Language skills might be World Cup advantage for Independence Avenue eateries
Inside the colorful Mexican mercados, carnicerias, taquerias, cafes, panaderias and paleterias accenting Independence Avenue, Spanish is the first language for most shop owners and their customers. “We will do everything we can to understand them,” said Antonio Garcia, the 21-year-old manager of Frutopia, who speaks not only fluent Spanish, but also English and conversational Arabic.
Read MoreWhy KC’s international restaurants fear being overlooked by World Cup fans
“We have such a diverse concentration of immigrants and refugees who don’t know how to promote themselves, so we’re starting to highlight some of the hole-in-the-wall gems that you might just walk by,” said Northeast Chamber president Bobbi Baker.
Read MoreWorld Cup lures Kansas Citians off sidelines, into short-term rental market
With the FIFA World Cup expected to draw crowds of visitors to Kansas City this summer, some locals are becoming short-term-rental hosts for the first time, turning spare rooms, guest houses or entire homes into temporary lodging for soccer fans.
Read MoreHost cities steer into World Cup headwinds: ‘We didn’t work 10 years for this to be a flop,’ KC tourism leader says
Whether visitors come from across the country or around the globe, Kansas City is prepared to land the plane when the World Cup arrives this summer, said Kathy Nelson, acknowledging geopolitical strife and President Trump’s visa policy are making the U.S. a less attractive destination for international travelers.
Read MoreHealth-forward Safi Fresh opens in Waldo; 18th & Vine spot (and loaded fries) on the way
“I’m excited more than anything,” said founder LaRonda Lanear. “I don’t feel nervous because I work really well under pressure. It’s going to be a great look.”
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