Crown Candy is one of St. Louis' oldest and most popular attractions. We first learned of it when Tony saw it on Man vs. Food. The host failed the challenge, but we knew that we had to go. The first time that we stopped by, the line was out the door and wrapped down the hill for quite a while. The sign on the door alerted us that the wait was at least 30 minutes from that point. We decided to try again another day. Our second trip was more successful. We were the last people inside the door, but the only two person group. Our wait was only 15 minutes!
Once inside, it feels like you've stepped by in time by several decades. The shop was originally opened by two best friends from Greece in 1913. The third generation of the families now run it. They are best known for their desserts - mainly ice cream, shakes, and chocolate candy. All of it homemade right there in the shop. They also serve lunch and dinner which we didn't realize. The food looked delicious, so we have plans to return for lunch one day. Tony also has dreams of conquering their challenge.
The kitchen next to the diner where they make all of the deliciousness.
Tony ordered a strawberry shake since the Crown Candy Challenge involves their shakes. The shakes are served in a stainless steel container to keep them cold and then you are given an old timey glass to pour it in. Each shake will fill the glass approximately three times. The Crown Candy Challenge is to drink five shakes in less than 30 minutes. So, about 15 glasses. Tony is determined to get his name on the plaque and a free
t-shirt.
We went right before Easter, so the shop was filled with
bunnies and eggs.
No, we were not strong enough to leave all of this behind. We did purchase a few of the chocolate candies to try later at home. Yes, they were amazing!