed to do towards rebuilding. The Grimm family business had operated here for more than 40 years, with Bert Grimm being one of the American pioneers of the inky art form. The Bert Grimm Tattoo Museum, just around the corner from the main building, which housed more than 100 years of tattoo history and design, was luckily untouched by the flames that claimed the rest of the business. Despite space limitations in that small historic space, some of Grimm’s tattoo artists were inking folks the very next day. The shop has since reopened a fully staffed permanent Grimm Tattoo location at 613 Genessee Street.

FOUNTAIN CITY GUITARWORKS IS TUNING UP THE TOWN Jared Horman sits with a sexy Orville Peckinspired illustration. Zach Bauman

JARED HORMAN’S REVERSE GAME OF KEEP-AWAY

Kansas City Creative Director, Commissioner of the Stonewall Sports Kansas City chapter, muralist, and designer of the KC flag—queer illustrator Jared Horman lives and breathes KC. Focusing his work on community outreach and user experience development, Horman’s work can be seen all across the city and online (check out his coloring book Rotten Foods). Not only a visual artist, Horman has done extensive research in important fields such as developing and finding resources to help trans community members, creating a weather guide app for hikers, and researching collaborative ways to stream with friends and family.

Much like the wardrobe in Narnia, the exterior of Fountain City Guitarworks is unassuming. When you step inside, each corner of the house is covered in guitars. It’s located in the Squier Park neighborhood right off of 71 Highway, providing a homier alternative to traditional guitar repair shops. Fountain City Guitarworks came to be when twin brothers Mark and Shaun Penechar took over Seuf Guitars after David Seuferling retired in 2016. With over 35 years of combined experience, the brothers tag team the process. They service everyone from the hobbyist who’s just playing for fun to the local musician who is playing five nights a week. It’s worth mentioning that Phoebe Bridgers’ bassist plays their gear with pride on stage—no big deal.

GRIMM TATTOO EMERGES PHOENIX-LIKE FROM THE ASHES

FREE STATE FILM FESTIVAL REMAINS A BEACON FOR FREAKS AND FREEDOM IN THE MIDWEST

After a fabric shop next door burst into flames, Grimm Tattoo—and the entire set of connected buildings it occupied at the corner of Main & 39th Street in Westport—burned to the ground. The

When we consider art festivals, music is the common thread that connects theater, film, dance, and, of course, live musical performances. Starting as a platform for short films in 2011 be-

fore morphing into a weekend Free State Film Festival in 2012, this year’s FSFF truly hit its artistic stride and fully achieved the vision set by festival director Marlo Angell over a decade ago. With the pandemic limiting 2021’s offerings to socially-distanced outdoor screenings, last year’s weeklong festival got the proceedings back on track by bringing in heavy hitters such as acclaimed filmmakers John Waters and Lawrence-based Kevin Willmott. However, 2023’s FSFF took matters to an entirely new stratosphere with the incredible breadth and depth of diverse offerings, partnering with local venues, community organizations, and the University of Kansas, just as Angell had prophesied earlier. Liberty Hall provided a safe space for a wide-ranging discussion with Boots Riley, lead vocalist of the revolutionary hip-hop group The Coup and director of the new boundary-pushing Amazon series I’m A Virgo. Liberty Hall welcomed in BLKBOK, a neo-classical pianist who marries Mozart with hiphop, spitting lyrics with his piano keys. The famed venue also saw the return of seminal ‘80s Wichita act The Embarrassment in town for a screening of We Were Famous, You Don’t Remember, as well as a raucous performance power-

fully demonstrating the band had lost none of their chops. All screenings were followed by intimate Q&A sessions with the audience, providing rare access to these artists. A brisk five-minute walk away, the Lawrence Arts Center hosted an equally impressive slate of programming. The aforementioned Kevin Willmott was back again this year with No Place Like Home: The Struggle Against Hate In Kansas, a documentary based on CJ Janovy’s book of the same name, which describes the LGBTQ community and their struggles for empathy and acceptance. Renowned producer and turntablist DJ Spooky created a live score to accompany the (classic) film Body & Soul, while local artist Bad Alaskan provided pre-show music to set the stage for the documentary Imagining The Indian: The Fight Against Native American Mascoting. The closing event at Liberty Hall was a showing of Lost Angel: The Genius Of Judy Sill, which was capped off with a tribute concert curated by Heidi Gluck, a perfect Midwestern complement to the baroque pop folkie Sill. Student-run radio station KJHK partnered with the theater for many of these events, introducing scores of scholars to these cross-disciplinary artistic delights.

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LUCAS KUNCE HAS MAGIC UP HIS SLEEVE IN THE 2024 ELECTION Ask U.S. Senator Josh Hawley about Magic: The Gathering and he’ll first defer to the think-tank that designs his personality before coming back to spew a bunch of buzzwords about how the popular trading card game is a cornerstone of the attack on masculinity. Meanwhile, his probable 2024 challenger, Democrat Lucas Kunce, is being himself: crushing online opponents in the wee hours of the night while he ponders the cards he’s been dealt. Kunce, 41, a former major in the Marine Corps, ran for Roy Blunt’s seat in 2022 but lost to Trudy Busch Valentine in the Democratic Primary 43.2% to 38.3%. Eric Schmitt now holds that office, but Kunce is taking what he’s learned and launching another assault on the Missouri GOP next year. Hawley, 43, has never served his country, nor has he served up devastating spells from the latest booster pack. In fact, he appears to wear the same shirt at every major public event. Never mind the running from the Capitol riot he helped stoke; Josh Hawley just isn’t cool. And while both candidates look to emphasize labor issues in their campaigns, Kunce has been working himself to build an entirely new kind of deck, one that can bridge the surface-level ideological divisions in a former bellwether state that has pivoted sharply red in recent decades. One which creates and revives rather than incites and destroys. Your move, Missouri.

GODFREY RIDDLE HAD, LIKE, FIVE YEARS IN ONE

The show entails life coaches coming into KC to help local people with overwhelming messes. In Riddle’s episode, “What Lies Beneath,” the hosts of the show help him declutter his basement, where he has stored inherited items from his parents, who passed away unexpectedly. The episode details his emotional journey in finding other ways to celebrate his parents and to turn his basement into a livable space that evokes positive memories rather than grief. During an interview with The Pitch Riddle says the process changed his relationship with his grief in a positive way. In fact, the lessons Riddle learned while participating in the show were the starting point for his next endeavor, as he also learned to reduce his ecological footprint. Riddle began Civic Saint as a clothing brand previously and is now turning his brand into a business that seeks to bring eco-friendly, affordable housing to historically redlined communities and narrow the racial wealth gap. To create tiny, creatively designed homes, he’s chosen compressed earthen blocks (CEBs), which are essentially bricks that are composed of 90% soil and 10% water and cement. His business pitch won both the Inaugural Communities of Color Initiative (CoCi) Biz Pitch and the overall Biz Pitch competitions from the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce at their 2023 International Business & Leadership Conference. Most recently, an investor reached out to Riddle to fully fund his prototype, so he’s hoping to deliver his first demo build and start taking public orders in the new year.

KC ZOO’S AQUARIUM MAKES A SPLASH

The Kansas City Zoo and Aquari-

Kansas City philanthropist and entrepreneur Godfrey Riddle has been up to a lot this year. Back in April, the first season of the home/life/spiritual improvement series The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning was released on Peacock, featuring Riddle in its fifth episode. The premise of the show is based on a bestselling book by Margareta Magnusson, which teaches how to declutter items so loved ones won’t carry that burden after you’re gone. This allows participants to recognize what the essentials are in their lives and involves breaking attachments with sentimental items. An ominous KC skyline shows up in Season 1 of The Last of Us. Liane Hentscher/HBO

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um opened the long-awaited Sobela Ocean Aquarium in September 2023. This 650,000-gallon aquarium hosts nearly 8,000 animals representing over 200 species and spent 10 years in design and production before construction began in 2020. The execution of this project cost $77 million dollars, with $45 million coming from the Zoological District and $32 million from private donations. The two-year wait was worth it. While on the smaller side, this aquarium is an excellent addition to a zoo visit. Tortellini, the sea turtle stuck in her permanent handstand, is the perfect mascot for the aquarium (don’t worry, she’s getting a backpack to help her float). Each exhibit is beautifully crafted to meet the needs of each animal and includes educational information about the species and habitats they represent. With the opening of the aquarium, the zoo has pledged to help to ensure the conservation of endangered species of corals found off the coast of the U.S. and in the Caribbean as well as partnering with rescue centers to provide a home for sea otters when returning them to the ocean is not a viable option.

OUT OF THE BASEMENT, INTO THE MANOR

In February, thanks to a little help from Manor Records, Nightosphere, Abandoncy, and Flooding—“a trio of trios”— released a three-way split cassette. In the year since, all three bands have gone on tour across the country and released further new music, with Nightosphere and Flooding releasing the respective full-length Katabasis and Silhouette Machine to great acclaim. Nightosphere tour mates Chat Pile even said of Katabasis, “They released the best album of the year, and we’re getting to see people realize it in real-time.”

All three bands have gone from playing opening matinee slots to being legit draws on their own. They’re not just Farewell KCMO/Toilet Bowl draws anymore, but instead, the newest purveyors of Midwest rock ‘n’ roll spreading the gospel to masses far and wide.

PROPERTY TAX WAS MET WITH A FIGHT BACK

A battle between the Jackson County Assessor’s Office and property owners continues to garner new twists, even as the looming Dec. 31 deadline creeps closer and closer. The inciting incident came in an average 30% increase in property tax rates that led well over 40,000 citizens to file an appeal in late July. The backlash led the office to put together a shoddy website to “combat misinformation” and extend the appeal deadline. The increase occurred, in essence, because a new partnership with Tyler Technologies had replaced an old “legacy” assessment system that was ripe with error. “For the last two decades, really, there has been hyper-deflated taxation, so it was just never really increased appropriately,” Jackson County Legislator Manny Abarca IV says. “So, through inaction, it basically created a cheaper way for development to occur in Kansas City. It kind of stimulates the retail market. You’re creating more opportunity for folks and providing tax relief because you’re not really taxing them.” In early September, the department admitted it had discovered an error that impacted the values of hundreds of homeowners after KCTV5 reported on it weeks earlier. A few days later, Assessor Gail McCann Beatty said her office was scheduling around 300 appeal meetings per day, but that 50% weren’t showing up. The Missouri State Auditor’s Of-

fice has launched an investigation into the matter. Meanwhile, municipalities continue to step forward to join a growing list of legal challengers, including Independence and Lee’s Summit. The situation has also spurred a widespread legislative effort to provide relief for the many seniors on a fixed income who may not be able to meet their increases.

THE LAST OF US SHOWED THE WORLD HOW INVITING KC CAN BE, EVEN IN THE APOCALYPSE

The HBOMax—now, “Max” or perhaps an even stupider moniker by the time you read this—TV series The Last of Us gave a several episode arc to its main characters’ journey through a post-apocalyptic Kansas City. Adapted from a PlayStation video game, the original story saw these plot events occur in Pittsburgh, making the move to KC quite the glow up—or grow up—as it follows sentient plant-life reclaiming the Earth. For locals, it was a delight to watch Joel and Ellie navigate familiar sections of the metro, including the WWI Memorial, parts of downtown, and a disastrous series of events in even North KC. The show’s resistance leader for this area was played by actress Melanie Lynskey who, despite being from New Zealand, really felt like the perfect KC mom who takes no shit from anyone. The production team hammered in a number of incredibly small details, perhaps most notably a shot where an abandoned store’s windows were covered in newspaper— featuring actual pages of The Star from the days leading up to the September 2003 “Outbreak Day.” The only other PlayStation game adapted into a TV show this year—Peacock’s Twisted Metal—also decided to center around a post-apocalyptic hub in our vicinity: Topeka, KS. While we appreciate all the love video game TV shows seem to be giving our neck of the woods, the shots of Topeka that included palm trees really hammers home the idea it would be nice to offer tax credits to get these Midwest-set shows to actually come film here.

ERIC FAIN IS WHY WE LEAVE THE HOUSE

Eric Fain got his big break this year, touring around the world as a produc-

tion assistant with Paramore and eventually with Christina Aguilera. Fain previously worked on preparing events at The Truman, recordBar, and The Midland. Before that, he played in local bands, ultimately pivoting to behind-the-scenes work as a guitar tech, merchandiser, tour manager, and more. He’s gained a lot of unique experience through these jobs, including being a tour manager for American Football, Senses Fail, and Poppy. As a production assistant, Fain manages production runners, stocks tour buses with supplies, keeps track of tour bus routes, manages accommodations at music venues, and runs merch tables. At times, the job can be stressful, having to deal with last-minute tasks for shows and workdays sometimes being stretched to 22 hours. But Fain says he loves what he does. “The goosebumps always happen,” says Fain. “I don’t think that’ll ever go away for me. If it does, I need to find another job. I just can’t. At this point in my life, I can’t work anywhere I’m not passionate about. It’s a very privileged thing that I don’t take for granted at all.”

SMOKEY RIVER ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT OFFERS A PERMANENT VENUE FOR CANNABISFRIENDLY EVENTS Now that recreational cannabis is legal in Missouri, there is a need for social gathering places for smokers and substance-free friends alike. It’s important that safe spaces be available where people have the option to partake in a toke or choose not to while they mingle with their stoned friends. Besa Hospitality Group meets this need with its new cannabis-friendly entertainment venue. Smokey River Entertainment District is located off 291 Highway in River Bend, MO, east of downtown Kansas City, and showcases music, artwork, cuisine, and more at its events. “[The Smokey River Entertainment District] is progress, not just for us, but for the country as well. We want it to be responsible and safe as we celebrate the end of prohibition,” says Besa Hospitality Group’s President Joey Pintozzi. Since their opening event, 420 Fest, in April of this year, they have hosted events for consumers and industry folks alike, such as the Missouri Grower’s Cup, CreepShow, and CannaBrew. THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

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Best Fashion Event: Kansas City Fashion Week Hannah Strader

BEST ART EXHIBIT

WINNER: “FIERCE WOMEN” AT THE NELSON-ATKINS MUSEUM OF ART Finalists: The Black Sunflower presents “A Decadent Arts Experience” at Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, Paul Eade “Beyond Doors” at Habitat Contemporary Gallery, “Sexhibition: Rated Art” at Weinberger Fine Art BEST ART FESTIVAL

WINNER: PLAZA ART FAIR Finalists: Art Garden KC, Arts in the Park, Brookside Art Annual, KC Fringe Festival, PeaceWorks KC Local Art Fair BEST ART GALLERY

WINNER: MOD GALLERY & SPACE Finalists: Belger Crane Yard Studios, Leedy-Voulkos Art Center, Monarca Art Space - MÁS, Weinberger Fine Art BEST BLUES VENUE

WINNER: KNUCKLEHEADS Finalists: BB’s Lawnside BBQ, Green Lady Lounge, The Phoenix

BEST DANCE CREW/STUDIO

WINNER: KANSAS CITY CANARIES Finalists: Arthur Murray Dance Studio of Kansas City, Empire Dance Academy, Kansas City Dance Collective, KC Raqs World Dance BEST DRAG ARTIST

WINNER: LANA LUXX Finalists: Daisy Buckët, Karmella Uchawi, KiYanna Uchawi, Sasha Blake, Victor Shawn, Zanny Ex BEST DRAG SHOW

WINNER: SUNDAYS WITH SASHA - DRAG BRUNCH AT GAELS PUBLIC HOUSE & SPORTS Finalists: Boozical Mondays at Fountain Haus, Buttwiser’s Bash at Sidekicks Saloon, Drag Brunch at Brick’s Pub & Grub hosted by Lana Luxx, Dining with the Divas at Hamburger Mary’s, King Me at Missie B’s, Monday Mourning at Missie B’s, Y2K Drag Show at Hamburger Mary’s BEST FASHION EVENT

BEST BURLESQUE TROUPE

WINNER: VAMP KANSAS CITY

WINNER: KANSAS CITY FASHION WEEK

Finalists: Burlesque Downtown Underground, Risqué Revelry

Finalists: West 18th Street Fashion Show

BEST CLUB DJ

BEST FILMMAKER (ARTISTIC)

WINNER: SMOOV CONFUSION HOT MICS ENTERTAINMENT

WINNER: PATRICK POE & LOLO LOREN

Finalists: DJ Diehard, DJ Hydan, Human Penguin, Saul Gucci, Savage Habits, Sheppa, ZACK

Finalists: Gary Huggins, Jerry Rapp, Patrick Rea, Ryan Njenga

BEST JAZZ ARTIST

BEST KARAOKE

WINNER: LONNIE MCFADDEN

BEST FUNDRAISING EVENT BEST COMEDY CLUB

WINNER: BIG SLICK

Finalists: Adam Galblum, Alex Abramovitz, Eddie Moore, Max Groove, Roger Wilder, Talya Groves

Finalists: The Comedy Club of Kansas City, Kansas City Improv Comedy Club, The KC Improv Company at The Kick Comedy Theater, The Rino

Finalists: Heart of America Shakespeare Festival’s Romantic Revels Gala, Apocalypse Meow, KC Pet Project - Love Finds a Way, Women’s Employment Network Annual Luncheon

