Yard Milkshake Bar set to open Friday in long-vacant BK Whopper Bar at Power & Light

Kansas City is gaining a new sweet spot as the acclaimed dessert startup The Yard Milkshake Bar opens its first metro location this week in the Power & Light District — filling a long-standing hunger for the right flavor of business at PNC Plaza.

The Heart of KC Shake, available exclusively at the he Yard Milkshake Bar’s new space in the Power & Light District; courtesy photo

“Our team works hard to curate the District with amenities that enhance the downtown experience so that it is an appealing destination for both residents and visitors alike,” said John Moncke, president of the Kansas City Power & Light District. “This unique concept will be a great addition to our neighborhood, and adding this specialty dessert location will make the lives of our residents, tenants, and visitors a little sweeter.”

The franchise location officially opens Friday, March 14 at 1350 Walnut St., with a grand opening planned for March 21-23. The latter event is expected to feature giveaways, special promotions, and a Build-Your-Own Milkshake Contest, where guests can submit their dream milkshake design. The winning shake will be featured on the location’s secret menu, and the winner will receive a free shake. 

The Yard Milkshake Bar’s new space replaces the former Burger King Whopper Bar, which opened in 2011, but later closed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alabama-built The Yard Milkshake Bar launched in 2017. After its debut on the reality TV show “Shark Tank,” the brand expanded into franchising and is now open in 30 locations across the country.

The new Power & Light location will offer seasonal milkshakes and a special Kansas City-exclusive shake, the Heart of KC Shake, that can only be found in The District and is crafted to celebrate local flavors. Inspired by the Parade of Hearts annual art installation, the franchise plans to donate a portion of its proceeds to the Love Fund, supporting local children.

The Yard Milkshake Bar will also feature its other famous, over-the-top milkshakes piled high with toppings.

The former Burger King Whopper Bar at 1350 Walnut St. in Kansas City's Power & Light District; photo courtesy of Google

Newly placed signage for The Yard Milkshake Bar at 1350 Walnut St. in the Power & Light District; photo by Taylor Wilmore, Startland News

Friday’s opening follows a number of other high-profile debuts near The District’s PNC Plaza, including Modern Market Eatery and Homegrown.

“This exciting new addition only adds to the growing momentum of The District and Downtown Kansas City, in what continues to be one of the most ambitious urban revitalization projects in the country,” the District said in a press release.