Is This the Best Coffee Shop in KC? A Showdown of Local Favorites

Published:August 20, 2025
By:Joe Pruitt

Chasing the Best ,via Youtube

Kansas City’s coffee scene is thriving, with an incredible mix of cozy cafés, expert roasters, and specialty coffee spots that keep locals caffeinated. Whether you’re after a perfectly pulled espresso, a creative latte, or just a chill spot to work, KC has a coffee shop for you. But which one is the best?

We’ve rounded up some of the city’s top coffee contenders for the ultimate KC coffee showdown.

1. Messenger Coffee Co. – The Heavyweight Champion

Why It’s a Favorite:

Locally roasted, high-quality beans
A stunning three-story café with rooftop seating
Incredible house-made pastries from Ibis Bakery

1624 Grand Blvd, KCMO

If KC has a coffee powerhouse, Messenger is it. Their single-origin pour-overs are some of the best in the city, and their rooftop patio is perfect for a morning coffee with a view.

2. Monarch Coffee – The Chic & Cozy Experience

Why It’s a Favorite:

Elegant, Instagram-worthy interior
Meticulously crafted espresso drinks
Friendly, knowledgeable baristas

3550 Broadway Blvd, KCMO

Monarch is where coffee meets craftsmanship. Their cortado is legendary, and their signature lattes—like the honey lavender latte—are as beautiful as they are delicious.

3. The Roasterie – KC’s Coffee OG

Why It’s a Favorite:

KC’s original specialty coffee roaster
Iconic airplane-roasted coffee beans
Free coffee factory tours

1204 W 27th St, KCMO (plus multiple locations)

With its airplane logo and signature blends, The Roasterie has been fueling KC’s caffeine addiction since 1993. Their cold brew on tap is a must-try, and their tours give you a behind-the-scenes look at how coffee is made.

4. Oddly Correct – The Coffee Purist’s Paradise

Why It’s a Favorite:

Focus on precision and high-quality beans
Hand-poured brews with no syrups or gimmicks
Hip, minimalist vibes

4141 Troost Ave, KCMO

Oddly Correct isn’t about sugar-loaded lattes—it’s about letting the coffee shine. If you love complex, thoughtfully sourced beans brewed to perfection, this is your spot.

5. Broadway Café – Westport’s Legendary Coffeehouse

Why It’s a Favorite:

One of KC’s oldest and most beloved coffee shops
No Wi-Fi = A true coffeehouse experience
Always packed with locals and regulars

4106 Broadway Blvd, KCMO

This Westport institution has been brewing since 1992, and it’s still one of the best spots to get a no-nonsense, perfectly made cappuccino. The old-school coffeehouse vibe makes it a great spot to actually talk to people instead of staring at your laptop.

6. Cafe Cà Phê – The Vietnamese Coffee Star

Why It’s a Favorite:

KC’s first Vietnamese coffee shop
Strong, sweet cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced coffee)
Fun, welcoming atmosphere with pop-culture-inspired drinks

916 E 5th St, KCMO

This woman-owned shop is putting a fresh twist on KC’s coffee scene. Their Vietnamese coffee is bold, smooth, and perfectly sweet, and their creative drinks (like the Saigon Latte) keep fans coming back.

7. Second Best Coffee – Small but Mighty

Why It’s a Favorite:

Neighborhood favorite with a laid-back vibe
House-roasted beans that pack a punch
Unique drinks like the “Whistleblower” honey-cayenne latte

328 W 85th St, KCMO

Their name might be “Second Best,” but many locals swear they’re the best in town. With a rotating menu of creative drinks and ultra-smooth espresso, this small but mighty shop is a South KC gem.

8. Black Dog Coffeehouse – Best Suburban Spot

Why It’s a Favorite:

Best coffee shop in Johnson County
Fresh-baked treats from Ibis Bakery
Great spot to work, read, or meet up with friends

12815 W 87th St Pkwy, Lenexa, KS

For those outside the downtown scene, Black Dog is a lifesaver. They serve exceptional lattes, killer pastries, and a warm, inviting atmosphere—perfect for a cozy afternoon.

9. Made in KC Café – The Local Love Pick

Why It’s a Favorite:

All-KC everything—locally roasted coffee, local goods, and KC pride
Multiple locations with great atmospheres
Great seasonal drink specials

1114 Baltimore Ave, KCMO (plus multiple locations)

If you love supporting local, this is your spot. Made in KC Café only serves Kansas City-based coffee, making it a true hometown favorite. Their seasonal lattes are always worth a try.

10. Hitides Coffee – The Fun & Funky One

Why It’s a Favorite:

Tiki-themed coffee shop with bright, retro vibes
Coconut cold brew and tropical-inspired drinks
Great merch & photo-worthy drinks

519 E 18th St, KCMO

If you like your coffee with a side of fun, Hitides is the place. Their island-inspired drinks (like the Coconut Sea Salt Cold Brew) set them apart from your typical coffee shop, making it a must-visit for coffee lovers who like a little adventure.

So… Who Wins the KC Coffee Showdown?

The answer? It depends on what you love!

Best All-Around: Messenger Coffee Co.
Best for Espresso Purists: Oddly Correct
Best Atmosphere: Monarch Coffee
Best Suburban Spot: Black Dog Coffeehouse
Most Fun & Unique: Hitides Coffee

No matter what kind of coffee experience you’re looking for, Kansas City’s local coffee scene has something for everyone. Try them all and find your personal favorite!

Did we miss your go-to coffee spot? Let us know what KC coffee shop you swear by!