According to a news release, the husband-and-wife team behind The Graceful Ordinary is planning two new, distinct concepts for downtown St. Charles.

Megan Curren and Chef Chris Curren, who launched The Graceful Ordinary in 2021, say both St. Charles ideas are still in early stages but are targeted for a 2026 debut. Here’s what they’re planning:

The first concept, The Idle Hour, is planned for 11 S. 2nd Avenue, next door to the historic Moonlight Theatre.

They envision The Idle Hour as a members-only cigar lounge with a retail cigar shop open to the public. Memberships would unlock access to a private, BYOB-friendly lounge designed for extended stays — with leather seating, moody lighting, personal lockers, and 24/7 access for members.

“At The Idle Hour, we’re putting our signature hospitality in the spotlight and giving people a premium luxury experience with indulgent membership benefits typically found only in major metropolitan cities,” Megan Curren said. “St. Charles has supported us since we opened TGO in 2021, and we’re proud to keep extending our roots here by offering more unique, elevated experiences.”

According to the Currens, members would be able to call ahead during designated hours to have a preferred cigar, drink, and snack ready upon arrival. Food and to-go cocktails from The Graceful Ordinary may also be available in the future.

A limited number of memberships is planned, with details on pricing and tiers expected later this year.

Next door, the Currens are also planning to open RILY, a raw bar and live jazz venue that would bring oysters, shellfish, craft cocktails, and regional jazz performances to a 2,600-square-foot space.

The name RILY comes from “Remember I Love You,” a phrase commonly used to sign wartime letters, and the concept is meant to lean into a romantic, late-night atmosphere. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with more details to come as plans firm up.

The news release also confirmed that construction is now underway on Vicolo, a daytime café planned for 7 S. Broadway in downtown Aurora.

Announced in summer 2024, Vicolo will be O&D Hospitality’s first concept outside of St. Charles. The space is being designed by Chicago-based firm Dunne Kozlowski, known for hospitality projects throughout the city.

More details on all three projects — including timelines — are expected in the coming months.

Please feel free to reach out to [email protected] with questions or comments.

Not signed up yet? Subscribe here.