Harry’s is in historic Westport (just across from the oldest building in Kansas City—worth a visit). It’s also the first bar where I became a regular, which gives it a special place in my heart. That said, sentimentality is far from the only reason I keep going back.

The interior is all black and brick, which comes across warm rather than foreboding. Maybe it’s the large windows—often propped open when the weather is nice—or the pressed tin ceiling or the mirrored bar. More plausibly it’s the staff, who make a point of learning your name and will help you out with the (extensive) drinks menu if you’re not familiar with some of their more niche cocktails or if you’re a novice drinker. Their patio is perfect for warm summer evenings, and they’ve got tents and space heaters for the cold months and brave patrons.

Harry’s is good for a crowd, a cozy two-person hangout, or a solo night out. I usually go with a book rather than a plus-one, but it’s not rare to end up chatting with a friendly stranger or three or, on slower nights, catching up with the bartenders. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for a family dinner; the food is great, but the cocktails are definitely the star of the show and it’s just not designed for the sort of lingering sit-down dinner my family tends to prefer for our monthly outings. The noise tends to kick up as the evening goes on—not ideal for group conversation. Still, I had a gaggle of friends come out with me for my birthday this year and we crowded around a few budged-up tables. I highly recommend grabbing the hummus trio and soaking in the atmosphere while you catch up with your friends. And make sure to tip your bartenders!