I got the feeling that we weren't supposed to be there. Like we were intruding on something. But maybe it was just from the bowl we ripped. There is a $10 member fee and they only accept cash. The female bartender(who I assume manages there) was extremely nice and helpful, and pretty. It's a hole in the wall dive bar though, and it's 4.7 rating is deceiving, as are pictures of the place. It is very, very small and you won't be playing games here, unless its Golden Tee. I say this because the pictures make it seem much larger and prominently feature arcade-looking games. It's a no frills booze-only bar. As far as beer goes, they don't do craft beer. At all. But their prices are probably the best you'll find for miles in any direction, minus the additional 10 bucks in membership fee. Bottom line, this isn't the place you are looking for to go have a nice wine, a craft beer, or an expensive martini, one time, then never come back again. It's a club of patrons many of whom I would think have made this bar their "home" and don't always appreciate younger outside people wandering in off the street, although no one engaged us rudely or in any other fashion. But the way the bartender talked seemed like it had not a condescending tone, but just doubtful. Doubtful that we'd fit in and doubtful we'd stay members. Doubtful that we'd participate in some of the more interesting things others have posted perhaps. It was this combined with the looks we got when we walked in that led to us quitely finishing our beer and leaving. I tried to leave a nice tip, but tipsy as I was, overestimated the cost of the drinks by a lot. The bartender objected to the large amount and gave me back 20 bucks. It was just an odd experience I guess, but I too once had a "home" and was a regular patron until coronavirus shut it down for good, so I know the feeling you get as wait staff/bartender/patron when a rando walks into your bar. You instantly question their intent and demeanor and sort of look them over to see if they seem suitable for the bar. No one likes coming to their favorite bar to find it overwhelmed by random people who don't really get what the bar's vibe is, or what it's purpose is, being rude to the wait staff and offering drinks that aren't on sale there. I get it. So, if you like cheap domestics and dive bars, and are looking for your next home, this may the place for you. If you're from out of town or just looking to bar hop outside KC, and have a taste for finer booze, this is one is probably best...
Read moreThe Keyhole is literally a hole in the wall on a quiet street off of Johnson Drive, something that makes it so well loved by loyal guests. This institution is unique, as it holds grandfathered status as a private club. The cash-only policy, combined with a modest membership fee, keeps prices notably lower than any other tavern. Walk-in visitors and new members are most welcome, with good manners being the only membership "requirement" I have noticed. This friendly watering hole will become an instant favorite ... where everybody knows your name and camaraderie is the watchword. (It helps to bring your membership card and visit an ATM first.) There appears to be street parking only, which is not really problematic. However, stay safe take Uber (or have a designated drivet) whenever and wherever you go to relax for a drink. More importantly, drink responsibly and never...
Read moreMembership Required. CASH ONLY! Ok, got those two key points out of the way. Now to rave about this place! I loved it. I've been wanting to check this place out since I moved down the street a few years ago. The bartender was super friendly and happily explained the membership requirement. I also got to chat to a few of the regulars. It is an intimate space, but it was really nice. It is all bar stool seating and there's a step up into the bar and then another couple of steps to the bathroom. So not ADA friendly, but like most bars they're just dealing with the cards they were dealt in the early 1900s when they were opened! Over all, you should go check it out if you're interested in finding your own little local...
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