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Firefly Lounge
- Hours:
Thu 8 pm - 3 am
Fri-Sat 4 pm - 3 am
Sun 10 pm - 3 am
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Music:
- DJ
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Very Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
38 reviews for Firefly Lounge
Review Highlights
38 reviews in English
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Review from Jaquita J.
Overland Park, KS
12/11/2011
The Fire Fly is a good mix of different groups. No matter what your music tastes, your political beliefs or your sexual orientation, you will feel at home. With the sexy chandeliers and the low leather sofas, it feels more reminiscent of a lounge in a bigger city, than something you would find in Kansas City. The DJ s always know how to keep the party jumping. The bartenders know how to not only serve up great drinks, but they always know when to add a little something special. No matter if it was a date, a girls' night out, or an impromptu class reunion, we have always had the greatest time at the Fire Fly.
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Review from Christina M.
Lawrence, KS
5/10/2011
I'm honestly not really sure how to rate Firefly, based on my first and only experience there so far.
The atmosphere for dancing was really good. We had no problem finding a table on a Saturday night. The cocktails were delicious.
The problem? I'm fairly certain I was charged what I like to call an Ugly Tax.
I and a group of other young women visited Firefly for a bachelorette party. One of the bridesmaids is very pretty in the conventional blonde-and-skinny way. Which is not to knock her looks at all. She's flipping gorgeous. The bride-to-be described her as looking like Cinderella stepped right out of a Disney movie and came to life. She's not wrong.
Anyway, said bridesmaid orders a lemon drop martini from the bartender. She receives a very well-presented cocktail with a corkscrew lemon peel garnish, which she allows me to taste. Absolutely fantastic, especially given that she's only charged $6 for the drink. I decide to keep this in mind for later.
After having another cocktail (a savory one called a Transmet, which was also amazing), I decide to order three lemon drop martinis for myself, the bride, and another friend. The same bartender neglects the pretty lemon peel garnish on ours and then charges me $21 for all three.
Now, I will be the first to admit that I am not the best at math, but I'm fairly certain that if you divide $21 by three, that comes out to $7 per cocktail. Which means I either got a $1 Ugly Tax on each drink, or my lovelier counterpart got a Pretty Discount on hers.
Either way, that's messed up. -
Review from Joi B.
4/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
Firefly has a lot going for it: smoldering ambiance, a fabulous bartender, an interesting cocktail menu and good food. One enters via a loooong narrow brick hallway, all the way towards an inviting room that is the ultimate speakeasy. They've decked out the rather large room with intimate booths that are as conducive to small groups (we had anywhere up to 9 people at ours) as they are to couples "wanting to get to know each other- wink, wink."
It was quiet last night, except for my group. Quiet. Not "dead." When I was a bartender it drove me nuts when people said the latter and it still kind of bugs me. Nothing is as insulting and rude as someone who walks into a place and declares, "Why is it so *dead* in here?!" It blows my mind that people actually do this. It's like adding insult to injury. I know this place thrives on the weekends, but I prefer a more laid back kind of scene. That is, *no* scene.
I think there is a lot of potential here (I'm thinking some kind of 1950s Naples jazz clubesque scene) and I get the idea they are going through some changes. For example, their website states that Thursdays is an all night happy hour from 6 pm- 3am. We got there at 7 and was told they don't open until 8. When we asked about the specials, well, there's no more Thursday night thing going on apparently, which was kind of a bummer. I guess I don't get the point of having *nothing at all* on special, especially in a city where the buyback is all but non existent (not that I'm complaining when you consider the deals that most bars have!)
It's all good, though, because I was so adoring of the environs (and they have a secluded back patio), I had no intentions of leaving. The DJ was good, our bartender took excellent care of us and when you're surrounded by good company, well, that's all you need for a great night out, isn't it?
I look forward to a return visit.Listed in: Westport Haunts, Ambiance, Bar Food
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Review from Daniel L.
Springfield, MO
7/5/2011
First time @Firefly I have to say that as a 36-year old male it was AWESOME!
I live in Springfield, Missouri and am used to most nightclubs being overrun with college students and Firefly proved to be so much more.
