The artwork on the back wall is simultaneously unintentionally hilarious and insulting. It looks like something a third grader did in art class and the teacher put on the wall, and they want 75 bucks for it lol.
Other than that it's an okay place. A couple of the waitresses/bartenders who work here have really bad attitudes and think they're super duper cool, which is a major buzzkill obviously.
BUT, the food is pretty good and there's cheap beer. They used to have karaoke but no longer apparently, which is too bad since it was pretty awesome. I've seen several bands here -- some sucked, some were okay and some were great...just like everywhere else lol.
Nifty little dive located  downtown.  Diners Drive-In and Dives have been at this location before.
I had the famous Oklahoma dog and it was interesting to say the least. Â It is a hot dog wrapped in back, dipped in a beer batter and fried. (needless to say not under 100 calories).
I've come to the conclusion that I'm not a fan of beer batter but I did take some of the batter off and it was really good. Can't go wrong with bacon.
My niece had the Cob Sandwich and it was simple but it was really yummy. Â And Did I mention that the fries are fresh cut fries, and are GREAT!!
Overall a nifty little place to go to.
I love the Brick. It's on the short list of my favorite places in KC.
Good music - yes. They have great bands here on a regular basis, and it's an intimate spot to hear a local group play. They have karaoke (I only did it once, and I apologize to those who had to hear me). And they just have a really awesome playlist on your average weeknight or Saturday brunch.
Good food - yes. You'll be surprised, after your first impression of this as a divey little spot, to discover that the menu is really interesting and the food is consistently delicious. Not only is the food creative and good, they have ton of great options for vegetarians. I love the italian grilled cheese, with goat cheese and tomatoes on a really nice, dense wheat bread. According to my BF, the veggie tacos on taco Tuesday are even better than the meat ones (and only 75 cents!), they have great veggies specials on Thursdays, and the B&G bar during brunch even has a veggie option! Also, the tots rock.
Good people - yes. The relaxed, comfortable atmosphere comes from the genuinely nice people who work here.
I had the pleasure of trying The Brick for the first time last Saturday after hearing so many good things about their breakfast. I was quite pleased with my experience. After my eyes adjusted to the low lighting it was not at all what I expected. I expected a dirty dive bar and what I got was a clean, artsy, inviting and friendly place with great food. Not to mention food that sourced with a lot of care and consideration: something else that blew my mind. A bar with cleanly sourced food: who would've thought? Families with young children were scattered at tables next to hipsters next to free spirits all stuffed in a tiny restaurant that smelled of bacon and coffee. I loved it already and the eclectic group surrounding me.
Going with the full intention of trying the biscuits and gravy raved about I landed on a perfect platter "The Standard" instead. My pallet always wants sweet and savory for breakfast. Where I usually have to order pancakes with a side or hash browns or biscuits and gravy The Standard met every taste bud without putting me into a food coma. Eggs, potatoes, fresh fruit, back all topped off with an amazing little cinnamon roll. Perfection! I also compliment The Brick for having lighter meal options such as yogurt parfaits and cinnamon rolls a la cart as well as gorge yourself menu items and vegetarian options. Well done Brick!
My wife ordered The Truckload which pretty much seemed like my meal, but with gravy on it. She licked it clean so I am sure her review would be just as in favor of The Brick as mine. I look forward to going back!
You will not be disappointed eating/drinking here. The staff is so friendly and accommodating that you will feel right at home even on your first day.
This is a place that comes up often when talking about where to get the best burgers in KC. It has been on my list to try and last night was the perfect night before the show at Sprint Center.
We started by being informed by the awesome happy hour specials. Various selections of beers for $1 or $3. We made it to the restaurant with 3 minutes to spare before happy hour ended so lined up some drinks. Â I am not sure of the exact time, but ends at 6pm.
The menu is a nice selection of sandwiches and a few dinners. A bar food type menu, but with some non-typical selections. One of my dining friends was excited about a Reuban with a turkey option. I was excited about a burger with goat cheese. There is a nice selection of sides other than the standard fries along with some healthy options. (always a win!) I chose the cottage cheese with my sandwich, while one diner went with the sweet potato fries and another the regular fries.
My Reilly burger was great. The goat cheese was nice and creamy with a nice garlic flavor. A hint of pesto and tomato made the sandwich perfect. The sandwich came on toasted wheat bread which was a little dry and I would have liked my burger a little less than well done for a juicy experience, but it was well spiced and delicious.
