Written by Mollie Talbot for The KC Scene
What was formerly Bar Medici at 1800 Walnut in downtown KC now sits Jade Jaguar. A Mexico City-inspired bar with bites and vibes you can’t afford to miss.
While KC has plenty of pretentious cocktail spots and, adversely, dive bars aplenty, Jade Jaguar separates itself by combining upscale and creative cocktails with a twist alongside a culture of approachability that welcomes you into the family as soon as you walk in.
Entering Jade Jaguar, the warmth of tropical plants instantly envelops you; its vibey lighting and Latin beats invite you to move or dance your way to a vast and gorgeously aesthetic menu of cocktails brilliantly crafted by masterminds, Manny Gomez and Seth Goldwasser.
My husband’s love for Mezcal reached new heights after ordering the El Chango. He startled at his first sip, surprised by how balanced and refreshing it was for a Mezcal cocktail, known for, as far as I’m concerned, tasting like someone blowing cigarette smoke in your mouth. Even I thought it was delicious. On the other hand, simp that I am for a good Poloma, I ordered one and was still blown away. It’s hard to put a creative spin on a classic cocktail, but they did that and more. Both our drinks made me recognize the gift of good mixology. The ability to reanimate opposing flavors consistently in a fast-paced environment and still leave a customer inspired by what might be their “same old” order. There’s cocktail mastery, here. Visiting with others about their cocktails has Kyle and me already planning our next visit.
Their menu offers Mexico City-inspired street eats with flair, including gorgeous tuna tostadas, barbacoa quesadillas, a Sonoran smash burger that was top-notch, and horchata ice cream for the sweet tooth. While absolutely delicious, the food is meant to accompany its high-level cocktails as small bites. Still, in my opinion, just as much attention was given to the food as was the cocktails, reflecting a deep reverence for a customer’s experience that was felt.
Combining the powers of Exit Strategy, the hospitality group behind the Mercury Room and Vedigris, with Manny Gomez and Seth Goldwasser as its vibe-inducing mixologists, Jade Jaguar is a must-see addition to KC’s scene.
As someone who hasn’t personally visited Mexico City but has driven our boys all around the typical beach destinations in search of street food and the authentic experience of Mexican community, it took me back to the love I discovered the first time we visited and have uncovered more of on every ensuing trip.
I'd argue that people who care for others through their stomachs and palates are the very best people of all and Jade Jaguar is doing it marvelously.
It looks like our family needs to put Mexico City next on our list of trips.
Written by Mollie Talbot for The KC Scene
[Check out our IG reel for a visual walk through]