If you have a sweet tooth, you probably already know about Teri Castrop. Her delicious caramels garnered a cult following at the Overland Park Farmers Market and are now out in local stops and shops around the city.
A Kansas City native and artist by trade, Castrop grew up as one of ten children from a large Catholic family. Constantly surrounded by talented home cooks, she gained a great respect for food. “I always say part of the success of Kansas City Caramels is because I am so picky about good food,” she says.
Art is Castrop’s first love, particularly sculpture, and she spent years teaching elementary and high school art. Kansas City Caramels began as a way to support her art habit after staying home to raise a family. “When it was time to rejoin the workforce, I scrambled with what to do,” she says. “I had the crazy idea to start my own business. Little did I know everything that would entail. It’s been challenging, but I love it!”
Castrop’s family has roots in the Kansas City meatpacking industry, and she’s loved watching the city grow over the years. “A thriving art scene, top-notch restaurants, distilleries, and breweries, gorgeous hotels, and a revived downtown. So much to be proud of.” She’s always searching for and trying out new restaurants. Her winter spot is Ponak’s for lunch, followed by an afternoon of Westwood sledding, or taking in some Midwestern scenery. “I grew up ‘out south’ as we call it, and I still love getting out of the city to drive through some of the rural roads,” she says. “It’s so pretty.”
Teri’s essentials...
Café Stop: My go-to is Maps Coffee Roasters. If you’ve never met the owner, Vince, you’re missing out on a great soul. He has such passion for what he does and has shared so much with me. I’m addicted to the “Milk” roast. I purchase a bag, grind, and brew it at home. So good!
Sweet Treat: I try donuts in every city I go to, and Fluffy Fresh Donuts always comes out on top. They only take cash and close when they run out, which might be at 8:30 a.m. The glazed is amazing, but my favorite is cake with white icing and peanuts.
Signature Scent: I love candles. My current favorite is Pickwick’s Aspen Candle, but I also love Sexy Cinnamon as a winter scent and Bob’s Flower Shop for the warmer weather—both by Trapp Fragrances.
Repeat Eatery: The staff is amazing at The Russell, and I love the warm antique vibe—instead of a number, you get a beat-up old license plate for your order. I always get the roasted beet salad with molasses vinaigrette and goat cheese.
Self-Care Sesh: My self-care is André’s. I order a pretty latte and a Napoleon, but really any of their pastries or croissants will do.
Hidden Gem: I love a good cheeseburger, especially the delicious double cheeseburger at Snack Shack on Johnson Drive. I always go for the onion rings, too. It’s small and family-owned with no frills.