The Greater St. Louis Restaurant Association has named Crown Candy Kitchen owner Andy Karandzieff as its 2025 Restaurateur of the Year, with Meridian Supply also recognized as Company of the Year.
Karandzieff, whose family has operated Crown Candy Kitchen since 1913, said the honor came as a surprise. “We are honored and humbled to receive this award and quite surprised,” he said. “I’m just a guy scooping ice cream in North St. Louis doing what I can to keep my family legacy continuing for the foreseeable future.”
The century-old soda fountain and diner has long been a fixture in the Old North neighborhood, earning a loyal following for its malts, BLTs and commitment to consistency across generations. Karandzieff credited the recognition to the family members who built and sustained the business before him.
“This award is for my grandfather, who laid the foundation. And to my father and all the long days he worked to keep Crown Candy successful,” he said. “He showed my brothers and me that the most important things are to serve good quality products and to take care of our customers and employees.”
Karandzieff also acknowledged his late brother Mike, who played a key role in shaping the business and mentoring the next generation. “He was someone everyone loved and respected and set a great example for me,” Karandzieff said.
Meridian Supply was named Company of the Year for its ongoing support of restaurants across the region, providing equipment, service and industry expertise to operators at every level.
“These honorees truly represent the heart and strength of our industry,” said Bill Gomel, executive director of the St. Louis Restaurant Association. “Crown Candy Kitchen has been a cornerstone of St. Louis hospitality for generations, and Meridian Supply continues to set the standard for partnership and excellence.”
The awards highlight both the legacy businesses and behind-the-scenes partners that continue to shape the Greater St. Louis dining community.