The cottage cheese was excellent. This might seem weird, but there are a few places that I have come across that serve cottage cheese that is just to die for. It is nice and creamy, just kind of melts in your mouth. This was one of those places. It really makes a great side with a sandwich. I really need to ask what brand/where they get it. I tried some of the sweet potato fries and was impressed. I am typically not a big fan, but these were cooked well. Nice crispy outside, not overly sweet, the perfect meaty inside.
Our waitress said she was new when we asked for recommendations. You would not know this with how fabulous she was! She hooked us up with the happy hour special even though it was about to end. Made a few great recommendations. Was full of great positive energy, but not in an annoying way, just plain adorable!
We all enjoyed the eclectic feel of the place, from the decor and music, to the workers and variety of clientele. They have a good range of specials each day making it a nice stop any day of the week. I am interested in going back to partake in some of the music events that they have. Just a really nice vibe to the place with some great food. Maybe not the best burger, but in the tops.
Behind an unassuming brick wall on McGee is an eclectic little oasis that has surprisingly good food. Stopped in for lunch at the recommendation of a client, and had my expectations low by the dive-eyness of the place. Ordered the reuben sandwich, and was pleasantly surprised with a delicious and filling sandwich, paired with some great sweet potato fries. My dining companions had the asian salad and the patty melt, and they report they were excellent.
Review Source:The burgers in this place are top notch. I appreciate the local art on the wall. I usually write lengthy reviews, but can I summarize the awesomeness of this place by stating that they complied with my party's request to make a fried Twinkie wrapped with bacon. Don't judge... It was actually quite good.
Review Source:In my callow, feckless youth, I spent a lot of time at The Brick seeing bands and drinking beer. And I can confirm that as a band-seeing, beer-drinking establishment, it's top-notch, especially since most of the other places where I used to pursue such activities have closed.
However, if you've gotten old and tired like I have, you should also consider The Brick as a great place to eat superb bar food and, well, drink beer. (Some things translate regardless of age and energy level.)
There's not a ton on the menu that you're not going to find in other places, but the way it's prepared at The Brick is a cut above. Burgers, dressed-up hot dogs, wings, chili, all are great. (With the hot dogs, burgers, and chili, they also have meatless versions for your vegetarian dining companions.) The mixed drinks are also creative and tasty.
I will especially call out one menu item: the Hot Mess. A pile of the best tater tots you'll ever have, covered with beans and cheese and jalapenos and other delicious, amazing things. There is very little wrong in your life that a Hot Mess won't cure.
I would tell you to come on the last Tuesday of the month for cheap tacos, beer, and bingo, but I never win at bingo and you may ruin my chances.
The Brick is as comfortable as a warm hug from a friend. It doesn't get much better than this.
This place saves my hungry butt about twice a month. Any time I am running late to work, I call in an order and they have it ready and waiting and hurry me out right away. Living behind The Brick and across from Crossroads KC were actually the final decision makers in my move from the River Market to the East Crossroads.
Their creative menu is amazingly good for and it's divey exterior does a great job of hiding this Crossroads concert venue/food joint. I've never had a bad meal there and as out of character as it is, I am not afraid to branch out of my 'usual' when I stop in and have time to enjoy my meal in house.
Drink-wise, The Brick is equal parts solid craft-beer joint, well-rounded liquor bar, and creative signature cocktail lounge. There is not a large selection of any of the options but what is there pleases my palate no matter what mood I'm in. Â Warning: their Kick in the Pants cocktail caught me off guard and I'm not ashamed to admit, got me a little more than tipsy after only one. Not a bad value to feel a buzz after only spending a few dollars. Â Also, anywhere that has a decently expansive Founders collection for about $4 is a place that has my
Last but not least, I hate that they are closed on Sundays and Mondays, but ending the week on a Saturday where they have their version of brunch (Brickfast) in addition to their normal menu ALMOST makes up for their well-deserved two days off. Â Next on my list of things to try are the gigantic stuffed cupcakes. Â Think the 'turducken' of baked goods. Â I heard the bartender talking them up and had I not just ordered pub chili on top of a sandwich order, I probably would have given in to the curiosity.
If you haven't been here, run, don't walk, then relax the second you walk in the doors. Â You're in good hands with the ladies who work there. They're friendly, run their asses off to provide quick service, and are always helpful and attentive no matter how busy they are. Plus, the concerts are usually solid and even if not your typical style of music, are guaranteed to be entertaining. I love walking in the door not knowing what I'm in for. It's like music roulette and you usually never lose.
