A Century of Crown Candy Kitchen
This year one of my favorite St. Louis places will turn 100 years old.
Crown Candy Kitchen was opened in 1913 by Harry Karandzieff and his best friend Pete Jugaloff. They brought their confectionary skills from Greece, along with a dream of providing a friendly family environment to enjoy their delicious creations.
I still recall my first trip to Crown Candy Kitchen in the fall of 1990. It was dark and and I was intimidated by the neighborhood. The former 14th Street Pedestrian Mall seemed abandoned, although I’d soon learn numerous businesses were still there.
That first visit Andy Karandzieff, one of three brothers, was working behind the counter. Most of the time when I visit Andy is behind the counter, making the malts and Sundaes.
Sadly, last October one of Andy’s older brothers, Mike, died of cancer. Andy & Tommy continue the family business.
— Steve Patterson