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The Concierge

Annie Chibanda
Concierge
InterContinental Kansas City
Kansas City, Mo.


What service can you provide to groups that they normally might not receive?

The concierge staff provides memorable, authentic and differentiating experiences for all guests and groups. Each group is guaranteed a unique experience. The group’s needs and wants are taken into consideration; consequently, groups do not experience “cookie-cutter” suggestions, but lasting memories.

What are your group restaurant recommendations?
We have a great relationship with Plaza III Steakhouse. Not only is this restaurant rated one of the top steakhouses in the country; it has a private wine cellar that provides a great dining experience for a group.

Lidia’s Restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu captures the essence of Italy. The trio of pastas is my favorite item on the menu.

The Savoy Grille is more than a dining experience. One of Kansas City’s oldest restaurants, it has a romantic atmosphere that sets the tone for an excellent evening. Although mainly known for its steaks, the lobster is a true and unexpected delight.

What are your bar or nightclub recommendations?
Kansas City is well known for its jazz bars and clubs. After dining, embrace the flavor of Kansas City by exploring the local jazz clubs, such as the Phoenix Piano Bar, Jardine’s and the Blue Room. These local clubs will introduce you to some of the country’s finest jazz musicians. Our own Oak Bar is home to one of Kansas City’s best jazz pianists, Joe Cartwright.

The Country Club Plaza is also well known for its nightlife and is right across the street from the hotel. For the Sports Fan, 810 Zone on the Plaza is an excellent location. With four separate banquet spaces, this bar has more than enough room for large groups.

Can you recommend a good place to take a stroll?
Country Club Plaza is undeniably the most spectacular area in Kansas City. The grand Spanish architecture replicates Seville, Spain. Enjoy a leisurely walk and explore the copper sculptures and fountains that are scattered in this area.

Are there any quirky places we should check out?
Gates BBQ: With seven locations in Kansas City, there is usually a Gates nearby. Voted one of Kansas City’s best barbecue restaurants, order the delicate pork ribs; the meat simply falls off the bone. Do not be alarmed, but the cashier will yell ‘How may I help you?’ the second you walk through the door.

If we only have an hour or two, what should we definitely check out nearby?
Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum and see its great collection of Asian art. The new Bloch Galleries, which opened in June 2007, hold an astounding photographic collection.

Visit the World War I Museum and the Liberty Memorial. Both are visually stunning and offer a great adventure. Another good place to visit is the River Market, which has over 25 restaurants and a traditional farmers’ market. It has been a mainstay of Kansas City for 150 years.

What has been an unusual request from a group?
We had a very-high profile group that was in house and the group contact was going to present a trophy to their guest speaker that evening. Before arriving to the hotel the Waterford Crystal trophy broke. The trophy had been autographed and could not be replaced. The guest was frantic and asked us to assist her. We went to Halls Department store and found an exact replica. There was an engraver that the hotel uses that offered to assist; consequently the trophy ceremony went on without a hitch.