Site Navigation
HomeAbout
Services
Testimonials
Contact
News
Info
FAQ
The Brown Bag Bistro
About Us
Since 2018, The Brown Bag Bistro has been a beloved spot in Alton, IL, offering an exceptional American dining experience. With a menu that features a delightful variety of sandwiches, soups, salads, and irresistible desserts like cheesecake and ice cream, we cater to every taste. Our carefully chosen beer and wine selection enhances any meal, making us a favorite for a night out. Proudly serving Alton, Grafton, and the greater St. Louis area, we remain committed to providing exceptional food and inviting hospitality. Come join us for a delicious meal today!
Our Story
Co-owners and mother-daughter team Chris and Erin Velloff started Brown Bag Bistro together in 2018. Chris had a lifelong dream of opening her own restaurant and after her daughter, Erin, graduated college, they decided to take the risk together. Brown Bag Bistro has been providing their local community with delicious food and friendly service ever since!
We’re a family-owned and operated business that makes fresh and consistent sandwiches that are unlike any of our competitors! Our made-to-order sandwiches are completely unique, so stop by Brown Bag Bistro for a one-of-a-kind eating experience. Our menu also includes soups, salads, appetizers, and desserts like ice cream and cheesecake. We also have a beer and wine selection that makes us the best place in town for a night out!
We’re proud to say that our customer service is the best around because we treat all our patrons like family! In addition to great food, we also boast a fun and relaxing atmosphere, so you’re sure to have a good time whenever you visit Brown Bag Bistro!
Brown Bag Bistro provides carry out, catering, and a pickup window where customers can stop by and quickly pick up their food orders. Another thing that sets us apart from other restaurants is our Itty Bitty Brown Bag Bistro food display truck! This is the ultimate food display vehicle ideal for weddings, corporate events, baby showers, and more.
We’re looking forward to partnering with Alton, Grafton, Wood River, and the surrounding areas to continue offering delicious food and excellent customer service. For more information about our products and services, contact Brown Bag Bistro at (618) 433-9933 or stop by for a visit to learn more.
Areas Served
Alton, IL | St. Louis Mo. | Bethalto, IL | Wood River, IL | Godfrey, IL | Edwardsville, IL | Roxana, IL | Grafton,IL | Jerseyville, IL
Our Professional Associations
- Alton Main Street
- Rivers and Routes
- Riverbend Growth Association
What We Offer
Our Specialties include:
- Specialty Sandwiches
Our Services include:
- Pickup Window
- Patio Dining
- Live Music (Seasonal)
- Catering
Our Products include:
- Sandwiches
- Soups
- Chili
- Salads
- Appetizers
- Desserts
- Cheesecakes
- Beer
- Wine
Testimonials
On 10/29/2025
Mark Gauen
had this to say:
This is a great lunch or snack stop. I had the granny grilled cheese. It's Granny Smith apples in a sourdough grilled cheese with a brown sugar aoli. I also had the lobster bisque which was great paired with the sandwich.
On 10/28/2025
Carrrie H.
had this to say:
This is a nice choice to take people to lunch. It is very welcoming. You order at the counter and find a table. They have both indoor and outdoor seating.
The Granny's Gobble is delicious when it is in season. Their French onion soup is very good, as well. The sweet heat bread was so tasty! The ambiance is homey. Perhaps a little crowded, but worth it!
On 10/23/2025
Princess Zelda
had this to say:
Massive sandwiches! Great price for what you get
On 10/19/2025
Heather Richardson
had this to say:
The sandwiches here are 10/10. Crafty flavor combinations and fresh, quality ingredients make me want to try everything on the menu.
On 10/15/2025
Rebecca Spencer
had this to say:
Brown Bag Bistro is consistently delicious. The staff are excellent. The food is unbeatable. The “Ultimate Ham & Cheese” keeps me coming back for more!
Contact Us
The Brown Bag Bistro
318 E Broadway Alton, IL 62002
Phone: (618) 433-9933
Email: brownbagbistro
On Broadway Street, about 1/2 mile from The Argosy Casino and The Clark Bridge
Where To Find Us
Follow us on GoogleFollow us on Facebook
Follow us on Yelp
Follow us on Instagram
Payment Types Accepted
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa, Debit Cards, NFC Mobile Payments, Cash, Business Checks
Our Hours
Holiday Hours May Vary. Please Call For Details.
Monday: 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Thursday: 10:30 AM - 3:00 AM
Friday: 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Saturday: 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM
News
We’re beyond excited to share that we won Best Sandwiches, Best Lunch, Best Burger, and Best Outdoor Dining in this year’s GOAT Awards! 🏆🍔🥪🌞A huge THANK YOU to our amazing customers for your votes, love, and continued support — you’re the reason we do what we do! 🙌 And an even bigger shoutout to our incredible staff whose dedication and passion make every meal a winning one. 💪❤️
Come celebrate with us and taste what makes us the GOAT! 🐐✨
#GOATAwards #BestOf #ThankYou #AwardWinning #CommunityLove #BestBurger #BestSandwiches #OutdoorDining #Grateful
Info
Job ApplicationBecome a VIP
Downtown Alton
Downtown Alton
Sweet Suite
FAQ
Legal
Terms of UsePrivacy Policy