The cozy little sister of Grove cocktail bar Good Company, Aperi is one of the neighborhood’s most intimate spots to tuck into for an Italian-inflected libation. Its dimly-lit, cozy atmosphere, sophisticated cocktails and delicious snacks like oysters and tinned fish set the scene for a romantic evening. Non-drinkers, too, can join in on the fun; the restaurant boasts a nice selection of n/a cocktails. 4317 Manchester.
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One of the sexiest restaurants in town boasts black walls, sultry lighting, and candles everywhere, the perfect spot for a tapas-style bite, some unusual Spanish cheeses, or a memorable Basque cheesecake paired with a 10-year-old Madeira. 7610 Wydown.
Located underneath the wildly popular Noto, Bormio is a lovely place to either start the night with an aperitvo, finish it with a digestivo or even spend the entire evening sipping on Italian-Alpine inspired cocktails and wines. The cozy spot features marble, botanical features and soft candlelight, which create the perfect romantic scene and pair beautifully with a spritz. 5105 Westwood.
The former Taste by Niche—an impossibly dark, candlelit cocktail bar in the CWE—is now a secondary dining area for Brasserie in the CWE, but no less romantic. Ask for the the secluded deuce in the window, table B-10.
Kevin Brennan’s elegant bar in the Central West End is an ideal spot for an after-dinner cocktail. Order the classic Negroni (with gin, campari, and sweet vermouth), or celebrate with the Shrubbubbles (with strawberry thai basil shrub, brut cava, and strawberries). 316 N. Euclid.
The Webster Groves staple recently refurbished and expanded its cocktail bar. For a boozy option, try the Highland Grove (with Compass Box Nectarosity, Amara Blood Orange Liqueur, orange, and orange bitters). Or for a citrusy and refreshing option, try the Blackberry Bramble (with J. Rieger Gin, Heirloom Blackberry Lemon Mint Shrub, simple syrup, lemon, and club soda). 603 E. Lockwood.
Located inside the historic Cheshire, this cozy pub is the perfect spot for a Scotch or bourbon and a seat by the crackling fire. 6300 Clayton.
This Benton Park mainstay is one of the industry’s longtime favorites for cocktails. For the perfect digestif, order the Amaro Never Dies (with rye whiskey, amaro ramazotti, amaro sibona, cherry herring, and chocolate bitters). Reservations can be made here. 1811 Pestalozzi.
The 21c Museum Hotel’s restaurant offers a Spanish-inspired food menu that gracefully meshes with the cocktail options. Consider the Gin and Tonic Menu. In Spain, the Gin and Tonic is an elaborate expression of botanicals in an artful presentation. So at Idol Wolf, order the Blackberry & Sage (with Still 630 Confluence Gin, sage, blackberry, lemon, and pink peppercorns). Reservations can be made here. 1528 Locust.
Kenny’s is the definition of a cocktail dive—laidback and with no pretensions. After a lovely evening, head up the stairs, and let down your hair. Play a game of pool while sipping the World-Famous Pickle Martini or the Monthly Milk Punch. 3131 S. Grand.
Lazy Tiger’s cozy ambience is the perfect spot for a date night cocktail. The Spaghetti Western-inspired menu is a fun way to begin or finish your evening out. Be sure to try the There’s a Snake in my Boot (with Tropical and Sugarcane rums, Amontillado Sherry, Mango Caramel, Allspice, and Lemon. Reservations are recommended and can be made here. 210 N. Euclid.
For a fruity and citrus forward libation try the lillian’s Revenge (with Plantation Pineapple, Yuzu Gin, Orgeat almond syrup, lemon, and Yuzu Bitters). Reservations can be made by calling 314-696-2010. 1621 Tower Grove.
Walk down City Foundry’s main drag, and the only evidence you’ll see of None of the Above is a small red light above an industrial door. Once you step inside, the graffiti-lined tunnels might make you think you’ve made a mistake until you arrive at another door and are transported to one of the area’s swankiest establishments. Luxe seating, soft lighting, beautiful woodwork and low ceilings create an intimate atmosphere that is so sexy, the bar had to include a “No hanky-panky” note on its house rules. Innovative cocktails match the moody vibe. 3730 Foundry Way.
From the same family as The Vandy, Webster Groves’ newest cocktail bar has quickly gained a reputation as one of the top spots in town. The cocktails here aren’t to be missed. For a nightcap, try the Riplet Gimlet (with Lifted Bright Gin, ancho verde, demerara syrup, and fresh lime). While the bar doesn’t take reservations, it does employ a waitlist, which you can find here. 8709 Big Bend.
The Webster Groves mainstay is known for its incredible cuisine and wine list, but don’t overlook the well-curated cocktail list. For instance, try #812 (with rye, fernet, and a ginger-fig balsamic shrub). Reservations can be made here. 216 W. Lockwood.
St. Louis’ classic cocktail bar and restaurant is the perfect Valentine’s spot. Whether you’re stopping by for dinner or cocktails, there’s no wrong decision. Try the PH Purgatory (with PH Old Pepper Rye #1, Green Chartreuse, and Benedictine). Or for a more refreshing libation, consider the In a Pickle (with Hendrick’s Gin, Elderflower, Velvet Falernum, Lime, Cucumber, and Dill). Reservations can be made here. 1000 Mississippi.
This relaxed Soulard spot is perfect for dinner and before- or after-dinner cocktails. Start your night with The Overstory (with mezcal, rum, horchata, allspice, and carrot). And for a nightcap, order the Grasshopper (with creme de menthe, creme de cacao, heavy cream, and fernet).1862 S. 10th.
Located inside an old construction office on Vandeventer, the Vandy makes the most of its limited space, with ambient lighting, comfortable seating, and some of the city’s best cocktails. Stop in for the Chocolate Covered Strawberries Espresso Martini (with coco nib-infused rum, chocolate liquor, strawberry-infused contratto rosso, cream liquor, strawberry rhubarb shrub, and mole bitters). If you have six or more in your group, consider a reservation. 1301 S. Vandeventer.
