Two Hands to Open First West Bottoms Café in Kansas City Redevelopment

Two Hands Hospitality has signed the first restaurant lease announced for SomeraRoad's more than $500 million redevelopment of Kansas City's West Bottoms district. The Australian-inspired café, restaurant and bar is expected to open in early 2027 on the ground floor of the redeveloped Moline Plow building, becoming the first food and beverage concept confirmed for the large-scale mixed-use project.

First Restaurant Confirmed for West Bottoms Redevelopment

Developer SomeraRoad announced that Two Hands Hospitality will establish its newest location within the Moline Plow building at 1015 Mulberry Street. The restaurant will occupy the ground floor of the historic property, which is currently being converted into 121 loft apartments as part of the wider redevelopment initiative.

The venue will also connect directly to a planned outdoor gathering space that is under construction and expected to open around spring 2027.

Two Hands Expands to Its 10th Location

The Kansas City restaurant will become Two Hands Hospitality's 10th location. Founded in New York in 2014, the café concept was inspired by Australia's community-focused café culture and has since expanded into Colorado, Texas and New York.

The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, offering coffee, cocktails and a menu centred on healthier dishes influenced by Australia's diverse culinary traditions.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer Henry Roberts said he immediately connected with Kansas City during his visit and viewed the West Bottoms as a neighbourhood that aligns with the company's preferred locations. Two Hands has previously partnered with SomeraRoad on another project in Nashville.

Redevelopment to Bring More Hospitality Businesses

According to SomeraRoad, the announcement marks only the first commercial lease for the West Bottoms redevelopment, with additional tenants expected to be revealed in the coming months.

Grant Hromas, Development Executive at SomeraRoad, said future announcements will include additional food and beverage operators alongside fitness, wellness and retail businesses featuring both local and national brands.

The broader redevelopment aims to transform portions of the historic industrial district through a combination of restored heritage buildings and new construction.

Mixed-Use Project Continues to Advance

The Moline Plow building is one of several historic properties being revitalised as part of SomeraRoad's redevelopment strategy. Once complete, the building will provide 121 residential lofts above the new Two Hands restaurant, contributing to the district's mixed-use environment.

The confirmation of the café represents the first hospitality tenant secured for the project and signals the beginning of the food and beverage component planned for the West Bottoms redevelopment. Additional restaurant, retail and lifestyle operators are expected to join the project as construction progresses toward its phased openings in 2027.

Sources: Hospitality Career Profile