EASTERN EUROPEAN DELIGHTS ON THE EAST SIDE OF ST. CHARLES It’s 1984 and eight year old Daniel Migo is on a flight to the United States. He does not speak any English. Wanting a better life and to leave communist Poland, his parents found the St. John Newman Church in St. Charles to sponsor their journey. Daniel, his parents, and his twelve year old brother packed their belongings into two suitcases and, with $50, they headed to O’Hare. That’s how this story begins. Growing up in St. Charles Dan and his family had the support of the community. After starting a family, Dan wanted to give back and share the flavors of his culture. So, with a lot of planning and his wife JoJo by his side, they opened DRM European Café & Delicatessen in December 2016.
The hot lunch buffet homemade daily offers a variety of warm Eastern European dishes. The bistro tables and live music from local musician Mike create a delightful ambiance. A family crest adorns the wall dating back to 1800. Our daily selection included sauerkraut/mushroom pierogis, pork schnitzel, potato pancakes, Hungarian goulash, Borscht soup, cabbage rolls, white fish and a chicken dish. The dishes took us back to our Great Grandmas’ kitchens. Pure comfort food served with love.
The Deli counter has meats and cheeses that you won’t find anywhere else. Customize a sandwich and dine in or take some cheese, lunchmeat, smoked or cured sausage home. German potato salad, shredded carrot salad, coleslaw, cucumber salad and more can be paired with a sandwich or soup. We loved the Polish Reuben sandwich with Polish sliced ham in place of corned beef.
Dan traveled all over as a boy so he wanted to include a little of everything. A market filled with items unique to Poland, Germany, Lithuania, Ukraine, the Czech Republic and more fill the shelves with dried herbs, pickled vegetables, spices, coffee, breads, Kolaczki, paczki and our favorite paprika potato chips. Cold items such as pierogis, soups, and salads can be taken home to enjoy.
DRM Café is the perfect combination of European flavors and a friendly welcoming atmosphere. As Dan told us, “Experience us, experience our culture, and taste our food.”
DRM European Café & Delicatessen 610 E. Main Street, St. Charles (630) 940-2882 • www.drmeurocafe.com Owners: Dan & JoJo Migo
ABOUT THE CRITICS
Stephanie (right) & Tiffany (left) Schmoker are west suburban sisters who have always shared a love for dining out and they also enjoy cooking together. They came from a family of 7 and grew up on farm with fresh fruits, veggies and more. Watch for their review of a different west suburban restaurant in each issue of Glancer Magazine. Invite them to your eatery at editorial@glancermagazine.com.
