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Messenger Coffee Co.

1624 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108

Reviewed by Chris JordanMay 2025

Location

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Overall Score Score: 8.4 out of 10
8.4
Overall Score
Coffee Score: 8.7 out of 10
8.7
Coffee
Atmosphere Score: 8.6 out of 10
8.6
Atmosphere
Value Score: 8 out of 10
8.0
Value
Service Score: 8.2 out of 10
8.2
Service
Food Score: 8.5 out of 10
8.5
Food
Vibe Score8.0 / 10

The Story

Born out of a desire to elevate Kansas City's coffee culture, Messenger Coffee Co. set out to create a transparent, ethically driven coffee experience. Their mission emphasizes direct sourcing and building lasting relationships with farmers, ensuring quality and sustainability from farm to cup. Over the years, Messenger has become a hub for coffee education and community engagement, hosting events and collaborations with local businesses. Their multi-level flagship space marks a milestone in local coffee, blending roasting, baking, and hospitality all under one roof. Messenger’s broader vision is to foster connection and growth, both within Kansas City and in the global coffee community.

Craft & Expertise

Messenger’s coffee program showcases meticulous sourcing, in-house roasting, and careful brewing across all methods—from balanced espresso to nuanced pour-overs. Baristas exhibit strong technical skill and a genuine passion for the craft, always ready to talk origins or recommend something new. Signature drinks, like their honey lavender latte or seasonal cold brew infusions, stand out for both creativity and precision. The food menu is anchored by house-made pastries and breads, crafted daily in the open bakery. Spacious seating, ranging from communal tables to cozy corners and rooftop perches, lets guests enjoy drinks in high-quality ceramics or stylish to-go ware.

What Sets This Cafe Apart

Messenger stands apart thanks to its impressive three-story space, which combines a working roastery, open bakery, and expansive rooftop patio—an uncommon combination even in major cities. The transparency of their sourcing and roasting process is on full display, with large glass walls showing the action behind the scenes. Their commitment to ethical relationships with farmers and local collaboration gives the cafe an authentic, community-driven vibe. The rooftop, with sweeping city views, becomes a signature destination for both relaxation and inspiration.