Regrets. Beautiful, beautiful regrets. That's what my mornings are filled with after a night at The Brick.
The Brick is not on my regular rotation of spots, but maybe that's why I always have a good time while there. I go to The Brick for great shows I have to see, Â or for hazy karaoke nights. Either way, fun is to be had! It's a fantastic place to see a show, as it's teeny-tiny and you can get right up to the stage. In fact, when you enter and leave the bar, it's almost like you're in the way of the backstage. I mean that as a compliment, not a complaint. There's one pole that can be annoying to be behind, but other than that, there's not a bad seat in the house. And the acoustics and AV system are acceptable.
Then there's Karaoke. Oh lord, this is so much fun at The Brick. There might be some talent here, but nobody takes it too seriously. Their playbook is excellent, and every once in a while I've been witness to some pretty sweet dance moves. The Brick is where I learned to appreciate the glory that is belting out Neil Diamond to a room full of strangers.
The food is good, but it's never my reason to visit, so I'll leave that to the other reviews. I've shot some pool and played some pinball, which is fun. Their bathrooms is disgusting, and doesn't have real paper towels, but instead that creepy rotating cloth. Come on, ditch that already!
In summary, The Brick is great, if you like things that are awesome!
First time at the Brick. Â The basic cheeseburger was great - perfectly cooked. Â Yummy tater tots - not too greasy. Â The decor is very basic - not a lot put into it, but that's part of its charm.
Next time I will save room for the ginormous cupcakes (peanut butter & jelly flavor) by the cash register. Yum.
My friends and I have been going for Customer Appreciation Night the last Tuesday of every month for a year now and we LOVE it. For their Customer Appreciation they host BINGO and have great specials ($8 bottomless cup of Boulevard Pilsner & $0.75 tacos). This BINGO is definitely not what I think of when I think of BINGO -- the Caller makes dirty jokes and is hilarious, and the prizes are great. We love bringing someone new every month and seeing them warm up to the idea of not-so-old-lady-BINGO.
The food is phenomenal. Of what I've tried so far, The Reilly burger is my favorite: goat cheese, thick toast, pesto, tomatoes and the patty (which a sub out for a turkey burger). Love their crinkle-cut sweet potato fries, too. And pricing is very reasonable.
I have heard great things about the biscuits & gravy bar & $1 Bloody Mary's on Saturdays and I can't wait to try it out.
Don't go there expecting a glamorous experience. The building isn't pretty, but it does have character and they rotate local KC artists' work. It's not my style, and that's exactly what I love about it. Others have complained that it is "run down," but The Brick wouldn't be itself in any other building.
Part restaurant and part music venue, The Brick is a good place to be.
The menu is a nice hodge podge of comfort food and greasy spoon items. Â The burgers are great as are the wings. When the weather turns cold a bowl of Sheri's chili is the perfect answer.
Cold beer? Yep. Whisky? Yep. Maybe some Jager? Oh yeah. Want something different like cucumber or jalapeno-infused vodka? Got that too.
Then there's brunch. From 11-3 every Saturday The Brick features it's biscuits and gravy bar featuring about six different types of gravy. If you're not into that there are plenty of other dishes including the Dump Truck (it's just as good as it sounds) and the chicken friend steak (emphasis on the fried.)
Late at night the bar changes over to a venue which hosts all types of performers, spoken word artists, bands, etc... . The Brick has a full PA so you won't be cheated out of a full show. Â If you watch the schedule you'll see that there's something for everybody.
Anyway, don't take my word for it, get out of the house and see for it for yourself.
The Brick is a wonderful downtown/crossroads restaurant, bar, and venue. Many places try to be all three but end up succeeding in just one area. Somehow, The Brick does everything well!
The food here is definitely "bar food", but they add unique touches that makes the dishes stand out. My favorite is The Pubby - blue cheese, bacon, and topped with an onion ring = AWESOME. Try it with sweet potato fries and you'll relish every delicious burp the rest of the night.
If I'm not mistaken, The Brick is a big Boulevard Beer bar - they carry special offerings like Chocolate Ale when they are available, and they serve your beer in proper glassware (I know not everyone cares about this but I like it). If beer isn't your thing you can have most any cocktail served up. Their selection of liquor is broad.
