Crows Coffee | South Plaza

With the trolley getting ready to stop right at Crow coffee I think it’s a good stop for a quick cup of coffee. The atmosphere could use some updating but the coffee does the trick in a pinch.

My husband and I were on a trip to enjoy lunch at The Cheesecake Factory and to enjoy a walk around the Plaza. We were craving some coffee and needed a relaxing atmosphere, Crows Coffee did not disappoint. The coffee had a robust flavor and a smooth finish, no acid or bitterness (which is exactly the kind of coffee that we prefer.) My husband and I are coffee snobs. We only give reviews to places that serve coffee better than Starbucks.

Crow's Coffee has 3 locations in Kansas City, MO. This location is the 3rd we've tried. My mocha is good as usual. They use Messenger beans. There is a lot of seating outside and inside. Parking is a bit difficult, but the neighborhood is nice if you need to take a short walk to get here. What prevented a 5 star rating is the person who took my order and then prepared the mocha has terrible customer service. Again, the mocha was good. 😃

Crows coffee is a great spot if you need a break from the busy life of the city. Very cozy, has a bunch of dog treats in a bowl for pets and free ice water! Interior is very cozy looking and I'm pretty sure they have free wifi. Absolutely a great cafe. Staff has always been nice Everytime I go there. Even when you can tell they are very busy and stressed they don't treat you any differently. Always quick to help, always help you find what your looking for. However I won't deny that sometimes food can be a little mediocre and over priced. 7$ for a small iced latte where some other spots can give you 5 for a large I got a cheese croissant from there and the thing was bitter as could be and tasted burnt. Coffee is ok, the few times I went in there I got something different. Once a ice vanilla coffee that didn't taste like there was any vanilla in it. A cup of hot chocolate that was good but a bit watery and a iced latte that was pretty decent but nothing special. That's my only gripe with crows is that there are other coffee shops in KC that simply just are better priced for what taste like the same thing. Overall I do genuinely think it's a cute cozy coffee shop to check out and if your on main Street I advise going there!

Vastly overpriced food. Coffee is decent though. Staff was mostly disengaged during a slow period.

Lovely staff, always an impeccable atmosphere and quality coffee. Please consider revising your alternative milk up-charge, alternative milks are not as expensive as they used to be, comparable in overhead cost to dairy milk. I also feel like, given the perceived culture of Crow Coffee (alt/progressive) it feels like charging for an alternative for those who don't consume animal byproduct is out of place. Plus, starbucks got rid of the upcharge Nov 2024, so it wouldn't be out of place.

The lavender latte is very very good, and I think the peanut butter cup muffin I got might have been the best muffin I've ever had.

Order a Cappuccino but it tasted like straight water with a hint of cinnamon. I should have tasted before I drove off, since it was my first time there. Disappointed.

Crow's is ol' reliable, the "Cheers" of coffee shops where everybody knows your name. It's been a great place for me to hammer out work over the years, whether inside on the comfy chairs, or on the sidewalk patio. Most recently, it's evolved into a weekend walk with my girls down here to pick out one of their surprisingly excellent muffins or scones. I know in the past their coffee came from Messenger Coffee, which if you allow me a tad bit of pretentiousness to describe it as an always reliable, technically sound roast that won't be wildly different in flavor day to day. It might not always hit the highs of Oddly Correct, or some of the roasts at Thou Mayest, Monarch, etc., but it's a damn good cup of coffee. If I'm wrong on where they source it now, please let me know. And speaking of pretentiousness, you'll find none of that here. Vibes are good. Their WiFi actually works here, so that's a big plus for you remote workers needing a change of scenery. Oh, and while it's not huge inside, it's been a great place to meet folks over the years. You can pretty much rely on finding a table about 75% of the time, which is good considering the popularity of the shop. Fun spot that my family loves, and their lattes are always flavorful and well-prepared. They also continue to grow and expand around the city, with Waldo, Red Bridge, and a newer project on Troost coming soon as well. Cheers to this place that embodies what a neighborhood coffee shop should be!

