One of downtown Olathe’s most anticipated restaurant projects is set to transform the former Fire Station No. 1 site into Char Bar’s largest location yet, combining Kansas City barbecue with pickleball, outdoor dining and entertainment.
Char Bar is planned for 200 W. Santa Fe St., at the northwest corner of Santa Fe Street and Kansas Avenue. The project calls for a 26,271-square-foot restaurant and entertainment complex, incorporating part of the existing city building with a roughly 22,200-square-foot expansion. It will be Char Bar’s first Kansas location, joining existing restaurants in Westport and Parkville.
And this won’t be simply another barbecue restaurant. City development documents show plans for seven pickleball courts, lawn games, outdoor lounge areas and a prominent two-story fire pit, along with the full-service restaurant. The site plan also includes outdoor dining areas designed to make the property a destination rather than a quick in-and-out restaurant stop.
Architectural renderings submitted to Olathe show a modern industrial design that plays off the property’s history, with dark metal, masonry, large garage-style windows and landscaped outdoor gathering areas. Clockwork Architecture + Design is the architect for the project. The Planning Commission previously recommended approval of the preliminary development plan.
The redevelopment carries a projected investment of about $10.52 million. In 2025, the City Council approved a resolution of intent for industrial revenue bonds connected to the project. The developer sought a 10-year property-tax phase-in, while a separate Community Improvement District established for the property allows a 2% additional sales tax to help reimburse eligible development costs. Project documents estimated the development could create 370 jobs over 10 years.
The project is part of Olathe’s broader effort to turn downtown into more of a dining and entertainment destination. City reports have highlighted Char Bar alongside the other restaurant and redevelopment projects reshaping the area surrounding Johnson County Square, the Downtown Library and City Hall.
For anyone wondering when they’ll actually be able to order barbecue and pick up a pickleball paddle, Char Bar’s own website still lists the Olathe location as “Coming Soon.” It does not currently give a firm opening date.
Something Different Media Group