Great music, amazingly friendly people, great bar staff and a really nice locale. The patio, though being small offered smoking options and reprieve from the loudness.
5-stars, I shall return! -
Review from Amanda F.
6/8/2011
I have been to firefly a few times and when I have returned I hope with everything in me that it will be a different experience... sadly the experience has yet to change.
I so badly want to like this place! The entire ambiance its nice, not completely impressing but lots of seating area.
I really enjoy dancing; the dance area that has been set aside is TINY! So if you are on the outside you get pushed either into the bar or the seating area!; if you are on the inside you get pushed into the DJ booth, all of which are completely uncomfortable. There is also a pole in the middle of the dance floor.
Also their bathrooms are never clean when I have gone, which I get that is gets busy but there should be a cleanliness!
It is generally pretty packed when I have gone on a friday evening, I plan to make a trip back and get a great experience but for now each time I have gone has be just ok. -
Review from Kackie C.
Austin, TX
4/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
Granted, we arrived on a night where we were the only people there, so I can't speak to the "crowd" there. The ambience, though, is sultry and cool, and the music is good. I was pleased by my drinks. They're well thought out and mostly on the herbal and savory side (which is my personal preference), and the food offerings are good. When drinking, it's nice to have a bowl of edamame instead of a bucket of fries, for example.
My only qualm, but a large one, was that the website advertised an all-night happy hour on Thursdays, so I invited people out. Not only was happy hour non-existent, there wasn't a special AT ALL. In a place that was dead empty you'd think...you'd think they'd have offered something to their only guests. I'm not sure I'll be back, honestly. -
Review from Katie D.
Kansas City, MO
2/21/2011
Firefly is easy to miss (think single door entry, small signage, no trace of bar to be had, mysterious hallway leading back to said bar), but once you actually locate the front door to enter this swanky bar, you won't be disappointed that you did. Firefly is an ultra trendy but relaxed bar that focuses on their creative cocktails and unique atmosphere.
Walk through long hallway and show ID to the doorman. Let your eyes adjust to the low lights and cozy interior of this fine establishment. Depending on the night, they have different drink specials and events catered for that particular evening.
Sunday's are Speakeasy Sundays at Firefly and last night they were home to a hip DJ (forgot the name) and his groovin' vibes. It was Sunday so the place was pretty inactive, but this allowed for our (insert totally amazing and great adjective right now) bartender to have complete focus on attending to my friend and I by pouring us perfectly crafted cocktails.
Their cocktail menu ranges from $8 to $11 dollar cocktails. I order their "Champooh" cocktail. It was an explosion of creative flavors garnished with a cherry in a tall, skinny champagne glass. Champagne, a sweet light honey liquor, and Domaine de Canton's ginger liqueur.
Firefly hosts many different types of musicians and performers, so I'd suggest checking their website or calling beforehand if you're looking for a specific type of music or atmosphere. While the lounge always maintains an ultra trendy vibe, each evening brings in a plethora of different customers depending on the event that's performing.
I love Firefly for many different reasons. It's an ultra sexy lounge without a douchey, clubby vibe. It's sleek but not over the top. It's everything Club Blonde was lagging. (thank GOSH they're closed) It's a relaxed crowd and the bartenders are down to earth and chill. You can bring a date to Firefly and snuggle up on their swanky sofas, or grab a group of friends for a Friday out on the town. It's a versatile lounge. -
Review from Josh C.
Kansas City, MO
10/11/2011
Firefly is one of those tucked in the heart of Westport treasures. It's a excellent mix of people ranging from 25-35. Friday is the night I like to go strap on the white shoez and do my thing. It's sweet eclectic mix of music from soul to b-boy. I like the opportunity to be able have all my music taste flavored in one night. The bartenders mix above average the finest drinks in the "Port" If like a low key sit and relaxed, and not bumper to bumper on the dance floor then this your spot. Hope to see your there just look for the "White Shoez" lighting it up on the "flow"
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Review from Marie D.
3/24/2011
Dare I say a nightclub slightly grown up?
