Photo by Virginia Harold
There are nearly as many varieties of bar as there are types of drinks inside them: dive bars, biker bars, cigar bars, casino bars, college bars, piano bars, topless bars, nightclubs, concert venues… Then, of course, there are the bars at some of the metro region’s top restaurants, where you can find some of the city’s best mixologists. Equally passionate are the people behind the area’s breweries, wineries, and distilleries. In fact, some of the best places to grab a drink are at these cousins to the humble bar—topics that call for entirely separate cover features. But to keep this list tightly curated, we limited this month’s cover feature strictly to traditional drinking establishments, those beyond the aforementioned spots. Cheers!
Photography by Virginia Harold
Planter's House
Cocktail Bars
Where James Bond might order a martini
Virtually every mixology program in town can trace a path back to the tutelage of Planter’s House co-owner Ted Kilgore. Having started the St. Louis cocktail revolution, Kilgore and his staff are consistently the best in town. Stop at the bar to see the next wave of our city’s top mixologists. 1000 Mississippi, 314-696-2603.
Whether your standard is an Old Fashioned or a mojito, Taste is the place for classics done right—and at just $7 all day on Sundays and Mondays. During early and late-night happy hours, Tuesday–Thursday, the pricing is pretty darn classic, too. 4584 Laclede, 314-361-1200.
This members-only cocktail bar gives a hint of what’s to come by naming its cocktails after songs. Don’t miss the savory Fionn Regan–inspired Be Good or Be Gone, a bourbon-based cocktail topped with pumpkin seed oil and sea salt. 1500 St. Charles, 314-241-7263.
When the weather’s perfect and the garage doors are open, there’s no better bar in St. Louis for a romantic night or an evening on the patio with friends. 1634 Tower Grove, 314-932-1088.
A stalwart of the late-night industry crowd, The Famous Bar serves multiple Bloody Mary variations. The bar is a perennial favorite for cocktails in a low-key atmosphere. 5213 Chippewa, 314-832-2211.
Photography by Corey Woodruff
A sampling of dishes from Dressel's Public House
Foodie Bars
Though the focus is on drinks, the dishes are equally notable.
Standards include Reubens, burgers, and salads, but you’ll also find such genre-busting surprises as pork belly poutine, flash-fried cauliflower, and a toasted cheese sandwich perfumed with truffle oil. The pretzel and beer cheese rarebit dip is justly celebrated. The biscuit and gravy with eggs and bacon Morning After Breakfast is the ultimate restorative for the night before. 419 N. Euclid, 314-361-1060.
From the owners of The Block, the Town & Country restaurant serves dishes with a combination of intriguing ingredients. Sides, such as garlic herb fries and beef fat-roasted potatoes, go grandly with dry-aged steaks. 13360 Clayton, 314-530-9700.
Such specialties as the pulled pork Monte Cristo and deep-fried deviled eggs are attractive draws, but the weekend Metal Brunch—offering biscuits and gravy, as well as chicken and waffles—is must-try dining. Dr. Dan the Pancake Man’s syrup-slathered creations are the tastiest artwork in town. 7336 Manchester, 314-781-0989.
Brian Hardesty, who opened 9 Mile Garden, has opened another family-friendly site, with 25 trucks rotating for lunch and dinner. The namesake was community fixture Frankie Martin, known for his charitable nature and fun personality. His home has been transformed into a whiskey and wine bar. 5372 St. Charles, 636-244-2420.
The cozy bar and café is situated inside a bike shop. Choose from a 30 local microbrews, locally crafted sodas, and sandwiches. Consider the best-selling NaanYaBidness, a chicken bacon pesto flatbread. 201 E. State, O’Fallon, Illinois, 618-622-1693.
Don’t be fooled by the cozy-kitsch vibe or the reputation for outstanding cocktails. The menu offers shrimp and grits, fish tacos, and a devil’s food cake “Boozy Q” that make for a lovely midday repast. The patio’s fire pit is a magnet for convivial fun. 3132 S. Kingshighway, 314-772-3600.
The smoker works overtime at Southtown Pub, turning out succulent wings, ribs, and pork (steaks and pulled). Add smack-your-lips smoked chicken, turkey, sausages, meatloaf, and righteous portobellos. Hotheads, pop a few Atomic Turds (smoked jalapeños stuffed with chorizo and cream cheese) or fork down some Angry Beans (a sweet scorcher). 3707 S. Kingshighway, 314-832-9009.
