Looking for the best spots to eat, sip, and explore in St. Charles? We've got you covered with some top recommendations from two local insiders, Jackie and Mark Huebbe, owners/operators of SugarBot Sweet Shop and SugarBot Creamery. Whether you're in the mood for a killer brunch, a mouthwatering sandwich, or a unique local attraction, this list has it all!

 

Donut King Long John, vanilla with pink and purple sprinkles

Breakfast & Brunch

For breakfast, Jackie loves the waffles at Ginghams Homestyle Restaurant, perfectly golden, crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and served with a generous helping of butter and fruit topping for the ultimate breakfast indulgence. When she’s in the mood for a fluffy, pillowy donut coated in rich chocolate icing and topped with colorful sprinkles… she heads on over to Donut King for this irresistible treat!

Marios Donut Restaurant is where Mark goes when he’s looking for an apple fritter and/or the gyro omelette.

 

sandwich with white italian roll, beef, and cheese, sitting atop bed of potato chips, with a dill pickle visible to the side

Lunch Spots

When it’s time for lunch, Jackie has a few favorites on her list – her all-time favorite sandwich is the House Beef from Magpie’s on Main Street, served warm on home baked French bread with gooey Swiss and Italian dressing. She heads to Frenchtown’s La Belle Vie for the Jalapeno Popper with encrusted cheddar cheese white bread or the LVB Chicken Salad on a buttery croissant with a tasty Strawberry Avocado Salad on the side.

Mark likes to keep it classic and local – he heads to Lewis & Clark’s American Restaurant for favorites like the Chicken, Apple, & Bacon quesadilla.

 

Man and Woman holding up plate of empanadas at restaurant

Dinner Destinations

When Jackie in the mood for empanadas, she looks no further than Tango Argentina Food, prepared fresh and filled with rich, savory goodness – these pockets of goodness offer up the perfect flakey, golden bite every time. Authentic tacos? Jackie fully endorses the taco offerings from La Michoacana, check out the Taco Al Pastor or the Taco Campeche.

Mark likes the rustic Italian comfort of Fratelli’s Ristoriante and the red, white, baked, and specialty of their pasta offerings each with scratch-made sauces!

 

Sugarbot Creamery/Little O's

Sweet Treats

For all things Sourdough – both sweet and savory – Jackie and Mark both love to stop by Mr. Meowski’s on Main Street. From sourdough bread to fresh-made pop tarts, this local favorite will satisfy any sweet tooth.

If she’s looking for a fun treat for their rescue pups – Jackie stops by Canine Cookies N Cream Dog Bakery for adorable canine cookies and treats.

And last, but no means least, both Jackie and Mark would be remiss if they didn’t mention both SugarBot locations! SugarBot Sweet Shop, their bakery location, specializes in custom sugar cookies, cakes, dessert buffets and more! They are currently operating by appointment only with holiday pop ups throughout the year. SugarBot Creamery, their ice cream parlor and old-time soda fountain, is the spot for nostalgic and novelty candy, Main Street Monster Milkshakes (changing monthly), traditional Gooey Butter Cake, and 20 flavors of ice cream, all hand-made in house, and on a seasonal rotation.

 

Couple standing in front of corner coffee shop in historic building that is red brick with green woodwork, man is holding an iced coffee

Best Coffee Spots

When it comes to local coffee with an international twist, Jackie likes to head to Mocha Point Yemeni Coffee Co. to refuel with a Honey Cardamom Cappuccino or some delicious Honeycomb Bread.

Mark’s coffee favorite is Upshot Coffee Brake Shop, housed in a preserved 1950s gas station near Lindenwood University, this favorite offers a mean Cortado or Golden Milk Latte.

 

Lineup of colorful bottles of mead on table with tables and mural in background

Beer & Wine Hangouts

For an adult night out Jackie loves the vibe at Two Plumbers Brewery + Arcade – wood fired pizza, delicious seasonal ciders, and arcade games? Say no more. If she’s looking for wine and a light snack, The Wine Café is her choice, the Café Grilled Cheese is a must.

Mead Hall offers Mark the opportunity to try meads that are crafted using different varieties of honey sourced from small farms in a chill, local tasting room environment.

 

couple standing behind display of stuffed fox and fake tree in museum, making funny faces.

Can’t-Miss Attractions

If you’re willing to take a short drive North, Jackie recommends Smartt Field - St. Charles County Regional Airport and their EAA Young Eagles events as a great way to get youth ages 8 - 17 introduced to the fun of flight. If you want to follow in the steps of the Corps of Discovery, be sure to stop by the Lewis & Clark Boathouse and Museum. And for seasonal Fall fun, check out Legends & Lanterns®: a Spirited Journey through Halloween History.

Mark likes to explore the artistic offerings during the Mosaics Fine Art Festival in September and loves the action during Historic Main Street's Fête De Glace annual Ice Carving festival.

Whether you're a longtime local or just visiting, St. Charles has something for all tastes. Check out these spots, support local businesses, and let us know your personal favorites! See you around, St. Chuck!