I came here on a Thursday morning for a quick catch up with a friend. I got a hot housemaid chai with oat milk and a shot of espresso, which was perfect, hot and exactly what I need to warm me up on this cool Kansas City morning. I also had the bacon breakfast burrito. It was a good burrito and they did give you salsa on the side; however, I don't think the potatoes or eggs inside had any seasoning on them so the few pieces of bacon inside were the only thing to add taste and the bacon wasn't in each bite so many of the bites were flavorless. When I looked around the restaurant though, people were eating the pasties and had their coffee or tea so I don't think they were there for the burrito. Aside from that the staff was friendly and the service was fast. People kept cycling in and out so it's definitely a busy spot.

Crows South Plaza location is always hopping whenever I have been here. Probably due to the fact that it's next to UMKC and soon to be the closest business to the southern end-point for the new streetcar extension. It seems like I'm usually the only patron that isn't working or studying on their laptop, which gives the place a library vibe, albeit a cool library vibe with the brick walls and hipster baristas. Always a solid choice for some caffeine when I can find a parking space while traveling through.

Tried this coffee shop out. The barista that took our order was nice but I think she got off work and the remaining barista seemed bored and not that friendly. The layout of the cafe is not conducive to small talk, pretty much you're right on top of each other with the seating. It's good for studying or work more likely. It's dimly lit as you head to the back. The coffee is just okay. The sugar free syrup is very saccharin tasting unfortunately. They have a few bakery items and two small items that are gluten free.

Stuck to my usual order of a hot vanilla latte to put the judging to the test. My only knock I have is the latte art because I've seen some pictures of outstanding latte art out of this crew. That said, the latte was tasting and I even grabbed a second to take on the road. There is a good amount of seating so bring your computer if you are looking to get some work done or hang up and hang out around one of the larger tables in the back.

Such a great study spot! The homemade honey cinnamon syrup is so good, it's one of my favorites. The Gibraltar (Cortado) is my go to now! Staff always does a good job and are friendly!

I was happy to discover this really cute coffee shop at the Plaza! The vibe is chill, the drinks are good, and I didn't get a pastry but they definitely looked yummy.

The pastries are 4 stars for sure, but 2-3 for everything else. I stopped in for the first time recently and fell in love with their chocolate croissant--beautifully buttery, with distinct layers and the right amount of chocolate--but their coffee and breakfast burritos were fairly disappointing. The coffee was on the weak side, and the burrito was lacking in filling. Neither were bad, they just weren't something I would come to a cafe to get. I'd still come back to read or meet a friend and grab a pastry, but not to study or work since it tends to be fairly loud at all times and there's only one table next to an outlet.

I enjoyed the Chocolate Chai Latte that I bought from here. It was a delicious new treat to me. For the 20oz I paid $6.93 which is way less expensive than a lot of these other places around the area. The staff were pleasant and friendly and the place was quiet being that it was 7:30am. I noticed they may be adding a lower section to their cafe. I didn't get a picture this time around of it as it was dark. I will try their breakfast quiche or burrito next and will definitely be back for their chai!

Ingest a small amount of sativa and wander in. The "Paris of the Plains", becomes your own personal "Midnight in Paris". Wall to wall inspiring people, magical drink and carbonated conversations are elixirs for life's enthusiasm. You walk out filled up, for a murder of crows actually brings life! -Kermit

Thanks so much for being open at 6am on a Sunday!! What a treat to find before we headed back home to AustinTX on our 10hr road trip this morning in the dark :-) My hot white chocolate latte was perfect (even w my 1/2 Almond milk -1/2 2%) and super hot! And Hubbie enjoyed his Americano. We know we will be back to town and will keep this on in our plans!

Very watered down cold brew two days in a row. Not good at all. Thought you would taste for quality throughout the day.

I drove over here while in the mood for some quality slow drip coffee and a breakfast burrito. I was pleased with the friendly service from the staff. The ambiance is casual and comfy with plenty of younger people chatting or clacking away on their laptops. The Inside Jokes journal on the counter contains silly puns, gags, and one liners that make me giggle. Hoping to be back soon!

I ordered an iced caramel macchiato, it's so great & the coffee is nice & flavorful. Staff were very nice to me & the area outside is pretty. Perfect place to work outside, for a coffee date, or meetings.