Great and unique cocktails, chill vibe, and usually lacking in d-bags and hot messes. After midnight, prepare to "get served" as dance-offs can spontaneously occur. But it's all in good fun, room on the floor for everybody and great throwback soul music that will make you say, "Oh, so THAT'S where the hook in that 50 cent/Kanye/Diddy song came from!"Listed in: Drank!
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Review from Nancy K.
3/12/2011
On Chuck Norris's birthday, I received a message that Hugo was going to be doing a Kegs and Eggs. At the Firefly. As one who never argues with Mr. Norris, I took it as a sign to go.
We arrived at 0545 to a crowd of about 20 people. Very doable. Not everyone is as connected to Chuck as we are. As per the Buzz, the first 100 people got a free drink. It was a can of Jeremiah Weed, not bad for breakfast.
During the day time the Firefly is uhm, a bit too light. Maybe it's that we've come accustomed to the dark but I would have much preferred seeing less of my fellow patrons. For some reason the space is equipped with a skylight. Next time I go, it best be the very dark night.
The beer was $4-$6 a piece, not bad for Westport. But, one bathroom? Are you kidding me? Glad there was only 100 people there. Overall, great venue for a concert, it was wide open but still had a great concert vibe. Thanks Chuck. -
Review from Jakki C.
Saint Louis, MO
First stop Westport, location: Firefly Lounge. Ahh yes driving around in circles looking for parking I could not wait to get inside!
If you are in a rush and not paying attention Firefly might not happen for you. It's a small sign hanging above the door. The one attention grabber is probably the ice blue illuminating light from the windows and door way.
As you enter you will walk down a long hallway and the, BAM....you have entered this trendy, oddly decorated lounge.
My travel partner and I grabbed two seats at the bar and James the awesome and very friendly bartender really was attentive. He recommended our drinks, except we splurged for a PB&J Shot, hahah!!! Well it wasn't PB&J like I remember but it was good.
He introduced us to a beer, Lips of Faith. HOLY GREATNESS!! It was crisp, light and refreshing. I'd drink it again for sure!
he also had me try another beer cannot recall the name but the background notes were a lot like balsamic vinegar, not a bad thing if you like balsamic. I do.
We really liked this place and would certainly go again. It's a good spot for a drink before it's get really late and packed. Nice atmosphere, good beats and fun people!Listed in: My favorite spots
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Review from Dan D.
12/12/2010 2 Check-ins Here
The space and staff are both friendly and warm, the music is excellent and the drinks are always spot on.
The space has nice seating areas to snuggle in to with friends and the vibe is always cozy and comfortable.
Dress up here and you will fit right in, not your typical Westport bar, dress to impress. -
Review from Danielle S.
Houston, TX
8/23/2010
This is one sexy little spot. Erinn L. took me here on my trip to KC, and this was our first stop on our Epic Mega Westport Bar Crawl 2k10. Keep a sharp eye out for the sign outside, because it's definitely of the "blink and you miss it" variety. You'll travel down a long hallway until you see anything remotely resembling a bar, and then you'll find a well-thought-out seating area that is great for chatting and catching up with your friends. Bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, and served up some very yummy versions of both standard and old-fashioned drinks. A DJ was spinning tunes the night we were there, but it was at just the right level for us to keep talking without shouting.
Definitely worth a looksee.Listed in: Midwest is Best
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Review from shane w.
5/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
You know what? I've been here enough now that I can break tradition of most other reviews of Firefly. I think it's a five-star place. There are downsides but I don't think that alone is worth counting Firefly out.
The best thing about Firefly is either the people watching or having the place all to yourself. Either way, you're going to have a good night. Any night besides Friday or Saturday is bound to have lots of empty seating, you'll get to sit anywhere you'd like.
Friday or Saturday - well, lately, that's a different story. The noteworthy part about a busy night is the graciousness of the crowd. It's strangely opposite of Firefly's sister business next door. There's no chest pumping or cross-eyed looks. It's almost as if, the whole "speak-easy" thing, as loosely tied to it's origins as it is, bonds the people there.
I've never felt threatened at Firefly, even with it's central Westport location. The crowd has always been gracious and warm.