WINNER: THE KANSAS CITY JAZZ ORCHESTRA

BEST CULTURAL EVENT

BEST HOUSE/COVER BAND

WINNER: THE BIRD COMEDY THEATER

WINNER: KANSAS CITY PRIDEFEST Finalists: Bach Aria Soloists and The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: An Evening of Fierce Women, The Cookout hosted by Karmella Uchawi, Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, Kansas City Irish Fest, Smokey River Entertainment District - 420Fest, Traditional Music Society’s World Music & Dance Showcase

WINNER: THE M80S

Finalists: Big Luke & The Soul Disciples, KCeMO, Soulshine BEST IMPROV/SKETCH TROUPE

WINNER: THE BIRD COMEDY THEATER PLAYERS Finalists: Car Sounds, Ham Kitty, The Hil & I, The Maestros, Truck Noises

BEST JAZZ BAND

Finalists: Alex Abramovitz and His Swing’n Kansas City Jazz Band, All Night Trio, Back Alley Brass Band, Cynthia van Roden Quartet, Eboni Fondren Quartet, Hot Club KC

WINNER: HOT MICS ENTERTAINMENT Finalists: The Black Box, DJ Mel B at VIVO Live Events, Gaels Public House & Sports, MaryOke-Karaoke at Hamburger Mary’s, Missie B’s, OffKey Karaoke Lounge & Suites, Tin Roof BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE (KANSAS)

WINNER: AZURA AMPHITHEATER Finalists: Aztec Shawnee Theater, Barley’s Kitchen + Tap, The Granada, Liberty Hall, Replay Lounge, VIVO Live Events

BEST JAZZ VENUE

WINNER: GREEN LADY LOUNGE Finalists: The Blue Room, Chaz on the Plaza, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, French Market, Johnnie’s Jazz Bar & Grille, The Phoenix

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE (MISSOURI)

WINNER: KNUCKLEHEADS

Finalists: Grinders KC, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, The Midland Theatre, recordBar, The Rino, Uptown Theater

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

Best Drag Artist: Lana Luxx Pilsen Photo Co-op

BEST LIVE PERFORMANCE EVENT

WINNER: QUIXOTIC

WINNER: SOUL SERVERS

BEST LOCAL BAND

BEST LOCAL STAND-UP COMIC

WINNER: JANELL BANKS

WINNER: CALVIN ARSENIA

Finalists: Bach Aria Soloists’ Annual Holiday Concert, Heart of America Shakespeare Festival: The Tempest, Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre - The Color Purple, Percheron Summer Concert Series

Finalists: Bach Aria Soloists, Into the Gray, KCeMO, Soulshine, The Swallowtails, Quite Frankly, Yachtly Groove

Finalists: Brittany Tilander, Cassie Duncan, J Petty, Jamie Campbell, Moneisha Williams

Finalists: Alex Abramovitz, Bobby Kerr, Cassie Taylor, Eddie Moore, Elizabeth Suh Lane, musicbyskippy

BEST LOCAL CRAFT ARTIST

BEST LIVE THEATER

WINNER: STARLIGHT THEATRE Finalists: The Bird Comedy Theater, The Black Box, Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, New Theatre & Restaurant, Unicorn Theatre, The Warwick Theatre, Whim Productions BEST LOCAL ACTOR

WINNER: JESSICA WHITFIELD Finalists: Bruce Roach, Chioma Anyanwu, Katie Gilchrist, Patrick Poe, R.H. Wilhoit, Tanner Rose, Valerie Chamberlain BEST LOCAL ARTIST

WINNER: SAMANTHA EDWARDS Finalists: Jenny Hahn, Mark Exline, Paul Eade, Shawnneice Mitchell, Vania Soto, Warren Harvey

BEST LOCAL THEMED TOUR

WINNER: WHO IS SHE?

WINNER: URBAN HIKES KANSAS CITY

Finalists: Beautifelt, Buffalo Bolt Jewelry, Michelle Chan, MRS Pallet Decor

Finalists: Barley Bus Tours, Be Bop and Beyond

BEST LOCAL EVENT

WINNER: SCREENLAND ARMOUR

BEST MOVIE THEATER

WINNER: BOULEVARDIA Finalists: Bird Watching Film Festival, Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, Kansas City PrideFest, KC Fringe Festival, Macabre Market, Whim Productions’ Alphabet Soup: Theater from Queer Voices BEST LOCAL PODCAST

WINNER: BEERS WITH NIGEL Finalists: Always Be Cool, Badass Records, First Timers Movie Club, Hamburglore, Kansas City Revival, The KC Morning Show, The Lawnarchy

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Finalists: AMC Ward Parkway 14, B&B Theatres Mainstreet KC, Cinemark Merriam and XD, Glenwood Arts Theater, Stray Cat Film Center BEST MUSEUM

WINNER: THE NELSON-ATKINS MUSEUM OF ART Finalists: Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center, Kansas City Museum, National WWI Museum and Memorial, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum BEST MUSIC FESTIVAL

WINNER: BOULEVARDIA Finalists: Briarfest, Dancefestopia, Impakt Music Festival, Kansas City Folk Festival, Manor Fest, Phase Fest, Smokey River Entertainment District 420Fest

BEST MUSICIAN

BEST NEW LOCAL ALBUM

WINNER: WELCOME TO SPRINGFIELD BY DAISY BUCKËT Finalists: Aquarius Season Is Never Over by Shilow, Le Dolce Sirene by Bach Aria Soloists, Osama by If I Die In Iceland, These Songs Are Emotions by musicbyskippy, Trade Secrets by Dragon Inn 3 BEST NIGHTCLUB

WINNER: MISSIE B’S Finalists: Aura, Fountain Haus, Funky Town, Mosaic Ultra Lounge, Nighthawk BEST OPEN MIC

WINNER: JERRY’S BAIT SHOP Finalists: Back 2 Basics at Missie B’s, The Bird Comedy Theater, The Comedy Club of Kansas City, The Garden DIY, Hot Mics Entertainment, The Rino

BEST OUTDOOR EVENT

BEST POET/SPOKEN WORD ARTIST

Finalists: Art Garden KC, Boulevardia, Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, Independence Uncorked, Plaza Art Fair, Smokey River Entertainment District 420Fest

Finalists: Bob Sykora, José Faus, Jessica Ayala

BEST OUTDOOR VENUE

Finalists: “is this still even fun?” by Quite Frankly, “La Folia Variations” by Bach Aria Soloists, “Nebula” by Shadowsin

WINNER: KC REN FEST

WINNER: STARLIGHT THEATRE Finalists: Azura Amphitheater, Grinders KC, KC Live!, Knuckleheads, Lemonade Park, Smokey River Entertainment District BEST PAINTING PARTY

WINNER: PINOT’S PALETTE OLATHE Finalists: Expressive, Hawaii Fluid Art, Painted Teacup, Shut The Front Door KC BEST PHOTOGRAPHER (ARTISTIC)

WINNER: KATHARINE KITTY LECLAIR Finalists: Ben McBee, Brian Rice, Caleb Condit, Samantha Levi BEST PLACE FOR A KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

WINNER: THE REGNIER FAMILY WONDERSCOPE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF KANSAS CITY Finalists: Game Show Battle Rooms, Happy Campers Glamping Parties & Picnics, KC Ren Fest, MY Play Café, Urban Air Adventure Park BEST PLACE TO SHAKE YOUR BOOTY

WINNER: ABBY BLAND

BEST SONG BY A LOCAL BAND

WINNER: “TAKE IT SLOW” - THE SWALLOWTAILS

BEST THEATER COMPANY

WINNER: KCREP

Finalists: The Bird Comedy Theater, Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, Kansas City Actors Theatre, Unicorn Theatre, Whim Productions BEST TRIBUTE BAND

Finalists: Almost KISS, Big Bam Boom, Denny & the Jets, Found A Job, The Phil Collins Experience BEST TRIVIA NIGHT

WINNER: GEEKS WHO DRINK TRIVIA NIGHT AT CINDER BLOCK BREWERY Finalists: Big 5 Trivia, Captain’s Sports Lounge - Wednesday Night Trivia, HomeTown Trivia, Intelligence Check Trivia at Gaels Public House & Sports, Pop Culture Trivia Bingo at Rewind Video and Dive BEST VOCALIST

WINNER: FUNKY TOWN

WINNER: TALYA GROVES

Finalists: Aura, The Levee, Missie B’s, Roanoke Park (Dance in the Park), The Ship

Finalists: Big Body Caprice, Bobby Kerr, Calvin Arsenia, Jeff Zarcone, Josephine Duckworth, Morganna Lee, Nicole Springer

BEST PLAY

WINNER: HEART OF AMERICA SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL: THE TEMPEST Finalists: The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City/The White Theatre at The J - A Raisin in the Sun, King Kirby, Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre - The Color Purple, Prejudice & Pride, Whim Productions’ Alphabet Soup: Theater from Queer Voices

SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM

WINNER: BOB JOVI

BEST YOUTH THEATER

WINNER: THE COTERIE THEATRE Finalists: Alcott Arts Center, First Act Theatre Arts, Spinning Tree Theatre, Storybook Theatre, What if Puppets

Reviving KC's chorus girl tradition. As a modern chorus dance troupe, we are dedicated to reclaiming & amplifying the freedom & expression dancers before us paved for us in the here & now. The Kansas City Canaries share our passion & love of dance through offering educational workshops focused on jazzLorem history & pioneers ipsum of the dance. You can catch us at our monthly performance residency at VAMP at Lifted Spirits as well as other venues around the KC metro area.

thepitchkc.com/member

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Best Craft Barbecue, Best Brisket: Q39 Zach Bauman

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BEST BARBECUE

BEST BURNT ENDS

BEST RIBS

BEST SAUSAGE

WINNER: JOE’S KANSAS CITY BAR-B-QUE

Finalists: Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque, Crazy Good Barbeque, Jack Stack BBQ, Q39, The Rub BBQ, Slap’s BBQ, Wolfepack BBQ

Finalists: Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque, Crazy Good Barbeque, Jack Stack BBQ, Q39, The Rub BBQ, Wolfepack BBQ

Finalists: Crazy Good Barbeque, Jack Stack BBQ, Q39, The Rub BBQ, Slap’s BBQ

BEST CRAFT BARBECUE

BEST RUB

BEST BARBECUE SANDWICH

WINNER: Z-MAN AT JOE’S KANSAS CITY BAR-B-QUE Finalists: Burnt End Burner at Crazy Good Barbeque, Burnt Heaven at Char Bar, Mr. Burns at Q39, Nooner at Gates BBQ, Poor Russ at Jack Stack BBQ, Turkey Crunch at Zarda BBQ, Turkey Sandwich at Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque BEST BARBECUE SIDE DISH

WINNER: Q39

Finalists: Chef J BBQ, Joker B’s BBQ, Meat Mitch BBQ, Wolfepack BBQ BEST MIXED PLATE

WINNER: SLAP’S BBQ Finalists: Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque, Crazy Good Barbeque, Gates BBQ, Jack Stack BBQ, Q39 BEST OLD SCHOOL BARBECUE

WINNER: ARTHUR BRYANT’S BARBEQUE

Finalists: Burnt End BBQ Beans at Crazy Good Barbeque, Dirty Rice at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Orzo Pasta Salad at Q39, White Cheddar Mac and Cheese at Wolfepack BBQ

Finalists: A Little BBQ Joint, Gates BBQ, LC’s Bar-B-Q, Slap’s BBQ, Zarda BBQ

BEST BRISKET

Finalists: Crazy Good Barbeque, Jack Stack BBQ, Q39, The Rub BBQ, Slap’s BBQ, Wolfepack BBQ

Finalists: Crazy Good Barbeque, Jack Stack BBQ, The Rub BBQ, Wolfepack BBQ

Finalists: Char Bar, Crazy Good Barbeque, Gates BBQ, Harp Barbecue, Jack Stack BBQ, LC’s Bar-B-Q, Q39 BEST VEGETARIAN BARBECUE DISH

WINNER: CHEESY CORN BAKE AT JACK STACK BBQ

WINNER: Q39

WINNER: SLAP’S BBQ

BEST PULLED PORK

WINNER: JOE’S KANSAS CITY BAR-B-QUE

WINNER: POTATO CASSEROLE ARTHUR BRYANT’S BBQ

WINNER: JOE’S KANSAS CITY BAR-B-QUE Finalists: Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque, Crazy Good Barbeque, Daniel’s Bar-B-Q Competition Meat Rub, Jack Stack BBQ, Joker B’s BBQ, Meat Mitch, The Rub BBQ

Finalists: The Jackknife - Char Bar, Smoked Elotes - Chef J BBQ

BEST SAUCE

WINNER: JACK STACK BBQ ORIGINAL BBQ SAUCE Finalists: Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque - Sweet Heat, Cowtown - Night of the Living Bar-B-Q Sauce, Daniel’s BarB-Q Competition Blend #9, Gates BBQ - Sweet & Mild, Meat Mitch - WHOMP! Naked BBQ Sauce, Zarda Bar-B-Q - Lil’ Ghost

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST CBD STORE

BEST MEDICAL MARIJUANA CLINIC

WINNER: AMERICAN SHAMAN

WINNER: ELEVATE HOLISTICS

Finalists: Dr. Smoke, High End Collections, Midtown Kava, Native Hemp Co., Phoenix Natural Wellness CBD, Rustic Oils CBD of Lee’s Summit, Smoke Tokz

Finalists: Bluebird Wellness Center, Kind Remedy, Missouri Cannabis Clinic, Releaf Clinics

BEST CONCENTRATE/DAB BRAND

WINNER: ILLICIT

Finalists: CLOVR, Greenlight Dispensary, HeadChange, JellyLeaf Hemp Co., Smokey River Cannabis

BEST MEDICAL MARIJUANA CLINICIAN

WINNER: DR.COLLINS (RELEAF CLINICS) Finalists: Dr. Herbert Dempsey, Dr. James McEntire, Dr. Nathan Wegner (Kind Remedy) BEST NEW DISPENSARY

BEST DISPENSARY

WINNER: FROM THE EARTH DISPENSARY Finalists: BesaMe Wellness, Flora Farms Lee’s Summit, Fresh Karma, Greenlight Dispensary, JellyLeaf Hemp Co., Proper Cannabis, ReLeaf Resources Dispensary BEST EDIBLES BRAND (CANNABIS)

WINNER: GREENLIGHT DISPENSARY

Finalists: CLOVR, Illicit, Kran Organics, Smokey River Cannabis, Smokiez Edibles, Wana BEST FLOWER

WINNER: ILLICIT Finalists: Flora Farms, Greenlight Dispensary, JellyLeaf Hemp Co., Proper Cannabis

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

WINNER: THE FOREST DISPENSARY Finalists: Good Day Farm Kansas City, JellyLeaf Hemp Co. BEST PLACE TO BUY DELTA PRODUCTS

WINNER: VAPOR MAVEN

Finalists: American Shaman, Cloud 9 Gift and Smoke Shop, Dr. Smoke, The Hemp Haus, High End Collections, OG Smoke Shop, Smoke Tokz BEST VAPE CARTRIDGE BRAND

WINNER: ILLICIT

Finalists: CLOVR, Greenlight Dispensary, Local Cannabis Company, Smokey River Cannabis, Timeless Missouri Best Flower, Best Concentrate/Dab Brand, Best Vape Cartridge Brand: Illicit Pilsen Photo Co-op

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Shaman’s Leawood Total Wellness 11709 Roe Ave., Suite B, Leawood, KS 66211 (913) 227-9150

KANSAS

Bonner Springs 608 Tulip Dr.-S# G Bonner Springs, KS 66012 (913) 745-6667

Monticello (Shawnee) 22354 W. 66th St. Shawnee, KS 66226 (913) 745-8005

Overland Park 6900 W. 135th W. 135th St. Overland Park, KS 66223 (816) 702-6345

Liberty (Behind QuikTrip) 1005 Middlebrook Dr. Liberty, MO 64068 (816) 429-6043

Gardner 1819 E. Santa Fe Gardner, KS 66030 (913) 548-6913

North Kansas City 8043 State Avenue Kansas City, KS 66112 (913) 228-6000

Overland Park 7703 W. 151st Street Overland Park, KS 66223 (913) 647-3999

Gladstone (In Price Chopper) Kansas City 207 A NE Englewood Rd. 1415 W. 39th St. Kansas City, MO 64118 Kansas City, MO 64111 (816) 541-3144 (816) 437-7634

Oak Grove 701 S. Broadway St. Oak Grove, MO 64075 (816) 625-1127

Olathe 15165 W. 119th Street Olathe, KS 66062 (913) 839-9521

Paola 23 W. Wea Street Paola, KS 66071 (913) 271-3120

Harrisonville 2008 N. MO 291 Hwy. Harrisonville, MO 64701 (816) 925-4662

Kansas City 400 E. 18th Street Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 474-7400

Parkville 6302 N. Chatham Ave. Kansas City, MO 64151 (816) 702-1042

Kansas City (Legends) 1843 Village W. Pkwy. S# C-124 Kansas City, KS 66111 (913) 499-7355

Olathe 13624 S Blackbob Rd. Olathe, KS 66062 (913) 324-1520

Shawnee 13213 Shawnee Mission Pkwy. Shawnee, KS 66216 (913) 766-0430

Independence 19321 E. US 40 Hwy. Independence, MO 64055 (816) 491-2452

Kansas City (In Price Chopper) Raytown 9438 E 350 Hwy. 500 NE Barry Road Raytown, MO 64133 Kansas City, MO 64155 (816) 491-2939 (816) 605-1097

Olathe 16551 W. 151st Street Olathe, KS 66062 (913) 490-3195

Independence 4201 S. Noland Rd. S# S Independence, MO 64055 (816) 601-0241

Lee’s Summit 3520 SW Market St. Lee’s Summit, MO 64082 (816) 573-3233

These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. Keep out of reach of children.