There’s a reason that Three Kings recently has been able to expand its empire across the metro region: a timeless mix of great food and quality beer. Start with the award-winning breaded wings or the Captain Crunch Shrimp before biting into the Pogue Mahone or Korean burger. Wash it all down with one (or two) brews from the ever-changing beer menu. 6307 Delmar, 314-721-3388; 11925 Manchester, 314-858-1067; 40 Ronnie's Plaza, 314-293-3614.
O’Connell’s Pub & The Village Bar
Some of the best burgers in town can be found at St. Louis’ most iconic bars. The last bar to leave Gaslight Square, O’Connell’s Pub is legendary for its cooked-to-perfection beef. And The Village Bar, which expanded in recent years, serves up a magnificent double cheeseburger. 4652 Shaw, 314-773-6600; 12247 Manchester, 314-821-4532.
Photography by Kevin A. Roberts
Sports Bars
Where to watch the game with friends, plenty of TVs, and a bucket of beers
Of all the St. Louis sports haunts, you’d be hard pressed to find one with a better combo of solid bar food and game variety. Come football season, both locations cater to the fantasy league set, with myriad screens to guarantee that no one misses a minute of the action. 7372 Manchester, 314-645-1109; 763 Old Ballas, 314-736-1205.
Jim and Joe O’Brien have made this Brentwood bar a favorite for sports fans. That familiar-looking guy at the corner of the bar? He’s worth a double-take—Blues alumni are among the regulars. 1921 S. Brentwood, 314-961-8900.
With no shortage of sports memorabilia and plasma TVs, the Ladue staple is a great place for a watch party with above-average bites and beers. 9906 Clayton, 314-994-0055.
Sometimes catching the game is all about location. Downtown, you can’t beat Over/Under. Among the draws: a massive projection screen and a welcoming outdoor patio. 911 Washington, 314-621-8881.
Look up “corner bar,” and you might find a picture of Friendly’s. Between innings, try your hand at shuffleboard table or bags. 3503 Roger Place, 314-771-2040.
Pool, darts, wings… The Sports Page is the epitome of a sports bar and a gathering place for Chesterfield fans. On weekdays, happy hour runs till 7 p.m. 13431 Olive, 314-434-4115.
Photography by Kevin A. Roberts
John D. McGurk’s Irish Pub & Garden
Irish Bars
Where to grab a Guinness and toast to the Emerald Isle
John D. McGurk’s Irish Pub & Garden
After more than four decades, McGurk’s is arguably the name that most St. Louisans free-associate with “Irish pub.” The meandering interior looks like four or five pubs at once, all authentic enough to be direct transplants from the Emerald Isle (except for those patrons eating toasted ravioli.) And the music! Reels, jigs, hornpipes, and mournful ballads ring out seven nights a week. 1200 Russell, 314-776-8309.
If you sense a blue mist, it’s because one of the owners is Mama’s Pride rocker Danny Liston. Burgers are cooked to order, and you’ll find some of the best wings in town. 1208 Tamm, 314-645-6337.
The Dogtown bar recently turned 75, making it one of the metro area’s oldest continuously operating bars. The fried chicken is regarded as some of the best in town, but don’t miss the fried chicken livers and gizzards. 6400 Oakland, 314-647-7287.
If you’re into a lively atmosphere and live music, Helen’s has one of the best stage setups around. And in case you’re wondering, the Shark Bites are on the Irish pub’s menu because Helen’s is part of the Syberg’s empire. 3650 S. Lindbergh, 314-984-0026.
Maggie O’Brien’s Restaurant & Irish Pub
Completely unpretentious, Maggie’s is a pub, pure and simple. It might just have the largest selection of old-school (Busch, Bud, Michelob) Anheuser-Busch products in town, but it also offers a decent list of craft beers. 2000 Market, 314-421-1388.
What began as a Welsh pub in the CWE in the ’70s has since expanded in myriad ways: It now encompasses Irish and Scottish selections (making it a Celtic pub), and there are nine locations, stretching from Overland Park, Kansas, to Soulard. See website for locations.
Located at Arsenal and Arkansas in South City, the popular corner bar is just a block from South Grand's bustling dining district. Those looking for a quality slice of St. Louis–style pizza, perfect with a pint of Guinness, needn't leave the pub. (And consider going back on Monday or Tuesday, when pizzas are half price.) 3458 Arsenal, 314-664-7474.
This St. Paddy's Day, the beloved 3 a.m. bar will host an all-you-can-eat breakfast, beginning at 8 a.m. The buffet includes green eggs and ham, corned beef hash, pancakes, biscuits 'n gravy, and French toast. Town Drunks, Steve Ewing of the Urge, and the Sneaker Bombs will provide live music throughout the day. 6001 Manchester, 314-781-7806.
