Looking for some great places to wine and dine along the Katy? Here are our recommendations for the 100 or so miles of trail extending from St. Charles to Hermann. Most of the wineries feature live music on weekends.
Hermann
Adam Puchta Winery – The country’s oldest continuously owned family winery is located along a creek in the beautiful Frene Valley, just 2 miles southwest of Hermann. Its wines are “proudly American, uniquely Missouri”. adampuchtawine.com
Hermannhof Winery – Located downtown near museums, shops, and restaurants. Hermannhof’s 10 stone cellars and charming brick superstructure are among the 100 Hermann buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. hermannhof.com
Treloar
Treloar Bar & Grill – This quaint, throwback bar is said to have the best hamburgers on the Katy. (Its frog legs are also recommended.) This is the perfect place to strike up conversations with locals over a beer. treloarbarandgrill.com
Marthasville
Lake Creek Winery – Step back in time as you hit the tasting room in this 1860’s-era farmhouse that sits on the bluffs of the Missouri River. It also features a lovely gift shop and garden. lakecreekwinery.com
Lost Creek Vineyard
Lost Creek Vineyard – Just up the hill from the village of Gore, which was a “whistle stop” on the railroad line. Picnic baskets are welcome, but all beverages must be purchased on site. Snacks and water are available for purchase. lostcreekvineyardmo.com
Dutzow
Blumenhof Vineyards & Winery – Enjoy free tastings at this third-generation, family-run business. Bring your own food and snacks, or buy a bratwurst and German potato salad on the weekend. blumenhof.com
Augusta
Kate’s Coffee House – Relax in a quaint old home converted to café and choose from a full lunch menu of homemade soups and sandwiches. Cyclists who pedal up the long hill into Augusta are rewarded with a fresh-baked mini-muffin. It’s worth it! oakscrossing-augusta.com/kate%27s_coffee_house.htm
Augusta Brewery – A popular spot just off the Katy. The list of ales, lagers, and stouts will please beer aficionados, and the kids will love the home-brewed root beer. Carb-load with a hearty sandwich or entrée. facebook.com/augustabrewing
Montelle Winery – Winner of a 2019 Terrain Readers’ Choice Award for favorite winery. It has an incredible view but gets crowded on weekends, so you may want to try it on a weekday. montelle.com
Sunflower Hill Farm
Sunflower Hill Farm – Located outside of Augusta just past Matson, this organic farm has a cool café serving food harvested on the property. Visit the chickens and pollinator garden. sunflowerhillfarm.com
Defiance
Defiance Ridge Vineyards – It offers scenic views on a hilltop overlooking rolling countryside, forest, and farmland. Beautiful indoor and outdoor areas. defianceridgevineyards.com
Good News Brewing Company – With offerings like Dirty Laundry Brown Ale and Hazelnut Coffee Milk Stout, beer lovers will enjoy their time at this relatively new venue just off the trail. goodnewsbrewing.com
Sugar Creek Vineyards and Winery – The century home on this old farm now offers overnight accommodations. Enjoy fireplaces, gazebos, award-winning wines, and fabulous views. sugarcreekwines.com
St. Charles
Bike Stop Café – Another 2019 Terrain Readers’ Choice Award winner, for top post-adventure eatery and coffee shop. Enjoy a great menu, plus bike gear and repairs available on site. bikestopcafes.com
Author: Terri Waters is a regular contributor to Terrain Magazine.
There are a lot more places to eat on the Katy Trail. Ride your bike past Herman and you will find other great places to dine and sip, Boonville,Rocheport,Columbia, Jeff City, etc.