King G Deli and Bar Begins Reign in East Crossroads This Summer

King G, a new bar and deli concept that celebrates “King Gambrinus” is planning to open in the East Crossroads this July at the northeast corner of 18th and Locust.

“We hope to provide an attractive space that becomes a fresh escape for Kansas Citians to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones,” owner Eric Flanagan said in a statement.

“Our team is eager to join such a vibrant and creative group of artists, entrepreneurs and residents in the East Crossroads.”

The establishment will feature two sister concepts with a shared kitchen space, according to a press release. The bar side will feature craft beers, wines, cocktails, snacks and charcuterie prepared by Chef Howard Hanna, formerly of The Rieger.

King G will be located at the northeast corner of 18th and Locust in the East Crossroads.

The King G Deli will feature sandwiches, salads and sides using meats from local butcher shops and farms, and bread from Blackhole Bakery.

The deli menu will feature a Muffuletta sandwich, classic pastrami on rye, a Japanese-style egg salad sandwich and a selection of deli salads and sides, according to the release.

“Obviously, there are a lot of great sandwiches in town, but we’re able to do menu items that will work for a deli if you want to stop by and grab a sandwich and a bag of chips, but will also work if you want to come to the cool new bar and you want a cheese board and snacks to share,” Hanna said in a statement.

The King G building was renovated after a partial collapse of its southwest corner a few years ago. (Photo from King G)

The space will feature two, glass garage doors and floor to ceiling glass, allowing for downtown skyline views. The deli will have seating for 25 patrons.

The name King G comes from King Gambrinus, a “folklore icon of beer, brewing and joy,” according to the release.

The building at 500 E. 18th St. was completely renovated after a partial collapse of its southwest corner occurred in October 2018.

Flanagan’s background includes management experience at the Westport Ale House, 99 Hops House and OFFKEY.

“We’re excited to open this summer after, hopefully, a significant portion of our city has been vaccinated…we think people are yearning to feel a sense of community again,” he said in a statement.