With an eclectic yet comfortable interior, Sarah’s on Central in Old Town Eureka, has a menu of cocktails, brunch options, and baked goodies, as well as lunch and dinner options like sandwiches, salads, burgers, and more.
Seasonal salad special featuring watermelon, spinach, and grilled chicken. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz
The intimate space is perfect for a date, meeting up with friends or family, or even a solo meal. There’s bar seating, low-top tables for two or four guests, as well as a few options for seating larger groups, including a long high-top table in the center of the eatery.
During my visit, on a scorching summer day, nothing sounded better to me than a cool, nourishing salad and a refreshing cocktail – so that’s just what I ordered. The salad I chose was part of the summer seasonal menu, but featured a number of flavors and textures: spinach leaves, cubed watermelon, feta cheese, cucumber slices and a lime vinaigrette, topped with grilled chicken breast. It was the perfect meal for the 90+ temperature day.
Sarah’s on Central features a bar with cocktails like this berry vodka seasonal mixed drink. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz
I rarely drink liquor, but once I spotted a drink, also on the seasonal menu, that was made with vodka, cranberry, strawberry and a basil garnish, I couldn’t resist. The combination of flavors played off each other, the strawberry puree balanced the tartness of the cranberry and kept it from tasting like a straight vodka-cran, while the basil garnish added a hint of savory finish. During a different season, I will likely order one of the establishment’s “Over-the-top Bloody Marys” as long as I have someone to share it with, since the drinks are typically like getting a cocktail with a side of snacks!
In addition to the food and drink menu, there’s a selection of bakery items. Side note: if you’re the kind of person who easily caves when looking at yummy baked goodies, perhaps put on blinders when it comes time to pay at the register, located atop the bakery case! I did not partake in any of the cupcakes, gianormous cookies, or other yummy treats I spied in the enclosed glass case, but they looked divine.
Summer’s here, and that means families are looking for things to do with kids. Luckily, there’s lots of fun in the air right now with outdoor events like fairs, concerts, and community movie nights, plus summer is always a perfect time for car shows, or to hop in the car take a little day trip to explore things to do in other small towns near Franklin County.
Tuesday, June 10 What could be better than a good summer read? Making it sparkle! Bring your favorite book, or choose from the selection the Washington Public Library provides, and spend the evening adding a little bling to your book. All bedazzle supplies provided (while supplies last). Fun for ages 12 & Up. Learn more.
Thursday, June 12 Cinema 1 Plus in Washington continues its free drive-in movies with a showing of the classic “Grease.” The movie will start 30 minutes after sunset. Parking is first come, first serve for these free events. Learn more.
Friday, June 13 On Friday afternoon from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m., attendees of the family-friendly Summer Dance Party will rock out to some catchy tunes using shaky eggs, scarves, and bean bags. And since it’s hosted by the Washington Public Library, you’ll take a “Book Break” during the hour-long party! More details.
Friday, June 13 and Saturday, June 14 Hot Rods for Heroes, a 501-C3 organization with the goal of funding heroes through sharing the love of automobiles, is hosting a two day event in Pacific. Whether you want to show up for the car cruise on Friday or participate in the car show Saturday, there is something for everyone at this event. All proceeds for this event benefit the Pacific Police Department, Pacific Fire Department, and the Veterans Community Project. Find out more.
Friday, June 13 Head to Gerald for a special Movie Night at Legion Park hosted by the Chief Mason Griffith Foundation! Enjoy family fun with a 50/50 drawing, raffle tickets, and a free will offering benefiting Firefighter Via Family. Food will be available for purchase and attendees can choose from nachos, hot dogs, and popcorn. Get all the details.
Friday, June 13 Pacific is hosting an evening of live music by Twist of Fate at the Sunset on the Rails event. Guests are encouraged to bring their blankets and coolers and settle in for an evening of fun, family-friendly music and yard games, plus Case & Bucks Food Truck “Patty Wagon” will be on site. Get more info.
Saturday, June 14 This restorative yoga class focuses on gentle poses, deep breathing, and mindful meditation to help you release tension and find inner balance. It’s perfect for individuals of all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a complete beginner. The class is happening at Red, White, and Brew Coffee Company in Union, and the cost is $10. Find out more and get tickets.
Saturday, June 14 Stop by and check out DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs’ new sewing space on Main Street in St. Clair Drawings for giveaways and more for those who attend the Open House. Find the event on Facebook.
Sunday, June 15 Orchard Park in St. Clair will be the site of a Father’s Day car show. Visit the City of St. Clair’s Facebook for further details.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Friday, June 13 Owensville is hosting a series of free, family-friendly movies this summer, with the kick-off event happening on Friday, June 13 with a showing of the film “Moana.” The movies will be shown at Buschman Park in Owensville, and Moana will start at 8:30 p.m. Find the full list of days and times of each film.
Friday, June 13 The City of Eureka is hosting a Concert on Central event, featuring family fun, live music by That 80s Band, plus food and drink from area restaurants located on Central Ave. Find out more.
Friday, June 13 – Saturday, June 14 The Jefferson County Fairgrounds will host the Jefferson County Rodeo, a two-day event that will feature live music, mechanical bull riding, kids activities, and much more. Learn more.
Saturday, June 14 Shop vendors, enjoy food, and take in the sights and sounds of a car show at the Belle Swap Meet & Extravaganza, happening from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Belle City Park. *UPDATE*as of June 9, this event has been canceled.
Saturday, June 14 Take a short drive to Bourbon for its annual BBQ Fest, featuring live music, vendors, BBQ competitions, and lots of family fun! Find out more on the Facebook event page.
