Dining al fresco: Twenty metro restaurants receive city funding for improved experience

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Twenty restaurants across the metro will receive money to revamp their outdoor spaces ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

On Tuesday, Dec. 3, Mayor Quinton Lucas announced this as part of the $200,000 Outdoor Dining Enhancement Grant, funded through the city’s 2024 Convention and Tourism Budget.

The grant is divided between the businesses based on their needs.

“Our goal is to fund projects and help businesses not just get more year-round, but to also say thank you to them,” Lucas said. “Some of these projects will include canopy lighting, outdoor heaters and fans, firepits, and more.”

These improvements are expected to boost revenue, create more inviting spaces for diners, and contribute to the city’s overall charm.

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There were 120 applications which were then followed by thorough inspections.

Ev Mathurn, one of the owners at Vye Cocktail Lounge, is one of the recipients and told KCTV5 plans to use their money to expand a rooftop bar.

“With this grant, it’s going to help us make it the best view in the city,” Mathurn said. “This means a lot to us. It means the city is taking care of small businesses and its residents. They are looking out for the little guys and giving back.”

John McClain and Kerry Browne, owners of Browne’s Irish Marketplace, said they’ll use their money for outdoor heaters, lighting, and canopies.

“It’s certainly going to be a boost for us,” McClain said. “Our places aren’t , but the people who come and make memories here”.

This is a full list of the businesses that received the grant:

• Cupini’s
• OurHouseKC
• The Combine
• Nick and Nino’s Pub
• Urban on Armour & Troost
• Oddly Correct LLC 
• Cafe Ollama LLC 
• Buffalo State Pizza Co 
• PH Coffee 
• Browne’s Irish Marketplace
• Novel Restaurant
• Grand Street Café 
• Lulu’s Thai Noodle Shop 
• Double Tap KC 
• The Brick 
• Kobi Q 
• Vye Cocktail Lounge 
• Grinders  
• Tacos El Gallo 
• Blip Roasters

Lucas said these business owners should have money in-hand sometime early next year. He also encourages other business owners to apply for future grants as the city hopes to expand on this in the future.

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