Je昀erson City 3702 W. Truman Blvd. 200 Jefferson City, MO 65109 (573) 616-2524

Lee’s Summit 1638 SE. Blue Pkwy. Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 (816) 434-5059

Blue Springs 1412 MO-7 - S# G Blue Springs, MO 64014 (816) 815-2133

Kansas City 13125 State Line Road Kansas City, MO 64145 (816) 437-8261

Lee’s Summit 921 NE Woods Chapel Rd. Lee’s Summit, MO 64064 (816) 272-6195

Columbia 1400 Forum Blvd., S# 40 Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 355-5572

Kansas City 1036 W. 103rd St. Kansas City, MO 64114 (816) 442-7051

St. Joseph 139 N. Belt Hwy. St. Joseph, MO 64506 (816) 390-8707

Lawrence 1530 W. 6th S.-S# C Lawrence, KS 66044 (785) 424-7500 Lawrence 1901-D Massachusetts St. Lawrence, KS 66044 (785) 424-7149 Leawood 11709 Roe Ave., Suite B, Lawrence, KS 66211 (913) 674-3911 Mission Crossing 6027-B Metcalf Avenue Mission, KS 66202 (913) 499-6010

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Overland Park 11050 Quivira Road Overland Park, KS 66210 (678) 932-0236 Overland Park 10069 W. 87th Street Overland Park, KS 66212 (913) 217-7123

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CODE: BESTINKC GOOD THRU 11/30/23

YOU MUST BE 21+ TO BUY HEMP DERIVED THC, HHC, D8 & D9 THC. NO MEDICAL CARD REQUIRED.

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST 3 AM BAR

WINNER: MISSIE B’S Finalists: Charlie Hooper’s, Harry’s Bar and Tables, John’s Big Deck, The Levee, miniBar, The Quaff Bar & Grill, Sidekicks Saloon BEST BAR

WINNER: DRASTIC MEASURES Finalists: Gaels Public House & Sports, Jim’s Alley Bar, John’s Big Deck, The Levee, Missie B’s, Oak & Steel, The Quaff Bar & Grill BEST BAR [LAWRENCE]

WINNER: THE SANDBAR Finalists: Eighth Street Taproom, Henry’s Upstairs, Louise’s Bar, Replay Lounge BEST BAR STAFF

WINNER: TRANSPARENT BREWING COMPANY Finalists: The Campground, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Drastic Measures, John’s Big Deck, King G, Oak & Steel, Vignettes, Zephyr Kitchen and Bourbon Bar BEST BAR TO MEET PEOPLE

WINNER: TRANSPARENT BREWING COMPANY Finalists: Gaels Public House & Sports, Kelly’s Westport Inn, King G, John’s Big Deck, The Levee, Oak & Steel, XR BEST BARTENDER

WINNER: CONOR AT TRANSPARENT BREWING COMPANY Finalists: Adrian at Hechicera, Jenn at Bamboo Penny’s, Kyle at Oak & Steel, Laura at Club 38 at Ameristar Casino Hotel Kansas City, Madeline at Barbacoa, Sheri at The American Reserve BEST BEER TAPS SELECTION

WINNER: TRANSPARENT BREWING COMPANY Finalists: BRKTHROUGH, International Tap House, King G, Oak & Steel, River Bluff Brewing, Taps on Main BEST BLOODY MARY

WINNER: THE FARMHOUSE Finalists: Beer Kitchen, Bricks Pub & Grub, District Pour House, The Pressed Penny Tavern, Snooze - an A.M. Eatery, Urban Egg, XR BEST BOBA/BUBBLE TEA

WINNER: DRAGONFLY TEA ZONE Finalists: Ari Delights, Bingbox Dessert Cafe, Blue Koi, Bruú Café, GoCha Tea & Beverages, Tea Rex Best Bar, Best Cocktails: Drastic Measures Courtesy Jay Sanders

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST BREW PUB

BEST HOTEL BAR

WINNER: MARTIN CITY BREWING COMPANY

WINNER: PERCHERON ROOFTOP BAR

Finalists: Cinder Block Brewery, City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen, River Bluff Brewing, Torn Label Public House, Transparent Brewing Company

Finalists: Bar Stillwell, Nighthawk, Nine Zero One at The Fontaine, The Town Company, XR, Zephyr Kitchen and Bourbon Bar

BEST CHEAP DRINKS

WINNER: THE HI-DIVE LOUNGE Finalists: Chez Charlie, Gambal’s Social Club, Hillsiders, John’s Big Deck, The Levee, The Quaff Bar & Grill BEST COCKTAILS

WINNER: DRASTIC MEASURES Finalists: Afterword Tavern & Shelves, The Campground, Goat & Rabbit, King G, The Primrose, Swordfish Tom’s, Vignettes

BEST IRISH BAR

WINNER: KELLY’S WESTPORT INN Finalists: Brady & Fox, Conroy’s Public House Rainbow, Fitz’s Blarney Stone, Gaels Public House & Sports, O’Malley’s Pub

Craft Cocktail Week

BEST LGBTQ+ BAR

WINNER: MISSIE B’S Finalists: Fountain Haus, Gaels Public House & Sports, Sidekicks Saloon, Sidestreet Bar, Woody’s KC

BEST COFFEE SHOP FOOD/SNACKS

WINNER: MESSENGER COFFEE CO. + IBIS BAKERY Finalists: Black Dog Coffeehouse, Blip Roasters, Café Corazón, Café Ollama, Filling Station Coffee, Hammerhand Coffee, Mildred’s BEST COFFEEHOUSE

WINNER: CAFE CÀ PHÊ Finalists: Black Dog Coffeehouse, Blip Roasters, Broadway Cafe, Café Ollama, Messenger Coffee Co., Post Coffee Company, Second Best Coffee BEST DIVE BAR

WINNER: THE HI-DIVE LOUNGE Finalists: Buzzard Beach, Chez Charlie, John’s Big Deck, Lucky Boys, The Quaff Bar & Grill, Walsh’s Corner Cocktail, Zoo Bar

BEST LOCAL BEER (IPA)

WINNER: SPACE CAMPER COSMIC IPA (BOULEVARD BREWING COMPANY) Finalists: Block IPA (Cinder Block Brewery), Captain of Tying Knots (Transparent Brewing Company), Content Creation (Alma Mader Brewing), Counterculture (BKS Artisan Ales), Hang ‘em High (Torn Label Brewing Co.), JoCo Juice (Limitless Brewing), Rad AF (City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen) BEST LOCAL BEER (LAGER)

WINNER: PURE PILS (KC BIER CO.)

BEST FRENCH 75

Finalists: Corvino Pivo (Torn Label Brewing Company), High Society (City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen), Premiant (Alma Mader Brewing), Real Fine Lager (Cinder Block Brewery)

Finalists: Ça Va, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, The Pressed Penny Tavern, Wild Child

WINNER: TANK 7 (BOULEVARD BREWING COMPANY)

WINNER: WESTPORT CAFE

BEST GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT BAR

WINNER: MISSIE B’S

Finalists: Funky Town, Gaels Public House & Sports, King G, Percheron Rooftop Bar, Sail Away Wine, Tin Roof BEST HAPPY HOUR (DRINK)

WINNER: LA BODEGA

Finalists: Cafe Trio, Goat & Rabbit, John’s Big Deck, Oak & Steel, Red Door Woodfired Grill, Summit Grill, Volleyball Beach BEST HORSEFEATHER

WINNER: J. RIEGER & CO. Finalists: The Bourgeois Pig, JJ’s Restaurant, West Bottoms Whiskey Co., Zephyr Kitchen and Bourbon Bar

BEST LOCAL BEER (SAISON)

Finalists: Foeder Saison (Pathlight Brewing), Golden Garden (Torn Label Brewing Company), Oui Bit Fancy (Transparent Brewing Company), Sandy Dunes Saison (River Bluff Brewing)

To include your business, contact:

BEST LOCAL BEER (SOUR)

jason@thepitchkc.com

Finalists: Crimson Bog (Diametric Brewing Company), Life of the Party (Vine Street Brewing), Nectar (Nimble Brewing), Raspberry Lime Sherbert (City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen), Sandy Pickle (River Bluff Brewing), Vacation Island (BKS Artisan Ales), Wild Hare (Pathlight Brewing)

more locations to be announced

WINNER: TEA WEISS (CRANE BREWING COMPANY)

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST LOCAL BEER (STOUT)

WINNER: TIPPIN’ STOUT (TRANSPARENT BREWING COMPANY) Finalists: Holstein (BKS Artisan Ales), Nitro Irish Cream Stout (Cinder Block Brewery), Original Coffee Stout (Rochester Brewing and Roasting Company), Tezcatlipoca (Diametric Brewing Company) BEST LOCAL BREWERY

WINNER: BOULEVARD BREWING COMPANY Finalists: Alma Mader Brewing, Cinder Block Brewery, City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen, KC Bier Co., Torn Label Brewing Co., Transparent Brewing Company, Vine Street Brewing Co. BEST LOCAL COFFEE ROASTER

WINNER: THE ROASTERIE

THANK YOU FOR NOMINATING US FOR ONE OF THE BEST MARGARITAS, MEXICAN RESTAURANTS & QUESO IN 2023! AND...THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE BEST MOJITO IN KC!

Finalists: Blip Roasters, Broadway Roasting Co., Chingu Coffee, Hammerhand Coffee, Messenger Coffee Co., Monarch Coffee, Oddly Correct, Thou Mayest Coffee Roasters BEST LOCAL DISTILLERY

WINNER: J. RIEGER & CO. Finalists: Lifted Spirits Distillery, Restless Spirits Distilling Company, Tom’s Town Distilling Co., Union Horse Distilling Co., West Bottoms Whiskey Co.

BEST LOCALLY OWNED MISSOURI BREWERY

WINNER: KC BIER CO.

Finalists: Alma Mader Brewing, BKS Artisan Ales, Cinder Block Brewery, City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen, Martin City Brewing Company, Transparent Brewing Company BEST MANHATTAN

WINNER: THE HEY! HEY! CLUB Finalists: Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Drastic Measures, The Savoy at 21c, Swordfish Tom’s, West Bottoms Whiskey Co., XR, Zephyr Kitchen and Bourbon Bar BEST MARGARITA

WINNER: PONAK’S MEXICAN KITCHEN Finalists: Drunken Worm, El Patrón, Kansas City Taco Company, Los Corrals, Manny’s Mexican Restaurant, Mean Mule Distilling Co. BEST MARTINI

WINNER: THE CAMPGROUND Finalists: Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Jim’s Alley Bar, King G, The Savoy at 21c, Stock Hill, Wine Down 109, XR BEST MILKSHAKE

WINNER: WINSTEAD’S Finalists: Hammerhand Coffee, High Hopes, Mother Clucker, Town Topic

BEST LOCAL WINERY

WINNER: AMIGONI URBAN WINERY Finalists: Belvoir Winery and Inn, KC Wine Co, KC Wineworks, The Peculiar Winery, Pirtle Winery, Stone Pillar Vineyard & Winery, TerraVox Winery BEST LOCALLY MADE KOMBUCHA

WINNER: TEA-BIOTICS

Finalists: Daily Culture, Lucky Elixir Kombucha BEST LOCALLY OWNED KANSAS BREWERY

WINNER: FREE STATE BREWING COMPANY

2905 SOUTHWEST BLVD., KANSAS CITY, MO 64108 816-931-6400

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

Finalists: Friction Beer Company, Limitless Brewing, Pathlight Brewing, Red Crow Brewing Company, Servaes Brewing Company

BEST MOJITO

WINNER: EL PATRÓN Finalists: Cliff’s Taphouse, Parlor, XR BEST NEGRONI

WINNER: THE CAMPGROUND Finalists: Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Il Lazzarone, King G, Lazia, Mitch e Amaro, The Savoy at 21c BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

WINNER: THE PEANUT Finalists: Dodson’s Bar & Commons, Gaels Public House & Sports, The HiDive Lounge, Jim’s Alley Bar, The Quaff Bar & Grill

Best Bar Staff, Best Bar to Meet People, Best Beer Taps Selection, Best Local Beer (Stout): Transparent Brewing Company; Best Bartender: Conor Zach Bauman

BEST NEW BAR

BEST POP-UP BAR

BEST UPSCALE BAR

WINNER: JIM’S ALLEY BAR

WINNER: VIGNETTES

WINNER: THE MONARCH BAR

Finalists: Hillsiders, OMBRA small plates + libations, The Primrose, Vintage ‘78 Wine Bar, Voo Lounge & Piano Bar, Wild Child, The Wyld Bar and Cafe

Finalists: Apparition, Conductor Club, Culture Club at PH Coffee, Miracle, Touring Taps, Winter Skies

Finalists: Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, King G, The Mercury Room, Verdigris Bar, XR

BEST NEW BREWERY

WINNER: VINE STREET BREWING CO. Finalists: Boho Brewing, Friction Beer Company

BEST ROOFTOP BAR

WINNER: HARRY’S COUNTRY CLUB

Finalists: Bamboo Penny’s, Fountain Haus, John’s Big Deck, Nine Zero One at The Fontaine, The Well

Finalists: The Belfry, Brady & Fox, Oak & Steel, Zephyr Kitchen and Bourbon Bar

BEST SERVICE INDUSTRY NIGHT BEST OLD FASHIONED

WINNER: J. RIEGER & CO. Finalists: City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Goat & Rabbit, West Bottoms Whiskey Co., XR, Zephyr Kitchen and Bourbon Bar BEST PATIO

WINNER: ELECTRIC PARK GARDEN BAR AT J. RIEGER & CO. Finalists: Cinder Block Brewery, Gaels Public House & Sports, Harry’s Bar and Tables, John’s Big Deck, Percheron Rooftop Bar, Transparent Brewing Company, Trezo Mare

BEST WHISKEY SELECTION

WINNER: PERCHERON ROOFTOP BAR

WINNER: EXTRA VIRGIN

Finalists: Cinder Block Brewery, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, John’s Big Deck, Tin Roof, Waldo Thai BEST SPEAKEASY

WINNER: GREEN LADY LOUNGE Finalists: Drastic Measures, The Hey! Hey! Club, Rewind Video and Dive, Swordfish Tom’s, Tom’s Town Distilling Co., The W BEST SPORTS BAR

WINNER: THE PEANUT Finalists: Gaels Public House & Sports, John’s Big Deck, Johnny’s Tavern, Tanner’s Bar & Grill

BEST WINE EVENT

WINNER: WESTON WINE COMPANY - HARRY POTTER WEEKEND Finalists: Cliff’s Taphouse - Vegan Wine Dinner, Guess the Grape, Independence Uncorked, Let’s Wine About Winter, unKCorked - Pitties & Kitties Adoption and Block Party BEST WINE SELECTION

WINNER: THE ANTLER ROOM Finalists: Big Mood Natural Wines, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Lazia, The Pairing: Crossroads Wine & Grocer, Sail Away Wine, unKCorked Wine & Spirits

BEST PLACE TO DRINK WITH YOUR DOG

WINNER: BAR K

Finalists: Cinder Block Brewery, Drunken Worm, Electric Park Garden Bar, Oak & Steel, Transparent Brewing Company, Transport Brewery

BEST TEA SHOP/PLACE TO BUY TEA

WINNER: DRAGONFLY TEA ZONE Finalists: Anna Marie’s Teas, Emilie’s French Teas, Hugo Tea Company, Phoenix Herb LLC, Savoy Tea Co., Shang’s Tea House THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

Best Hot Dog (Restaurants/ Food Trucks): Wiener Kitchen Zach Bauman

BEST BRUNCH

WINNER: THE FARMHOUSE Finalists: Barbacoa, The Big Biscuit, Billie’s Grocery, Gaels Public House & Sports, Lula Southern Cookhouse, Urban Egg BEST BUFFET

WINNER: WALDO PIZZA Finalists: Cinzetti’s Italian Market, Joy Wok, Pizza Ranch, Taj Palace BEST BURGER

WINNER: WESTPORT FLEA MARKET Finalists: Beer Kitchen, The Campground, Cosmo Burger, Disco Burger, Mason Jar Brews & Burgers, Red Door Woodfired Grill, Winstead’s BEST BURRITO

WINNER: MANNY’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT Finalists: Billie’s Grocery, Champion Burritos To Go, Drunken Worm, Jalapeños Mexican Restaurant, Longboards, Pancho’s Mexican Food, Tiki Taco BEST BUTCHER

WINNER: LOCAL PIG WINNER: THE LITTLEST BAKE SHOP

Finalists: Bichelmeyer Meats, Broadway Butcher Shop, Fareway Meat Market, McGregor’s Butcher & Bistro, The Upper Cut KC

Finalists: Emily Kate’s Bakery, Kat’s Kakery, Morgana’s Gluten Free Bakery

BEST CARIBBEAN FOOD

BEST BAKERY (GLUTEN-FREE)

BEST BAKERY (SWEETS)