I've been here for many customer appreciation Taco Tuesdays - 75 cent tacos and bingo with free cheesy fun prizes later on. It's always great fun. I've also seen many great bands here. The stage is intimate, there's enough space to dance or to host a big crowd, and the sound has never disappointed me.
Dear Brick, You Rock!
Went there for the first time with a group of friends on a Monday night. Â There seemed to be an open mic night so we had some cool folky tunes going on in the background while playing one of the community board games they own. Â The place gives off a cool antique bar/restaurant aura.
I ordered the special for the day which was the filling and well priced Country Fried Steak Dinner (piece of cake included for dessert). Â It was exactly what I had hoped for, tons of gravy smothered on potatoes and chicken.
There were plenty of other enticing options on the menu so I'll be sure to go back again.
I've been going to the Brick since I was about 23 years old. Back in the day I used to go just to see a good show. They definitely had some of the best local musicians and "indie" touring bands from around the US. I probably frequented the place about twice a week.
As I've gotten older, the live music "scene" and it's fun-ness has worn off. I cannot honestly say when was the last time I went to the Brick to see a show.
It has been in the past year and a half that I have taken note that the Brick is also a restaurant and a damn good one at that! And they are highly aware that vegetarians exist in this meat-eating city. They even go so far as to offer bean tacos on Two for One Taco Tuesday night and at a spectacular price of $1.50 (or .75 each). I generally find that most restaurants will offer only meat tacos and generally at $3 or more if you end up at the wrong place! Â These tacos may be inexpensive, but they are NOT cheap. I wish they offered the tacos everyday. The toppings are basic, lettuce, cheese tomatoes. I believe they must add spices to the beans.
On my most recent visit, Mr. C and I went out for First Fridays this month and decided to go have a bite because everything else was already closing for the evening. I don't understand why First Friday galleries tend to close so early. Even the Food trucks closed early. Weird.
I ordered the goat cheese and spinach nachos! First two things I should say about this:
1. I love goat cheese
2. I love spinach
Put those together with spicy black beans, sour cream, chips, jalapenos, green onions, olives and salsa and you get probably the most wonderful and richly flavored nacho concoction ever imagined.
I know I was there with Mr. C and our friend Jon, but I don't remember much else other than how good these nachos were. Dang.
I've always consider The Brick to be a BAR, but I might have to change my mind on that one. The tone and the atmosphere is still rock 'n roll bar, but also strangely great restaurant. The wait staff are basically cocktail servers who deliver your food. I know that the majority of the staff has been working there since I was going in my twenties so they are knowledgeable about the drinks and food offered. Even as tired as some of them look (I hate to say that, but they are generally the "partying" nature kind of people) they are friendly and serious professionals, as in, they don't drop your drinks, they don't mess up your order, and they are QUICK! LOVE IT!
I cannot wait to go back... I think I need to tell Mr. C that we need to go back next Tuesday.
Food: Angels are singing right now
Service: Fantastic and easy-going
Would I go back: That's a stupid question Angie!
I was in town for work for just an overnight stay. It so happened that a good friend from Arizona was also in town for a week-long conference. So we decided to head out for dinner but wanted to stay near her hotel down the street. I had my old gps and it showed up as being less than a mile away so off we went. We were expecting a steak or grill type of place but were pleasantly surprised with the style and eclectic ambiance.
The servers were friendly and helpful and the food..the food was awesome!
I have been trying to eat less red meat and since I had just had a burger a few days before I decided to try their tex-mex burger but with a veggie patty. It was delicious! Very flavorful and the fact one of their sides is hummus and veggies just was the cherry on top!
Totally going back next time I'm in town.
Oh, I'm so close to 5 stars for The Brick! So very close...
I have only been to The Brick 3 times now, but all 3 times have been pretty much awesome. We were randomly introduced to this place by some fellow Yelp friends after an elite party one night. We weren't quite ready to end the fun, so off to the Brick we went. That evening we didn't eat, but did have a couple of cocktails while we listed to a band's opening set. It was a lot of fun, but then somehow The Brick fell off our radar.
Flash forward 8 months or so, and some of our awesome Yelp friends invited us to The Brick for bingo. I haven't played bingo in many, many years, but I won twice that night! That, coupled with good (cheap) drinks, good (cheap) food, great company and fun surroundings made for another very fun night, and I think that's truly when my love affair with The Brick began to blossom.
