Marina
Kansas City’s dining scene is about to see a bold transformation as Bar Medici, an upscale Italian restaurant located at 1800 Walnut St., prepares to close and reopen as Jade Jaguar, a Mexico City-inspired cocktail bar.
Operated by Exit Strategy Hospitality Group, the shift comes less than two years after Bar Medici’s debut and reflects the group’s desire to offer a more approachable and energetic nightlife experience in the heart of the Crossroads.
From Bar Medici to Jade Jaguar
Bar Medici will officially close on September 18, with Jade Jaguar tentatively opening in mid-October.
The new concept will replace the romantic, dressy vibe of Bar Medici with a vibrant lounge atmosphere and Mexico City-inspired cocktails.
| Key Detail | Bar Medici | Jade Jaguar |
|---|---|---|
| Concept | Upscale Italian, Renaissance-inspired | Mexico City-inspired cocktail lounge |
| Location | 1800 Walnut St., under The Mercury Room | Same |
| Opening/Closing Dates | Opened 2022, closing Sept. 18, 2025 | Opening mid-October 2025 |
| Vibe | Romantic, dressy, intimate | Colorful, energetic, late-night |
| Operator | Exit Strategy (David Manica) | Exit Strategy + Manny Gomez & Seth Goldwasser |
Manny Gomez, a Mexico City native and experienced beverage consultant behind Kohinoor and Le Lounge, will lead the new bar alongside Seth Goldwasser, bar manager of The Town Company. Gomez had been running Jade Jaguar as a pop-up for a year and saw the opportunity to turn it into a permanent space.
What to Expect at Jade Jaguar
Gomez envisions Jade Jaguar as a communal, lively space blending high-end mixology with global flavors, much like the cutting-edge bars found in Mexico City.
The venue will also host events like salsa nights, turning it into a cultural hub as well as a cocktail destination.
Drinks
- Inspired by Mexican classics like margaritas, palomas, and mojitos
- Will feature vodka, Irish whiskey, sake, and other global spirits
- Constantly evolving cocktail menu with new offerings each visit
Food
- Small bites and shareables to complement drinks
- Items like chips and guacamole, quesadillas, tacos, horchata ice cream, pineapple sorbet
- Menu will be drinks-first, not a full dining experience
Gomez emphasizes that this will be a Mexico City-style bar, not just a Mexican bar, with flavors from around the world while honoring his cultural roots. He wants customers to experience innovation while still feeling the soul of Mexico City.
Why the Change?
Exit Strategy owner David Manica originally reached out to Gomez to help differentiate Bar Medici from its sister concept, The Mercury Room, located just upstairs. Both spaces shared a similar romantic, upscale, dressy aesthetic, which made them feel too alike.
Gomez proposed transforming the location into Jade Jaguar, which he described as more approachable, communal, and energetic—a better fit for the bustling Crossroads nightlife scene. The new concept will stand out among nearby venues like Green Lady Lounge, Corvino, Novel, and The Wise Guy.
A Cultural Homage
The name Jade Jaguar references the jade jaguar throne room at Chichen Itza and symbolizes strength, artistry, and cultural heritage. Wild jaguars, though endangered, remain an iconic part of Mesoamerican history and Mexican identity.
Gomez hopes the bar will be a place where people celebrate Mexican culture and come together despite current political divides. His goal is to create a community hub where people can learn, connect, and have fun.
With Bar Medici closing on September 18 and Jade Jaguar opening in October, Kansas City is set to gain a vibrant new cocktail hotspot that celebrates Mexico City’s creative energy.
Blending global flavors, lively events, and cultural homage, Jade Jaguar promises to be a standout addition to the Crossroads nightlife scene—inviting locals and visitors alike to sip, savor, and celebrate together.