Kansas has bragging rights in an important rivalry; it got Free State in bottles first. But that rivalry can be put to bed this week as Free State Brewery's bottle lineup is now available on the Missouri side.
Gomer's (9902 Holmes) can show you what you've been missing (assuming you refuse to drive across State Line) because the Lawrence brewery's beers first started showing up on Kansas shelves last August. Gomer's has a free tasting from 4 to 6 p.m. tonight of the Ad Astra Ale, Wheat State Golden, Copperhead Pale Ale and Oatmeal Stout. There's no RSVP required.
You might not make it all the way to Leavenworth every weekend. But
what if you could sample the best that the city has to offer in one
single building? That's the idea behind the ninth annual Taste of Leavenworth,
which kicks off at 5 p.m. Saturday, February 26, at the Sears Building
at Leavenworth Plaza (3400 South Fourth Street). The event supports the
three museums that are a part of the Leavenworth Historical Museum
Association. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door.
It's likely that it's a bit too early in the year for outdoor dining. But if the snow melts, perhaps you can sneak in a few cocktails outside.
Kona Grill (444 Ward Parkway) has officially opened its patio. It may
be worth taking advantage of this happy hour, regardless of the weather
(there's seating in the bar as well). Happy hour runs from 3 to 7
p.m. Monday through Friday and 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, on the patio or at
the bar. The sushi specials are the main attraction. A word to the
wise: You'll have to get there early to get a seat.
The second annual Kaw Valley Seeds Fair is set for Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in Lawrence. In addition to speakers, who will talk about growing garlic and saving tomato seeds, there will be a seed exchange. You'll also be able to buy gardening tools, seeds, books and food, including Local Burger's bison buffalo dog, pork burger and adzuki bean burger.
The farmers' table dinner series continues at the Blue Bird Bistro (1700 Summit) on Saturday night. The five-course meal includes chilaquiles served with house-made tortilla chips, and canned heirloom tomatoes, cilantro soup, and spaghetti squash and bison Mexican meatballs. The dinner is $45 per person (there's a vegetarian option) and an optional wine pairing for $20. There's a special seating at 7:45 p.m. if you want to dine with the farmers.
Sunday night is Oscar Night, and Crosstown Station (1522 McGee) is throwing a watch party. It's a potluck, so bring some snacks to share as local film buffs Eric Melin and Matt Larson break down the awards show. Admission is free, and the doors open at 6 p.m.
[Image via By The Pint]
