Having gone to college in St. Charles, I was able to try out many different restaurants in my time there. The city has a great variety of family-run restaurants to choose from, as well as some of the best dining experiences the St. Louis area has to offer.

Bella Vino

Bella Vino is a great spot to grab tapas and wine with friends and hang out for a while. Built into what seems to be an old residential house, the restaurant offers a quiet and intimate atmosphere. Their appetizers are especially delicious, and their front patio is one of the best spots on historic Main Street in the summertime.

Heavy Smoke

This is one of the best barbecue spots I’ve ever been to, and you’ll know what to expect as soon as you enter when you see the entire back wall of the establishment filled with barbecue competition trophies. This is a fantastic barbecue restaurant that doesn’t take itself too seriously and shows you just how tasty meat can be.

Everything on the menu is delicious, but I especially recommend “The Glutton”. But be prepared to have leftovers!

La Tia & Pancho’s

La Tia’s is a family-run Mexican restaurant tucked away in the middle of St. Charles historic Main Street, and its food is fantastic. The staff is very friendly and the atmosphere is excellent for a casual and relaxed dining experience.

Salt + Smoke

A St. Louis staple, Salt & Smoke is another great spot on St. Charles’ historic Main Street with a huge patio and tasty barbecue. Their outdoor seating area is a great spot for a summertime get-together or a date night, and the staff has always been friendly.

Everything on the menu from the pulled pork to the brisket or wings is delicious, and there is also an amazing list of sides to choose from.

Tony’s On Main Street

Last but not least, my favorite place on this list. Tony’s is a cozy restaurant right next to La Tia’s on Main Street, and their food never misses. Every single item on the menu will blow your socks off, and the staff is always excellent. They also have two floors, the first floor being more of a fine dining experience while the second floor is more of a sports bar vibe.

I recommend the Steak Sandwich or the Chicken Modiga, but nothing on the menu will disappoint. They also have some amazing happy hour deals!

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St. Charles has always been an interesting city/area to me, because it somehow pulls off the small-town vibe while also being a pretty large city. Regardless, its food scene is unparalleled.

Enjoy!