This past Friday, I spent a couple hours on the couches watching the crowd in full jerk dance mode. there was a full crowd around the dance area just having a great time.
So after lot's of visits to Firefly, it's with great pride that I consider it one of my "home bars". -
Review from Farah A.
Princeton, NJ
5/24/2010
Firefly gets a solid review from me. I live in the area and I keep coming back here. It's in Westport, but Firefly steps it up a notch above the dive bars and Irish pubs that line the streets here (which are great, but I need some variety!)
It's not the craziest, most crowded place, but if you want that join the bachelorette parties and pop-collared crowd at P & L. I'll take my crisp vodka-sodas from attentive bartenders and my 90's/Jackson Five remixes, thank you very much.
Since I brought up the music, I'll just say that it takes a little bit to get the quaint dance floor going, but once it starts it's a for real good time for those who love to dance without being pressed up against 804 strangers where you question what exactly you are rubbing against....
Anyhow, so on the dance floor, every time I'm there, I definitely let loose spins, the Harlem shake, and the whole nine yards to the interesting and eclectic anti-top 40 DJ. There are some serious dancing/break-dancing people here, but it just adds to the can't-quite-put-your-finger-on-it-but-you-just-kno w-you-like-it-here vibe. Plus after a round or two you find yourself drawn to the dance floor.
There is quite of bit of lighting for a bar/lounge, but I'm not sure if I'm complaining. Maybe it depends if you want to see the faces of the people you're with or not. Having been here with a cute boy I'd say I'm okay with it. For those looking for new friends, Firefly seems to attract friendly, laid back people with a pretty diverse range of ages. The patio outside is good for a smoke, cigar, tobacco pipe, you name it.
Also, on the weekends guys pay a $5 cover. It's not that serious. Just do it.
P.S. I came here for my 25th birthday with a ton of friends and all of them gave Firefly high marks.
NOTE: Don't miss the sign for Firefly. It's easy to walk right by, but it's right next to the Dark Horse. Maybe it's low-key nature lends to it not being super-packed, but I think that's a good thing. -
Review from Sarah D.
4/19/2010
Firefly Lounge is very cool. Too cool for the likes of me, I think. Anyhow, it was a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere and my friends and I had an enjoyable evening drinking and talking and watching a couple of drunk girls attempt a dance-off and end up just falling on their asses.
Not sure about the wait staff though. Our group ordered 12 Cosmopolitan shots -- the waitress brought us 12 shots of what APPEARED to be Cosmopolitan shots but were actually Poison Apple shots, which are some apple-flavored crap and tabasco sauce. Vomitous!! We let the waitress know we got the wrong shots and expected that they would give us the shots we wanted. She said no because we drank them. The friend that bought the round had to argue a good 20 minutes before they agreed to refund 50% of what she paid for the gross shots. And she still had to buy the Cosmo shots. Kinda lame, but we didn't let it ruin our evening. -
Review from Matt E.
Updated - 1/17/2010 4 Check-ins Here
First of all, I realize that I probably come across as a little schitzo when it comes to Firefly. Does ANY business really warrant 3 review updates? Well, my experience at Firefly last night left on me a strong enough impression that i realized i had to update my take on Firefly...
On any typical night i would highly recommend a night at Firefly. In my opinion, it is one of the best bars in town, with an amazing look and music, an eclectic, classy crowd, and top notch drinks.
"Sexy Saturdays" is NOT a typical night at Firefly. It is everything that Firefly shouldn't be, and it pisses me off that they even do it.
My friends and I walked in a little after midnight and the sign on the door said "Girls of KU". uh oh, that doesn't bode well. We walk in and the place is PACKED and everybody is sloppy drunk and seemingly we missed the memo that the theme of the night was "Jersey Shore". Popped collars, awful fake tans, big hair. Loud and obnoxious.
Equally loud and obnoxious was the early 90s hip hop throwback that the DJ was spinning that this d-bag infestation was eating right up. We immediately knew we weren't going to stay long, but since we all just paid a cover we'd have one drink then go.
We belly up to the bar, and not only did they tell me that they weren't making me my favorite drink, the Pendergast, but then they served me my bourbon and coke in a plastic cup! what the fuck!!!!!
