Power and Light is filling up with luxury chains
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There's outdoor seating behind the balloons. Photo: Travis Meier/Axios
Paris Baguette, an upscale South Korean bakery, is the most recent addition to a lineup of swanky chains filling downtown storefronts.
Why it matters: Power and Light District leaders want to create an experience that's distinctly Kansas City, though many of the newest additions are brands with roots elsewhere.
Catch up quick: The Yard Milkshake Bar, a "specialty dessert" brand from Alabama that serves indulgent treats, opened in March 2025 in PNC Plaza.
- In September, KC became home to the fourth Palm Tree Club, a "vibe-dining" concept from Florida meant to elevate downtown and bring in visitors.
- In March, Atlanta-based "luxury wellness" spa SWTHZ opened at 13th and Baltimore as a "high-performance recovery experience."
- CardVault by Tom Brady, a high-end trading card chain, opened in June. The Cordish Companies, which owns Power and Light, calls it "curated," "immersive" and a "destination for collectors and fans."
What they're saying: "Cities need energy," Power and Light president John Moncke said at the Palm Tree Club opening. "We see our role as being a high-horsepower engine."
- "We're intentional about the brands we bring here, with each enhancing the downtown lifestyle," Moncke tells Axios. "We're focused on continuing to create a downtown experience that is uniquely Kansas City."
The latest: Paris Baguette opened Wednesday with balloons, checkered cafe seats and caseloads of breads, sandwiches and pastries.
💭 My thought bubble: It's an appealing grab-and-go concept, and the outdoor seating area feels inviting.
- The chocolate supreme croissant ($5.50) and caramel apple streusel doughnut ($4) were both delicious, but the flavored drinks are very sweet.
Follow the money: These brands have deep pockets. Paris Baguette is a "Dancing With The Stars" partner, and Palm Tree Club and CardVault are both backed by A-list athletes and entertainers.
Yes, but: It's not all out-of-town companies. Made in KC and Rainy Day Books are planning to open a joint store on 14th Street this month.
- The openings come as B&B Mainstreet Theatre, Blade & Timber and Sinkers Lounge — all KC-based brands — closed earlier this year.
Zoom out: Adjacent to the district, Barney Allis Plaza is nearing completion. Leaders hope the $118 million project creates a thriving destination for visitors.
- And City Council in September authorized $164 million for the first phase of Roy Blunt Luminary Park, which would better connect Power and Light with the Crossroads.
What's next: Power and Light is seeking a new tenant at the historic theater building at 14th and Main.
- Across the street, work is underway on a new "upscale lounge" called The Residence by the same local designer behind The Mercury Room and the Chiefs' new stadium.