St. Charles, Missouri, is about to get a vibrant new addition to its historic Frenchtown district: Bench Racers, a dog-friendly food truck park that promises to blend culinary delights, car culture, and community spirit. Set to open at 1801 N. Second Street, this nearly one-acre site is transforming a former 1940s Texaco gas station and adjacent vacant lots into a lively outdoor event space. With a target opening in late summer 2025, Bench Racers is already generating buzz for its unique concept and community-driven vision.
The vision for Bench Racers comes from St. Charles locals Andy Stark and Stephanie Lia, a married couple with a passion for revitalizing their community and celebrating automotive culture. The duo saw potential in the declining Texaco station, a historic gem at the edge of Frenchtown, and decided to turn it into something special. Since October 2023, they’ve partnered with local construction companies to restore the site, preserving its vintage charm while creating a modern gathering spot. “We noticed the building was declining and thought it would be really fun to turn it into something.”
The name “Bench Racers” reflects the couple’s love for cars and racing, drawing inspiration from the term for enthusiasts who swap stories and passion for automobiles. This automotive theme will shine through, with plans for car shows featuring classic cars and hot rods, making it a haven for gearheads and casual visitors alike.
Located between Main Street and Highway 370, near the scenic Katy Trail, Bench Racers is designed to be a community hub. Here’s what visitors can look forward to:
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Food and Drinks: A rotating lineup of food trucks will offer diverse culinary options, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Inside the restored Texaco station, a barbecue and beverage bar will serve up smoky flavors and refreshing drinks.
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Live Entertainment: A stage behind the garage will host live music, creating a festive atmosphere. Plans also include a big-screen TV for watching sports and movies, perfect for game days or movie nights under the stars.
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Car Culture: Bench Racers will celebrate automotive enthusiasm with events showcasing classic cars and hot rods. Recent updates on their Facebook page highlight the excitement around these gatherings, with visitors already enjoying previews of the space.
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Pet-Friendly Vibes: The park welcomes dogs, making it a great spot for pet owners to relax and socialize. Outdoor seating and open spaces will ensure a comfortable experience for all.
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Community Focus: Positioned next to the Katy Trail and near historic Main Street, Bench Racers aims to be a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, fostering connections in a laid-back, open-air setting.
While Bench Racers is targeting a full opening in late summer 2025, the team plans to host a few soft-launch events as early as October 2025, with weekend operations starting in spring 2026. These early events will give the community a taste of what’s to come, featuring food trucks, live music, and car-centric activities.
The project’s progress has been shared enthusiastically on social media, with posts noting a “fantastic weekend” of classic car displays and community engagement. This early excitement suggests Bench Racers will quickly become a beloved local spot.
Bench Racers isn’t just a food truck park—it’s a love letter to St. Charles’ history and future. By restoring a piece of the city’s past, Stark and Lia are creating a space that celebrates both the nostalgia of the 1940s Texaco station and the vibrancy of modern community life. Its location in Frenchtown, an up-and-coming area, adds to the revitalization efforts, making it a perfect complement to nearby attractions like the Katy Trail and Main Street’s historic charm.
For car enthusiasts, foodies, families, and pet owners, Bench Racers promises to be a unique destination that combines great food, entertainment, and a passion for automotive culture. As St. Charles continues to grow, this food truck park will likely become a cornerstone of the community, drawing visitors from near and far.