This a small but perfect coffee shop to get your caffeine fix. The coffee is delicious but the best part is the helpful and courteous staff. They remember faces, names and even orders. I am so glad my friend, Karen introduced me to this place.

Coffee: **** Customer service: *** Ambiance: **** Diversity: ** Pastries: **** [Out of *****] This little coffee shop has a modern industrial feel where you can sit next to the brick while viewing out the large windows. The crowd is what you would expect for UMKC in south plaza. The coffee was really good and the food and pastries were delicious. Cheyenne got the chocolate croissants (but it's not in the picture bc she couldn't stop eating it... it was really good) and the chorizo burrito

Could they be any friendlier? I don't think so! Greeted immediately upon entering. I let the guy behind the counter know this is my first time in. He was happy to answer any questions I had. He asked me what made me stop. I told him I was just at UMKC. He offered info about the area. My order was a traditional macchiato which was as delicious as it was cute. Service is prompt. They offer coffee, tea, wine, beer and a few breakfast items besides the pastries. Plenty of space to sit at tables or in cushy chairs if you bring your Laptop. Free wifi.

Local coffee shop with good coffee and interesting pastries. I got the cold brew and two scones - espresso chocolate and a savory cheese one. Cold brew was good. The scones were not my favorite, maybe too heavy on the butter or something. I like that they sell day old pastries for half price. (So you know the regular pieced ones are super fresh!) Cafe seating area is a little dark with hanging exposed bulbs and brick walls. There's also outdoor seating where a friendly golden retriever tried to say hi to me! Would definitely be back next time I'm in the area!

This place is pretty good. I like the style and atmosphere. Nice people work here. It's not my fav.

Having been a loyal patron since back in the 51th st coffee days , back in the pre-COVID era when establishments operated into the late hours. Here you could sit well into the night and read, write and visit. This place holds a special spot in my heart, many fond memories. The staff here is remarkable, and as a creature of comfort, I've established a routine--I order the same thing every time. Whether it's the days requiring a cozy jacket and a hot coffee or the warmer ones prompting an iced cold brew, my preferences are met with seamless consistency. One of the aspects I cherish is the familiarity with the staff; they've made it a point to know me by name. It's those little gestures that make a significant impact, and this personalized touch extends across all three locations. The breakfast burritos have become my perfect morning go-to, and as the day transitions to evening, the option to enjoy a glass of wine adds an extra layer of versatility to this establishment. It's more than just a place to dine; it's a welcoming community where my routine feels not only anticipated but celebrated.

Cute little cafe in a great location between the plaza and Umkc campus. Great place for people to hang out

great coffee great service great baristas great seating great coffee drinking atmosphere

Cool vibe. Not much food. Coffee served too hot. Okay place Eh. Seen better coffee houses. Seen worse. Good hang out Nothing to write home about.

This location is definitely the better one of the two I tried. The location is also more convenient for me as well. The staff have been consistently nice and helpful. Most importantly, my order is always delicious. I always get the same thing, sometimes iced and sometimes hot- Caramel Vanilla Latte. It's always smooth yet full of flavor and gives me a second wind in the afternoon. The place is always packed and has a good vibe. You can see many on their laptops working or just relaxing. I would using get some lunch at another place on the same strip then walk over for coffee. I could definitely get used to that because I like both places so much. Today was particularly nice because the weather was good and i saw a couple of people standing outside and enjoying there coffee.

My favorite Americano in KC, hands-down. Such a relaxing and intimate place to spend a Saturday morning catching up with a friend or personal stuff. There is ample indoor seating and outdoor seats as well (which make a great spot to tie up your bike if this is a mid-ride stop!). Easy to access via the Trolley Trail on foot/bike or as a detour on your way to some shopping on the Plaza.

Great coffee, was feeling run down and I pulled over seeing this place. I walked in and ordered a cortado. As I waited for my drink a tweaker walked in and tried to talk to me. Being from Los Angeles I acted as I didn't notice him, this angered him. He quickly became angry and hostile, before I could smack the meth out of him the barista jumped over the counter and chased the drug crazed vagrant away. Not only is it great coffee but the staff ain't playing.

