LOCAL RESTAURANTS

ADDING OUTDOOR DINING, NEW DISHES

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske | Photos by Drew Pertl and Shaw Media

The dining scene in St. Charles continues to grow — with additions and some new looks on longtime favorites too.

Whether in the mood for fine dining, quick bites or a bit of both, find a plethora of restaurant options. This past year a few community staples underwent transformations to improve their ambiance and service and remain a vibrant part of the St. Charles Area Chamber of Commerce.

SAY CIAO TO MIO MODO

The team at Scott Harris Hospitality gave a new look to the former Francesca’s By The River in downtown St. Charles with the launch of Mio Modo, Italian for “My Way.” You’ll find new, lighter Italian food and fun changes on contemporary dishes and classic favorites.

“We love the location, and we love St. Charles,” says Jaysen Euler, culinary director for Scott Harris Hospitality. Some of the menu updates include more gluten-free dishes as well as more offerings featuring proteins and plenty of fresh veggies. Along with the fresh look inside the restaurant, you’ll discover a makeover on its website, making it even easier to view catering options and order dishes to go. Euler says some of his favorites can be found on the Sunday brunch menu, which includes Italian dishes like fresh crespelle filled with ricotta and mushrooms and topped with a bechamel sauce and the crab cakes Benedict along with Americanstyle breakfast favorites.

NEW HOME, SAME GREAT MENU

The team at Wok n Fire has relocated from its location in downtown St. Charles to a new, larger space at 2801 E. Main St. The new space, approximately 7,000 square feet, was the former Sweet Tomatoes restaurant. In addition to the larger restaurant space, it also has a designated parking lot. The restaurant group gave the new space a makeover to create a new home for the Asian-inspired cuisine that includes sushi. The new restaurant includes two large outdoor patios. The new sake bar will feature memberships as well as classes and pairings to enjoy.

RENOVATIONS PROVE TO BE A HOME RUN

After a renovation in late spring, Rookies All-American Pub reopened its St. Charles location at 1545 W. Main St. with a fresh new look inside and out.

Owner Bob Karas and his partners Mike Maridis and Elpida Gates opted to close down business in May for a large-scale renovation. They raised the low ceilings and added new windows, fixtures and furnishings. You’ll also find an outdoor patio with fire pit, a bar and space for live music.

While there were plenty of changes, Karas says the menu favorites, from the wings to the burgers, remain the same. The pub is a place to meet for lunch, after work or for dinner too.

But there’s something special for him about St. Charles, he says. “I really love this area.”

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