Gilda’s: A Tapas Adventure Brewing in Shawnee’s Heart

Hey, fellow Kansas City enthusiasts! Jessica Fulk, your go-to real estate companion, here with the lowdown on Shawnee’s latest talk of the town – Gilda’s, a tapas haven that’s about to spice up the neighborhood.

Picture this: Bryan Albers and Stephanie Cashion, the brilliant minds behind this culinary escapade, decided to turn a former funeral home at 5815 Nieman Road into a vibrant tapas spot. And why not? Shawnee’s downtown is buzzing with bars and breweries, and Gilda’s is about to bring a new flavor to the mix.

When Albers snagged the place, he knew it was time to add a dash of gastronomic magic to the liquor-heavy locale. Enter Stephanie Cashion, dreaming of a tapas bar, and voila – Gilda’s was born.

Gilda’s isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a full-on experience. Craft cocktails, fine wines, and a menu bursting with mouthwatering Spanish shareables, seafood, roasted meats, and a touch of American flair. It’s the kind of place where you can pop in and out, creating a sense of camaraderie in the area.

Now, let’s talk about the name – Gilda’s. Inspired by the Gilda tapa, featuring skewered olives, anchovies, and peppers, named after Rita Hayworth’s 1946 film. Sweet and salty, just like the femme fatale herself. And guess what? Cashion is a big fan of both Gilda the tapa and Gilda the movie, not to mention her love affair with Spain.

“I go there as often as I can,” she says. And for the restaurant? “The goal is, when you go in the door and shut the door, you’re not in Kansas City anymore.”

Construction is underway, crafting a Spanish-style interior with a touch of old Hollywood glamour. Albers envisions an intimate experience for patrons, a retreat from the ordinary.

Come warmer months, imagine lounging on Gilda’s outdoor patio, sipping on craft cocktails and savoring the flavors of Spain.

Albers hopes Gilda’s becomes the go-to destination within the district, building connections with neighbors like Beard nominee Drastic Measures, Transport Brewery, Wild Child, Friction Brewery, and more.

So, mark your calendars, Kansas City! Gilda’s is on its way, promising not just a meal but an unforgettable experience. Stay tuned for more updates on the vibrant scenes in neighborhoods like Plaza, Brookside, Waldo, and West Plaza.

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Here’s to the exciting times ahead in Shawnee! 🍷🎉