I have to add a small update, just got word that Crow's makes all pastries in house! Umm, that is simply amazing. They have such a huge variety and they are so delicious. Another perk. Forget big boisterous cities, KC has nailed the food and coffee scene. Crows is just another example of that. The place is intimate but roomy. It just has this cozy vibe without feeling like you are on top of someone. Our toddler roamed around greeting people and read children's books they had laid out along with puzzles and games. Parking was easy and flow was steady, I imagine once the apartments are done it may be a little chaotic for a bit but they get you in and out fast, the line moves. The are brilliant because they have a coffee station in two spots with your coffee fixings so you can get your drink then move on to the station by the door to leave or by the seats to stay. They offer all of your typical drinks using Messenger coffee and they have soy and almond milk. This location also offers beer and wine. The food selection is pretty extensive for a coffee shop this size. The have basically every pastry you can imagine from various local bakers. I had the lemon poppyseed scone, it was more like a biscuit than a traditional scone, it was delicious. They have day old pastries for half off and the croissant my daughter had tasted fresh. They also have quiche and house made breakfast burritos, my husband had the bacon burrito. It was filled with bacon and not the best in KC but pretty darn good. They offer two different sauces with them. The coffee is brewed strong and good. Their iced toddy is stout and smooth as well. Prices are on par. Service is great, the woman at the counter was spunky and chatty. The girls making the drinks weren't as sociable but they make darn good drinks, that is what counts! They have high chairs. They do not have stevia, not a knock at all but I know it is popular for some!

Undoubtedly one of the top coffee shops in Kansas City. This cafe tucked in 51st street includes local Kansas City customers and friendly baristas. It was one I frequently studied at when living at the UMKC dorms, and the seats are often lined with students typing away. You will also see families that regularly visit with their excited children ready to sip their hot chocolate. I sincerely enjoy this location as it has traditional coffee house mixed ambience with the music ranging from The Fray to rap. The baristas and customers are always friendly, creating a pleasant welcoming environment. On this particular occasion, I ordered the pumpkin latte with almond milk. Of course, being basic... but the syrup is house-made I couldn't resist! And the latte certainly hit the spot! One of the coolest aspects of this coffee shop is the bathroom. I don't know what is up with my recent reviews and bathrooms... but here's the deal on this one. The walls are blank and have writing written all over it from various customers ranging from Harry Potter quotes to philosophical ideas. It is fascinating and makes you want to spend an extra couple of minutes, pondering everyone's thoughts. Basically, don't forget your bathroom break when you visit and bring a sharpie! There's a newer location in Waldo that I will eventually try, but for now I am content with the ideal coffee shop.

Every time I go, they serve a perfect latte. The temperature is never off, the flavor is always decadent, and the space is so inviting. Every once in a while I'll have a pastry, and their selection is pretty great!

Crows Coffee is a fantastic place to come and work, or hang out with friends! I stopped in after a long day at work, and had some things I wanted to get done. This was the perfect place to do so: a lot of outlets and seating. They have outdoor seating, but they also have a warmer indoor environment with comfy couches. Their menu was pretty extensive - I really want to go back and try all of their Iced Chais, since they have so many creative options that most coffee shops don't. They also serve Messenger Coffee, and they make their Iced Coffee with a cold brew concentrate. They also have sugar free syrups for those of you watching your sugar intake. The main reason for this review has to be the service. I asked the guy about cold brew and making my own, and for the next hour I would ask him another question every 5 minutes. Any normal person would have been easily annoyed, but he answered every question with enthusiasm. If you are a coffee person, stop by here - they know what they are doing, and they use the Toddy system to make their cold brew!

Great place to come and work. The WiFi is solid as well. Sometimes coffee shops offer WiFi but it's not very good, here it's good and strong. Lol. All of the people working were really nice. I ordered a burrito and a latte, those were both good. The banana bread was a little dry for me so I didn't finish that busy I stayed here working for the Writer pRt if the day and on a Saturday it never got so full that it was uncomfortable. I'll be back.

Awesome little spot. We stopped in here after going to Whole Foods in Brookside. Friendly and quick service with a nice little atmosphere. Got a cold brew and it was good. Acidity level was lower. Definitely like this place!

