These days, $4.25 can’t buy much, but it can get a double scoop of any kind of ice cream at Kimmer’s, a locally-owned ice cream shop in downtown St. Charles.

Kim Elam, a recent college graduate, purchased Gramp’s Frozen Custard and has set up shop here. The place is undergoing renovations—it’s currently half brick and half pink-painted brick—but employees cheerfully greet customers and describe the day’s specials.

And it’s the homemade, specialty ice cream—from the same base recipe used by Gramp’s—that makes Kimmer’s special. One day they have Brown Cow; the next day, Coffee and Donuts. The Cookies and Cream lives up to its name; it’s a creamy and flavorful creation, and the flavor is far better than the stuff in the grocery freezer case.

Kimmer’s also offer sundaes, shakes and malts. It’s one of those small local places that lends downtown Geneva its charm. Come by on a summer day and cool down.

Kimmer’s is located at 1 West Illinois Street, Saint Charles.