3 minute read

As someone who’s always on the lookout for standout dining experiences when traveling, I was instantly intrigued when I heard about Lapez, the newest concept from the Session Taco team. Set to open in Leawood, Kansas in late summer 2025, this upscale, modern Mexican restaurant promises bold flavors, wood-fired techniques, and some seriously inventive cocktails. Let’s just say—I’ll be making a detour next time I’m in town.

A Bold New Chapter for the Session Taco Team

Lapez is more than just a restaurant—it’s a long-time dream come to life for co-owners Adam and Jason Tilford. If you’re familiar with Session Taco in St. Louis or Kansas City, then you already know this duo delivers bold, craveable food with plenty of personality. But Lapez takes things in a different direction: refined, contemporary dishes rooted in both traditional Mexican and Spanish influences.

This concept has been in the works for over 15 years, and the care behind it shows. It’s a creative leap from casual tacos to wood-fired steaks, scratch-made masa, and elegant plating—while still keeping that signature Tilford charm.

Expect Elevated Dishes with Coastal Vibes

The menu at Lapez reads like a love letter to modern Latin cuisine. Think coastal Mexican influences with high-end ingredients and thoughtful technique. Here are just a few dishes that caught my eye:

  • Shrimp Al Pastor – Jumbo prawns with achiote butter, smoked pineapple, coconut rice, and grilled chayote
  • Chile Braised Short Ribs – Served with mole negro and roasted poblano polenta
  • Carne Asada – Prime steak kissed by wood fire, finished with huitlacoche butter and chile mashed potatoes

This is the kind of food that excites both the palate and the camera lens—refined, full of flavor, and perfect for a night out that feels a little extra.

Cocktails That Push Boundaries

If you know me, you know I appreciate a good drink—and Lapez is making sure their cocktail game is anything but basic. Their bar program will lean heavily into modern Mexican influences with playful, unexpected twists.

We’re talking beef tallow–infused rum, smoked jalapeño vinegar, and house-made pineapple syrup. This isn’t just a bar—it’s a creative lab, and I’m definitely intrigued.

A Minimalist Space with a Welcoming Soul

The design of Lapez is described as clean and modern, with neutral tones and simple materials meant to let the food and hospitality shine. It’s a more refined take on the kind of space where you still feel totally at home—whether you’re there for date night, dinner with friends, or solo at the bar with a mezcal in hand.

According to co-owner Adam Tilford, the goal is clear: “With Lapez, our goal is to create something truly special and exciting for the Leawood community. We want this to be a place where hospitality is at the center of everything we do.”

Looking Ahead

Lapez is currently under construction and eyeing a late summer 2025 opening. I’ll be keeping a close watch on their social media (launching soon) and planning a visit the next time I’m in the area.

If you’re in or near Leawood, get ready—this isn’t just another new restaurant. It’s shaping up to be a destination.