CHERYL BAEHR
Mr. Meowski's is now open in St. Charles, serving naturally fermented sourdough bread and pastries.
Main Street St. Charles has a new destination for artisanal sourdough bread thanks to Tim Nordmann, the self-taught baker behind the beloved brand Mr. Meowski's (107 North Main Street, St. Charles; 636-922-9234). The bakery moved from its tiny digs in suburban St. Charles to a larger spot in the heart of the area's historic district at the end of March, with expanded capacity and additional offerings sure to win over new fans.
According to Nordmann, the need for a larger space became apparent to him almost immediately upon opening the original Mr. Meowski's in early 2018, but the hunt for a suitable space started in earnest last February. After searching the St. Charles area for nearly a year, he settled on the storefront near the intersection of Main Street and Jefferson Street, falling in love with the charm of the building itself and the neighborhood.
CHERYL BAEHR
The new Mr. Meowski's is in the heart of St. Charles' Main Street historic district.
Nordmann has embraced the historical feel of the space; the new Mr. Meowski's has soaring ceilings, beautiful woodwork and exposed brick. A small pastry case greets guests upon entry, and a metal and wooden shelf filled with the day's fresh-baked sourdough baguettes, rounds and sandwich bread stands just behind the order counter. Though there is no seating area, a wooden bench provides a space for guests to rest for a moment as they wait for their items to be prepared.
The most impressive part of the space is the open work area. A large wooden table, made to Nordmann's specifications by a St. Charles woodworker, stands in the center of the room, so guests can watch as the team of pastry chefs work the dough to create the bakery's delectable goods. This, combined with whimsical touches — an antique safe, a vintage television playing Tom and Jerry, funny bakery-themed knick-knacks — give Mr. Meowski's a warm, playful feel.
CHERYL BAEHR
A croissant.
After turning his bread-making hobby into a bona fide business in 2016, Nordmann gained a following through his presence at Tower Grove Farmers' Market. Longtime fans will be pleased to know that, food-wise, not much has changed in the move. Nordmann and his small team of pastry chefs are still making the same naturally fermented sourdough they've become known for, as well as croissants, pretzels, cinnamon rolls and other outstanding pastries. Nordmann also regularly does a Thursday night pizza night, featuring a classic Margherita pie.
The new Mr. Meowski's is open Friday through Sunday from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Scroll down for more photos of the new bakery.
CHERYL BAEHR
Mr. Meowski's serves three different types of sourdough bread: Rounds, sandwich loaves and baguettes.
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A chocolate croissant.
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Cinnamon rolls sell out quickly.
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Inside the bakery.
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Tim Nordmann, owner of Mr. Meowski's.
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Sourdough pretzels are a staple of the bakery's menu.
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Sourdough loaves are allowed to naturally ferment to develop a deep flavor.
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Nordmann named the bakery after his cat.
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Vintage Tom and Jerry cartoons create a whimsical vibe.
CHERYL BAEHR
The secrets of Mr. Meowski's.
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