The Grand Hall · Union Station
It’s been called the most beautiful room in the nation. We can go along with that, especially while sipping a cocktail. At night, there’s an hourly sound-and-light show—a don’t-miss for visitors, butSt. Louisans have no excuse, either.1820 Market.
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Rooftop Terrace Bar · Moonrise Hotel
Of course the rooftop bar is laid-back, for all its Miami Beach style; this is, after all, The Loop. There are nice nibbles to go with the view. And no matter what phase the moon is in, it’s always full at the Moonrise. 6177 Delmar.
Lobby Lounge · The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis
Civilized, calm, and with a sushi chef on hand, the lounge is a fine place for a long, comfortable conversation. It serves lunch, too, and there’s music on weekend evenings. 100 Carondelet Plaza.
King Cat Club · Ameristar St. Charles
It could be a lounge in a swanky 1950s transatlantic ocean liner. Surprisingly quiet during the week, it’s free of cigarette odor unless there are smokers, a rare and valuable trait. 1 Ameristar.
Molly Darcy’s Irish Pub · Seven Gables Inn
Molly Darcy’s does indeed feel like an Irish pub, although better lit. What’s truly remarkable is that on a Friday afternoon, there’s no suspender-and-longneck crowd, and conversation is possible. On a nice day, don’t forget about the patio in back. 26 N. Meramec.
Pearl’s Oyster Bar · Ameristar St. Charles
The oyster bar feels like a roadhouse’s porch attached to Bottleneck Blues Bar. Like a roadhouse, it’s closed early in the week, so pay attention to the calendar when you get the itch for gumbo or redfish. 1 Ameristar.
Fox & Hounds · The Cheshire
It feels unchanged over the decades—a little more luxe than a real pub but otherwise authentic. A nice fireplace and a menu with such items as lamb sliders keep folks coming back. 6300 Clayton.
Sevens · Casino Queen
With plenty of TVs, as well as fried appetizers, sandwiches, and pizza, Sevens offers the prototypical sports bar experience. Catch the shuttle during Cardinals and Blues games and sample the signature crispy wings tossed in Buffalo, spicy orange, or honey barbecue sauce. 200 S. Front, East St. Louis, Illinois.
Brewhouse Historical Sports Bar · Hyatt-Regency St. Louis at the Arch
TVs and sports photos fill this sports bar. Fans fill the place before and after (and instead of) the game. 315 Chestnut.
Wet Willie’s · Lumiére Place Casino
The counter faces a long line of pastel-fronted slushy machines, nearly all infused with booze. Sampling is allowed—within reason. 999 N. 2nd.