1) Firefly is all about their top notch cocktails. I don't care how busy you are. don't plan a big event party that is still open to the public if you can't keep your standards up.
2) A PLASTIC CUP???? Harpos is across the street, and I didn't walk in there for a reason.
While we were drinking our drinks as fast as we could, we caught people rolling around on the furniture, a couple grinding on each other so hard that the guy had to spend the next 5 minutes hiding his hard-on from his new friend, and a fight! I have NEVER felt like the crowd at Firefly was this sketchy and on edge.
Firefly people, if you're listening....I understand the need to make a buck. But don't you think that evenings like this, evenings that are a total mess and completely go against your image, that will alienate the people that actually come on other nights, are incredibly short-sighted?
I sure do.
I'm not giving up on Firefly, as i generally really do like it. But I can assure you that from now on, I will make completely sure that i'm not there on "sexy saturdays", which means my friends and i wont just be randomly coming in on a Saturday night.
5 stars for every other night + 1 star for "Sexy Saturdays" = 3 stars overallListed in: Places I take people to…, My Mom Says I'm Funny, Fancy Drinks, Boogie Fever
3 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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3/29/2009
I take it back. I can't stomach giving this place only 3 stars. We went here on Friday night for a… Read more »
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Review from Katherine J.
Kansas City, MO
8/26/2009
I like the concept of this place so that's why I'm giving it 4 stars. However, this is not a dance place. For some reason I thought it was. I even asked the DJ to play dance stuff (which he did not appreciate, haha) and he told me people dance later on. Never saw that.
I went here with a rather large group that grew and grew as the night progressed. Eventually people were dragging furniture over and we probably made a mess of the place.
This is a good place for conversation. I agree that the lighting could be better. The furniture is cool but I ended up spilling some wine on my dress (can I blame it on the couch?). The waitress was very nice and brought me some club soda. The patio is nice for the smokers.
I do like this place more than most Westport bars. It is a laid-back, dress-up type of place. I will be back. -
Review from Mike K.
Manhattan, KS
3/20/2011
pros: cool decor, cool area
cons: $5 cover for guys, small dance floor, decent DJ
Firefly is cool to avoid the douchebaggery that comes with P&L crowd. This particular night we went had a lot of young adults, not "just turned 21" binge drinkers. The crowd was mixed with all ages and cultures. Bartenders were cool. My girl's cranberry and vodka was watered down because the cranberry was running low. I came back and the bartender made me a new drink and let me keep the original drink, all with a smile. -
Review from Sarah A.
Seattle, WA
6/24/2009
Firefly's had a laid back, but fun atmosphere. I felt like I could dance, but I certainly didn't have to. The throwback theme of a speakeasy is fun, the deco is warm and inviting, the drinks are great (especially the raspberry limeade), the music is a great mix and the crowd is diverse and accepting. A must visit in KC.
My only complaint is the patio out back. Its not decorated and feels like an alley. Once they fix that, this place will be top notch with indoor and outdoor seating. -
Review from Zach G.
6/21/2011
I feel like this place has so much promise - I love the layout, I love how chill it can be on a Tuesday evening. But come Thursday, Friday and Saturday, it relegates itself to being just another Westport party bar, which isn't my scene. The bartenders can take FOREVER to get you your drink because it can get so busy versus the number of staff they have. The prices are not great. The drinks are not overly stiff. Unfortunately, I feel it has become just another regular bar, which is a bummer.
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Review from jennifer j.
Kansas City, MO
12/7/2008
I had high hopes for this place, regardless of the Westport location. The outside entrance is easy to miss. Just a single door with a subtle metal sign. The opening party was scheduled for 8pm. We arrived at 8:30, but we were sent away because they were not ready yet. No doubt, because the paint fumes almost knocked me out.
We returned a little after 9 and the place packed. Upon entering we were asked to sign the long hallway wall. This was a clever attempt to cover up the fact that much of the space was still in the drywall stage. At the end of the hall, the space opens up into one large room. The space is divided by a curved wooden screen. I like the concept, but the screen split the room into two equal spaces and it created a weird vibe...which ever side you were on, you wondered what was happening on the opposite side. It would have been more effective to move it to the back and turn it into a tucked away space for a special date couple or a small party that wanted more privacy.