Then, the other night, a group of us ended up here after another Yelp Elite event, and it was another great time. Though we were all in cocktail attire and the Brick is nowhere near fancy, we were still completely comfortable, and not made to feel weird at all, and it ended up being the perfect choice to round out our night. After 3 visits, it was past time to write a review and declare my new found love of the Brick.
They have daily/nightly food and drink specials, and the food is really very good. I can recommend the burgers, fries, Hot Mess (basically nachos but with tator tots instead of chips - YUM) and the Italian Grilled Cheese (goat cheese, tomato, and basil on wheatberry bread). The food here is amazing, especially for the price. Yes, most of it is bar food, but it's GOOD bar food...and hello! Goat Cheese grilled cheese!
I love the atmosphere and decor, too. It's not quite a dive - it's not dirty and obscure enough for that by far, but it's not fancy. Just a good place to hang out with friends. Maybe catch a band or some bingo, maybe just chill out and look at the local art (and miscellany) decorating the walls. This is a local place that does good for the community (the bingo night was a fundraiser for a local organization), and (rightly for the Crossroads) there's always art on display. It's just fun and funky without trying too hard.
So yeah. A trip to The Brick just seems to ensure a good time. And I'm totally a fan of that.
Karaoke night at The Brick was the perfect way to cap off my most recent visit to Kansas City. Â We walked in and realized we were early because there were still bluegrass performers on the stage. Â Yep, the Brick also plays host to their Rural Grit Happy Hour, which is probably one of the few places I've walked into that featured a washboard that wasn't decor.
The food was freakishly tasty. Â I had a burger (The Pubby) that was so generous, but so delicious, it was hard leaving some of it on the plate. Â I was even visited by one of the bluegrass guys' kids, who tried to slyly sneak some of my lettuce. Â It is that good, I'm tellin' ya!
And the karaoke! Â The room was so encouraging and the emcee so welcoming I even sang twice. Â And I didn't spontaneously vomit the moment I got up there! Â Everybody had a really great time and I don't think there was a moment when I wasn't grinning from ear to ear.
The coda to all this: one patron got a little rowdy during karaoke and was making just about everyone uncomfortable. Â I've seen other places ignore it, or sit on their hands to avoid a confrontation with a "paying customer", but the Brick handled it really well. Â Both the emcee and bouncer were on the same team and told Ms. Yuck she was no longer welcome and needed to leave. Â After that, everyone else continued having a good time without being harassed. Â Thanks, Brick!
Our bill was small, the drinks were generous, the amount of fun had was off the charts. Â I'm recommending the Brick to everyone I know in KC, whether they're a native or just passing through.
Ridiculously friendly service, so you totally feel welcome the minute you step into the establishment. Started off our Saturday afternoon late lunch with a couple of $1 bloody mary's. Not the best I've had, but I appreciate that it's made from scratch and it's only a buck. After agonizing over the menu (because so many things sound so damn good), we ordered the hot mess ($6.95) appetizer. I mean, c'mon, tater tots smothered in fatty, creamy, cheesy, spicy deliciousness...what's not to love?!
After getting my fatty fix on with that plate of tots, we decided to split the cuban chicken sandwich (with a side of hummus and veg for $7.75) and a side salad ($4.45) with balsamic. The sandwich was pretty good, but since I'm not a poultry fan, I'm not giving it enough credit. My dining companion was super happy with the sandwich. Hummus was a little lumpy, but large on flavor so I chomped it down with those thin sliced apples it was served with.
In the future, when we're down in the area (especially when going to outdoor concerts at the venue around the corner with the poor service and food not worthy enough to warrant such lame service), The Brick will be on the must do list.
Elevated bar food (love), awesome wait staff (more love) and reasonable prices. Can't wait for my next visit to get my fatty on with that fried hot dog wrapped in bacon.
This is the most gourmet dive bar you'll ever visit.
From the outside, you have no idea what to expect. On a quiet block of McGee, you spot a plain door and an unassuming storefront. What will you find behind that plain door?
Amazing prices for the quality, friendly service, a funky friendly crowd, and a menu that never fails to be vegetarian considerate. It is a place that makes you feel like a regular the first time you enter because it is so comfortable, with specials that make you scheme your next visit.
Though I'm weeks into an all vegetarian diet, it has been years since I've had meat at The Brick. That's a sign of a restaurant that gives you options, and doesn't leave you out of the best deals. Used to a Taco Tuesday special featuring tacos with bargain basement Mad Cow Disease beef as the only option? Here, they'll whip up tacos with their zesty veggie chili instead of beef for the same price, and the carnivorous are the ones missing out, 75 cents a shot.
