If you find yourself wandering the Crossroads Arts District of Kansas City, MO, Double Shift Brewing is one of those spots you’ll want to check out. Nestled in a prime location on 18th Street surrounded by art galleries, hip eateries, and local charm, this small but mighty brewery has carved out a niche for itself in the heart of KC’s craft beer scene. Here’s my take after a recent visit.
The Beer Selection: A Solid Lineup with a Few Standouts
Double Shift’s beer menu strikes a good balance between approachable staples and creative experiments. Their flagship brews, like Tesselation IPA, are crowd pleasers that don’t stray too far from the traditional craft playbook. Tesselation is bold, hoppy, and aromatic. It hits all the right notes for IPA lovers.
But where Double Shift really shines is in their seasonal and small batch offerings. During my visit, I tried a coffee stout that was silky, rich, and packed with roasty goodness…perfect for a chilly evening. Their fruited sours are also worth a mention; they’re tart, refreshing, and don’t overdo it on the sweetness.
Atmosphere: Cozy, but It Can Get Crowded
The vibe at Double Shift is laid-back and welcoming. The interior is cozy with industrial-chic touches such as exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and plenty of natural light streaming in during the day. It’s the kind of place where you can kick back with friends or chat with the bartender about what’s new on tap.
That said, it’s a small space, and when it’s busy (which is often), it can feel a little cramped. If you’re hoping for a quiet, spacious spot to spread out, this might not be your ideal pick. On the plus side, they’ve got a few outdoor tables, which are perfect for people watching in nice weather.
Prices: Craft Beer That Won’t Break the Bank
For a craft brewery in a trendy neighborhood, Double Shift’s prices are pretty reasonable. Most pints hover around the $6-$7 range, which feels fair for the quality you’re getting. They also offer flights, so you can sample a variety without committing to a full pour. Their happy hour specials offer great discounts, and there’s always a discount for veterans (with ID). You can find all of their available specials here: Double Shift Specials
Location: A Crossroads Staple
The brewery’s location is one of its strongest selling points. Situated on Brewer’s Alley in the heart of the Crossroads, it’s walking distance from some of KC’s best restaurants, shops, and galleries. Parking can be a bit of a hassle during peak hours, but it’s manageable if you’re okay with a short walk. Pro tip: visit during First Fridays for an even livelier experience, though be prepared for a packed house.
Final Thoughts: Definitely Worth a Visit
Double Shift Brewing is a fantastic example of Kansas City’s thriving craft beer culture. Their beer lineup is consistently solid with flashes of brilliance, the atmosphere is warm and inviting (if a bit snug), and the prices are reasonable for what you’re getting. While they’re not reinventing the wheel. They’re definitely keeping things interesting, and their prime location is the cherry on top.
Would I go back? Absolutely. Just maybe not during peak hours when the space feels a bit cramped. But for good beer in a great neighborhood, Double Shift Brewing is a winner in my book.
If you’ve been to Double Shift Brewing, please share your thoughts in the comments section below.
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