Chocolaterie Stam Glen Ellyn — Restaurant in Glen Ellyn

European treats, this side of the pond! Chocolaterie Stam, with origins in Amsterdam since 1913, arrived in Glen Ellyn just east of the post office at 530 Pennsylvania Ave. In 1993, President Ton Stam ventured from Amsterdam to Des Moines for financial services, but then in 1997 instead opened the main U.S. location of his family’s chocolate business in Iowa, first initiated from a mall kiosk. (Rochester, MN has chocolate in a mall location, but their main location on Ingersoll in Des Moines near Drake Univ. and Glen Ellyn both have cozy places for this Hawkeye to sit and savor.)

Chocolate is shipped in from Amsterdam, and then special creations are made in Des Moines and sent to their few Midwest shops, notably to me in Glen Ellyn. (We lived in Wheaton for 22 years, and whenever I am in town, I always enjoy Stam!)

Owner Liz Mager continues the rich Stam history at their Glen Ellyn location. Appreciate sitting with friends in their comfy chairs with Stam's signature eggplant-colored decor to visit and enjoy special treats. Love their chocolate, coffee, gelato (yummy cherry cheesecake), my fave mocha sticks, dark chocolate coconut bon bons, and licorice in a very European-style atmosphere.

It's all quality, from the chocolate to their unique boxes. They ship all over the U.S., too. (I know firsthand). I don't work for them, but I do love their goodies! Well worth a visit there (and even an extra trip...

I was visiting friends, their kids wanted ice cream for dessert, and we stumbled upon Stam's! My favorite indulgence happens to be top of the line, European black licorice, and this place has quite the variety from the Netherlands! They are the perfect balance (not too salty, not too sweet, not too chewy; just the right complexity. The best two flavors are the town house shaped and the clogs. Next in line, the nibs with a filling, and finally, the honey jar shaped are perfect for more of an after dinner lozenge affect (due to being a harder chew). If you love black licorice, this is your spot! The chocolates are excellent quality, as well; the white chocolate caramels are quite delightful and the chocolate covered orange peels. Katy is amazing; highly recommend seeing her and so is Anaise (sp?). They both are extremely knowledgeable, kind, and have a great passion for...

BEAUTIFUL STORE!

This store has a beautiful atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to sit, relax, and enjoy the calm music. The staff is warm and welcoming, and the design is colorful yet chic.

I enjoyed the coffee and chocolate, and the ice cream was excellent. Most of the chocolates were delicious and all were beautifully crafted.

The ambiance adds to the overall experience — it's not just about the food, but the vibe too.

One area for improvement would be to add some baked goods, like cakes or pastries, which would pair perfectly with the coffee. It is a bit on the pricey side, but that's expected given the lovely setting.

The location is fantastic, right in downtown Glen Ellyn. They have a few outdoor tables and chairs, which are great for enjoying a nice day.

I will definitely come back if I pass...