Life’s a party, and I’m there. This is the mantra of Fern Bar’s founder and operator. At Fern Bar, we focus on spirits made from agave and sugarcane, two ingredients synonymous with celebrations and laughter with friends. Our drinks and atmosphere are crafted to make you feel like everything is right in the world, bringing people together through good times and great spirits. Our core values are inclusiveness and authenticity.
Fern Bar is located inside the historic Broadway Bank building in the Crossroads District of Kansas City, MO. After its banking days, the building found a new purpose as a retail salvage for architectural elements rich in history and soul. This dual heritage is mirrored in Fern Bar’s design and ethos:
Modern and Simple Space
Casual and Inclusive
Socially Responsible
Natural, Soft, and Genuine
More than the Product: It’s the Stories Behind Them
The design of Fern Bar is inspired by the existing features of the space. A central brick arch serves as the hearth of the bar, while ornate terrazzo-patterned floors define gathering and circulation areas. A white-painted tin roof unifies the space with a subtle texture. Floor tile accents in deep umber and burgundy extend into the wall and bar trim, creating a seamless blend of old and new.
The bar front features natural terracotta tile, using this common, approachable material in a refined manner. Biophilic design elements, including terracotta pots, promote health and a connection to nature. Repurposed white marble wainscoting is used for tabletops and backsplashes, paired with warm, natural oak to create communal gathering spaces. Banquettes encourage conversation, inclusivity, and accessibility. Soft, indirect LED lighting can change colors and moods as the night progresses, reinforcing an atmosphere that is genuine, fun, and alive.
At Fern Bar, it’s more than just the drinks; it’s the stories behind them and the connections they create.
The selection of sugarcane and agave spirits is a reflection of a quote from Bryan’s grandfather, Tom. Tom was a joyous, old Italian man who would walk into a room and turn heads with his loving and thunderous laugh. Alongside that booming joy, he had also lost three wives to cancer over the course of his life. When asked how he kept his joy, he simply said, “First, keep your faith, and second, life’s just a party and I’m there.”
Fern Bar embodies this ethos with warm oak surfaces, antique marble, and thoughtful design elements that create a sense of casual elegance and home. The entrance features replicas of original bank doors with a brass handle, and a custom scent welcomes guests without overwhelming the aroma of spirits and cocktails.
Inside, a custom oak host stand and a built-in banquette with an antiqued vinyl backrest create a welcoming space. The back bar, made of Roman plaster and local oak, showcases bottles with underlit shelves and a tiered liquor display for easy access.
Lighting is carefully considered, with dimmable LEDs and customizable globes that adjust to natural light. Each cocktail station is equipped for efficiency, with tiered displays, extended speed rails, and built-in cleaning tools. Stations are identical for consistency.
The oak bartop ensures comfort in varying temperatures, unlike stone. Fern Bar aims to be an ideal spot for afternoon happy hours, quick bites, and lively late-night gatherings, all while embodying Tom’s joyful spirit and belief that life is a party worth attending.