Their portabella sandwich is a clinic on how to get this sandwich right, and it is listed as a house favorite. The veggie burger is also top notch. Clearly this isn't a bar that bolted on a couple of token thoughtless veggie options to appease folks.
Add on great drink prices, a respectful tap selection for a "dive," local artwork lining the walls and a slate of live music options and you've got a place that has something for everyone. Overlook The Brick's unassuming appearance at your, your wallet and your taste bud's peril.
I love The Brick.
Totally unassuming as you walk in, and it's definitely divey.  Then you get a look at the menu and realize this isn't your average dive bar.  Sure, they have karaoke nights, trivia  nights and a mix of bands you've heard of and bands you haven't that play live shows.  Then you see things like the fact that Taco Tuesday includes a vegetarian chili taco option - a rarity in Taco Tuesday offerings around town.  The jalapeno poppers?  Those come with a raspberry chipotle sauce.  They have a few veggie sandwich options - a Greek wrap and a portabella mushroom sandwich - but they also have a fluffernutter sandwich.  Yep.  Fluffernutter!
With a decent bar and plenty of entertainment options, The Brick is one of my favorite hangouts in KC and with the crowds it attracts, it's clear I'm not alone.
One of the many things I love about Kansas City is its eclectic assortment of micro-bars. Small, intimate places to go when you either don't want to be seen or just want to be seen by the people you really like.
The Brick is definitely one of those places. It's not enormous but is large enough to hold a hundred or so of your closest friends. The drinks are generous, the prices are cheap and the food is just not bad - after all it's more of a bar than a restaurant.
The Brick has a small bar where everyone knows your name, even if they don't. Everyone was friendly, helpful, and laid back. Well done Brick, well done.
How have I not reviewed this place already? Â I looove The Brick. Â It took me a good chunk of my youth to try the food there as I had for the most part only went there to support my friends' bands. Â Since this tragic mistake, I have tried just about everything on the menu and all of it is mind blowingly good! Â Not only is their food tastier than just about every other place in town, but it is affordable too! Â It does not hurt that they have great beers on tap (again, affordable) but great specials for every day of the week too!
Some of my favorites food items are the Breaded Provolone Sticks, Spinach & Feta Dip, Spinach and Goat Cheese Nachos and Meatloaf Sandwich (a house favorite!)
If you don't mind a dive (I personally prefer it), then you should run, not walk and have your next meal at The Brick!
When I think of The Brick, I generally get a warm feeling ... the kind of warm feeling you get from doing a shot of vodka. Only it's good vodka and you're not drinking on an empty stomach so you won't have any repercussions.
I can't remember the first time I went to The Brick and I don't quite get there as much as I would like these days. But I love this place -- everything from the drinks and food to the wait staff and the decor.
Sheri and her staff also book some great bands. Some of my best visits to The Brick have involved catching the "Captured by Robots" show. The Robot experience generally rolls through KC once and year and is totally worth shelling out the $10-$15 at The Brick to see it.
I have enjoyed going to happy hours that turn into dinner and then into closing down the the place, getting up Saturday morning and indulging in the Brickfast (biscuits and gravy bar?! Yes, please!) and just hitting the place up for lunch.
If you're going to eat, I recommend most anything on the menu. My favorites include the sweet potato fries, the Dixie Dog, Meatloaf Sandwich, the Cobb, and the Pubby. I've always wanted to get the Fluffernutter with bacon ... but have not been bold enough to attempt it.
This is one of my go-to spots in Kansas City. I always have a good time here, regardless of the situation.
The food here is surprisingly good - I went in the first time thinking it was going to be typical icky bar food, but that's definitely not the case. Â Veggie wraps, a weirdly awesome hot dog selection, and sweet potato fries - yum. Â
If I had to issue a complaint, it would only be that I wish they had some outdoor space - but I suppose we can't all be astronauts, so in the meantime I'll keep heading back there for the cheap beer and good chow. Â Nice atmosphere, good service, and a pretty darn awesome menu - what more could you want?