I looove Crow's Coffee. A friend took me here on my second visit to KC. The owner is so incredibly nice and knows many of the regulars. The place is warm and welcoming; staff are friendly. The space is interesting and well-designed. It also seems to service a different neighborhood than the cluster I visited near the River area and the Power and Light District. Coffee was delicious!

I am glad I stumbled upon crows coffee, the location is great. They tend to be busy during classes since they are located by UMKC and across the street from the new whole foods. The staff is friendly but the main thing is: their coffee is worth the drive. It's a smooth medium blend. I ordered a caramel latte with soy: grateful that they offer milk alternatives. They have a beautiful display of fresh pastries that I will need to try next time. The place is beautiful and very people friendly, there's a wall for variety of postings from tutors to counseling to events around the city: keeping it local of course. They offer indoor and outdoor seating, bike racks, and a doggy bowl for furry friends. An added bonus, it's significantly leas inexpensive than chains like Starbucks.

Wow... They have really good coffee. I ordered iced latte with oat milk and cinnamon powder... Very good!! I will definitely come back....

I have gone here ever since they were first open, and it has to be one of the best spots in the plaza/westport area! Love the pastries, and the coffee is always exactly as you like it! Get a punch card, because you will get addicted!

I live in the area and am always looking for great coffee spots within walking distance. I suggested this shop for a coffee date with a friend on a weekend, and was thoroughly put off by the unfriendly vibes of the staff. 2 Stars: 1. Location 2. Quiet spot for studying - it's right by UMKC so I'm sure the silence appeals to people needing a study spot. There were plenty of decent sized tables on a Sunday afternoon. -3 Stars: 1. Rude staff - I asked a question about a menu item with an obscure name (and no description), and was brushed off in one of the most condescending tones I've ever experienced. The sulky gentleman made my drink and then slid it on the counter to me without even making eye contact, saying what drink it was, or saying thanks. 2. I was there for about 3 hours and didn't see either staff member smile or positively engage with a customer. 3. Bad vibes! I won't be back - unless I decide I want to have a depressing day and be treated poorly....

The vibes of this place is nice and the coffee is a great way to enjoy a break in the day. I stopped here after going on a week long adventure to find new coffee shops and read.

I was not looking for this place, but I did run into it, so I walked in. I am happy I did so. I ordered an iced toddy and a homemade strawberry pop tart before deciding to stay here for a while after trying both. I worked for a few hours and people watched; 10/10, nice ambiance, most tables have a charging port, and the food and drink are excellent.

Loved my visit here! Even though it sits near a busier intersection, I was pleasantly suprised at how chill it was when I walked in. The girls working were very sweet. I ordered their Crow's chai and it was frothy and delicious! The leather chairs closer to the front of the store were super comfortable! I stayed for a while to just sit and read, and it was definitely a great spot for it! I will for sure be back to try their chocolate chai next time!

My wife and I love Crows. Great staff and Mercy and Josie are the best! Love this place.

It's hard to describe how terrible this location is. Their clientele is mostly fine, but a select few bring loud af dogs which they train to bark constantly while they're inside. Specifically, one lady with a large schnauzer likes to bring her exceptionally loud POS as early as they open so she can guarantee nobody in the area can sleep. I would give almost anything for this location to go out of business so I no longer have to listen to it every morning.

Good, low-key counter service and top caliber espresso drinks, plus a broader drinks menu that includes wine and beer. Really comfy sitting area plus lots of outside tables under a roof in a great area for people and dog watching. The baked goods are perfect: buttery scones (both sweet and savory); light muffins with crisp, sugary tops; perfect, flaky croissants. It's very easy to feel like a local here after just a couple of visits.

A killer coffeehouse in the KC area. The space is well-designed -- warm and welcoming. Most importantly, their coffee is excellent and reasonably priced. My dad's a black coffee kind of man, but I prefer a latte or cappuccino. Both of us were pleased with our choices! The baked goods offered are an extra special treat. I've been to many a coffee house in this city, but this is the one I'd most like to spend an afternoon in. Street parking can be hard to come by, but it's worth it to try!

