September is the start of comfort food and drinks season, better known as the fall — and we’re here for it. The smells of apple pie, pumpkin spiced lattes, caramel delights and cider donuts begin to fill the cool Kansas City air.
The KC area is full of local coffee shops, restaurants and bars that get into the spirit of the autumn months. And below are our top recommendations for fall-appropriate cocktails and eats, such as:
- Soups
- Pastries
- Pasta
- Ice cream
- And more
Let’s explore five great spots in and around Kansas City to kick off your crisp fall days.
Louisburg Cider Mill
Right away, we’re sending you just out of the KC metro area, but it’ll be well worth the drive after you experience what this cider mill has in store for you this fall season.
The cider mill’s country store is open year-round, but once September rolls around, there’s no telling how many people will show up for its delicious and famous products. The Louisburg Cider Mill has produced its own apple cider since 1977. And, you can watch nearly the entire process of how they make their savory cider — from picking the apples to putting the jugs on the shelves.
The homemade style products don’t stop there! Indulge yourself in some of the cider mill’s greatest, such as:
- Old-fashioned fruit butter
- Lost Trail sodas
- Apple cider donuts
- Fruit-flavored pancake mix
- Jams
- Spreads
- And syrups
But, it’s not just the tasty foods and drinks that bring in the masses. The 44th Annual Ciderfest — held every last weekend in September and the first weekend in October — is just around the corner. And on the 80+ acre land sits a big corn maze and sprawling pumpkin patch for children of all ages to enjoy.
The Ciderfest will also have:
- Hay wagon rides
- Farm animal visits
- Live music
- Pancake breakfast (8 a.m. to 11 a.m.)
- And craft booths
This venue is an experience of a lifetime in the fall months, so don’t miss out!
The Campground
Now, this is a cocktail bar with some unique flair. With carefully chosen vintage furnishings, rugs and even taxidermy, The Campground also has on-theme cocktail glasses and houseplants throughout the building.
And, fall is the perfect time to try this place out if you haven’t already. The Campground has many fall-inspired menu items ready to taste, from the rotating selection of beer to the wide assortment of cocktails and sweets.
The beer choices are great for fall sips. A nice hopped cider (KC Cider Flyover State) or a pilsner (Maplewood Pulaski Pilsner) will pair nicely with some snacks like the “Chovies & Chips” or the charcuterie board.
The cocktail selection is vast, but you should try one of The Campground’s many Negroni options or the “Nose Dive,” which is a blend of:
- Reposado Tequila
- German bitter
- Akvavit
- Orchard peach
- Cinnamon
- And lime
Top it all off with a sweet treat to end the night. We recommend the S’mores Tart or the Cinnamon Sugar Churros.
Seven Swans Crêperie
The timeless, European folk-tale-inspired open space of Seven Swans Crêperie welcomes in plenty of sunlight from its rustic, full-wall windows.
But, the gorgeous view of the city in the fall isn’t the only reason this is a must-visit weekend destination. The sweet and savory crêpes have everything you need to warm your belly this crisp and chilled fall season.
For the savory, we recommend the “KC Classic,” loaded with Pig Hickory smoked ham, Jarlsberg swiss cheese and arugula. For the sweet, you can’t go wrong with the “Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp” crêpe — fruit compote topped with oatmeal crisp topping and whipped cream. For the sweet tooth, you should also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
You can order the seasonal soup, salad and cocktails as nice side pieces to these delicious crêpes,. The newest addition is the Ginger Peach Bourbon Smash.
Tom’s Town Distilling Co.
Have a taste from one of the top gin distilleries in the U.S., located in the heart of the Crossroads Arts District. Tom’s has a wide variety of seasonal cocktails that will leave just about anyone wanting another. The “Garden Party Martini,” “Rabbit Truce,” and the “Indecent Gimlet” are all great choices to try first.
When it comes to Tom’s food, you can’t miss out on the rosemary fries, shrimp cocktail or Maryland-style crab cakes. Every food option will go well with any cocktail or alcoholic beverage you choose.
And, get here for happy hour to enjoy these great food and drink selections at a discount — Monday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and all day Sunday. Craft cocktails are only $9, and all beer is $5.
Third Space Coffee
From the seasonal décor to the festive menu, this quaint Bonner Springs coffee shop knows how to celebrate the chill fall months.
You can enjoy a warm Turkey Avocado Melt with a nice Apple Bourbon Latte by the window seat, under the cozy fireplace or out on the patio when the weather is nice and cool.
Or, you can try Third Space’s trendy signature drink, the “Bonner Brew,” iced or blended as well.
Additionally, there is an area for the young ones, too, fashioned with a play kitchen and a picnic bench for your children to enjoy their meals and playtime.
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No matter where you go this September, the fall mood and festivities are sure to follow. But it doesn’t just end there; KC Oktoberfest is right around the corner. So, look for more information on the best places to celebrate Oktoberfest next month.