A new Johnson County sports bar is opening soon. It’s ‘slightly more upscale’
Sure, Danney Elmore says, the crowded excitement and dark wood of veteran sports bars are nothing to scoff at.
But on the other hand, he thinks Johnson County deserves a more modern arena for viewing Chiefs wins.
On game days, patrons crowd bars in red and gold jerseys, practiced and prepared to catch cold brews and chase down whiskey with NFL-level quickness. Elmore finds that electric game day energy contagious, inspiring almost.
So Elmore, owner of The 1886 cocktail bar in Harrisonville, joined forces with Shawn Larson and Tyler Humar, owners of Social bar at 7425 Broadway St., to create a worthy opponent to Maloney’s, Johnny’s and other longtime favorites.
Revel Sports Tavern, at 7300 W. 119th St. in Overland Park‘s Rosana Square, aims to be a stylish place for patrons to bask in the glory of Patrick Mahomes’ no-look passes. It hopes to open in late October.
“We’re looking to provide a sports bar atmosphere that is slightly more upscale, but not fine dining … just a pretty aesthetic and really good service,” Elmore said.
Local artists are collaborating on a mural that stretches along the walls, beginning on the KC streetcar rails, moving past Martini Corner and traveling all the way down to Johnson County.
A spacious patio outside offers seating and the usual tailgating games — cornhole, etc.
As the name “Revel” implies, the trio hope to create a space for lively evenings and afternoons, fist-pumping alongside players who run it into the end zone.
The extensive menu includes the Kansas cheesesteak (made with slow roasted tomatoes, arugula, onion and garlic aioli), fish tacos and the “KC Hot Bird” (a sandwich with breaded chicken tossed in hot sauce, served with pickled onion, pickles and shredded lettuce).
Bartenders will serve beer on tap as well as “fruity cocktails,” Elmore said, and a few more specialty drink options for Chiefs Kingdom’s more refined palates.
“You’ll still be able to get your Busch Light if you like and still not have to sacrifice a good Old Fashioned.”
And Elmore has no shortage of confidence that opening day will be met with long lines and busy staff. The loyal fan base at Social has already expressed interest in the spot, closer to home for some. And then, even more sports bars.
“Our goal is to open four or five Revels in the next couple years,” Elmore said.
With the opening date quickly approaching, the guys are putting together Revel’s final pieces. Soon they hope to watch Chiefs wins on their bar’s big screens. (And hopefully on Super Bowl Sunday, as well.)
The bar is moving into the old Fuel bar space next to Guitars and Cadillacs. In 2020, the One Block South entertainment district closed, which included Fuel, Kanza Hall and Red 8 Billiards.
It’s a full circle moment for Larson, an “Overland Park guy” who managed Fuel years ago. He’s seen how exciting the spot can be, and he hopes to bring that energy back to the strip mall.
“Overland Park needs something fun in that area,” Larson said.
