“Sexy-cool.” That’s how partners describe Fountain Haus — a multi-theme restaurant + bar coming soon to Westport. The business is taking the place of HopCat and TikiCat at 401 Westport Rd. KCtoday talked with Ryan Overberg, David Brinkerhoff, and Dan Meiners about its upcoming transformation.
The name
When Ryan first stepped foot in Kansas City — 17 years ago as an actor in the Broadway tour of “Hairspray” — he fell in love with the fountains. Then during a visit during the 2021 Super Bowl, he met David and Dan. They decided KC needed a spot dedicated to these cherished local features.
As for “Haus,” the German spelling of “house,” the three couldn’t call it just a bar or a lounge. In fact, there will be four rooms with different themes.
The Pump Room
As the main lounge, bar, and dining area, The Pump Room will be in HopCat’s previous dining area. Dan described the concept as “more relaxed, more comfortable.” The name serves as a metaphor for the heart of a fountain, which pumps water to the other rooms.
The Cube
What was previously overflow seating will now be a dance club. The name comes from the idea of mist + fog — like you’re opening the freezer. Both The Pump Room and The Cube will open in Q1 of 2022 with the rest soon after.
The Pool Deck
This rooftop bar may transport visitors back to mid-century Palm Springs. The bar area — complete with garage doors for open-air compatibility — will hint at being inside a pool.
The Siren Speakeasy
Think: Reservations, intimate performance setting, and high mixology. The space that was formerly TikiCat will be transformed into a sultry hangout that combines modern with luxury.
More
The Fountain Haus vision also includes local collaborations, meaning KC-based brands, artists, and philanthropies. Ryan also said that it would be “queer forward,” meaning that it would be a safe space “for the LGBTQ community and allies.
“Everyone should be able to come there … There should be a world where we all play in the same sandbox together.”
