Bistro 1 West a welcome addition to St. Charles dining scene

Bistro 1 West has been open since mid-December, but had it's grand opening kick off a couple of days ago. It's located at 1 West Illinois St., St. Charles, in an old building with an uptown loft vibe. Lots of exposed brick, wood beams, and subtle decorating give it a warm welcoming feel. A large patio overlooking the Fox River will make it a great boat-people watching place in the summer, complete with live music.

Owner George Giggeis, whose pedigree includes Rhapsody, Mango, and Trattoria #10, has created a casually sophisticated setting that should offer a great dining experience. Along with chef Doug D'avico, also of Trattoria #10, he has crafted a contemporary American menu, updated daily, that focuses on fresh ingredients and interesting combinations. Florida mahi with roasted cauliflower, Prosciutto with poached pears, that sort of thing. Most entrees are in the $20-28 range. A solid wine list focused on West Coast wineyards rounds out the menu.

The opening night teasers included a variety of the menu's appetizers, or variations thereon, and were uniformally most yummy. Deviled eggs with shrimp, skewers of Wagyu beef, stuffed mushrooms, all snatched up and devoured, if not gracefully, with gastronomic gusto. We also sampled (more than once) a wonderful mango martini, which may become a signature drink.

You can learn more at the Bistro's website, www.bistro1west.com. Lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday. 630-444-0600

When he's not gulping martinis, Alan creates woodturned sculptures at www.alancarterstudio.com.