When I went to use the restroom, I was told that both the women and men's restroom were out of order. About an hour later, I got in line for the only working restroom and maneuvered around a dripping ceiling and a ladder precariously placed against the wall in an upright position. My sister used the restroom about upon arrival. She couldn't flush the toilet. She looked inside the tank and the it was dry. It was a simple fix of someone turning on the water to the toilet. She told one of the employee's, but he blew her off.
My sister was able to grab four chairs in a lounge area. Unfortunately the chairs were directly under a yucky yellow/brown plastic fluorescent light fixture. Maybe it was recycled from an airport smokers lounge. Talk about ugly lights.
Since the guys were unsuccessful at ordering drinks from the bar, we order from a server. We waited almost 45 minutes for our drink and we would have cancelled it had the server not ran our credit card. The server was completely apologetic and was nice enough to bring us water while we waited for alcohol. I felt sorry for her. It wasn't her fault they were understaffed. It was ridiculous given the fact we were told there were 5 bartenders. We slammed our drinks and moved on to a bar where we could order more then a couple drinks in one night.
I truly appreciate all the leather seating and ottomans, the whole "bottle service to get a seat thing" has been played out. Unfortunately, the comfy lounge feel was not extended to the lighting, the sound or the service. My friend compared it to partying in someone's basement.....................but WITHOUT access to the beer fridge. -
Review from Tyson J.
Saint Louis, MO
4/4/2009 1 photo
EDIT: I hate to do this, but my latest experience at Firefly was dismal at best.
After moving from Kansas City in July 2010 I couldn't stop telling people about the wonderful little gem tucked away in the increasingly douche-bag laden Westport. The drinks! The service! The crowd that's as unpredictable as it is vivacious!
Last week I came back, excited to return to my old haunt and sip on the drinks that I had come to love. I was taken aback by a new bartender, but fearlessly ordered my Hendrick's martini with a cucumber. My eyes widened as he measured a stirring spoon's worth of vermouth, continued to grow as he dumped in ONE (yes, ONE!) jigger of gin, and became saucer-sized as he then proceeded to stir the drink. After placing the cucumber on the rim he poured his mysterious mixture into my glass, and I was shocked when the drink didn't even touch the cucumber. He then charged my $9 for my third-of-a-drink.
This is, admittedly, the first time I've ever had anything but top-notch service at Firefly. Maybe my absence skewed my perception, or maybe the institution is making detrimental changes. I certainly hope it doesn't become one of those "I went there when it was cool, but now it's a dump" sort of places. Dear Firefly, please go back to excellent.
Nonplussedly yours,
Tyson
ORIGINAL: Wow. I've found my new favorite "martini-type" place to go in KC, a title previously held by Harry's.
Wonderfully mixed Manhattan (and I'm pretty picky) for the right price ($6.50 and worth it). The atmosphere, even on a Saturday night, was relaxed and conducive to conversations, though that could be due to the snow on the ground.
Going back tonight. -
Review from Erica M.
Kansas City, MO
4/22/2011
Horrible service from the bartender. Apparently... after being cursed at.. The bartender does not like open tabs. What?! Exactly! Never again will step a foot in that place.
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Review from Sean O.
Washington, DC
12/27/2008
I went here the day after Christmas with my cousins. I had heard a lot about it, and really wanted to go. The 2$ cover was laughable to me and my costal cousins (we all either live in DC or Seattle) Why bother charging if it's just $2? haha. The space was really cool. I guess it's a 'speakeasy' because the entry is kind of unassuming and you have to trek down a hallway to get to the bar? (Really they just call it that cause it's trendy) The ceiling has exposed beams and the walls are exposed brick. There is an undulating room divider also made of wood slats. Old fashioned light bulbs hang from the ceiling, exposed. Pretty stripped down, but cool.
The drinks seemed to be the only problem. My cousins ordered mixed drinks and complained that they were too weak. I just stuck to beer. Boulevard all the way!