Was wondering around town recently while in town for a convention. I was trying to find some place to watch the hockey playoffs. I see the name "The Brick" and I just knew this was the spot for me. After I place my ass down on a seat at the bar I glance up just knowing a hockey game would be on the TV and to my horror the Bravo channel was on. So I did a double take and thought that it was a commercial for the Bravo channel. NOPE it was the Bravo channel. Before I could react I notice a girl walk onto the small stage and announce to everyone "Welcome to Dear Diary" a poetry reading. How the hell did I stumble into a poetry reading? I avoid these things like Seattle area sport teams avoid championships. (excluding the Seattle Storm.......1979)
Ok so my night didn't start like I wanted but things suddenly got better as the bartender switched the TV to some AMC show that was full of non-stop violence. Yes! things are starting to get better. Then I order a beer and it only costs $2 for a can of miller (yeah I am classy guy) So yes things are getting better. So as I tilt my head to finish off my first beer I look up and notice a prosthetic leg on top of the bar next to TV on the far right side of the bar. Well this was fate because I was in town for an amputee convention.
As for the Dear Diary this was actually a very funny thing they do as most of the readers were Women recalling past humerous events from their Diaries. This is something they just do on Wednesday nights and have live music and other assorted events on different nights of the week. I never did try the food but everything they served looked great and prices were super affordable. I will definitely visit this place again if I visit because the staff is nice, prices reasonable and environment fun which is the recipe for success.
Oh Brick, how I love thee...
Hold up... It's not fair to start that way. What a cop-out.
But... 'tis true! I love thee so much, I stayed sober for you. Actually, I think you saved my hide last night.
Last night found us extremely hot, hungry and thirsty. First Fridays were bustling and truth be told, I was a bit worried about even getting a place to sit because it seems everyone in town has the same ideas as me on FF (I don't think I'm that special, truly). We were going to see the Latenight Callers in the Alley Behind Mercy Seat, but had an hour or so to kill and we wanted to kill it at The Brick.
I had had two glasses of vino an hour or so earlier and was feeling it. But it's Friday night and who was I to stop now, despite the prospect of standing in 5 inch heels in a blazing hot alley for three hours. Despite the fact that drinking and heat don't really mix too well for the likes of me (some day, I'll tell you the story of me & the Mermaid Parade 2008).
We entered and found a table and perused the awesome drink menu, while our waitress politely asked for our IDs. That's when I realized I had left it in my other bag. ARGH!!! She was very kind, but they've got rules and I totally understood this, of course, having owned a bar myself once. So I ordered a soda water and watched my friends drink. One of us ordered an array of fried deliciousness that he was kind enough to share.
It's no revelation that I'm a pretty healthy eater, but who was I to turn down a fried ravioli, mushroom or jalapeno popper?!?! You know if I'm swayed into chowing down on a table full of fried deliciousness, I am doing out of love (and poor willpower). I know, I know, how can anyone make fried food taste bad, but I daresay, the Brick brings it to another level, because here I sit, my mouth watering for more.
I also want to thank the Brick for unintentionally saving my evening (perhaps our sweet waitress is also a clairvoyant who had visions of me passed out in an alley. The Mercy Seat Alley). Sometimes eating instead of drinking does a body good.
Huge fan of this place! I've been here three times and have yet to have bad food or service. The first time we went, the not-so-better-half and I, stopped in on a whim and split 'The Hot Mess'. It was messy alight. And delicious! Tater tots topped with cheese, spicy beans, jalapenos and assorted nacho toppings. Um, yum. Â It didn't hurt that they were having a special on Jameson shots that night. Â Everything tastes better after a little Irish Whiskey.
The second time we went was a couple of weeks later with our regular group of foodie friends. We stopped in on New Years Eve and enjoyed a little trivia with our meals. Our entire party made sure to order something different, so that we could pass it around and sample. I had the Oklahoma Dog. Which is a hot dog, wrapped in bacon and deep-fried in a Boulevard beer batter. What-EVER! This is definitely something I should probably only consume once a year. The husband had the Cuban Chicken Sandwich. This was also very good. Really moist and full of flavor. One of the other favorites was the Apple Butter and Brie sandwich. The name pretty much explains it. Apples, Brie and apple butter on rye bread. Really, really good!
The last time I was here, I went old school and just ordered the grilled cheese and tater tots. They can't even get that wrong! Super-gooey cheese and extra crispy tots! I've heard a rumor that we will be going back again this week. At this rate, it won't take long before our group has tried everything on the menu (and gained several pounds)!
I must say, I am bias. Â This is one of my favorite bars in KC. Â Â
As a graduate of the Art Institute, this bar is right up my alley. Â There is a definite artsy vibe at The Brick and it's a welcome change of pace from the overpriced, highly processed KC Live area up the street.