After 40+ visits, I think it's time I upgrade my review. As a graduate student, one of my daily and most reliable pleasures in life is caffeine. I am definitely a caffeine addict and highly addicted to all caffeinated beverages, but most enjoy any type of coffee drink. Most days I drink 2-4 cups of coffee, and will have more on a particularly fatigued day. I always have coffee at home in the morning, but really enjoy visiting independently-owned coffee shops. I have been to several coffee shops in the KC metro, and Crows is among the best. I usually enjoy a Crows hot coffee or latte when I need some caffeine, when I need a break from studying, or when I want some fresh air. I had my first cold brew here recently, and it was DELICIOUS. I spend a lot of time in the UMKC Psychology building, which is a short walk from Crows. I am so grateful Crows exists so I can escape the weak on-campus Jazzman's coffee. Crows is also wonderful because they have the most consistently friendly staff. I am in a bad mood probably 50% of the time I visit Crows (too much studying, too little caffeine), but they manage to make me feel better. Thank you Crows, for being awesome!

Stopped in during the afternoon with my girlfriend while visiting KC and had a wonderful time. I tried the chocolate chai which was perfectly spiced and wonderfully rich. The chocolate didn't overwhelm the chai with being too sweet and the drink had a wonderful foam. My gf had the Ethiopian blend pour over on ice and the coffee was roasted to perfection. The blend was fruity and sweet enough that she drank it black. We shared a strawberry scone from a local bake shop that was not too dense or sweet and made a great afternoon snack.

Great espresso drinks and a good outdoor seating arrangement given the circumstances. It is a very short walk from the UMKC campus and a great place to relax, read a book, or catch up with friends.

It's probably about time I review Crows, seeing as it's far and away my most visited spot in KC, and I'll probably be the Duke for the foreseeable future. Crows does everything right for a coffee shop. Let me count the ways: 1. Location - Being on 51st and Brookside, next to the UMKC campus and a hop away from the Plaza, makes Crows a prime location for students and people like me (aka those who work around the Plaza). Even if the shop wasn't on my way to work, I'd probably still swing by for the reasons below. Plus, they're open until 9 pm, so I can get my late-evening coffee drank on if necessary. 2. Ambiance - With all of the students in the area, Crows makes for a fairly zen place to study, write, or read by yourself while still being conducive to hanging out and having a conversation with friends. There's great natural light with a spiffy long countertop next to the windows. The space is always bright, energetic, and full of people engaged in academic or business conversations/endeavors. 3. Staff - The owner, Zach, is frequently in the shop slinging beverages or getting stuff done, and he always seems sincerely grateful toward every customer I've seen him interact with. The rest of the staff is unpretentious, friendly, fun to have a conversation with, knowledgeable, and always efficiently makes some kick ass beverages. Also, whoever is running the tunes has great taste. 4. Speaking of said beverages - Crows consistently has the best version of whatever latte du jour happens to be going on for the season. Both their pumpkin spice and eggnog lattes (syrups made from organic ingredients in house!) were superior to other versions throughout town. Their chai, both of the chocolate and regular varieties, hot or iced, is bomb. There are probably better cups of black coffee in town, but Messenger is pretty legit, and I've never had a bad batch pour. The cortado/gibraltar (my go-to classic espresso beverage) is fantastic, as well. 5. The Food - Crows knows that nothing goes better with coffee than a fresh pastry, and they've partnered with a bunch of local favorites to put their carb-game on lock. Scratch, Baked in KC, and McClain's are always represented (do your taste buds a favor and have them warm up a Scratch cinnamon roll). And if you don't mind being a day late, you won't be a dollar short...because anything that doesn't get purchased for the day gets put on half-price the next morning. It may not be the most technically serious coffee shop in town, but Crows knows what it's trying to be and executes flawlessly. What makes it 5 stars for me, though? From the time I leave for work in the morning until the time I get home, Crows is the best part of my day, and I couldn't ask for anything more out my go-to coffee shop than that.

Good place to stop for coffee, but unfortunately is becoming frequented by the homeless, which is unpleasant if you sit outside. There is one homeless man who is there EVERY DAY, which wouldn't be a huge deal except that he brings his belongings which have a strong odor to them. I am not against this business helping the homeless, but more enforcement of loitering would be helpful.