Photography by Virginia Harold
33 Wine Shop & Bar
Wine Bars
Where to sip some vino and unwind
Evenings are special here. Dim lighting and a relaxed atmosphere combine with a grand wine list to make 33 a local standout for oenophiles. The service, informed and low-key, adds to the charm. Same goes for the brick-walled patio hidden out back, quintessential Lafayette Park. 1913 Park, 314-231-9463.
A French eatery inside a French restaurant sounds like Pruneaux d’Agen—“prune-stuffed prunes”—but this agreeable space is a perfect partner to Brasserie by Niche: a spot for a leisurely drink, a quick snack, or a meet-up place. A cheese plate with wine is entirely civilized. 4584 Laclede, 314-361-1200.
It’s St. Louis’ closest place to a real tapas establishment—the place for wine flights paired with inventive small courses. In Webster Groves, the fire pit patio stirs conversation; downtown, floor-to-ceiling windows add elegance. The three-course prix-fixe dinner is a lovely deal at either location. 227 W. Lockwood, 314-963-0033; 635 Washington, 314-287-6300.
Sasha’s Wine Bar & Scarlett’s Wine Bar
Sasha’s two locations both generate a homey neighborhood atmosphere in which an appetite for wine-paired noshing is happily accommodated. Scarlett’s has a more restaurant-like vibe. Both sport noteworthy wine lists and clever décor. 706 DeMun, 314-863-7274; 4069 Shaw, 314-771-7274; 4253 Laclede, 314-797-8223.
Wine Bar/American. It’s really dedicated to the art of ‘sippin,’ featuring a menu of organic wines with minimal preservatives and distinctive flavors. Add some draft beers, cocktails, and a piano, and you’ve got the fixin’s for an entertaining evening. 2926 Cherokee.
Don’t be distracted by the romantic setting on St. Charles’ historic Main Street—especially the back patio. The fare is first-class: think seasonal risottos paired with some entertaining wines. With happy hour wine and tapas specials, it’s a nice respite from the neighborhood’s tourist bustle. 325 S. Main, St. Charles, 636-724-3434.
From the nudes and Disney bathroom art to the spy novels, this place in the Central West End satisfies wine bar–weirdness needs. The quirky West Coast bar atmosphere is accompanied by a fine wine list and outstanding cocktails. (Consider having food delivered from a nearby eatery.) 239 N. Euclid, 314-677-7214.
Cozy Bars
Where to spend an evening enjoying drinks and conversation
If you’re wanting someplace romantic, look no further. Overstuffed chairs, a real fireplace, the atmosphere of a small room in a big English country house… All it lacks is Mr. Carson, the butler, but the friendly bartenders will handle things well. 6300 Clayton, 314-647-7300.
The dark, welcoming confines always hint at mist over the heath. The guys in kilts don’t act like they’re wearing costumes, either. The Victorian-but-not-twee place is easygoing and quiet at midday and serves up an interesting menu. 8 S. Sarah, 314-535-0551.
Sophie’s Artist Lounge & Cocktail Club
It’s Sophie’s, not Sardi’s. Located on the second floor of the .ZACK building, it’s meant to be a hangout for the local arts community. With a deeply casual insider vibe, it’s far from dive-ish, and it offers an outdoor area to boot. 3224 Locust, 314-776-9551.
The Ritz-Carlton’s Lobby Lounge
It isn’t exactly small, but it’s a great place for a quiet conversation over cocktails or perhaps just glasses of sherry. All of that carpeting and the low noise level make for an intimate feeling indeed. 100 Carondelet Plaza, 314-863-6300.
The basement location and wondrous Art Deco style make this downtown spot feel under the radar. And the limited hours, alley entrance, and website-obtained password are all worth the bother, especially when there’s live music. 1009 Olive.
Photography by Kevin A. Roberts
The Side Project Cellar
Beer Bars
Where to order a craft brew, beyond our myriad microbreweries
What separates Side Project from all other beer bars is the attention to detail. It’s the little things—lambic baskets (designed to keep the yeast at the bottom of the bottle and out of your glass), imported Spiegelau glassware, beers served at the proper temperatures—that make the Maplewood spot a world-class beer bar. 7373 Marietta, 314-224-5211.
We’ve all been there: We walk into our favorite beer store and are overwhelmed by the diversity of beers. Luckily, the International Tap House’s knowledgeable bartenders have you covered. Each of the 300-plus bottles is available not only to enjoy in house but also to go. See website for locations.
As you make your way into the basement of the Moulin complex (home to Vin de Set and PW Pizza), you’ll find one of St. Louis’ most interesting bars. Living up to the “Brewers Bar” moniker, the establishment focuses on serving local brews, right down to the portraits of local brewers on the walls. 2017 Chouteau, 314-241-6969.