The beer is cheap and cold, the bands are rocking and the people are real. Â What else could you want? Â Great food and The Brick delivers.
The Brick has excellent house specialties like the meatloaf burger and the hummus sandwich that pairs wonderfully with their sweet potato fries. Â
There is a reason this place was features on Diner, Drive-ins and Dives; it serves up real food for a resonable price with great atmosphere. Â (And who doesn't love $2 PBR?!?!)
A visit to this bar came at the recommendation of an awesome bartender at Garozzo's named Margo. Local opinion is always best.
Inside The Brick the interior design feels like a mix of the 50's diner in
Pulp Fiction, a tattoo parlor, something out of Fear and Lothing in Las Vegas and a more grand scale of "The Shak" that my friend had in his back yard in High School. I loved the interior just like I love Kansas City. If I were a local, I'd be here a ton. Bes'belliedat.
The bar staff is friendly, food is served till 10pm and an assortment of specialized drinks is listed behind the bar. They've got a few drinks modeled and named after the Spice Girls, for instance. And most recently an awesome concoction of rum, gingerbread liquor, mist and a cherry called Gingerbread Stan. That's a dangerous drink. I sucked down two quick-like as they don't taste like booze at all.... but they're loaded. Be careful.
Anyway... not much else to wax about... cool servers, cool owners, interesting folks at the bar. Located on McGee. Get on it.
I love The Brick ... without apology.
Every city needs a place like The Brick ... someplace with great food, cheap drinks and a relaxed atmosphere. I wish there was a way I could be objective about how much I love The Brick, but there isn't.  I really love everything about this place and every other Kansas City bar and/or grill  has the disadvantage of having to live up to The Brick.  I have been there for breakfast (Brickfest), lunch, dinner and beyond and I have yet to find anywhere in KC that is superior on all levels. Â
Thank you Sheri and The Brick staff for everything ... The Brick is 100% for real.
The Brickfast will ROCK your Saturday! Â
It's from 9am-3pm. Â They have a biscuits and gravy bar and also a menu of awesome breakfast goodness. Â There were 3 gravies offered....a veggie, a regular sausage and an amazing spicy chorizo. Â My hubby had the spicy chorizo. Â I was able to sample it - several times. Â The gravy was richly filled with plenty of chorizo and a nice bite of spice. For my meal, I had the Egg Sammich which was layers of eggs, American cheese and bacon between perfect toasted bread. Â Seriously, this was the best egg sandwich I have ever had.
There are also $1 Bloody Marys and quite a few other choices of alcoholic breakfast drinks. Â
I am always anxious for the weekend but now have another reason to look forward to Saturday - Brickfast!
I am not hipster enough to hang out at a lot of places in town. I don't drink enough to spend $15 on a drink in P&L. I'm not sportsy enough to care about a sports bar. Sometimes I just want to hang out in an honest-to-goodness bar with my friends and listen to a good band and/or eat some good bar food that doesn't cost me an arm and a leg. Three cheers for The Brick.
Specials: The Brick has taco Tuesdays and pizza/pitcher Thursdays, Brickfast on Saturdays (which I haven't had yet, but have heard great things). All good deals. Rural Grit Happy Hour Monday, which is fun if you're interested in old-timey country/folk/bluegrass stuff. Trivia night with Roland on Fridays, which I haven't been to, but since he was my high school English teacher (and one of the only teachers that was worth anything there), it's probably entertaining and I don't know why I haven't gotten up there yet.
Bands/staff: You're more than likely going to find a good local band there sometime during the week. Being in one myself, I've had mostly good experiences with the staff (which doesn't happen at all the venues around KC... plenty of people who act like they're in New York or LA). Sheri (the owner) is pretty friendly and down to earth. The Brick's a small venue, and sometimes the sound mix is a little rough compared to other bigger joints. But it's usually fine and what you expect, and the cover charges are generally reasonable.
Food/drink: I don't really drink, but my classy friends go to The Brick for their cheap, allegedly tasty PBR. I can't talk much about that, but I can talk about the food, which is still bar food but yes, good bar food. The place serves up some of the best sweet potato fries I've had in KC. Also, good hummus and a spicy (but not really) meatloaf sandwich. If you're more adventurous you can try a fluffernutter (even with bacon!) or a deep-fried Twinkie. I haven't, but you enjoy that.