WINNER: MCLAIN’S BAKERY Finalists: André’s Confiserie Suisse, Blackhole Bakery, Dolce Bakery, Heirloom Bakery & Hearth, Kate Smith Soirée, Morgana’s Gluten Free Bakery, Sugar Whipped Bakery

WINNER: MESOB

Finalists: 1VP Restaurant, Island Spice, Reggae Kitchen, Wah Gwan BEST CATERING

WINNER: BRANCATO’S CATERING Finalists: Blue Pot Catering, Culinary Creations, Fajita Pete’s Catering, The Russell, Unforked

BEST BAR FOOD

WINNER: THE PEANUT Finalists: Beer Kitchen, Charlie Hooper’s, Cliff’s Taphouse, Gaels Public House & Sports, Jim’s Alley Bar, John’s Big Deck, Johnny’s Tavern

BEST CHARCUTERIE BOARD

WINNER: GRAZE & GATHER KC Finalists: Bacaro Primo, Blush Farms Cork + Board, City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen, Culinary Creations, King G, The Pairing: Crossroads Wine & Grocer

BEST BLACK-OWNED RESTAURANT

WINNER: NIECIE’S RESTAURANT

WINNER: TOWN TOPIC

WINNER: MESHUGGAH BAGELS

Finalists: District Biskuits, Fannie’s West African Cuisine, Mattie’s Foods, Mesob, Union on the Hill, Wing Lovers USA

Finalists: Burritos To Go Y Algo Mas, Pancho’s Mexican Food, Winstead’s

Finalists: Blackhole Bakery, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Luca Bagel, Three Bears Bakery KC

WINNER: VIETNAM CAFE

BEST 24-HOUR RESTAURANT

BEST BAGELS

BEST APPETIZERS

WINNER: RED DOOR WOODFIRED GRILL Finalists: 54th Street Grill & Bar, Beer Kitchen, The Chive: Simply Good Cafe & Market, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Third Street Social, Waldo Thai

BEST BAKERY (BREAD)

WINNER: MCLAIN’S BAKERY Finalists: Blackhole Bakery, Farm to Market Bread Co., Heirloom Bakery & Hearth, Ibis Bakery, The Sourdough Spot, Three Bears Bakery KC

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST BOWL OF SOUP

Finalists: Brady & Fox, Cliff’s Taphouse, Earl’s Premier, Heirloom Bakery & Hearth, Lula Southern Cookhouse, Magic Noodle BEST BREAKFAST

WINNER: THE BIG BISCUIT Finalists: The Glass Cat Cafe, Snooze an A.M. Eatery, Urban Egg

BEST CHEAP EATS

WINNER: TOWN TOPIC Finalists: John’s Big Deck, Lucky Boys, Mugs-Up Drive In, Pizza Shuttle, Tiki Taco, Winstead’s BEST CHEF

WINNER: MICHAEL CORVINO - CORVINO SUPPER CLUB & TASTING ROOM Finalists: Aaron Wells-Morgan Lazia, Benjamin Wood - City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen, Jeff Workman - The Campground, Nick Goellner - The Antler Room, Penny Mufuka - Bamboo Penny’s, Ryan Williams - Rye, Vincent Paredes - The Farmhouse

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

Best Korean: Chingu Zach Bauman

BEST CHICKEN (BAKED OR GRILLED)

WINNER: EL POLLO REY

Finalists: The Bar Olathe, Billie’s Grocery, Casa Mexico, Chixen Kansas City, Fajita Pete’s, Tower Tavern BEST CHICKEN SANDWICH

WINNER: CHICKEN N PICKLE Finalists: The Big Biscuit, Cliff’s Taphouse, The Glass Cat Cafe, Red Door Woodfired Grill, The Rockhill Grille, Unforked, Vader’s Bar & Deli BEST CHICKEN STRIPS/TENDERS

WINNER: RAISING CANE’S CHICKEN FINGERS Finalists: Go Chicken Go, Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, Lew’s Grill & Bar, Mother Clucker, The Other Place, Slim Chickens, Strip’s Chicken BEST CHICKEN WINGS

WINNER: THE PEANUT Finalists: City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen, Helen’s JAD Bar & Grill, J’s Fish and Chicken Market, Q39, Red Door Woodfired Grill, Wing Lovers USA BEST CHILI

WINNER: DIXON’S FAMOUS CHILI PARLOR

BEST DELI

WINNER: STROUD’S OAK RIDGE MANOR

Finalists: Carollo’s Grocery & Deli, Guy’s Deli, The Italian Sausage Company, King G, M & M Bakery & Delicatessen, Milwaukee Delicatessen Company

Finalists: The Big Biscuit, Cinzetti’s Italian Market, Governor Stumpy’s Grill House, Pegah’s Family Restaurant

Finalists: Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Go Chicken Go, Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, Julita’s, Lula Southern Cookhouse, Red Door Woodfired Grill, Rye

BEST DESSERT MENU

Finalists: Disco Burger, The HallaPeño, Joker B’s BBQ, Ragusa’s Italian Café, Snack Bar, Tacos Valentina

WINNER: UNFORKED Finalists: The Antler Room, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Lazia, Novel Restaurant, The Town Company

WINNER: LAMAR’S DONUTS

BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT

Finalists: Donut King, Mr. D’s Donut Shop, Ridgewood Donuts

WINNER: BO LINGS

BEST CHOCOLATE SHOP

WINNER: CHRISTOPHER ELBOW CHOCOLATES Finalists: Andre’s Chocolates & Confiserie Suisse, Annedore’s Fine Chocolates, Bizz & Weezy Confections, Bliss Chocolatier, Classy Chocolate, Laura Little’s Candies, Russell Stover Chocolates BEST CINNAMON ROLLS

WINNER: CORNER CAFE Finalists: Blackhole Bakery, The Farmhouse, McLain’s Bakery, Morgana’s Gluten Free Bakery, Neighborhood Cafe, Three Bears Bakery KC, Tin Pan

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

WINNER: STROUD’S OAK RIDGE MANOR

Finalists: Bricks Pub & Grub, Lew’s Grill & Bar, Mason Jar Brews & Burgers, The Peanut, Town Topic

Finalists: ABC Cafe, China Feast, China Star, Dragon Inn, Fortune Wok, Princess Garden Restaurant, Red Wok

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT

WINNER: SCIMECA’S RETAIL MARKET & DELI

BEST DONUTS

BEST DRUNK FOOD

WINNER: TOWN TOPIC

BEST FOOD POP-UP

WINNER: DEVOURED POP-UP

BEST GERMAN RESTAURANT

WINNER: GRÜNAUER

Finalists: Affäre, Kansas City Bier Company

BEST FOOD TRUCK

WINNER: JERUSALEM CAFE

BEST GLUTEN-FREE OPTIONS (RESTAURANT)

Finalists: 451 Pizza, Julita’s, KC Mobile Munchies, Pura Vida KC, Ragusa’s Italian Crepe Cafe, The Rub BBQ, The Sugar Skull Grill, Tamaleon KC

Finalists: Cafe Gratitude, Freestyle Poke, Mattie’s Foods, Mesob, Ragusa’s Italian Cafe, Urban Egg

BEST FRENCH FRIES

WINNER: BILLIE’S GROCERY

BEST GREEK RESTAURANT

WINNER: JOE’S KANSAS CITY BAR-B-QUE

WINNER: TASSO’S GREEK RESTAURANT

WINNER: BLUE NILE CAFE

Finalists: City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Gates BBQ, Lucky Boys, Unforked, The Westside Local, Westport Cafe

Finalists: Aladdin Cafe, Jerusalem Cafe, The Mad Greek, Meddys, Mr. Gyro’s Greek Food & Pastry, Papagallo Gyro Cafe, Papu’s Cafe

Finalists: Elsa’s Ethiopian Restaurant, Mesob, My Village-Grill Restaurant

BEST FRENCH RESTAURANT

WINNER: JERUSALEM CAFE

Finalists: Aixois, Café des Amis, Café Provence, French Market, TAILLEUR, Westport Cafe

Finalists: Aladdin Cafe, Haha’s Pizza Hub, Hummus and Pita, Max’s Burgers & Gyros, Mr. Gyro’s Greek Food & Pastry, Nick The Greek, Papu’s Cafe

Finalists: Charlie Hooper’s, Jim’s Alley Bar, Pancho’s Mexican Food, The Peanut, Pizza Shuttle, Tiki Taco BEST ETHIOPIAN FOOD

BEST FALAFEL

WINNER: JERUSALEM CAFE Finalists: Aladdin Cafe, Baba’s Pantry, Falafel Express, Habashi House, Papu’s Cafe, Queen of Mediterranean, Shawarmar

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST GYRO

WINNER: LE FOU FROG

BEST HALAL RESTAURANT

WINNER: BABA’S PANTRY Finalists: Habashi House, The Halal Guys, Holy Land Cafe, Kari’s on 39th, Shawarmar

SPREADING

JOY,

one delicious bite at a time Catering traditional holiday classics with a chef-driven BBQ twist.

Book online

TODAY! MIDTOWN 1000 W 39th St, Kansas City, MO 816-255-3753

SOUTH 11051 Antioch Rd, Overland Park, KS 913-951-4500

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

Best Happy Hour (Food), Best Happy Hour (Drink), Best Tapas: La Bodega Zach Bauman

BEST HAPPY HOUR (FOOD)

WINNER: LA BODEGA Finalists: Blue Sushi Sake Grill, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Extra Virgin, Gaels Public House & Sports, Percheron Rooftop Bar, Red Door Woodfired Grill, Summit Grill BEST HOT DOG (RESTAURANTS/FOOD TRUCKS)

WINNER: WIENER KITCHEN

Finalists: The Brick, The Campground, Charlie Hooper’s, Fritz’s Smoked Meats and Superior Sausage Co. BEST HOTEL RESTAURANT

WINNER: THE TOWN COMPANY Finalists: American Slang, Chaz on the Plaza, Lazia, Nine Zero One at The Fontaine, The Savoy at 21c

BEST KOREAN

WINNER: CHINGU Finalists: Chosun Korean BBQ, Kobi-Q, Sura Eats

BEST ICE CREAM

WINNER: BETTY RAE’S ICE CREAM

WINNER: TOWN TOPIC

Finalists: Andy’s Frozen Custard, French Custard, High Hopes Ice Cream, KC Mobile Munchies, One More Scoop, Sylas & Maddy’s Homemade Ice Cream

Finalists: Charlie Hooper’s, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Helen’s JAD Bar & Grill, Moretina’s Caddy Shack, XR

BEST LATE NIGHT EATS

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT

BEST LOCAL SNACK

WINNER: TAJ MAHAL AUTHENTIC CUISINE OF INDIA

WINNER: TOPSY’S POPCORN Finalists: Guy’s Deli, KC Mobile Munchies, KC Pretzel Boy’s, Velvet Creme Popcorn

Finalists: India Palace, Korma Sutra, Moti Mahal, Seva Cuisine of India, Swagat Fine Indian Cuisine, Taj Palace BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT

WINNER: GAROZZO’S

BEST BEST LOCALLY MADE SAUCE/SALSA/ CONDIMENT (NON-BBQ)

WINNER: MARGARITA’S SALSA

Finalists: Bella Napoli, Carmen’s Cafe, Cascone’s Italian Restaurant, Jasper’s Italian Restaurant, Lazia, Ragazza Food & Wine, Viona’s Italian Bistro

Finalists: Los Alamos Cocina, Spanish Gardens, Spicin Foods - Pain is Good, Taco Tank, Tacos Valentina - Tianguis

BEST ITALIAN SAUSAGE

WINNER: VELVET CREME POPCORN

BEST LOCALLY MADE SWEETS

WINNER: SCIMECA’S ITALIAN SAUSAGE CO. Finalists: Carmen’s Cafe, The Italian Sausage Company, Marco Polo’s Italian Market, Werner’s Fine Sausages

Finalists: Baking with a Bass, Chamoy Boi, Scola’s Italian Cookies, Sugarfold, Tropical Sno KC, Yummies by Yoka BEST LUNCH

BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

WINNER: THE RUSSELL

Finalists: The Big Biscuit, Jalapeños Mexican Restaurant, Salty Iguana, Waldo Pizza

Finalists: Aixois, The Chive, Simply Good Cafe & Market, The Italian Sausage Company, Pad Thai Restaurant, The Restaurant at 1900, Taco Tank, Unforked

WINNER: FRITZ’S RAILROAD RESTAURANT

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST MEAL KIT/PREPARED FOODS

WINNER: THREE BEARS BAKERY KC Finalists: Fitstyle Foods KC, Hemma Hemma KC, KITCH Meals, Urban Bounty Farms

BEST PHO

WINNER: VIETNAM CAFE Finalists: Broken Rice, Café Vie, Nguyen Pho & Grill, Pho Good, Pho Tower, Pho Tuoi BEST PIE

BEST MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

WINNER: JERUSALEM CAFE

Finalists: Aladdin Cafe, Baba’s Pantry, Enzo Bistro and Wine Bar, Extra Virgin, Meddys, Tasso’s Greek Restaurant, YaYa’s Euro Bistro

WINNER: CORNER CAFE Finalists: Ashleigh’s Bake Shop, Brady & Fox, Eclairs de la Lune, Rye, Three Bears Bakery KC, Town Topic, The Upper Crust BEST PIZZA (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS)

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

WINNER: PONAK’S MEXICAN KITCHEN Finalists: Barbacoa, Dos de Oros, Dos Reales, Drunken Worm, El Patrón, Jalepeños Mexican Restaurant, K-Macho’s Mexican Grill & Cantina BEST NACHOS

WINNER: GAELS PUBLIC HOUSE & SPORTS Finalists: Burn Theory Fire Kitchen, Casa Amigos, Chelly’s Cafe, Drunken Worm, Mesob, Taco Tank, Tiki Taco BEST NEW RESTAURANT

WINNER: BARBACOA Finalists: Bacaro Primo, Chingu, Kari’s on 39th, McGregor’s Butcher & Bistro, Noka, Urban Egg BEST OUTDOOR DINING

WINNER: CHAR BAR Finalists: Aixois, Bamboo Penny’s, Cafe Trio, Gaels Public House & Sports, Rye, Trezo Mare, Vivilore

WINNER: MINSKY’S PIZZA

Finalists: Buffalo State Pizza, Martin City Brewing Company, Pizza Tascio, Providence Pizza BEST PIZZA (SINGLE LOCATION)

WINNER: WALDO PIZZA

Finalists: Fortunati Pizza, Gaels Public House & Sports, Il Lazzarone, Johnny Jo’s Pizzeria, Moretina’s Caddy Shack, Pizza 51, XR BEST PLACE TO EAT AT THE BAR

WINNER: THE PEANUT

Finalists: Barbacoa, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Jim’s Alley Bar, John’s Big Deck, Pierpont’s at Union Station, Saints Pub + Patio City Center BEST POKE

WINNER: FREESTYLE POKE Finalists: Da Poke Wagon, Hokibar, Pokéloha, Yard House

#SayCheese

& you could win a large deep dish of your choice! Make a PUBLIC POST on Facebook or Instagram featuring a great pic of you and your crew enjoying our Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza! Use the #saycheese hashtag so we know you want to participate and tag us so we can see it! 'UDZLQJ LV WKH ÀUVW GD\ RI WKH month for both locations for the 14” deep dish of your choice. Thanks for playing & STAY CHEESY!

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BEST SOUL FOOD

WINNER: NIECIE’S RESTAURANT Finalists: Jonathan’s BBQ Seafood Soulfood Cajun Creole, KC Daiquiri Shop Bistreaux, Lula Southern Cookhouse, Peachtree Buffet and Cafeteria BEST STEAKHOUSE

WINNER: THE CAPITAL GRILLE Finalists: 801 Chophouse, Golden Ox, Hereford House, J. Gilbert’s Wood-Fired Steaks & Seafood, Jess and Jim’s Steak House, The Majestic Restaurant, Stock Hill BEST SUSHI

WINNER: BLUE SUSHI SAKE GRILL BEST PORK TENDERLOIN

WINNER: SUMMIT GRILL

Finalists: Christine’s Firehouse, Christy’s Tasty Queen, Sandy’s Restaurant, Strip’s Chicken, Tenderloin Grill

Finalists: Conroy’s Public House, The Italian Sausage Company, Jim’s Alley Bar, Mason Jar Brews & Burgers, The Pressed Penny Tavern

BEST PRETZEL

BEST ROMANTIC RESTAURANT

Finalists: Jim’s Alley Bar, KC Pretzel Boy’s, Martin City Brewing Company, Mason Jar Brews & Burgers, Red Door Woodfired Grill, Sugar Whipped Bakery

Finalists: The Antler Room, Chaz on the Plaza, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Lazia, Novel Restaurant

WINNER: KC BIER CO.

BEST QUESO

WINNER: JOSE PEPPER’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT Finalists: Barrio KC, Dos Reales, Drunken Worm, El Patrón, Kansas City Taco Company, Margarita’s, Smitty’s Garage Burger and Beer BEST RAMEN

WINNER: BŌRU ASIAN EATERY Finalists: Aoyama Ramen, JINYA Ramen Bar, KC Craft Ramen, Mama Ramen, Ramen Bowls

Eclectic Middle Eastern Cuisine.

Consistently Delicious!

