There’s a certain bakery in Kansas City, MO, that’s not just selling treats—it’s shaping the city’s mornings, one pastry at a time. Blackhole Bakery, at 5531 Troost Ave, is the kind of place locals keep on their shortlist for coffee, breakfast, or just to know exactly where to bring out-of-town friends. It’s the kind of spot that regulars swear by and newcomers can’t believe they lived without. Now, with news of a second location on the way, the city’s love affair with Blackhole is clearly heating up.
What to Expect: Pastries, Donuts, and a Whole Lot of Personality
Walk in, and you’ll smell it right away—fresh butter, sugar, and that unmistakable hint of something special. Blackhole Bakery is a grab-and-go bakery, so don’t count on lingering indoors. But with the selection of treats behind the counter, you won’t mind eating outside or taking your goodies home.
The team at Blackhole is small but mighty: owner Jason Provo keeps things lively, baker Alyssa keeps the flaky train rolling, and Anne and Brent make sure every guest feels like a local. The atmosphere is friendly, the staff are quick to smile, and the talk behind the counter is always about what’s coming out of the oven next.
Standout Flavors and Must-Try Treats
Mochi Donuts are the star of the show. These aren’t your grandma’s donuts—chewy, colorful, and just the right amount of sweet, they’re the only mochi donuts of their kind in the Midwest. Go early, because they’re the first to sell out. Flavors like chocolate, macadamia coconut, guava, and birthday cake are local favorites. Some folks miss the Japanese-style mochi texture, but the Blackhole version has a texture worth talking about—not too heavy, not too light, but with a twist local fans can’t get anywhere else.
The French pastries are just as much a reason to visit. Croissants here are airy, layered, and downright buttery. The chocolate croissant is a crowd pleaser, with a generous chocolate filling, and the biscuit and gravy croissant is exactly what it sounds like—flaky layers with a touch of Southern comfort rolled right in. There’s also the spinach artichoke croissant, which, while subtle, is a savory option for those who like their breakfast balanced.
Brioche Cinnamon Rolls are another reason to arrive before the post-brunch crowd. They’re soft, sweet, and topped with just the right amount of frosting—none of the dry, overbaked rolls you’ll find at some chains. The pecan sticky bun is another winner, packing all the sweet, nutty goodness you’d hope for.
Drinks, Bites, and Local Love
If you need something to wash down that pastry, locally-roasted coffee and Hugo Tea (made with whole leaves) are on hand. The staff knows their way around a flat white, and the jasmine tea is extra refreshing.
Blackhole Bakery is also a spot for locals to shop local—besides their own goodies, you’ll find treats from Kansas City Canning Company and other small-batch Kansas City makers. It’s a nice touch that reminds you this isn’t just a bakery—it’s part of the neighborhood.
The Blackhole Community: Reviews That Speak Volumes
Regulars talk about Blackhole Bakery like it’s a secret, even though the line out the door tells a different story. Reviewers love the customer service—one called the staff “out of this world in terms of friendliness.” Another said, “I’d definitely come back, because I’ve seen the other unique pastries they’ve made on their social media pages.” And locals who are lucky enough to live nearby say the bakery is a regular weekend stop for their families.
The consensus? Get here early. The best stuff sells out fast. And if you’re the indecisive type, just get a little bit of everything. You won’t regret it.
Blackhole in the News: Growing Fast, Staying Local
Blackhole Bakery first opened in April 2020, right when the world seemed to be shutting down. Owner Jason Provo put his all into keeping the doors open, and Kansas City showed up in a big way. Now, five years later, the bakery is proving that success happens in Kansas City’s own neighborhoods, not just the big-box retail strips.
Provo’s decision to open a second shop—1702 W. 45th St. in the West Plaza antique district—was driven by community, not corporate pressure. He’s calling the new spot a “bodega,” aiming for that corner-store feel where neighbors can pop in for breakfast, grab a sandwich, or pick up soup and fresh bread on the way home. Unlike the Troost location, the new bakery will have seating, so you can finally linger and savor every bite.
The menu will include sandwiches, more grab-and-go meals, and, of course, the pastries that made the bakery famous. This expansion is about meeting Kansas City halfway—keeping the local vibe, but giving fans more room, more options, and more reasons to keep coming back.
How to Visit, What to Know
Blackhole Bakery is open Tuesday through Friday, 7am to 2pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 8am to 2pm. Closed Mondays. Expect a line, especially on weekends. And yes, it’s that busy for a reason.
There’s no seating at the Troost location, but the West Plaza spot will change that when it opens, likely by the end of 2025. For now, it’s grab and go, or find your own perfect spot to enjoy one of the city’s favorite bakeries.
If you want to keep up with daily specials, new flavors, or just see drool-worthy pastry photography, follow Blackhole Bakery on Instagram—it’s where the real action happens, and where you’ll see what’s coming out of the oven next.
The Bottom Line
Blackhole Bakery isn’t trying to be the next national chain. It’s not looking for outside investors or flashy press. It’s a Kansas City bakery for Kansas City people—run by locals, staffed by locals, and made for locals (plus anyone passing through who knows a good pastry when they taste one).
So if you’re looking to start your day with a mochi donut, a croissant that’s actually worth the calories, or just a strong coffee and a friendly chat, Blackhole Bakery should be your next stop. The only regret you’ll have is not getting there sooner.
Sources: blackholebakery.com, yelp.com, Blackhole Bakery Facebook Page, Blackhole Bakery Instagram Page
Header Image Source: blackholebakery.com
