The Monarch Bar — Restaurant in Kansas City

Terrible service and disappointing experience overall. We planned to order several small plates from the menu for dinner but were informed upon arrival that only a very limited selection of snacks were available that day. Such limitations should really be noted on the menu. Our waitress seemed clueless and inadequately trained on the menu, which she rationalized by stating that she was working overtime. When I ordered a cocktail, she said she "thought" it was unavailable due to a missing ingredient. She later disappeared for so long that we thought her shift had ended, and a second waitress near the bar began serving us. The original waitress finally returned to our table about 40 minutes later to check on us - after we had already paid our bill. Keep in mind this was a Sunday afternoon so the bar was not very busy. When it came time to pay, we were handed an iPad with only the total amount shown, and realized after paying that we were overcharged by two drinks. The second waitress claimed that the manager voided the first charge altogether (but was unable to provide any proof upon request) and then asked us to pay the entire amount a second time. Turns out, the original charge was never voided so almost $300 in total charges hit our credit card. We had a lengthy phone conversation with the general manager, who was unable to locate the charges and told us to just dispute the charge with our credit card company (which would have caused our credit card to be closed and replaced entirely). Eventually he did locate the charges and provided us with a refund. On a positive note, I appreciated the special touches to make each cocktail unique - a lot of thought went into planning the menu. However, the drinks were no better than other quality bars/restaurants in Kansas City. This place is clearly trying to establish a high-end reputation, but that won't happen without quality service to back up the prices. They have some major kinks to work out before I would ever...

For a 5th star the music would need to be quieter. It is difficult to have a conversation with anyone sitting next to me. To me, part of the allure of cocktail bars is the fact that I could enjoy a neat drink and have peaceful conversations with the people that are drinking with me. Background music shows more elegance than loud music. You want the vibrant noise and atmosphere of your establishment to come from the vocal cords of your patrons, not from the boom of the speakers. If I wanted to go to a place where I could drink and listen to music that drowns out all other noise, I would go to a club. Who knows, maybe that's the vibe you are going for. If so, you're only a 4 star cocktail bar in my opinion.

Otherwise, your drinks are excellent and creative. All your drinks are slightly expensive for what I am getting. Not just the cocktails - in fact I think you have a better argument for why those would be pricey. It's the prices on your straight pours that don't make much sense to me. Again - for some of your limited stuff I can see where you would charge a high amount. Buffalo Trace costs $25 per 750ml in quite a few liquor stores all around KC. The atmosphere and experience isn't worth me buying a pour that is worth almost half a bottle. The same goes with pretty much all of your spirits.

Your staff is typically attentive and friendly. Patio is great and typically where I sit due to it being quiet enough for conversing. Seating is comfortable both inside and outside. I love your rules on conduct and attire. A good way to keep the place classy.

Though I only gave it 4 stars - you're still an excellent place and I will continue to return and suggest going there from...

I visited The Monarch Bar for the first time a couple of weeks ago and wow, I loved it! All of their cocktails are hand crafted with fresh, unique ingredients. The first drink I had was the 'Gimlet' and the second was 'Empress of Islay'. I loved everything about the first drink and drank it quickly, and although I loved the lavender flavor and look of the second it was a bit too sweet for me. There were many drinks to choose from so I won't be short of options to try next time. My partner got a whiskey drink, the name escapes me, but we were both impressed with the hand shaven ice block inside!

The cocktails on average start at $8 for their rejuvenating alcohol-free elixirs and single shots to $15+ for a standard cocktail. I anticipated this range beforehand given its solely a cocktail bar. Honestly, I think their price point is fair for the quality of ingredients, alcohol content, and attention to detail! The head bartender Chris had a few tricks up his sleeve so it was entertaining watching the drinks being made. Thanks for making the night enjoyable for my partner and I!

It did not go unnoticed also that their menus are made from what felt like recycled paper with different themes to each drink set and butterfly graphics throughout. I also appreciate that the drinks are served on a reusable cloth coaster with the shape of a butterfly cut out inside. They've done a nice job of reducing waste where they can while also paying tribute to the name in a classy way! I thought the ambiance was very chic with modern decor and intimate lounge booths and tables to chat at. It's a classy environment and great spot overall....