Monday - Saturday 11am-10pm

Sunday

11am-9pm

BEST RESTAURANT

WINNER: RED DOOR WOODFIRED GRILL Finalists: The Antler Room, Barbacoa, Café Provence, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Farina, Lazia, The Town Company

816-442-8655

Thanks for voting us to be the best: Falafel, Food Truck, Gyro & Mediterranean Restaurant

Finalists: Barbacoa, Cliff’s Taphouse, Crushed Red, Grand Street Cafe, The Russell, Urban Bounty Farms

Finalists: Baramee Thai Bistro, Lulu’s Thai Noodle Shop, Mason Jar Brews and Burgers, Rancho’s Mexican Food, Tiki Taco, Unforked

WINNER: THE MIXX

BEST SANDWICH SHOP

WINNER: BAY BOY SPECIALTY SANDWICHES Finalists: Carollo’s Grocery & Deli, Goodcents, Guy’s Deli, The Italian Sausage Company, King G, Pickleman’s Gourmet Cafe

WINNER: BRISTOL SEAFOOD GRILL Finalists: Coast to Coast Pub - Martin City Brewing Company, Earl’s Premier, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar, Jumpin’ Catfish Restaurant, Krab Kingz, Ocean Prime BEST SERVING STAFF

Finalists: Barbacoa, Cafe Trio, City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Lazia, The Restaurant at 1900, Urban Egg

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

Finalists: Carniceria y Tortilleria San Antonio, Drunken Worm, Taco Naco, Taco Tank, Tacos Valentina, Tiki Taco, Unforked BEST TAKE OUT

Finalists: 715 Restaurant, The Burger Stand at The Casbah, Culinaria, Mass St. Fish House & Raw Bar, Merchants Pub & Plate

Finalists: Angel at Beer Kitchen, Cara at Cafe Trio, Eddie at Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Shelly at Gino’s Italian Cuisine

BEST TACOS

WINNER: RUDY’S TENAMPA TAQUERIA

WINNER: MINSKY’S PIZZA

WINNER: RED DOOR WOODFIRED GRILL

WINNER: ELAINE AT STROUD’S OAK RIDGE MANOR

Finalists: Friends Sushi & Bento Place, Jun’s, Prime Sushi, Sayachi, Sushi House, Sushi Mido, Sushi UNI

BEST SALAD

WINNER: FREE STATE BREWING COMPANY

BEST RESTAURANT SERVER

Kansas City, MO 64111

WINNER: LE FOU FROG

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

BEST RESTAURANT (LAWRENCE)

515 Westport Rd

BEST REUBEN

WINNER: KITTY’S CAFE

BEST SMOOTHIE/JUICE BAR

WINNER: RUBY JEAN’S JUICERY Finalists: Billie’s Juicery, Dotte Nutrition, Enjoy Pure Food + Drink, Equally Minded Cafe, Nekter Juice Bar, Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies, Tropical Smoothie Cafe

BEST TAPAS

WINNER: LA BODEGA Finalists: Extra Virgin, Percheron Rooftop Bar BEST THAI RESTAURANT

WINNER: WALDO THAI Finalists: Bamboo Penny’s, Baramee Thai Bistro, Lulu’s Thai Noodle Soup, Tasty Thai, Thai Orchid, Thai Place, Thai Spice BEST TOTS

WINNER: GRINDERS Finalists: The BrewTop Pub and Patio, Burn Theory Fire Kitchen, Cosmo Burger, Lew’s Grill & Bar, Mason Jar Brews & Burgers, The Rockhill Grille, Winstead’s BEST VEGAN

WINNER: CAFE GRATITUDE Finalists: The Fix!, Leaf Eater, Mattie’s Foods, Mud Pie Bakery & Coffee, Tree Hugger Kitchen, Urban Egg, Vegan Crave Burgers and Bakery BEST VEGETARIAN OPTIONS

WINNER: CAFE GRATITUDE Finalists: Cliff’s Taphouse, Enjoy Pure Food + Drink, The Fix!, Mesob, Thai Zappz Authentic Cuisine, Urban Egg

Thanks for the

KC!

PROUD TO BE YOUR

2023 PITCH BEST OF KC

BEST CATERER + BEST WEDDING CATERER 816.765.4707 BRANCATOSCATERING.COM

Holiday family meals, corporate holiday parties, individual meals, gift boxes + more, we have everything you need for a delicious holiday season! WE LOOK FORWARD TO BRINGING #GOODFOOD TO YOU! THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM

WINNER: S. PAIGE SANDER CPA, LLC Finalists: Abacus Accounting Solutions LLC, Alliance Financial & Income Tax, AM CPA, Comprehensive Accounting Wealth Management LLC, FORVIS

BEST AUTO SERVICE/REPAIR

WINNER: KC AUTOWORX Finalists: AAMCO Transmissions & Total Car Care of Overland Park, Casey’s Auto Repair, Donovan’s Service, KC Complete Auto Service, Otto Service, Sallas Auto Repair, Value Auto Clinic

BEST AD/MARKETING AGENCY

WINNER: SQUARE PEG MARKETING & BRANDING Finalists: Barkley, iFocus Marketing, KES Studio, No-Where Consultants, VMLY&R, Web Force KC

BEST BANK (COMMERCIAL)

WINNER: COMMUNITY AMERICA CREDIT UNION Finalists: Arvest Bank, Commerce Bank, Country Club Bank, Lead Bank, UMB Bank

BEST ADULT CLUB

WINNER: THE SHADY LADY LOUNGE Finalists: Bazooka’s Showgirls, Temptations BEST AESTHETICIAN

WINNER: NIKKY RICE - FACE KC MEDICAL SPA Finalists: Alley Gage - Alley Gage Beauty, Alex Turner - Lashed by Alex, Amber Syer Jackson - Bad Cat Beauty, Ashley Jagow - Wanderlust Esthetics, Kristin Watkins - Redeeming Radiance Skin Studio, Rachel Rogers - Refresh Med Spa/Simple Empathy, Sara Kelly Covet Skin Studio

BEST BANK (CONSUMER)

WINNER: COMMUNITY AMERICA CREDIT UNION Finalists: Country Club Bank, Commerce Bank, Equity Bank, Security Bank of Kansas City, UMB Bank BEST BARBER

WINNER: BEZHIN BARZINJI CATALYST BARBER CO. Finalists: Justin Lemos - MidWest Barbery, Nick Brown - KC Barber Co., Nikola Relic - him.her.them Hair Studio, Paige Ratzlaff - MidWest Barbery BEST BARBERSHOP

BEST APARTMENT COMMUNITY

WINNER: CATALYST BARBER CO.

Finalists: Avenue 80, The District at City Center, Mission 106 Apartments, Second + Delaware Apartments, Sky On Main Apartment Homes, West Bottoms Flats, Woodside Village North

Finalists: The Barrel House Barber Lounge, Brookside Barber Shop, Crisp Cuts & Styles Barber Shop, Crows Nest Barber and Shave Parlour, KC Barber Co., MidWest Barbery, Purple Label Luxury Barbershop

BEST AUCTION HOUSE

BEST BED & BREAKFAST

WINNER: UNION HILL ON MAIN

WINNER: THIS & THAT KC, LLC

WINNER: WESTON STEAMBOAT INN

Finalists: Andrew Turner Auctions, Cates Auction & Realty Co., Equip-Bid Auctions, KC Auction Company, Mayo Auction & Realty

Finalists: The Browning, Casa Somerset, Cedar Crest Lodge, Inn on Crescent Lake, Main Street Inn, Silver Heart Inn & Cottages

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

Best Barbershop: Catalyst Barber Co.; Best Barber: Bezhin Barzinji Zach Bauman

BEST BLOW OUT

BEST CHILD CARE CENTER

WINNER: POSH KC

WINNER: RAINBOW SCHOOL

Finalists: AF Salon, The Glam Room, Salon HALO, Session - A Hollie Haskins Salon

Finalists: Country Club Methodist Child Development Center, Kiddi Kollege, Spectrum Station, Stephen’s House

BEST BODY PIERCING

WINNER: SUPERNATURAL BODY PIERCING

WINNER: TWO GALS & A BROOM

Finalists: Crystal Point Body Piercing, Grimm Tattoo, Radiance Piercing, Revelation Tattoo

Finalists: Clean Heart Maids, Cleaning Maids In & Out LLC, CottageCare, Shannon’s Cleaning Services

BEST BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHER

BEST BEST CLINICAL TRIALS/ PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH

WINNER: GOOD BODIES

Finalists: Boudoir by K. Eden, Cassidy Drury Photography, Illuminated Palette Photography, Silience Boudoir, Stag & Bird Photography, WMNKND Boudoir BEST BROWS

WINNER: BELLABROWS Finalists: Bad Cat Beauty, Brows Body Face, Jamie Latta Beauty, Lashed by Alex, Microblading Kansas City, Redeeming Radiance Skin Studio, Tay Beauty Esthetics BEST CAR WASH

WINNER: GO CAR WASH Finalists: Charlie’s Car Wash, Kevin’s Car Wash, McBee’s Coffee & Carwash, Tidal Wave Auto Spa, Waterway Carwash

BEST CLEANING SERVICE

WINNER: KU CANCER CENTER Finalists: Altasciences KC, ICON BEST COMPUTER/IT SERVICES

WINNER: KANSAS CITY MANAGED IT

Finalists: Computer Pros, DCS Computer Solutions, Integral BEST CONTRACTOR

WINNER: ALL UNDER ONE ROOF Finalists: BC Hardscapes, Candor Upkeep Handyman Services, CMP Construction, The Decksperts LLC, Mortise & Miter, NextGen Remodeling

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DOWNLOAD OUR APP and Start Your Musical Journey. THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM 37

BEST ELECTRICIAN

WINNER: POWER KC Finalists: Core Electric, East Side Electric, ECO Electric, MVP Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electric, SJ Electric LLC BEST EMPLOYMENT AGENCY

WINNER: CHIEF OF STAFF KANSAS CITY

BEST HAIR REMOVAL

BEST INJECTOR

WINNER: CHANDLER VANCE - HOLLYDAY MED SPA + AESTHETICS

BEST HAIR SALON

WINNER: MOXIE BY KC Finalists: Artistry by LB, COLLAB, The Gypsy Parlor, Helm Salon, Roots & Branches Salon, Salon Inspire, Society Salon and Spa

Finalists: Bridge Space, Ecafe, Spark Kansas City BEST CREDIT UNION

BEST FINANCIAL PLANNING

WINNER: KASSIDI UPTON - THE HAIRAPY CO.

Finalists: Lance Harshbarger, Mariner Wealth Advisors, nVision Wealth, White Sand Wealth Management

Finalists: Bettina Delfin, The Colunga, Dalton Morris, Jemma Bruton, Kelsey Schuepbach, Laurabeth Cabott, Shelby Loos

WINNER: PLEXPOD

WINNER: KC GROW DEPOT

Finalists: Quality Grow, Year-Round Garden

Finalists: Bare Med Spa, Milan Laser Hair Removal, Space Babes Body Waxing, Wanderlust Esthetics

Finalists: Express Employment Professionals, Paydayz Staffing Solutions, Vertical Staffing Solutions, Vest Professional Placement

BEST COWORKING SPACE

BEST HYDROPONICS/GROW SHOP

WINNER: ELEVATE ESTHETICS PARLOR

Finalists: Ashley Pratt - ash-thetics, Ashley Williams - Monarch Plastic Surgery, Megan Griffiths - Plaza Aesthetics & Wellness, Nichole Patton - Bare Med Spa, Sean Ryan - Face KC Medical Spa, Stephanie Heck - aNu Aesthetics

BEST HAIR STYLIST

WINNER: COMMUNITY AMERICA CREDIT UNION Finalists: Mainstreet Credit Union, Mazuma Credit Union

WINNER: CREATIVE PLANNING

BEST CUSTOM BLINDS/WINDOW TREATMENTS

WINNER: BUDGET BLINDS OF LEE’S SUMMIT Finalists: The BlindBroker, Made in the Shade Blinds & More, Shawnee Blinds

Finalists: Arena Insurance Brokers, Inc.; In the Game Insurance Services; Irvin Pete - State Farm; Nicole Feltz - American Family Insurance; Julie Pfefer & Associates; Mid USA Insurance Agency

BEST GARAGE DOOR COMPANY

WINNER: OVERHEAD DOOR COMPANY OF KANSAS CITY Finalists: ABC Garage Doors, State Line Door & Lift BEST GROUP THERAPY

WINNER: THE COUNSELING COLLABORATIVE

BEST CUSTOM COUNTERTOPS

WINNER: ROCKTOPS GRANITE & STONE FABRICATION

BEST INSURANCE AGENCY

WINNER: GOOSEHEAD INSURANCE - ALYSON POPE AGENCY

Finalists: Central Surfaces, Legendary Stone, Profile Cabinet and Design

Finalists: Brookside Anxiety, Healing Towards Wellness, KC Well Co., Lilac Center, Simple Empathy

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

BEST GUTTER CLEANING

WINNER: BESAME WELLNESS

WINNER: THE GUTTER GUYS

Finalists: Central Surfaces, Elevate Missouri, Elevate Organic Salon + Spa, Mazuma Credit Union, Milan Laser Hair Removal, Rally House, Tager Appliance Repair

Finalists: Ad Astra Softwash, Jet Stream Guttering & Lighting, Latka Gutter Cleaning, Shack Shine Kansas City, Triton Home Solutions

BEST HANDYMAN

WINNER: MR. HONEY-DO HANDYMAN SERVICES Finalists: Candor Upkeep Handyman Services, HandyMatt KC, Scott the Handyman

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER

WINNER: HILL HOMES KC

BEST HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING COMPANY

Finalists: Cody Residential, Lisa Schmitz Interior Design, Spirit Animal Interiors, ULAH Interiors + Design

WINNER: HOTTER THAN HELL HEATING AND COOLING Finalists: A.B. May Heating A/C, Plumbing & Electrical; Anthony Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric; Blue Heating and Cooling; Cates Heating and Cooling; Hill Heating and Cooling; MVP Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electric; Polestar Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

BEST KITCHEN & BATH REMODELER

WINNER: SHAMROCK CABINET Finalists: Building Dreams Renovations, Gold Heart Homes, Mortise & Miter, NextGen Remodeling BEST LANDSCAPER

WINNER: THIRD SPACE DESIGN BUILD

BEST HAIR COLORIST

BEST DOG TRAINING

WINNER: THE DOGS’ SPOT DOG TRAINING CENTER AND BOUTIQUE Finalists: All Dogs Unleashed, The Collar Club, Donna Lane at Westwood Animal Hospital, K.I.S.S. Dog Training, Pet Geek KC

WINNER: PAYTON THOMAS AT COLLAB Finalists: Ashley Falzone, Chloe Mohn, The Colunga, Dalton Morris, Josie Stambaugh at The Gypsy Parlor, Justine Thaman at Refinery Room, Kelsey Schuepbach

BEST HENNA ARTIST

WINNER: HENNA HANDS BY NIDA

Finalists: Aspen Lawn & Pest Control, By The Blade Lawn & Landscape, Doctor’s Lawn & Landscape, Executive Lawn Care, SK Lawn Care

Finalists: Henna by Jayna, Mari Randle BEST HOTEL

WINNER: CROSSROADS HOTEL Finalists: The Fontaine, Hotel Kansas City, InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza, Loews Kansas City Hotel, Oak Street Mansion

BEST LASHES

WINNER: THE LASH LOUNGE Finalists: Deka Lash, Javi Bare Beauty, Journey Skincare, Lashed by Alex

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THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

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Voted Kansas City s “Best Real Estate Team”

EXPERIENCE EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS RESIDENTIAL RESALE | NEW HOMES | LUXURY | INVESTMENTS TOP RANKED LOCALLY & NATIONALLY

HOME IS NOT DEFINED BY AN ADDRESS OR A FLOOR PLAN.

IT’S THE MOMENTS YOU CREATE INSIDE THAT MATTER MOST. We believe the home buying and selling experience should be the beginning of those lasting memories. The Collective at Compass offers a luxury sale experience for your home - from our custom, comprehensive staging services to our endless energy, we unlock the perfect match for both buyer and seller. Consider us your personal home concierge: HAND US THE KEYS AND WE’LL TAKE IT FROM THERE.

