Shelby’s food and drink scene just got a whole lot more exciting with the arrival of STEM Wine & Desserts, which opened its doors on March 8, 2025. This first-of-its-kind establishment at 222 W Warren St brings together fine wines and gourmet desserts under one roof, filling a distinct niche in the Shelby culinary landscape. Owned by hometown talent Brittany Spangler, STEM operates Wednesday through Saturday from 11 AM to 7 PM, offering a relaxed atmosphere for wine enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike. The unique concept promises to become a staple in the community, addressing a long-standing gap in Shelby’s dining options with its specialized focus on wine and dessert pairings.
A Wine and Dessert Menu That Delights the Senses
STEM’s carefully curated wine selection features over 20 varieties available by the glass, catering to both casual sippers and dedicated wine enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy everything from bold Cabernet Sauvignons to crisp Chardonnays, fruity Pinot Noirs, refreshing Rosés, and bright Sauvignon Blancs. With prices starting at $12 per glass, the wine list remains accessible while offering quality options that complement the dessert menu perfectly.
The dessert lineup at STEM showcases both creativity and classic technique with options that change regularly to highlight seasonal ingredients. Signature items include a decadent chocolate lava cake with a molten center, zesty key lime tart, and perfectly caramelized crème brûlée. Starting at just $8, these handcrafted sweet creations provide the perfect ending to any day or delightful accompaniment to a glass of wine. The rotating menu ensures there’s always something new to discover with each visit, making it an exciting destination for trendy dessert enthusiasts.
Beyond wines and desserts, STEM offers a selection of small plates designed for sharing. Artisanal charcuterie boards featuring cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments make for perfect wine pairings. Gourmet flatbreads topped with seasonal ingredients provide a savory contrast to the sweeter menu offerings. For those seeking a caffeine fix, specialty coffee drinks made with locally sourced beans round out the menu, providing yet another way to complement those delectable desserts.
The Passionate Entrepreneur Behind STEM
Brittany Spangler brings impressive credentials to her new venture as a Shelby native with deep roots in the community. Her culinary degree from the prestigious Johnson & Wales University coupled with a decade of experience in the food and beverage industry has prepared her well for this entrepreneurial leap. Her background includes positions at renowned restaurants where she developed her keen palate and business acumen.
“I wanted to create a cozy space where people could relax and enjoy great wine and desserts in my hometown,” Spangler explains. This vision came from recognizing a gap in Shelby’s dining scene – nowhere could residents enjoy high-quality desserts paired with fine wines in a dedicated, relaxed setting. Her concept represents a thoughtful blend of sophisticated dining trends with the warmth and hospitality characteristic of small-town establishments.
Spangler’s connection to Shelby runs deep, informing every aspect of her business approach. Rather than pursuing opportunities in larger cities after culinary school, she chose to bring her talents back home to enrich the community that shaped her. This commitment to local development aligns with growing trends of small business growth in the culinary sector, particularly for specialty food establishments focused on creating unique experiences rather than simply serving meals.
An Ambiance That Celebrates Local Culture
Walking into STEM feels like discovering a hidden gem, with a thoughtfully designed space that balances sophistication with comfort. The interior accommodates 30 guests with an additional 12 seats available on the outdoor patio during pleasant weather. The carefully crafted atmosphere makes it ideal for both casual get-togethers and special occasions.
The décor reflects Shelby’s character and heritage through its thoughtful design elements. Reclaimed wood from local sources adds warmth and texture to the space, while industrial lighting fixtures provide a contemporary contrast. Local artists’ work adorns the walls, creating a gallery-like experience that celebrates Shelby’s creative community and provides exposure for area talent.
STEM also features a private event space that can accommodate up to 20 people, making it perfect for birthday celebrations, bridal showers, or business gatherings. This versatile area can be customized to suit various occasions, filling another need in Shelby for intimate event venues with upscale food and drink options. The setting strikes the perfect balance between refined and relaxed – elegant enough for special occasions but welcoming enough for everyday enjoyment.
Pairing Suggestions That Elevate the Experience
One of STEM’s most appealing features is its focus on wine and dessert pairings that bring out the best in both components. Staff members receive thorough training on complementary flavors, allowing them to guide customers to perfect matches based on individual preferences. For instance, they might suggest pairing their rich chocolate lava cake with a bold Cabernet Sauvignon to balance the dessert’s intensity.
The key lime tart, with its bright citrus notes, finds its ideal match in a crisp Sauvignon Blanc that echoes its refreshing qualities. Meanwhile, the delicate caramelized flavors of the crème brûlée are beautifully complemented by a glass of buttery Chardonnay. These thoughtfully considered pairings elevate both the wine and dessert beyond what either would be alone, creating a comprehensive tasting experience that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
For those new to wine pairings or seeking to expand their palate, STEM offers tasting flights that allow exploration of different wine varieties alongside small dessert samples. This approach to food and drink mirrors trends seen in emerging culinary destinations where education and experience blend seamlessly with enjoyment. It’s a concept that makes fine dining principles more accessible and fun for everyone.
Catering to Dietary Preferences and Wellness Trends
Understanding today’s diverse dietary needs, STEM has developed options that cater to various preferences without compromising on flavor. The menu includes gluten-free dessert options like flourless chocolate cake and almond flour shortbread that satisfy those with gluten sensitivities. For guests monitoring sugar intake, there are reduced-sugar selections that use alternative natural sweetening techniques to create satisfying desserts.
Vegan customers aren’t left out either, with plant-based dessert options that use innovative ingredients to create textures and flavors comparable to traditional dairy-based treats. These offerings reflect the growing vegan dessert market and ensure that everyone can find something delicious regardless of dietary restrictions.
The wine selection similarly accommodates various preferences with organic, biodynamic, and sustainable options available. STEM even features lower-alcohol wines for those seeking to enjoy wine culture while moderating alcohol consumption. These thoughtful inclusions align with contemporary wellness trends that emphasize mindful consumption rather than deprivation, allowing guests to indulge responsibly and consciously.
Fostering Community Through Culinary Experiences
STEM Wine & Desserts represents more than just a new dining option—it’s become a community hub that strengthens Shelby’s social fabric. By creating eight new jobs, Spangler has contributed directly to local employment while providing opportunities in the food service industry. Her commitment to partnering with other local businesses for events and promotions creates a collaborative business ecosystem that benefits the entire community.
The establishment’s monthly wine tastings and pairing events offer educational experiences that bring people together around a shared interest in food and wine. These gatherings build community while introducing participants to new flavors and culinary concepts. For those looking to share their own special recipes, STEM even encourages customers to submit their favorite dessert ideas for potential feature specials.
Customer response has been overwhelmingly positive since the March opening. As one satisfied patron remarked, “STEM is exactly what Shelby needed. The wine selection is fantastic and the desserts are to die for!” Other customers consistently praise the warm atmosphere, exceptional service, and creative menu. For those looking for unique gifts or souvenirs, STEM also offers a selection of foodie-themed merchandise that celebrates their love of fine desserts and wine culture.
Recognition came quickly for STEM, with the Shelby Chamber of Commerce featuring the establishment on their “Best New Businesses” list shortly after opening. This endorsement reflects the establishment’s immediate positive impact and the gap it filled in Shelby’s dining scene. As STEM continues to evolve, Spangler plans to expand their community involvement through sponsorship of local events and seasonal tasting programs that highlight the changing flavors throughout the year. For food enthusiasts looking to support other outstanding local establishments, they can also submit their favorite dessert shops to be featured in regional guides.