Crown Candy Kitchen, 1401 St. Louis Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri, has served the St. Louis community since 1913.
(STL.Directory) Crown Candy Kitchen is one of St. Louis’ most treasured dining landmarks, representing more than a century of tradition, family ownership, and authentic American soda fountain culture. Located in the historic Old North St. Louis neighborhood, Crown Candy Kitchen has been serving generations of locals and visitors since 1913. Few restaurants in the region can claim this level of longevity, and even fewer have preserved their identity so faithfully over time.
Recently, Crown Candy Kitchen gained renewed attention when owner Andy Karandzieff was recognized as St. Louis Restaurateur of the Year. This prestigious honor highlights leadership, consistency, and dedication to the restaurant industry. For longtime customers, the recognition came as no surprise. Crown Candy Kitchen has long been regarded as a gold standard for family-owned restaurants in the region, known for its commitment to quality, service, and tradition.
Video published by FOX 2 St. Louis on January 16, 2026
Crown Candy Kitchen – A Legacy That Began in 1913
Crown Candy Kitchen was founded in 1913 by Harry Karandzieff and his business partner Pete Jugaloff. At the time, soda fountains and candy shops were neighborhood gathering places, serving as social hubs for families and workers alike. The founders built their business around handmade candy, ice cream treats, and simple comfort food. Their approach focused on consistency, hospitality, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone who walked through the door.
As decades passed, Crown Candy Kitchen evolved into a full-service lunch counter while maintaining its roots as a candy shop. Leadership eventually transitioned to Harry’s son, George Karandzieff, who helped expand the restaurant’s reputation throughout St. Louis. Under his guidance, Crown Candy became known not just as a local favorite but as a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city’s food scene.
Today, the third generation of the Karandzieff family operates the business. Andy Karandzieff, along with other family members, continues to uphold the standards established more than 100 years ago. This generational continuity is rare in the restaurant industry and plays a major role in Crown Candy’s enduring success.
A Classic Soda Fountain Experience
Walking into Crown Candy Kitchen feels like stepping back in time. The vintage décor, traditional counter seating, and classic menu evoke the golden era of American soda fountains. The atmosphere is casual, friendly, and welcoming, making it a favorite for families, tourists, and regulars alike.
Crown Candy Kitchen is famous for its thick, hand-spun malts and shakes. Made the old-fashioned way, these creamy desserts are a highlight for many customers. Whether it’s chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, or a specialty flavor, the malts are rich, satisfying, and served with a sense of nostalgia that modern dessert shops simply can’t replicate.
The candy counter is another major attraction. Crown Candy produces a variety of handmade chocolates and traditional sweets, allowing visitors to take home a piece of St. Louis history. Many customers make it a tradition to pick up candy boxes for holidays, gifts, or special occasions.
Home of the Legendary BLT
Perhaps Crown Candy Kitchen’s most famous menu item is its legendary BLT sandwich. Known for its towering stack of bacon, the BLT has achieved near-mythical status among St. Louis food lovers. First-time visitors often order it just to see if it lives up to the hype—and it always does.
The BLT represents Crown Candy’s philosophy: generous portions, quality ingredients, and no unnecessary frills. It is served with fresh lettuce and tomato, but the star of the sandwich is undeniably the thick, crispy bacon. The dish has become a rite of passage for visitors and a repeat favorite for loyal customers.
In addition to the BLT, the menu features classic lunch-counter fare, including grilled sandwiches, burgers, soups, and sides. The offerings are simple but executed consistently, allowing the kitchen to maintain speed and quality even during peak hours.
Recognition: Restaurateur of the Year
The recent recognition of Andy Karandzieff as St. Louis Restaurateur of the Year has brought well-deserved attention to Crown Candy Kitchen. The award celebrates leadership in the restaurant industry by recognizing individuals who demonstrate long-term commitment, professionalism, and community involvement.
For Andy, the honor reflects decades of hands-on management, staff mentorship, and dedication to maintaining Crown Candy’s reputation. Running a historic restaurant is no small task. It requires balancing tradition with modern operations, managing rising costs, and adapting to changing customer expectations without losing the core identity that makes the business special.
This recognition also highlights Crown Candy Kitchen as a model for independent restaurants. In an industry where many establishments struggle to survive, Crown Candy continues to thrive, proving that consistency and authenticity remain powerful business strategies.
A Neighborhood Anchor
Crown Candy Kitchen plays an important role in Old North St. Louis. Beyond serving food, it serves as a neighborhood anchor, bringing visitors to the area and fostering local pride. The restaurant attracts customers from across the region, helping boost foot traffic and visibility for the surrounding community.
Over the years, Crown Candy has become a place where memories are made. Families celebrate milestones, friends meet for lunch, and visitors experience a true piece of St. Louis culture. It is common to hear customers share stories about coming here as children and now bringing their own kids or grandchildren.
Why Crown Candy Kitchen Stands Out
Crown Candy Kitchen stands out because it never lost sight of what made it successful:
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A focused menu built around classics
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House-made desserts and candy
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Friendly, no-nonsense service
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A historic atmosphere that feels authentic
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Strong family leadership
In a world of constantly changing food trends, Crown Candy’s refusal to chase fads has become its greatest strength. Customers trust the experience because it stays true to itself.
A Must-Visit St. Louis Institution
Whether you are a lifelong St. Louis resident or a first-time visitor, Crown Candy Kitchen belongs on your must-visit list. It offers more than just food—it offers history, character, and a sense of connection to the city’s past.
The recent Restaurateur of the Year award further cements Crown Candy’s status as one of St. Louis’ most respected dining establishments. It is a recognition of both individual leadership and a family legacy that spans generations.
From handmade candy and legendary BLTs to award-winning leadership, Crown Candy Kitchen continues to define what a true local institution looks like. After more than 100 years, it remains a shining example of St. Louis tradition, hospitality, and heart.
Additional resources:
- Wikipedia Page – Crown Candy Kitchen – added to STL.Directory January 17, 2026
- Owner, Andy Karandzieff, recognized by the Missouri Restaurant Association, St. Louis Chapter, as Restaurateur of the Year, announced, published by St. Louis Restaurant Review on January 16, 2026
- Restaurant Website