Call / Text 913.359.9333 Email TheCollective@TheCollectiveKC.house Follow us on social @thecollectivekc.house 4403 W 119th Street, Leawood, KS 66209 Office 913.382.6711 The Collective is a team of real estate agents affiliated with Compass Realty Group, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

BEST LUXURY PICNIC

WINNER: FAMILY TREE NURSERY

Finalists: Bloom Picnic KC, KC Happy Campers

Finalists: Diane K Diehn ND, Inspire Health by Jen

Finalists: Colonial Gardens, Larry’s Nursery, ROOTS, Soil Service Garden Center, Suburban Lawn & Garden, Virgil’s Plant Shop

BEST MAKEUP ARTIST

BEST LAUNDROMAT

Finalists: The Laundry Craft, Midtown Laundry, Quinn’s Laundry, Walnut Place Laundromat BEST LAW FIRM/LAWYER

WINNER: DAVID BELL Finalists: Aimee the Attorney; Bologna & Blair, LLC; Clayton A. Jones; Hale Robinson & Robinson, LLC; Jenna Driskell; Law Office of Jill Turner LLC; Meyerkord, Russell & Hergott

Finalists: Alley Gage Beauty, Audra Ashlee Artistry, Caro Benitez Makeup Studio & Spa, Glam & Glow with Kalsie Jo LLC, Hannah Zuercher at Soft Glow Studio, Meg Marsh Styling & Artistry, Terin Sexton BEST MARTIAL ARTS

WINNER: INTEGRITY MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY Finalists: AmeriKick Martial Arts Overland Park, Aplomb Martial Arts Brookside, Baer Swords School of Western Martial Arts, FastKick, Grupo Axé Capoeira Kansas City, Kraken BJJ & Fitness, Master H C Kim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do Center

BEST LIBRARY BRANCH: KS

BEST OIL CHANGE

WINNER: VALVOLINE INSTANT OIL CHANGE Finalists: InstaLube, Midas, Mobil 1 Lube Express at Kevin’s Car Wash, Walton’s 9 Minute Oil Change BEST PARTY BUS/LIMO SERVICE

WINNER: SHOWTIME TRANSPORTATION

Finalists: Barley Bus Tours, Hobson’s Limousine, LEADER Worldwide Chauffeur Services, Vegas Limousine of KC BEST PEST CONTROL (INDOOR)

WINNER: PETE’S PEST CONTROL Finalists: Aspen Lawn & Pest Control, Critter Control of Kansas City, Gunter Pest & Lawn, Joshua’s Pest Control

WINNER: JOHNSON COUNTY LIBRARY - CENTRAL RESOURCE LIBRARY

WINNER: TANTARA MOBILE AIRBRUSH TAN

WINNER: PETE’S PEST CONTROL

Finalists: Corinth Library, Lenexa City Center Library, Olathe Indian Creek Library

Finalists: Airbrushed by Rada, Makeup Undefined by Nichole, SunKissed By Jaden

Finalists: Aspen Lawn & Pest Control, Gunter Pest & Lawn, Joshua’s Pest Control

BEST LIBRARY BRANCH: MO

BEST MORTGAGE/HOME LOAN PROVIDER

WINNER: THE KANSAS CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY - CENTRAL LIBRARY

BEST MOBILE SPRAY TAN

WINNER: MCGOWAN MORTGAGES

Finalists: Alex Chang - NEXA Mortgage, The Blevins Group, Clear Mortgage, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, The Lyn’N’Em Team w/ LeaderOne Financial, Corp., Summit Lending

Finalists: Kansas City Public Library - Plaza Branch, Kansas City Public Library - Waldo Branch, Mid-Continent Public Library - Antioch Branch, MidContinent Public Library - Green Hills Library Center, Mid-Continent Public Library - Red Bridge Branch, MidContinent Public Library - Woodneath Library Center

WINNER: GAIL’S POWERSPORTS

BEST LOAN OFFICER

Finalists: Adventure Motors, Dell’s Powersports

BEST MOTORCYCLE OR OFF-ROAD VEHICLE DEALER

WINNER: DEREK MCGOWAN MCGOWAN MORTGAGES

BEST MUSIC LABEL

WINNER: STRANGE MUSIC

Finalists: Adriana Bates - Clear Mortgage, Alex Chang - NEXA Mortgage, Brittani King - LeaderOne Financial, Christopher Parris LeaderOne Financial, Scott Somerville - Fairway Independent Mortgage, Tyler Blevins - Bayshore Mortgage Funding, LLC BEST LOCAL FARM

WINNER: MESSNER BEE FARM Finalists: Antioch Urban Growers, Barham Family Farm, Urbavore Urban Farm, Young Family Farm BEST LOCAL MOVING COMPANY

WINNER: YOU MOVE ME

Finalists: Let’s Get Moving, Moovers of KC North, Moving Proz, Point Blank Moving

BEST PLACE TO BUY A PLANT

WINNER: ALICIA JOHNSON, ND

WINNER: RP ARTISTRY

WINNER: MR. BUBBLES

BEST NATUROPATH

WINNER: POP UP PICNICS KC

Finalists: Datura Records, Manor Records, Raytona Recordings, The Record Machine BEST MUSIC STUDIO

WINNER: SOUNDWORKS RECORDING STUDIO Finalists: Avenue Record Company, FSP Studios, Industry Soundz, Markosa Studios, Weights and Measures Soundlab, Westend Recording Studios BEST NAIL SALON

WINNER: LUXE NAIL SPA Finalists: Hoopla Studio, The Lacquer Room, Nail Noir, Nail Society, Nails by Heather Lucille at The Gypsy Parlor, Organic Nails, Red Nails

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST PEST CONTROL (OUTDOOR)

BEST PET BOARDING/DAYCARE

WINNER: WOOF’S PLAY & STAY Finalists: Camp Bow Wow, City Dogs KC, The Collar Club, Happy Dog Ranch & Resort, Kate’s Canine Resort, Katie’s Kennel, Pawsperity BEST PET GROOMER

WINNER: FOR PET’S SAKE Finalists: Camp Bow Wow, The Collar Club, Kate’s Canine Resort, Pawsperity, Pet Rinse Repeat, Simply Grooming by Gia

BEST PLUMBING

WINNER: ANTHONY PLUMBING, HEATING, COOLING & ELECTRIC Finalists: Affordable Plumbing & Sewer; Andy’s Pipe Dream Plumbing; Bluefrog Plumbing + Drain; High Efficiency Heating, Cooling & Plumbing; Lutz Plumbing; Quality Plumbing BEST PRESCHOOL

WINNER: NORTHLAND EARLY EDUCATION CENTER Finalists: A Better Choice Preschool, Country Club Methodist Child Development Center, Primrose School of Ward Parkway BEST PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY

WINNER: PRICE BROTHERS MANAGEMENT COMPANY Finalists: Block Multifamily Group, Clemons Real Estate, EPC Real Estate Group, Northpoint Asset Management, Union Hill Properties BEST PSYCHIC READINGS

WINNER: DR. MATT TURNER - BE LOVE HEALING Finalists: Noelle Noir, Dr. Shae Moyers, Spiritual Readings by Ashley, Veil and Vow Tarot BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

WINNER: RACH THE REALTOR RACHEL KILMER

WINNER: THE PHOTO BUS

Finalists: Amy + Mindy Homes and Lifestyle, Jennifer Weaver, Kameron Eaken, Samantha Salem, Stephanie Bulcock, Taryn Kelly, Whitney Grimes

Finalists: 6K Entertainment, Glam Cam KC, Luxe Photos KC

BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY (BOUTIQUE)

BEST PHOTO BOOTH SERVICE

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER (BUSINESS)

WINNER: STAG & BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY

Finalists: Adri Guyer Photographer, Four Blossoms Photography LLC, Jerry Chavez Photography, Wild Fyre Co. BEST PLACE TO ADOPT A PET

WINNER: THE COLLECTIVE AT COMPASS REALTY GROUP

Finalists: Boveri Realty Group, Kansas City Realty Services, KC Local Homes, Sellstate Heartland Realty, Summit Way Realty BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY (COMMERCIAL)

WINNER: KC PET PROJECT

WINNER: REECENICHOLS

Finalists: Great Plains SPCA, Heart of America Humane Society, Humane Society of Greater Kansas City, Lucky 13 Rescue, Midwest Animal ResQ, Pawportunities, Wayside Waifs

Finalists: Boveri Realty Group, Keller Williams Realty Key Partners, Price Brothers Management Company, RE/ MAX Heritage, RE/MAX State Line, Sellstate Heartland Realty, Summit Way Realty

THANK YOU!

ROCKTOPS IS HONORED TO BE VOTED KANSAS CITY’S BEST OF CUSTOM COUNTERTOPS!

Now serving our community in two locations. Olathe, KS | Lee’s Summit, Mo Rocktopskc.com | info@rocktopskc.com

BEST TAILOR/ALTERATIONS

WINNER: ELIZABETH’S ALTERATIONS Finalists: Bridal by SHL, Expert Alterations & Embroidery, Fine Stitch, Larissa’s Plaza Tailor Shop, Rydell Tailor Shop, Slabotsky’s Menswear & Tailoring BEST TANNING SALON

WINNER: SUN TAN CITY Finalists: BeYOUtify, Bronzed + Blushed, Celsius Tannery, District Tan, KC Tan, Recreating Rays BEST TATTOO ARTIST

BEST RESUME WRITING/CAREER SERVICES

WINNER: RESUMES BY NEESHA Finalists: Jess Feltner - Jess from HR, Sarah Uchytil - Sarah U Coach

WINNER: CAT WONG Finalists: Blake Van Vleck, Bob Bitner, Brandy Woodford, Brett Murdock, Jessie Hopeless, Kim Petty, @tattoos. stephanie

BEST ROOFER/ROOFING COMPANY

WINNER: TRUE GRIT ROOFING COMPANY Finalists: Blue Rain Roofing and Restoration; Christian Brothers Roofing; Fidler on the Roof KC; Murphy & Sons Roofing; Randie’s Roofing, INC.; Shamrock Roofing and Construction; Zucca & Daughters & Sons Roofing Co., Inc. BEST SCREEN PRINTING

WINNER: UNION PRESS SCREEN PRINTING

BEST TATTOO STUDIO

WINNER: GOLD CATHEDRAL Finalists: Black Atlas Tattoo, Dear You Tattoo, Exile Tattoo, Mercy Seat Tattoo, Old Souls Tattoo Parlour, Vicious Sweethearts Tattoo, Waldo’s Darkside Tattoo BEST TRAVEL AGENCY

WINNER: DESTINATION FUN TRAVEL Finalists: Acendas Travel, Design Your Vacation, Fantastic Memories Travel, Shelton Travel Service

Finalists: Oddities Prints, Seen Merch, The Sunflower Market

BEST VETERINARIAN

BEST SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

WINNER: PET RESOURCE CENTER OF KANSAS CITY

Finalists: Lakeview Village, McCrite Plaza at Briarcliff, St. Anthony’s Senior Living, Sorrento at Deer Creek Apartment Homes, Tallgrass Creek, Trustwell Living at Mission Springs

Finalists: Animal Health Center of Leawood, Cat Clinic of Johnson County, Eagle Animal Hospital, Family Pet Hospital of Shawnee, Plaza Animal Clinic, Union Hill Animal Hospital, Wildcat Veterinary Clinic

WINNER: JOHN KNOX VILLAGE

BEST SOLAR PROVIDER

WINNER: THE SOLAR GUYS Finalists: Cromwell Solar, Shinnova Solar, Solar Planet Inc.

Best Tattoo Artist: Cat Wong Pilsen Photo Co-op

BEST VIDEOGRAPHER/FILMMAKER (BUSINESS)

WINNER: RAINY DAY PRODUCTIONS

Finalists: CourtneyMarie Productions, Intrepid Creative, IX Film Productions, Toto TV Media

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST WINDOW CLEANING

WINNER: FISH WINDOW CLEANING Finalists: A Lot A Clean, Rigdon, Shack Shine Kansas City, Triton Window Cleaning

Caption Credit

BEST ACUPUNCTURE

WINNER: YOUR WELLNESS CONNECTION Finalists: Magnolia Wellness, Mind Body Shen, Taochemy

BEST DENTIST

BEST GYM

WINNER: FREIGHT HOUSE FITNESS

WINNER: IV NUTRITION

Finalists: Dental Elements, Dr. Graham Naasz, Dr. Joel LeMense, Dr. John Humphrey - KC Dental Works, Platte Valley Dental Care, Dr. Rodney Meyer

Finalists: Body Shop Gym & Personal Training, CrossFit Cerberus, The Foundation 24 Hr Gyms, Life Adapted Fitness, MC CrossFit, Mission Barbell Club, Woodside

Finalists: aNu Aesthetics & Wellness, Prime Recovery & Wellness, Recovery Hydration Therapy

BEST DERMATOLOGIST

WINNER: DR. MEGGAN NEWLAND

BEST HEALTH CLINIC

WINNER: F.I.T. MUSCLE & JOINT CLINIC

Finalists: Dr. Amy Crowe - Simple Empathy, Finan Chiropractic, Flourish Family Chiropractic, Form Chiropractic, Identity Chiropractic, Presence Chiropractic, Redefine Healing

Finalists: Dr. Amanda Tauscher, Dr. Celeste Angel, Dr. Darby Riley, Linly Stevens, Dr. Matthew Fink BEST EYE CLINIC

Finalists: Olathe Holistic Health & Wellness Collective, Vitality Healing Center, Vitality Lifestyle Medicine

BEST COSMETIC SURGEON

Finalists: Brill Eye Center, Fairway Eye Center, Mission EyeCare, Noyce Family Eye Care, Precision Optics

WINNER: THE UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS HEALTH SYSTEM

WINNER: DR. JEFFREY R. DILLOW - MONARCH PLASTIC SURGERY Finalists: Chris Surek, Dr. Doug Cusick, Dr. Jonathan Amspacher, Dr. Joseph Barnthouse BEST DAY SPA

WINNER: HAVEN WELLNESS + SPA Finalists: bijin salon & spa, Caro Benitez Makeup Studio & Spa, Redeeming Radiance Skin Studio, Woodside

BEST IV THERAPY

WINNER: SLOOP DENTAL CO.

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

WINNER: F.I.T. MUSCLE & JOINT CLINIC

Best Health Clinic, Best Physical Rehab Center, Best Rehab Treatment Center, Best Chiropractor: F.I.T. Muscle & Joint Clinic Courtesy photo

WINNER: DURRIE VISION

BEST FITNESS CLASS

WINNER: FREIGHT HOUSE FITNESS Finalists: Aerial Hammock with Sarah Wylie at Yoga Patch, BLUSH Boot Camp, Britney Andress Red Zone + Six Pack at Chiefs Fit, Revive Indoor Cycling, Woodside

BEST HOSPITAL

Finalists: AdventHealth, Children’s Mercy, North Kansas City Hospital, Saint Luke’s Health System Kansas City

BEST LOCAL DOULA

WINNER: ASHLEY WALBURN HOME HOLISTIC Finalists: Charity Vazquez - The Joyful Doula, Hannah Niehues - Maternal Revival, Nicole Elliott Bays - Oh Baby! KC BEST MASSAGE CLINIC

WINNER: LIFESTYLE MASSAGE + BODYWORK Finalists: The Body Garage, Haven Wellness + Spa, Imagine Wholeness Massage Therapy, Mind Body Shen, Woodside

BEST HOT YOGA

WINNER: POWER LIFE Finalists: CorePower Yoga, IN Power Yoga KC, R&B 105, Sweatheory, Yoga Patch

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST

WINNER: MARY BETH MOSTELLER - LIFESTYLE MASSAGE + BODYWORK Finalists: Ashley Khemraj - Mind Body Shen, Carol Stiegemeyer - Simply Kneaded, Crystal Tolbert - Simple Empathy, Deann Czaplewski - Better Naturally, Dona Lackey - Mind Body Balance KC, Katie Brock - Haven Wellness + Spa, Sha’Nae Nelson - The Body Garage BEST MEDICAL SPA

WINNER: HOLLYDAY MED SPA + AESTHETICS Finalists: AesthetiCare MedSpa, Bare Med Spa, Face KC Medical Spa, Healthylooks Medspa, Plaza Aesthetics & Wellness, Prime Recovery & Wellness, Purity Wellness Center BEST MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDER

WINNER: CARLYN TIMP - THE COUNSELING COLLABORATIVE Finalists: Dr. Ashley Smith, Dr. Brent Moore - Neural Pathways Learning Center, Caleb Adegoke, Healing Towards Wellness, Kieri Olmstead Simple Empathy, MOCSA BEST NUTRITIONIST

WINNER: ARIEL JOHNSTON AT THE TASTY BALANCE

BEST PHYSICAL REHAB CENTER

WINNER: F.I.T. MUSCLE & JOINT CLINIC Finalists: ARC Physical Therapy+, MPact Physical Therapy, Restore/ Thrive, Select Physical Therapy, TrueFix Physical Therapy BEST PHYSICIAN

WINNER: DR. TIFFANY BLYTHE Finalists: Dr. Del Rey, Dr. Gary Thompson, Dr. Gay Purcell, Dr. Matt Daggett BEST PILATES:

WINNER: STUDIO 7 PILATES + BARRE Finalists: Club Pilates, Pilates by Kahley, Pilates of Kansas City, Pure Barre, R&B 105, Woodside BEST PLACE TO HAVE A BABY

WINNER: ADVENTHEALTH BIRTH CENTER Finalists: Menorah Medical Center, New Birth Company, North Kansas City Hospital, (At home with) Sacred Song Homebirth, University Health BEST REHAB TREATMENT CENTER

WINNER: F.I.T. MUSCLE & JOINT CLINIC Finalists: ARC Physical Therapy +, Gold Bridge Treatment Center, Performance Rehab KCOI

Finalists: Jackie Caldwell, Jackie Roth, The Kansas City Dietitian Collective, Dr. Leigh Wagner

Finalists: Sequence Climb

BEST ORTHODONTIST

BEST SOAKING POOL/FLOAT TANK

Finalists: Kanning Orthodontics, Lakewood Orthodontics, Toombs Orthodontics

Finalists: Float Spa Kansas, Total Bliss Massage & Float Spa, Woodside

BEST PEDIATRICIAN

WINNER: THE J KC - JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

WINNER: FRY ORTHODONTICS

BEST ROCK CLIMBING GYM

WINNER: ROKC

WINNER: FLOATING KC

BEST SWIMMING POOL

WINNER: DR. LANCE SLAYMAKER - VILLAGE PEDIATRICS Finalists: Dr. Aaron Mayer - Meritas Health Pediatrics, Dr. Carissa Stanton Mindful Pediatrics, Dr. Lauren Hughes - Bloom Pediatrics and Lactation BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

WINNER: BRANDON SMITH FREIGHT HOUSE FITNESS Finalists: Caleb Blankenship - Body Shop Gym, Emily Stivers - City Gym, Lisa Hampton - Lisa Hampton Fitness, Marcus Gates - Thriving Lives Fitness, Nick Stoppel - RiNickulous Fitness BEST PHARMACY

WINNER: PHILLIPS FAMILY PHARMACY Finalists: AuBurn Pharmacy, Capstone Pharmacy, CVS (Brookside), Ken’s Sunflower Pharmacy, Sterling Pharmacy, Vohs Pharmacy

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

Finalists: Black Bob Bay, The Fontaine, Splash Cove, Woodside BEST WEIGHT LOSS CLINIC/COUNSELING

WINNER: TOTAL WEIGHT LOSS CENTER Finalists: Enhanced Health & Wellness, Heartland Weight Loss, University Health Primary Care Weight Management, Vitality Lifestyle Medicine BEST YOGA STUDIO

WINNER: YOGA PATCH Finalists: Darling Yoga, InBliss Yoga, R&B 105, Seeking Solace Yoga Studio, True Love Yoga, Woodside

We Won!