Check it out, it seems to be one of the more laid back and classy bars in Westport. -
Review from Erinn L.
Kansas City, MO
1/30/2010
For the longest time, I kept being told 'If you want a good cocktail,you should try out Firefly.' Last weekend I finally got around to making it there. Like any bar will be later on a Friday night (I want to say it was around 10 or 11) it was pretty crowded. The group was pretty diverse, which was nice to not feel you had to look or act a certain way to fit in.
When we first got there, the place was pretty crowded, but not so packed that you couldn't move. (Some parts of the floor were getting close to that point though!) My boyfriend and I happened to see one of our friends, who had been ordering drinks from a specific waitress all night because the bar was about three rows deep and it would have been impossible to get through to order a drink. I wish I remembered the girl's name who kept getting us our drinks because she was fantastic. On a super crowded and pretty loud night, she remembered us, came back to us (so we didn't have to go looking for her) remembered what we ordered, gave good recommendations, and got us our drinks in a timely fashion. Mucho impressive. Not to mention she did it all with a smile on her face!
I ordered a couple drinks, but the main one I remember was some sort of raspberry limeade,made with chambord. It was definitely good. My boyfriend ordered some manhattans and other bourbon-y drinks, most of which I sampled and approved of.
The bar was playing all sorts of music. From Michael Jackson (Which I have to admit, I'm really tired of hearing, so atleast they only played a few songs by him) to old school early 90's rap. (Bust a Move, anyone?)
The nice thing about this place,was there was clearly a "dance floor" area in front of the dj, although I'm not sure whether it was impromptu or not, and those people were definitely getting down and having a good time. But what I likes was there was no "this is the dancing section and this is the non-dancing section" feel. People all around the bar were doing everything from sitting, to standing but not dancing, to people kind of just grooving to the music, to people gettin' down. And none of these seemed out of place. It's nice to not feel self conscious because you're dancing. or not dancing, or dancing the wrong way or anything like that.
I think I'd like to visit this place again either earlier in the evening or on a night that isn't a Friday or Saturday. In my mind I had always imagined this place less loud and with a bit of a classier feel (maybe more along the lines of Manifesto). The drink quality was pretty good though, I'll give them that. (Save for the last drink my boyfriend ordered.I had a taste of it, and it was just....off. But everything else was pretty nice, so I'll chalk it up as an outlier.)
I think it's a good solid bar, but I'm not sure if anything makes it jump out at me as 'can't miss'. I definitely didn't have any huge gripes with this place though. I hovered between 3 and 4 when trying to decide on a star rating, but the great service from the server who kept getting our drinks pushed it up to a definite 4. -
Review from Bob R.
Shawnee Mission, KS
8/16/2009
This tucked away lounge is a great addition to Westport. I'm so glad to have stumbled on to it.
It's hidden behind Sung Son's Vietnamese Restaurant on Pennsylvania Ave. There is a small, hard to read sign that leads you through a door and a long, dark hallway into the packed bar. The place was fun. There was a good and lively crowd. We were told that the bar is known for their cocktails, and being a whisky drinker, I had the Pendergast. Great name! And even better drink. It was beautifully potent and silky smooth.
The place had a DJ and the music was good, without being horribly loud.
My only concerns are that the lighting is a little bright, and the layout of the place is a little quirky. Our drinks took a long time, which is probably due to the large crowd and the fact that they are making craft cocktails (thank goodness for that).
All in all, I'll definitely hit up Firefly next time I'm in Westport, which will probably be soon. -
Review from Josper T.
Olathe, KS
2/4/2011
I walked down the alley to the entrance of this little dive bar. My ID was checked, and I was told that it was "$5 for whites tonight." Or did he say "$5 for guys tonight?" I didn't quite make it out. Either way, it's a bigoted club. Why does my race or gender determine how much you charge me to get it?
I recommend not supporting bigots. I recommend not supporting this business. -
Review from Corey O.
