• Banner 1
  • Banner 2
  • Banner 3

Welcome to The Graceful Ordinary

The Graceful Ordinary, nestled in the heart of Saint Charles, is a culinary gem that redefines dining. This exceptional eatery marries artistry with flavor, offering dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. With a commitment to quality, each plate showcases thoughtfully combined ingredients, elevating the gastronomic experience. Guests can enjoy signature cocktails and a warm atmosphere, where attentive staff provide personalized service. From the open kitchen's captivating energy to a cozy, candlelit ambiance, every detail reflects a passion for excellence. Whether savoring brunch delicacies or innovative entrees, dining here is not just a meal; it’s an extraordinary experience.

The Graceful Ordinary: Reviews & Ratings

Stephanie Tang
Stephanie Tang

Food: artistic unique flavors, everything looked and tasted like it could’ve been on Master Chef Service: great service, multiple people attending to our table and clearing plates Atmosphere: loved it, colors were great, lots of detail and thought going into the design, perfect lighting for a romantic date. Love that you can see the chefs cooking Overall had a great experience! So shocked this place doesn’t have a Michelin star or James Beard award.

Wade Merrill
Wade Merrill

Five-Star Review for The Graceful Ordinary I’ve been to The Graceful Ordinary several times, and every time, I try something different—and every time, it’s absolutely delicious! The flavors, presentation, and quality are top-notch, making it one of the best dining experiences in Saint Charles. One of the best parts? They have gluten-free options, which is a huge win for me! It’s not always easy to find a restaurant that accommodates dietary needs without sacrificing taste, but they nail it. Pro tip: Save room for dessert. You will thank me later. Highly recommend this spot for anyone who loves great food and a fantastic atmosphere!

Jason Gold
Jason Gold

Our experience at The Graceful Ordinary was nothing short of exceptional. The food was absolutely exquisite, with each dish showcasing a perfect balance of flavor and presentation. The attention to detail extended beyond the food—Lauren provided an insightful explanation of certain liqueurs used in the cocktails, which elevated our appreciation of the drinks. Sara, the general manager, was incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. Ashley, our server, was attentive and knowledgeable, guiding us effortlessly through the menu and ensuring that our night went smoothly. Every aspect of our evening reflected a commitment to excellence. We’ll definitely be returning and recommending The Graceful Ordinary to friends and family.

Mark Kukla
Mark Kukla

Wow! Best Restaurant in the burbs by far! I have been wanting to dine here for a while now and finally had a date night with my wife for her birthday. 10, this restaurant was amazing on all fronts. The hostess was super friendly and warm welcoming. The atmosphere was comforting and elegant hip. We waited for our table near the bar and the bartender stopped and asked if we would like to order a drink. (That never happens elsewhere). We were taken to our table which was facing their open kitchen where we watched the magic of the chefs take place. It was impressive to watch the chefs work together in perfect harmony. Seeing the fire and smelling the wood burning was relaxing and exciting. Our server was 10, always allowing time between meals, caring, knowledgeable, and friendly. Real burning candles on every table made for a special feeling. The food was out of this world! It was the perfect meal. They had non alcoholic options, appetizers were divine, and the meal was everything I wanted!!! Dessert was out of this world. It was a very special dining experience and I loved every minute of it. Ever staff member was happy and friendly. Such a wonderful place. I’m so glad I was able to visit. I will be back.

matt maly
matt maly

The gracefully ordinary. Has one of the most beautiful dining areas that I've ever seen. The service is above any ever expected recommendations, information and exquisite taste. I would say one of the best places I've reviewed Walked into a candlelit table. Everything tasted excellent!

Natalya Rappoport
Natalya Rappoport

Came here for dinner with good friends. Had an amazing time. Great food and drinks. Beautiful view of the water off the terrace, and it was nice with fire pits. We had bone marrow appetizer, and I could just eat that with bread . Sea bass was good, steak was very delicious. And service was outstanding!! Worth the experience!

Erica Thomas
Erica Thomas

I’ve been here several times now, for brunch, lunch, and dinner, and truly enjoy this spot. Great cocktails and so many fun dishes to try, I like going back every few months to see the new seasonal options. The cinnamon roll was a favorite of our brunch group, plus their rotating pastry selection is a must-try. Their oysters are pretty fresh, which is not easy to find. For dinner, we loved the bread service and the pastas. I always look forward to going here!

neil pleskovitch
neil pleskovitch

We had the most wonderful Sunday brunch! There was a little confusion in regards to our reservation, but the manager handled it with absolute grace and made for a perfect afternoon celebrating a friend. The lobster biscuits and gravy are not to be missed, and the beignets were next level. Very creative cocktail menu hits all the right notes as well. Our server was absolutely delightful and made our experience that much more wonderful. Stylish thoughtfully designed rooms with a view of the Fox River makes this a destination. Highly recommend!

Location

The Graceful Ordinary is a gem nestled in the heart of St. Charles, IL, located at 3 E Main St. Known for its exceptional dining experience, this restaurant beautifully marries elegance and approachability, inviting all to indulge in culinary artistry that feels both unique and inviting.

As you walk into the space, the atmosphere captivates immediately. The interior design boasts rich colors, thoughtful details, and perfect lighting that creates an intimate setting ideal for a romantic dinner or a celebratory gathering with friends. With an open kitchen that allows diners to witness the culinary magic unfold, there’s a palpable sense of excitement. Guests often rave about being enveloped in the delightful aromas emanating from the kitchen, heightening the anticipation of what’s to come.

The menu is a masterclass in flavor and presentation, featuring a selection of small plates and entrees that showcase the chef's creativity and passion for high-quality ingredients. Begin your meal with the exquisite Waldorf Salad ($15.00)—a refreshing mixture enriched with smoked grapes, pickled apples, and candied black walnuts that will tantalize your taste buds. For something a bit more adventurous, the Tuna “Conserva” ($17.00) presents raw tuna dressed in an intriguing conserva sauce, garnished with puffed black rice and sliced shallots.

  • Dinner Small Plates:
    • Waldorf Salad – $15.00
    • Tuna “Conserva” – $17.00
    • Grilled Greens – $15.00
  • Dinner Entrees:
    • Wood Roasted Dry Aged Ribeye Steak – $48.00
    • Halibut with yellow curry – $37.00
    • Wood Roasted Salmon – $29.00

For the main course, the Wood Roasted Dry Aged Ribeye Steak ($48.00) emerges as a standout dish. Its rich flavors meld harmoniously with a smoky cauliflower puree and vibrant red chimichurri, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience. Vegetarians, too, will find joy in the well-crafted wood-roasted salmon accompanied by okra and lemon-browned butter, an elegant touch that elevates the dish’s profile.

What sets The Graceful Ordinary apart is not only their commitment to fantastic flavors but also their exceptional service. Customers consistently echo sentiments of gratitude for the attentive staff who take pride in their roles, ensuring a seamless dining experience. From knowledgeable servers to a welcoming management team, the warmth of the staff enhances the overall enjoyment.

In the words of diners, the evening at The Graceful Ordinary becomes more than just a meal; it evolves into a delightful celebration of the senses. With glowing reviews about the ambiance, service, and, most importantly, the artfully crafted dishes, this establishment stands out as one of the best dining experiences in St. Charles. As one guest poignantly noted, “Everything looked and tasted like it could’ve been on Master Chef.”

If you're seeking a spot that masterfully combines artistry with flavor, The Graceful Ordinary is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience you’re unlikely to forget. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a night out, this place promises to impress and leave you craving more.