Society Adding Sophisticated Food, Drinks and Sports to Crossroads

By Kevin Collison

Society, an upscale lounge and restaurant in the former Jacobson space, is set to open May 21 and its owners hope it forges a great symbiotic rapport with its hip neighbor, the Crossroads Hotel.

“‘We’re trying to create a sophisticated entertainment district here in conjunction with the Crossroads Hotel,” said majority owner Scott Mars.

“We’re in the arts district so its obviously inclusive, but it’s a higher-end alternative to the Power & Light District.”

Society is capitalizing on the same arts-oriented design approach as the three year-old hotel across Central, and add a large outdoor patio to the mix. It also will be capable of quickly shifting gears to become a great place to watch sports.

Society can seat 220 people for dinner. The table tops were done by Crossroads artist Phil Dunn.

Several 120-inch video screens throughout the main lounge that are ordinarily utilized for high-definition art installations can be easily switched to carry sports events when called upon.

“Our concept was that we have art when the television is not on,” Mars said. “It’s more of a transformational space.

Another table top by artist Phil Dunn

“We want Kansas City to be at the forefront, what we’re doing is cutting edge.”

Society, which includes Michael Thomas Edmondson and Scott Genter as partners, also includes artwork done by Crossroads artists throughout its space including table and bar tops created by artist Phil Dunn.

The establishment at 2040 Central St. features a spacious lounge and dining area with a colorful light sculpture above the bar, a 2,500 square-foot patio, a speakeasy space called the Scarlet Room, and what will eventually be a private dining room for up to 40 people.

The main room can accommodate 220 people for dining and the entire facility can handle 600 standing patrons.

Society partners (from left) Scott Genter, Scott Mars and Michael Thomas Edmondson.

Mars’ food and beverage industry background includes the Westport Ale House and the now-closed Parkway Social at the Plaza. He also is the co-founder of American Adoptions, a national adoption agency based in Overland Park.

The restaurant will feature an American-style food concept similar to that offered by the former Houston’s restaurant on the Plaza. Two of the Houston’s chefs are on staff. Sushi also will be on the menu.

The Scarlet Room will feature live music during the earlier part of the evening with a DJ taking over later at night.

Hours will be Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 4 p.m. to close, and Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. to close.

Society includes a 2,500 square-foot patio.

The unisex restroom at Society pops with color.