1/20/2009
When I went, I found that this place did NOT have:
Loud music
Dirty feel
Dance friendly atmosphere
Tons of really drunk attention-needy kids
What I DID find was:
Chill, music but not too loud
Very clean
Decent selection of wine and original cocktails
Hidden and relaxed vibe
I tried the signature drink. I wasn't blown away, but I enjoyed it. I really liked the vibe. I loved how the music wasn't so damn loud. Just about every bar these days tries to overpower you with music. I can see this bar being wonderful to hit on girls. Why? You can actually hear a conversation. There are plenty of bars that fill your dance, dirty bar, and crazy drunk quota. This place was really nice to get grab a booth, get a little food and hang out with some friends. You don't have to be going wild to enjoy this place -
Review from Justin W.
Brooklyn, NY
1/7/2010
This place is a good change of pace from some of the other bars on Westport (and KC in general). If you wanna step your game up, drink some good cocktails and hang with a diverse/young/professional crowd while listening to good tunes, this is the place.
Its no surprise this bar has emerged as a place to seal the deal on dates. -
Review from lindsay s.
Kansas City, MO
5/7/2010
FireFly is the place we frequent when we are in the mood to stay out a little later and avoid the P & L. There is a sign out front but it's never on.. interesting. I love the vibe in firefly. laid back, chill, and everyone always seems to be having fun. I always get roped into doing shots of something lemony. It's a specialty of theirs? Maybe? I don't know but they are fantastic. I never walk out disappointed!
Listed in: The Places I Go Out
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Review from Ali A.
7/15/2009
I went here for a birthday party a while back and I haven't been back since and I kick myself for it. This place is like an ultra lounge, super laid back with couches and comfy booths. Its dark and sexy, I would love to go on a date here and get intimate and close. They do have a service staff and when I was here they had a dj which didn't play trendy radio music which was awesome.
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Review from Betts C.
8/20/2009
I like Firefly. I could like it more on a night when it wasn't pouring and thus the crowd was a little off and involved a few too many bachelorette parties.
Also, if it's trying to be a speakeasy, then it should probably try harder than just a hallway.
That said, the drinks are very good. Both the tequila flight and whiskey/bourbon flights are an incredibly good deal for the booze you get. I recommend getting several and letting everyone sip to find favorites. You can even get mixers and the like to go with them, and for $12-$14 for three shots, basically, I think it's a pretty good deal.
The DJ the night I was there was nothing thrilling, but I can see that the space would be awesome with a really good one. I like the big, round booths, which are lovely for people watching and being a bit snarky. I like the darkness; it's reminiscent of some LES bars but, well, with about four times more space and half the people. The table service factor is also nice. -
Review from Melissa R.
Overland Park, KS
5/1/2010 2 Check-ins Here
CAme here on a whim and left full of champagne and groove. The perfect Saturday night.
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Review from Dave N.
New York, NY
3/29/2009
Firefrly made for a nicely chill Saturday. I know the lounge often has a DJ with a more up-beat crowd, but last night was slower and perfect. The bartenders were great, super friendly, and seemed to go out of their way to make sure we all were well hydrated and happy. The music wasn't memorable, but remember a fine tempo for talking without lulls in the sound of the space. Also, the lighting seemed perfect with good spotlights on the tables, and an enjoyable golden ambient for the surrounding bar. I would consider Firefly Lounge a destination that would bring me back to Westport more often.
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Review from brandon J.
Kansas City, MO
3/18/2010 1 Check-in Here
A nice spot but was kind of dead the last time I went, will go again but only ace in town to offer a cognac flight
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Review from Kelly O.
Kansas City, MO
5/29/2009
I almost don't want to give a review for this place because I don't want anyone else going there!!! It is too perfect. I love it.
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Review from Jerry T.
Johnson, KS
8/16/2009
to say the least, the space has some lighting issues. wish it was a bit more dimly lit. but the staff is kind, the music is usually hot, and the cocktail list is about as interesting as they get, particularly in westport. love that mitch and the gang took a chance in a neighborhood dominated by college-esque drinkeries with an upscale model and live music venue. not to mention, i can get a well-executed classic cocktail at a reasonable price despite it's lacking ambiance. not to say that it's the worst when it comes to atmospere. it just feels as though something is missing. and if the place wasn't so bright, i'd look a hell of a lot better. but definitely worth checking out.