This week there’s a lot going on in and around Franklin County, including a Memorial Day parade in Union, a free drive-in movie in Washington, a rodeo in Gerald, and the annual car show at White Rose Cafe is happening on Sunday, June 1.
Monday, May 26 – Memorial Day Watch the parade on Memorial Day in Union at 10 a.m. then head to the American Legion for service at 11 a.m., with lunch immediately following the service. Get more details.
Monday, May 26 – Memorial Day If you want some barbecue, but don’t want to spend time at the grill, The Tipsy Keg will have a special barbecue menu for Memorial Day. Find pulled pork, brisket, and ribs beginning at 11 a.m. until sold out. There will also be live music performed by Travis Fadler. Find out more on Facebook.
Tuesday, May 27 – Wednesday, May 28 There are two opportunities to take part in dance fitness class Bad Beats. Head to the Washington Community Art Studio for an hour long class that will help you reach your fitness goals while having fun. Reserve your spot!
Wednesday, May 28 The Franklin County Silent Book Club is hosting its monthly meeting at underGROUNDS Espresso Bar in Washington. Bring your book of choice, order a beverage, and sit and read in companionable silence, followed by a short period dedicated to conversation, or continued reading. Learn more.
Thursday, May 29 Cinema 1 Plus in Washington will show a different drive-in movie every Thursday night throughout the summer for free. The special showings are kicking off with “Forrest Gump.” Learn more.
Friday, May 30 Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair will have live music from Travis Fadler starting at 7 p.m.
Friday, May 30 The Tipsy Keg in downtown Washington is hosting an Open Mic Night beginning at 7 p.m. Limited food menu available, and drink specials throughout the night. Learn more on Facebook.
Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31 The Gerald Saddle Club is hosting a rodeo on Friday and Saturday, beginning at 7 p.m. each day. Take in bronc riding, barrel racing, bull riding, and more. Get more details.
Sunday, June 1 The White Rose Cafe in Union’s annual car show will feature all rides. Cruz-N-25 will happen from noon to 3 p.m. Learn more.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Friday, May 30 – Saturday, May 31 Folky Fish Fest is an unforgettable weekend of folk and new-grass music, culture, and community in nearby St. James. Set against the backdrop of Maramec Spring Park’s scenic surroundings, this one-of-a-kind festival brings together folk and new-grass music lovers for a weekend brimming with creativity and connection. Attendees can enjoy an incredible lineup of live performances from talented musicians on multiple stages, ranging from soulful folk tunes to energetic new-grass jams that will have everyone on their feet. A celebration of creativity and community! Learn more and get tickets.
Saturday, May 31 The Lions Club Fairgrounds in Linn will be the site of the 573 Vintage Market. Come shop from over 50 vendors, enjoy live music, and delectable eats from food trucks. Get all the details.
This week there’s a lot going on in and around Franklin County – Sunset on the Riverfront happens this Thursday, there’s a few community markets, opportunities to hear live music, and get crafty, plus some unique events happening just a short drive from Franklin County. As a reminder, I don’t list every event that’s on the calendar here in the weekly roundup post, including events happening in the first half of the week. Be sure to look at the calendar of events to see everything! Note that you can find the calendar at the bottom of the home page if you’re viewing the site on a mobile device.
Thursday, May 22 Head to downtown Washington for the May Sunset on the Riverfront, held at Rennick Riverfront Park on the fourth Thursday of each month from 5 – 8 p.m. This family-friendly and free event features local bands, food vendors, beer, wine, and children’s activities.
Thursday, May 22 and Friday, May 23 Stacked Coffeehouse in Villa Ridge is going to be out and about in the community doing coffee “pop-ups” from a mobile coffee trailer. On Thursday, catch Stacked at St. John the Baptist School in Villa Ridge from 7:30 – 9 a.m., and on Friday, find Stacked at The Novel Nook in Washington from noon – 2 p.m. Learn more.
Friday, May 23 The Union Farmers Market happens on the second and fourth Fridays from 4 – 7 p.m. through September. Find local produce, meat, baked goods, handmade items, and food trucks. SPECIAL NOTICE – This week’s market will happen at 10 E. Locust St., across from City Hall. Get more details on Facebook.
Friday, May 23 Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair will have live music from Tom Norton starting at 7 p.m. Learn more.
Saturday, May 24 Enjoy live music while you take in the beautiful scenery at Triple 3 Vineyard, when SWeet Ruckus plays from 2 – 5 p.m. Learn more at the Facebook event.
Saturday, May 24 The Sullivan Community Market is happening from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Muddy Banks Brewing. Shop local vendors and makers, find locally grown produce and baked goods, and listen to live music. More details.
Sunday, May 25 Learn how to make a custom Welcome Mat for your home at this class held at Muddy Banks Brewing in Sullivan, from 3 – 6 p.m. Ticket price includes materials to create the mat. Get tickets.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Saturday, May 24 Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a series of seven stargazing programs in 2025. The public is invited to meet in front of the visitor center to view the unobstructed night sky and learn about some of the objects that can be seen. Astronomy experts will be demonstrating the use of telescopes and identifying stars and planets. Find out more.
Saturday, May 24 Get ready for a relaxing day on the river at Brookdale Farms’ first Eureka Floats event of the season! More information.
Sunday, May 25 Take a short drive to Fenton to see the amazing rides at a free, family-friendly car event where you’ll find everything from exotics, to classic cars, imports, works in progress, and more. Cars & Coffee St. Louis and 1st Phorm are teaming up to bring a monthly car show on the fourth Sunday of each month through October. Find out more.
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