When people (read: men) notice I'm sitting by myself at the bar—nose in a book or intently watching the baseball game on the TV—they show a look of concern and sometimes alarm before saying in one way or another that no girl should be at a bar alone. They may feel sorry for me. Or they may think I'm there for, er, "business" reasons. But I'm not sure if it ever comes across their minds that I simply prefer being alone at bars. I see more, I hear more, and, oddly enough, I meet more people. I may be alone, I tell people, but I am not lonely.
Of course not all watering holes are made for unescorted ladies, and others may be so busy that one feels uncomfortably out of place, but somewhere in between are those gems that are genuinely perfect for an unaccompanied night out.
Here are my Top Seven:
The Royale (3132 S Kingshighway, 314-772-3600)
There's always a good soundtrack, great drinks, a diverse mix of people, and a classic black-and-white film playing on the TV in the corner. The patio and firepit are great places to be inconspicuous. And if you ever get bored, play who's-who with the notable people whose pictures grace the wall.
The Schlafly Tap Room (2100 Locust, 314-241-2337)
The bartenders—some of whom have been there for 19 years—are always good for some banter and free samples. The pub food is pretty good, and the large, loud space makes you feel like you're being social even if you've got your nose in a book.
Franco (1535 S. Eighth, 314-436-2500)
The space is large but surprisingly intimate. It's usually pretty quiet at the bar late-night, and is out of the way enough that you probably won't run into anyone you know. The bar food is good and the people watching—even better.
The Civil Life Brewing Co. (3714 Holt, no phone)
The staff is charming but not nosy, and the clientele is too busy ogling over the delicious beers to care about a loner at the bar. And what's even more charming is the cash-only and no-television rule.
O'Connell's Pub (4652 Shaw, 314-773-6600)
The decor, darkness, and authenticity of the people make anyone feel right at home. Same goes for the regulars. The bartenders are usually older men wearing aprons, and the servers are usually women who've worked there for as long as they can remember.
The Hideaway Restaurant & Lounge (5900 Arsenal, 314-645-8822)
From the outside it may seem daunting with its lighted marquee dotted with misspelled words, but on the inside, this dimly lit bar with a red glow features a lovely blind piano player, very cheap Manhattans, and an often unused dance floor.
Fox & Hounds Tavern (6300 Clayton Ave, 314-647-7300)
Even before this place was sold, bought and refurbished, it was my favorite. The table service to the couches—along with the taxidermy, chessboards, hot boozy drinks, and sleep-inducing fireplaces—are novelties that I'd rather not share with anyone else.