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Best Place for a View of the City: Liberty Memorial; Best Place to Take a Selfie, Best Place to Take Out of Town Guests: Union Station Brooke Tramel

BEST ATTRACTION

WINNER: THE NELSON-ATKINS MUSEUM OF ART Finalists: Country Club Plaza, Kansas City Zoo, National WWI Museum and Memorial, Union Station, Worlds of Fun

BEST FACEBOOK PAGE

WINNER: KANSAS CITY EATS Finalists: The Farmer’s House, Julie Burton, KCtoday, Shep’s Place Senior Dog Sanctuary, Weston Wine Company

BEST LOCAL BLOG/SUBSTACK

WINNER: PEOPLE I WANT TO PUNCH IN THE THROAT Finalists: The Black Sunflower, Haterade, Into The Fountains, Jana Style Blog, KCtoday

BEST GREEN BUSINESS

WINNER: COMPOST COLLECTIVE KC

BEST BUSINESS THAT COULD ONLY EXIST IN KC

WINNER: MADE IN KC Finalists: Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque, Charlie Hustle, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, J. Rieger & Co., MYKC Eyewear, The Phoenix, Screenland Armour Theatre BEST DAY TRIP

WINNER: WESTON Finalists: The Elms Hotel & Spa; Lawrence; Lindsborg, KS; The Regnier Family Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City; Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site BEST DOG PARK

WINNER: BAR K Finalists: Dogwood Park, Leewoof Dog Park, Penn Valley Off-Leash Dog Park, Shawnee Mission Park, Swope Dog Park

Finalists: Elevate Organic Salon + Spa, Frog Furnishings, Green Utopia, The Greener Home, Mother Lovers Eco Market, Suds Refillery BEST HALLOWEEN DESTINATION

WINNER: THE BEAST

Finalists: Belvoir Winery and Inn, Black Rose Co, Cafe Trio, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Enchanted Forest at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park BEST LOCAL ACTIVIST

WINNER: SCOTT POORE Finalists: Brooke Salvaggio, Daniel Scharpenburg, Halley Vincent, Jenay Manley, Tiffany Buckley BEST LOCAL AUTHOR

WINNER: JEN MANN Finalists: Floyd Wooderson, Michelle L. Hill, MS Chambers, Ryan Bernsten

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST LOCAL CHARITY

WINNER: HARVESTERS - THE COMMUNITY FOOD NETWORK Finalists: HappyBottoms, Healing Towards Wellness, Heart of America Humane Society, Humane Society of Greater Kansas City, Operation Breakthrough, Pet Resource Center of Kansas City, Shep’s Place Senior Dog Sanctuary, Women’s Employment Network

BEST LOCAL INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER

WINNER: MATT FLENER

Finalists: Celisa Calacal, Dia Wall, Peggy Lowe BEST LOCAL PERSONALITY

WINNER: MICHAEL MACKIE Finalists: Dana Wright, Hartzell Gray, Ryan Wesley BEST LOCAL POLITICIAN

WINNER: QUINTON LUCAS Finalists: Dinah Sykes, Greg Razer, Jerry Moran, Johnathan Duncan, Mark Alford, Sharice Davids, Whitney Yadrich BEST LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY

BEST LOCAL HERO

WINNER: PATRICK MAHOMES Finalists: Alvin Brooks, Andrea Knobbe, Quinton Lucas, Sherry Turner, Scott Poore BEST LOCAL INSTAGRAM

WINNER:

@SHEPSPLACESENIORDOGSANCTUARY Finalists: @bachariasoloists, @the.bop. around, @thekctoday, @ksujulie, @westonwineco

WINNER: DANA WRIGHT

Finalists: Hartzell Gray, Jen Johnson, Johnny Dare, Scott Parks BEST LOCAL RADIO STATION

WINNER: KMBZ 98.1

Finalists: 90.9 The Bridge, CounterclockwiseKC, KC 102.1, KCRC 98.9, KCUR 89.3, KPRS 103.3, Mix 93.3

BEST LOCAL TIKTOK

BEST PLACE FOR A PICNIC

WINNER: RYAN WESLEY @RYANWMUSIC

WINNER: THE NELSON-ATKINS MUSEUM OF ART (LAWN)

Finalists: @andr3wsky, @the.bop.around, @btfromkc, @thelandonpatterson, @themallorykay, @urbanspaceman23

Finalists: Loose Park, Meadowbrook Park, Shawnee Mission Park, Theis Park

BEST LOCAL TV PERSONALITY

Finalists: Kaw Point Park, The Mockingbird Lounge, Percheron Rooftop Bar, The Scout Statue, The Village at Briarcliff

WINNER: MATT STEWART Finalists: Bryan Busby, Carolyn Long, Dia Wall, Kathy Quinn, Kris Ketz, Lara Moritz

BEST PLACE FOR A VIEW OF THE CITY

WINNER: LIBERTY MEMORIAL

BEST PLACE FOR STARGAZING

BEST LOCAL TV SPORTS ANCHOR

WINNER: SMITHVILLE LAKE

Finalists: Hayley Lewis, Len Jennings, Mick Shaffer, Rob Collins

Finalists: Case Park, Milo Farm, Starlight Theatre, Warko Observatory at UMKC

BEST LOCAL TV STATION

BEST PLACE TO GEEK OUT

WINNER: KAREN KORNACKI

WINNER: FOX4

Finalists: Kansas City PBS, KCTV5, KMBC 9, KSHB 41

WINNER: THE KANSAS CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY: CENTRAL LIBRARY

BEST LOCAL TV WEATHER FORECASTER

Finalists: Double Tap KC, ReRoll Tavern, Rewind Video and Dive, Up-Down KC

Finalists: Alena Lee, Joe Lauria, Karli Ritter, Lindsey Anderson, Michelle Bogowith

BEST PLACE TO MEET SINGLES

BEST LOCAL TWITTER

Finalists: John’s Big Deck, Percheron Rooftop Bar, Up-Down Kansas City, Vintage ‘78 Wine Bar, Volleyball Beach

WINNER: BRYAN BUSBY

WINNER: @VISITKC Finalists: @TheFakeNed, @ksujulie, @Jeremy_Danner

WINNER: MISSIE B’S

WINNER: HEN HOUSE

Finalists: Crossroads, Downtown Overland Park, Hyde Park, Old Shawnee - Johnson Drive, Waldo

Finalists: City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen, Kansas City Public Library: Waldo Branch, Quality Hill Towers, Sushi Mido

BEST PARK

BEST PLACE TO PLAY BOARD GAMES

WINNER: LOOSE PARK Finalists: Gillham Park, Meadowbrook Park, Penguin Park, Roanoke Park, Shawnee Mission Park

BEST PUBLIC RESTROOM

WINNER: QUIKTRIP

WINNER: GARMIN

Finalists: Acendas Travel, Cornerstones of Care, Essense of Australia, Express Employment Professionals - Shawnee, Milan Laser Hair Removal, Price Brothers Management Company, Walz Tetrick Advertising

Finalists: Cafe Cà Phê, Kansas City International Airport, Meadowbrook Park, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art BEST SHOP PET

WINNER: CONWAY AT MILLS RECORD COMPANY Finalists: Islay at UnKCorked Wine & Spirits, Stout at Java Garage, Ursa from Oddities Prints

BEST PLACE TO WORK (UNDER 50 EMPLOYEES)

WINNER: PET RESOURCE CENTER OF KANSAS CITY

BEST SPORTS TALK RADIO HOST

Finalists: The Farmer’s House, iFocus Marketing, Level One Game Shop, Mitch e Amaro, Swell Spark, unKCorked Wine & Spirits, Women’s Employment Network BEST PLACE TO WORSHIP

WINNER: CHURCH OF THE RESURRECTION Finalists: Center for Spiritual Living, Rime Buddhist Center, Shawnee Mission Unitarian Universalist Church, Unity Temple on the Plaza, Unity Village Chapel

WINNER: BOB FESCOE

Finalists: Nate Bukaty, Soren Petro, Steven St. John BEST URBAN GARDEN

WINNER: KAUFFMAN MEMORIAL GARDEN Finalists: Kansas City Community Gardens, Pepper Berries Urban Farm, Urbavore Urban Farm, Young Family Farm BEST YOUTUBER

WINNER: MIDGE MUNSTER Finalists: Adventures with C3, Akright’s “Little Known” History, IX Film Productions, Noelle Cheney @noellelovessloths, TextuaryElf Gaming

BEST PLACE TO PICK UP A COPY OF THE PITCH

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD

WINNER: BROOKSIDE

BEST PLACE TO WORK (OVER 50 EMPLOYEES)

WINNER: MISSION: BOARD GAMES

Finalists: Cardboard Corner Cafe, Pawn and Pint, ReRoll Tavern, TableTop Game & Hobby

BEST PLACE FOR A CHEAP DATE

WINNER: THE NELSON-ATKINS MUSEUM OF ART

WINNER: UNION STATION

Finalists: First Fridays in the Crossroads, Grinders Stonewall, Sinkers Lounge, Tropical Sno KC, Up-Down KC

Finalists: Arrowhead Stadium, Liberty Memorial, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Percheron Rooftop Bar, Society

BEST PLACE FOR A FIRST DATE

BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT OF TOWN GUESTS

Finalists: BRKTHROUGH, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, KC Live! Block, Up-Down KC

Finalists: Arrowhead Stadium, Boulevard Brewing Tours & Recreation Center, Crown Center, Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Kansas City Zoo, National WWI Museum and Memorial, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

WINNER: THE NELSON-ATKINS MUSEUM OF ART

BEST PLACE FOR A LONG WALK

WINNER: LOOSE PARK

BEST PLACE TO TAKE A SELFIE

WINNER: UNION STATION

Finalists: Antioch Park, Berkeley Riverfront, English Landing Park, Harry Wiggins Trolley Track Trail, Line Creek Trail, Longview Lake, Swope Park Best Shop Pet: Conway at Mills Record Company Pilsen Photo Co-op THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

Best Garden Store/Nursery, Best Place to Buy a Plant: Family Tree Nursery Brooke Tramel

BEST FLORIST

BEST LIQUOR STORE

WINNER: LILY FLORAL DESIGNS

WINNER: GOMER’S

Finalists: Crestwood Flowers, Floraloom, The Little Flower Shop, Michael’s Heritage Florist, Shop Local KC, Studio Dan Meiners, Wild Hill Flowers and Events

Finalists: Justin’s of Lenexa, Lukas Wine & Spirits, Macadoodles, Mike’s Wine & Spirits, Plaza Liquor, Riverside Red X, unKCorked Wine & Spirits

BEST FURNITURE DESIGNER

BEST LOCAL MAKER

WINNER: UNRUH FURNITURE

WINNER: JAYCEE DESIGNS KC

Finalists: J Thomas Home, KC Furnishing CO, ULAH Interiors + Design

Finalists: Bleach Bae, Buffalo Bolt Jewelry, Effing Candle Co., Shut The Front Door KC, Who is She?

BEST GARDEN STORE/NURSERY

WINNER: FAMILY TREE NURSERY Finalists: Larry’s Nursery, Soil Service Garden Center & Nursery, Virgil’s Plant Shop BEST ACCESSORIES STORE

WINNER: WHISKEY AND BONE Finalists: Annie Austen, The Babe Standard, Daisy Lee Vintage, Merchant Square Antique Marketplace

BEST CLOTHING STORE (NON-GENDERED)

WINNER: RIVER MARKET ANTIQUES

BEST GIFT STORE

WINNER: MADE IN KC

BEST ADULT STORE

Finalists: Arizona Trading Company, Daisy Lee Vintage, Merchant Square Antique Marketplace, Wasteland Society, WyCo Vintage

Finalists: 7th Heaven, Leather Masters

BEST CLOTHING STORE (WOMEN’S)

WINNER: HY-VEE

Finalists: Clairvaux, Daisy Lee Vintage, KC Style Haus, LoveStoned, Shopgirls

Finalists: Cosentino’s Market in Brookside, Hen House, Nature’s Own, Price Chopper

BEST COMIC BOOK STORE

BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

Finalists: Back in Time Comics and Toys, Brute Squad Entertainment, Elite Comics, Pop Culture Comix

Finalists: Clarity Gluten Free Shop, Natural Grocers, Nature’s Own, Terra Supplements + Superfoods

Finalists: Bicycle Depot, Hanover Bikes and Fitting, Onestar Bicycles, Trek Bicycle Shawnee, Velo Garage and Tap House

WINNER: ARIZONA TRADING COMPANY

BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE

BEST HOME FURNISHING STORE (LOCAL)

BEST BLACK-OWNED RETAIL STORE

Finalists: Black Rose Co., Born Into Money, Clothz Minded, Lulu’s Boutique

Finalists: Glenwood Antique Mall, Golden & Pine, Merchant Square Antique Marketplace, Nell Hill’s, RE, Urban Mining, Vintage Source

WINNER: CIRILLA’S BEST BATH AND BODY SHOP

WINNER: MOTHER LOVERS ECO MARKET Finalists: Bombshell Bath & Beauty, The Greener Home, Hand & Land, Indigo Wild, SOAP Refill Station, Suds Refillery

WINNER: 816 BICYCLE COLLECTIVE

WINNER: BLISS BOOKS & WINE Finalists: 3 D’s Lavish Fashions, The Black Pantry, The Laya Center, Naava Swim, The Scented Webb

BEST GROCERY STORE

WINNER: DONNA’S DRESS SHOP

WINNER: A TO Z COMICS

BEST CRAFT STORE

WINNER: SCRAPS KC Finalists: Blick Art Materials, Ugly Glass & Co., Yarn Social

BEST BOUTIQUE STORE

Finalists: Amelia’s Boutique, Birdies, Black Lemon Boutique, Black Rose Co., Clairvaux, Daisy Lee Vintage, Shopgirls

WINNER: PICKWICK & CO.

BEST OUTDOOR OUTFITTERS

WINNER: SCHEELS

Finalists: Prairie Sailor Co., REI, Rogers Sporting Goods BEST PET SUPPLY STORE

WINNER: BROOKSIDE BARKERY & BATH Finalists: For Pet’s Sake, Land of Paws, Merriam Feed + Seed, Paw Envy, PetPeople by Hollywood Feed, Tail Waggin’ PetStop, Treats Unleashed BEST PLACE TO BUY A MUSICAL INSTRUMENT

WINNER: MEYER MUSIC

Finalists: Diventures, Sam’s Skin N Scuba Dive Shop

WINNER: CABLE DAHMER CHEVROLET OF KANSAS CITY

BEST FARMERS’ MARKET

BEST JEWELRY STORE

Finalists: Aristocrat Motors, Lee’s Summit Honda, Molle Toyota, Northtowne Lincoln, Victory Ford

Finalists: Brookside Jewelry, Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers, TIVOL, Vulcan’s Forge, Whiskey and Bone

BEST PLACE TO BUY A USED CAR

BEST KC PRIDE CLOTHING

Finalists: Byrider North Kansas City, Gary Crossley Ford, Oakes Kia, Street Side Auto Sales

WINNER: CITY MARKET FARMERS’ MARKET Finalists: Brookside Farmers’ Market, Downtown Lee’s Summit Farmers Market, Lenexa Farmers Market, Mission Market, Overland Park Farmers’ Market BEST FASHION DESIGNER

WINNER: WASTELAND SOCIETY Finalists: Bleach Bae, Justin Houpe (Naava Swim), Red Hare Leather, Sarah Nelsen

BEST CLOTHING STORE (MEN’S)

BEST HOME GOODS

WINNER: MEIEROTTO JEWELERS

WINNER: CHARLIE HUSTLE Finalists: Bunker, Commandeer Brand, Lemonade Creative Co., Made in KC, RAYGUN, Shop Local KC, The Sunflower Market BEST LINGERIE STORE

WINNER: BUNKER

WINNER: BIRDIES

Finalists: Guevel, Todd’s Clothiers & Tailor Shop, ULAH, WyCo Vintage

Finalists: Circadian Intimates, Cirilla’s

WINNER: AQUARIUS

Finalists: Crescent Springs, Haven Wellness + Spa, KC Conjure & Botanica, Moon Sister Crystals, Spectrum A New Age Shop

Finalists: Fetch, J’adore Home & Garden, jorjy, Merchant Square Antique Marketplace, Nell Hill’s, Owl-R-Junk Boutique, RE

BEST DIVE STORE

WINNER: THE DIVE SHOP

BEST CANDLES

Finalists: Cherie Scents, The Corner Candleshop, Effing Candle Co., Embers Candle Bar, Urban Nomad

WINNER: RIVER MARKET ANTIQUES

BEST METAPHYSICAL/SPIRITUAL STORE

WINNER: RIVER MARKET ANTIQUES

WINNER: RAINY DAY BOOKS

WINNER: OWL-R-JUNK BOUTIQUE

WINNER: SPROUTS

Finalists: Bear Soap Company, Bombshell Bath & Beauty, Madd House Hill, Mother Lovers Eco Market, Silent Spring Farm, SOAP Refill Station, Twister Soaps

Finalists: Bentley Guitar Studios, Big Dude’s Music City, Brookside Guitars, Palen Music Center

BEST BOOKSTORE

Finalists: BLK + BRWN., Flagship Books, Half Price Books, Helianthus Books, Prospero’s Books, The Raven Book Store, Seven Stories

Finalists: Fetch, The General Store & Co., Mid Coast Modern, Owl-R-Junk Boutique, Shop Local KC, STUFF, Westside Storey

BEST LOCALLY MADE SOAP

WINNER: INDIGO WILD ZUM BAR SOAP

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST PLACE TO BUY A NEW CAR

WINNER: CARMAX

BEST PLACE TO BUY EYEGLASSES

WINNER: FAIRWAY EYE CENTER Finalists: eyeSmith Sport & Fashion Optical, The Eye Station, Gerry Optical, MYKC Eyewear, Precision Optics

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST POP-UP SHOP

WINNER: THE STRAWBERRY SWING INDIE CRAFT FAIR Finalists: Bleach Bae, Macabre Market, Mother Lovers Eco Market, Sugarfold, Whiskey and Bone

BEST THRIFT STORE

WINNER: SAVERS Finalists: Blessings Abound, Clothz Minded, Frugal’s Family Thrift Store, Hillcrest Thrift Store BEST TOBACCO SHOP

BEST RECORD STORE

WINNER: OUTLAW CIGAR & BREWERY

Finalists: Josey Records, Love Garden Sounds, Mills Record Company, Revolution Records, Sister Anne’s Records and Coffee

Finalists: 4:20 Friendly Smoke Shop, Smokers Heaven, Vapor Room 816

WINNER: 7TH HEAVEN

BEST TOY STORE

BEST RETAIL STORE (LAWRENCE)

WINNER: BROOKSIDE TOY & SCIENCE

Finalists: 1313 Mockingbird Lane, Phoenix Gallery

Finalists: 1313 Mockingbird Lane, Fat Brain Toys, The Learning Tree, The Toy Store

WINNER: WONDER FAIR

BEST SHOE STORE

BEST VAPE SHOP

WINNER: ELITE FEET

WINNER: SMOKERS HEAVEN

Finalists: Dva Percent, Initial, Reset KC, WyCo Vintage

Finalists: 4:20 Friendly Smoke Shop, Rocky Mountain E-cigs, Smoke Tokz, Vape Tokz, Vapor Room 816

BEST SHOPPING CENTER

WINNER: TOWN CENTER PLAZA Finalists: Country Club Plaza, Legends Outlets, Ward Parkway Center, Zona Rosa BEST SKATE SHOP

WINNER: ESCAPIST SKATEBOARDING Finalists: Burning Spider Stoke Company, Legacy Skates BEST SPORTING GOODS STORE

WINNER: SCHEELS

Finalists: Going, Going, Gone!, Rogers Sporting Goods

BEST VINTAGE CLOTHING STORE

WINNER: RIVER MARKET ANTIQUES Finalists: Boomerang, Daisy Lee Vintage, Fetch, Merchant Square Antique Marketplace, Peaches Vintage Collective, Theo Nouveau Vintage Design, WyCo Vintage BEST VINTAGE FINDS

WINNER: RIVER MARKET ANTIQUES Finalists: Awesomesauce Vintage Shop, Daisy Lee Vintage, Glenwood Antique Mall, Merchant Square Antique Marketplace, Theo Nouveau Vintage Design, Vintage Source

BEST SWIMWEAR STORE

WINNER: BIRDIES

Finalists: Naava Swim, Swim Quik, Swimwear Solution

BEST WEST BOTTOMS VENDOR

WINNER: GOOD JU JU

BEST TABLE TOP GAME STORE

Finalists: Bella Patina, Charmed House Interiors, The Dusted Attic, Fetch, Ugly Glass & Co., Vintage Source

Finalists: Level One Game Shop, ReRoll Tavern, Spanky’s Card Shop

WINNER: LUKAS WINE & SPIRITS

WINNER: TABLETOP GAME & HOBBY

BEST WINE SHOP

Finalists: Big Mood Natural Wines, Cellar Rat Wine Merchants, Gomer’s, Mike’s Wine & Spirits, Red Door Wine Store, Underdog Wine Co., unKCorked Wine & Spirits

Shout out to our amazing community who nominated us

Kansas City’s Best Lingerie Boutique you Corinth Quarter 4077 W. 83rd Street Prairie Village | Kansas circadianintimates.com

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THANK YOU KANSAS CITY FOR VOTING US

BEST JEWELRY STORE BEST WEDDING JEWELER

Best Roller Derby Team: Kansas City Roller Warriors All-Stars Courtesy Kansas City Roller Warriors

BEST PLACE TO GET AN ADRENALINE RUSH

WINNER: WORLDS OF FUN

Finalists: Blade & Timber, Double Tap KC, iFLY Indoor Skydiving, Volleyball Beach

BEST PLACE TO TABLE TOP GAME

WINNER: PAWN AND PINT

Finalists: Adventure Cafe, Cardboard Corner Cafe, Redux Society, ReRoll Tavern BEST PLACE TO THROW DARTS

BEST PLACE TO PLAY PICKLEBALL

WINNER: CHICKEN N PICKLE

WINNER: SIDE POCKETS BLUE SPRINGS

Finalists: Oak Ridge Family Social Club, SERV

Finalists: Blade & Timber, Brass Rail Sports Bar

BEST PLACE TO PLAY VIDEO GAMES/ ARCADE

WINNER: UP-DOWN KANSAS CITY Finalists: Arcade Alley, Draftcade, Main Event Kansas City North

BEST ROLLER DERBY TEAM

WINNER: KANSAS CITY ROLLER WARRIORS ALL-STARS Finalists: Deadly Sirens, Midtown Misfits, Shotgun Sheilas BEST SPORTS TEAM

BEST PLACE TO PLAY VOLLEYBALL

WINNER: VOLLEYBALL BEACH Finalists: Centerline Volleyball Complex, Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball

WINNER: KANSAS CITY CHIEFS Finalists: Kansas City Current, Kansas City Monarchs, Kansas City Roller Warriors, Sporting Kansas City BEST VIRTUAL REALITY

BEST PLACE TO SHOOT POOL

WINNER: SIDE POCKETS BLUE SPRINGS Finalists: Chartreuse Saloon, Main Event Kansas City North, Sharks Restaurant & Billiards

BEST ATHLETE

WINNER: PATRICK MAHOMES Finalists: Cupcake Smasher - KC Roller Warriors, Kristen Hamilton - Kansas City Current, Travis Kelce BEST BOWLING ALLEY

WINNER: WARD PARKWAY LANES Finalists: Bowlero Overland Park, Diamond Bowl & Billiards, Park Lanes, Retro Bowl

BEST GOLF COURSE

WINNER: THE NATIONAL GOLF CLUB OF KANSAS CITY Finalists: Falcon Ridge Golf Club, Minor Park Golf Course, Oak Ridge Family Social Club, Painted Hills Golf Club BEST LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITY

WINNER: MAIN EVENT KANSAS CITY NORTH Finalists: BRKTHROUGH, MY Play Café, Oak Ridge Family Social Club, The Regnier Family Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City

BEST BREAK OUT ROOM

WINNER: BREAKOUT KC Finalists: BRKTHROUGH, The Exit Room, Tick Tock Escape Room

BEST LOCAL STADIUM/ARENA

WINNER: ARROWHEAD STADIUM Finalists: Children’s Mercy Park, Kauffman Stadium

BEST CASINO

WINNER: AMERISTAR CASINO HOTEL KANSAS CITY Finalists: Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa, Bally’s Kansas City, Harrah’s Kansas City Hotel and Casino, Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway

BEST ORGANIZED FOOTRACE/RUN

WINNER: GIRLS ON THE RUN Finalists: CCVI Trolley Run, Garmin Kansas City Marathon, Rock the Parkway, Westport St. Patrick’s Day Run

BEST DRIVING RANGE

WINNER: TOPGOLF Finalists: Sykes/Lady Overland Park Golf Course, T-Shotz

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

WINNER: DOUBLE TAP KC Finalists: Disciples of Gaming VR, FlipSwitch VR, Main Event Kansas City North

VOTED BEST SPA IN KC Holistic SelfCare Sanctuary

trauma informed massage therapy, cupping therapy, hot stone, manual lymphatic drainage, deep tissue + more full spectrum infrared sauna, red light + compression therapy facials, waxing + skincare therapy energy healing + sound healing psychic readings + oracle readings astrology readings hypnotherapy, breathwork, + cacao

HAVEN WELLNESS Our shop is open 7 days a week and we carry items that support healing for your whole being physical/energetic/emotional/spiritual wellness including: crystals + metaphysical/meditation tools organic + clean body care products herbal tinctures + teas local juice, kombucha + non-alcoholic drinks local goods (pottery, apparel, jewelry, art, etc!)

Spa + Shop

7211 W 95th St Overland Park, KS 816.535.6688 havenwellnessop.com

Best Wedding Photographer, Best Engagement Photographer, Best Photographer (Business): Stag & Bird Photo Courtesy photo

BEST LOCAL WEDDING CATERER

WINNER: BRANCATO’S CATERING

Finalists: Blue Pot Catering, Culinary Creations, The Rub BBQ, Scrape the Plate

BEST WEDDING FLORIST

WINNER: LILY FLORAL DESIGNS Finalists: Botanical Floral Design, Craig Sole Designs, Daylight Flora, EverWild Florals, Floriography, Studio Dan Meiners, Wild Hill Flowers and Events

BEST PLACE FOR A REHEARSAL DINNER

WINNER: LIDIA’S KANSAS CITY Finalists: Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, The Fontaine, InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza, J. Rieger & Co., Lazia BEST PLACE FOR WEDDING PHOTOS

WINNER:THE NELSON-ATKINS MUSEUM OF ART Finalists: Crossroads Hotel, The Fontaine, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, Liberty Memorial, Loose Park BEST PLACE TO GET A TUX

WINNER: TODD’S CLOTHIERS & TAILORING Finalists: Dan Dan The Wedding Man, Houndstooth, Michael’s Clothing, Slabotsky’s Menswear & Tailoring, Tip Top Tux

WINNER: MANDEE PINGEL

BEST PLACE TO GET A WEDDING DRESS

Finalists: Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Crossroads Hotel, The Fontaine, Kansas City Club, PBR Big Sky, Tin Roof BEST BRIDESMAID DRESS SHOP

WINNER: BRIDAL BY SHL

Finalists: Bella Bridesmaids, The Gown Gallery, True Society by Belle Vogue, Wedding Expressions by Geri BEST COUPLES THERAPIST

WINNER: KIERI OLMSTEAD SIMPLE EMPATHY Finalists: Grant Wood - Resonate Relationship Clinic, Kellie Galley Premier Counseling Service LLC, Open the Doors Coaching, Tyler Sharpe Sharpe Psychological Services

Finalists: Cassidy Drury Photography, Claire Ryser, Kymberly Janelle Photography, Meredith Graves Photography BEST HAND-LETTERING/STATIONERY

WINNER: SCRIPT YOUR EVENT Finalists: BB Lettering, Cuorebella, Pen Oak Calligraphy & Design, Pretty + Planned, Yellow Brick Graphics BEST HOTEL FOR YOUR WEDDING NIGHT ;)

WINNER: CROSSROADS HOTEL

Finalists: Ambassador Hotel Kansas City - Autograph Collection, The Fontaine, Hilton President Kansas City, Hotel Kansas City, InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

BEST WEDDING OFFICIANT/CELEBRANT

WINNER: TIMMY GIBSON

Finalists: Adelynn Reese Photography, Black Coffee Photo Co., Cassidy Drury Photography, Claire Ryser, Kymberly Janelle Photography, Meredith Graves Photography

Finalists: Scott Mann, Thomas Allen, William Talbert

WINNER: WESTON WINE COMPANY

Finalists: Audra Ashlee Artistry, Brigid Shinn - Bronzed + Blushed, Glam & Glow with Kalsie Jo LLC, Lovely Beauty KC, Makeup Undefined by Nichole, Soft Glow Studio, Styled By Braylee

BEST PLACE TO GET A WEDDING CAKE ALTERNATIVE

Finalists: Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, Floating KC, The Fontaine, Kansas City Club, KC Wine Co. BEST BACHELORETTE PARTY LOCATION

BEST WEDDING MAKEUP ARTIST

WINNER: HELLO LOVELY KC

BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

WINNER: CROSSROADS HOTEL

WINNER: STAG & BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY

Finalists: Coki Bijoux, Diamonds Direct, Drenon Jewelry, House of Diamonds, Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers

Finalists: Blue Thistle, Kate Smith Soirée, Taylor Elizabeth Cakes

Finalists: Eclairs de la Lune, Kate Smith Soirée, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Quarantine Cookie

BEST ENGAGEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER

BEST WEDDING JEWELER

WINNER: MEIEROTTO JEWELERS

Finalists: KC Weddings 2 Go, Wedley Weddings

WINNER: SUGAR WHIPPED BAKERY

BEST DIVORCE LAWYER

Finalists: Anna & Alisha Hair Co., Bronzed + Blushed, Lovely Beauty KC, Terin Sexton, White Carpet Bride

BEST PLACE TO GET A WEDDING CAKE

WINNER: SUGAR WHIPPED BAKERY

BEST BACHELOR PARTY LOCATION

BEST WEDDING HAIR STYLIST

WINNER: HELLO LOVELY KC

WINNER: BRIDAL BY SHL

Finalists: Bridal Extraordinaire, Emily Hart Bridal, Fabulous Frocks of Kansas City, The Gown Gallery, Something White Bridal Boutique, True Society by Belle Vogue BEST WEDDING BAND

WINNER: LOST WAX Finalists: The Crossroad Sound, The Patrick Lentz Band & KC FLO, Twice on Sunday BEST WEDDING DJ

WINNER: DJ JOE STRAWS Finalists: DJ Alex Reed, DJ Hydan, DJ Max James, DJ Nick Niemeier, Fernando Productions, Icon Event Group, Levity Events

WINNER: STAG & BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY

BEST WEDDING PLANNER

WINNER: EVENTS BY ELLE Finalists: At Ease Events KC, Dana Ashley Events, Expressive Solutions and Creations, Jeanette Carter Coordination, LaTasha James - The Veil KC, The Perfect Touch KC BEST WEDDING RECEPTION VENUE

WINNER: THE BRIM

Finalists: The Bardot, Crossroads Hotel, The Fontaine, Hotel Kansas City, The Juliet, La Villa BEST WEDDING VENUE

WINNER: THE BRIM Finalists: Crossroads Hotel, The Fontaine, InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza, Kansas City Club, La Villa, Magnolia at Brookside, Oliver Building BEST WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHER

WINNER: HER THIRD EYE PRODUCTIONS

Finalists: Davinshi Visuals, Enlow Productions, Olivia Renee Wedding Videography

OVER

60L S

GIR

• Voted Club • • Voted KC’s BestKC’s Best Gentleman’s • VIP Lounge • Oldest Missouri • Gentleman’s Club Adult Club • inFull Service Kitchen • Great Place Events • • Oldest Adult Club into Watch•Sporting Cover Friday & Saturday • VIP Lounge • Missouri ONLY! • Great Place to •Watch Premium Full Service•Kitchen • Bottle Service Sporting Events • Premium Bottle Service •

30 seconds east of the Power & Light District

2800 E 12th St., Kansas City, MO 64127 | 816-231-9696 | kcshadylady.com THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

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GANJIER (GÄN-JEE-YAY)

noun: a certified master of all things marijuana Our Ganjiers are KC’s ONLY Certified Masters of Marijuana available for one-on-one consulting in the dispensary for an ultimate cannabis experience. Releaf’s Ganjiers can identify true cannabis quality on every level. From farm to flame. From soil to sale. And we think our loyalty club is the dopest around! Sign up for updates on our daily specials and upcoming events.

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ReLeafMo.com | 13836 South U.S. 71 Highway Grandview, MO | (816) 597-4768

THE PITCH | November 2023 | THEPITCHKC.COM

The Pitch: Best of Kansas City 2023

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