Ever wanted to live out your bartender fantasies but didn’t think you had the chops? At Tapped, it’s as simple as getting a wristband. Choose from 39 self-serve beers, along with eight wines and one coffee. Not sure you want a whole pint of a particular beer? Pour yourself a sample instead. 7278 Manchester, 314-899-0011.
Beer options abound at Global Brew, with a long row of taps and myriad bottles. Can’t decide? Sample a variety of options: five 5-ounce pours. There’s no kitchen, but you can order from a nearby restaurant. And look for special events: At the Rock Hill location, for instance, trivia’s on Tuesdays, and bingo's on Thursdays. See website for locations.
Whereas many beer bars try to project a polished air, The Heavy Anchor revels in its dive bar status. Not only are there plenty of craft options; you’ll also find more affordable brews, such as Stag and PBR, that even the most ardent craft aficionado might occasionally enjoy. 5226 Gravois, 314-352-5226.
Photography by Kevin A. Roberts
Fast Eddie's Bon Air
Bars With Unique Atmospheres
Where the scenery's as much of a draw as the drinks
There’s only one. This renowned saloon is a must for both locals and visitors, serving up cheap food (cash only) and live music (daily). Order a Big Elwood on a Stick, a dozen Peel ’n’ Eat Shrimp, a half-pound Fast Eddie Burger, and a cold frosty one, then find a spot on the always-jumping patio. 1530 E. 4th, Alton, 618-462-5532.
Beatnik décor and local bands afford an energy that veers between bohemian and block party. Go early for a drink (the beer is cold and fairly priced), conversation, and endless tchotchke hunts. It’s often packed and lively; consider the balcony for a slightly quieter spot from which to survey the fun. 1903 Pestalozzi, 314-772-5994.
Sure, there’s a stripper pole and a tattoo parlor upstairs, but you can still bring Grandma. Less Sons of Anarchy and more “Cousins of Carousal,” it’s a rollicking good time where biker chic and hometown bar meet. 1432 N. Broadway, 314-241-4644.
Rooftop Bar at the Moonrise Hotel
With its retro vibe and pastel colors, it’s Miami Beach–meets–hipster heaven. The views are fabulous. It’s spacious and comfortable, with a full bar. In other words, it’s ideal for a warm evening; sip a cocktail as you watch the moon rise and feel your stress level fall. 6177 Delmar, 314-721-1111.
Owner Bill Christman is the ultimate curator of bar décor. His club/clubhouse, open most Thursdays and the occasional Sunday, is a testament to his skills as a woodworker, sign maker, and painter. 6014 Kingsbury.
The Grand Hall at Union Station
One could argue it’s not technically a bar—though a bar serving train-inspired libations does run nearly the entire length of the space. And what a space it is, with its opulent archway, replete with a stunning 3D light show. Grand, indeed. 1820 Market, 314-621-5262.
Photo by Kevin A. Roberts
Tin Roof
More Great Spots For a Drink
Trivia, late-night spots, new music venues, and more
Metro East
Stagger Inn Again: The linchpin of Edwardsville’s nightlife scene offers nightly live music, solid pub fare, and a great beer list. 104 E. Vandalia, Edwardsville, 618-656-4221.
Mike’s Ten Pin Lounge: Few bars in town convey the dive feeling as well as Mike’s, which resembles 1977 as much as it does 2017. Live music and an active billiards table make the scene. 18 E. Broadway, Alton, 618-465-6565.
Sloan’s Pub House: On nice days, Sloan’s rolls up a garage door, offering a cool indoor/outdoor vibe. The kitchen’s got game, and the beer selection is quite robust. 119 W. Main, Collinsville, 618-855-9100.
Foundry Public House: This year-old spot is home to a large bar with an expansive vodka selection and an impressive menu. 126 N. Main, Edwardsville, 618-307-9585.
Danny’s Lounge: The ultimate dive bar, Danny’s is a slender, funky slice of nightlife. 118 W. 4th, Alton, 618-432-6787.
Mac’s: This low-key downtown hangout is a restaurant, bar, and off-track betting parlor—all in one. 315 Belle, Alton, 618-465-1006.
The Specialists
Some bars try to do it all, while these bars narrow their focus.
Following a dramatic overhaul, courtesy of Bar Rescue, Crafted served pressed cocktails—drinks made with a French press. Gin is the spirit of choice at The Gin Room, located in the front room at Café Natasha’s. And Retreat Gastropub’s Tim Wiggins can whip up a mean shrub cocktail. (Wiggins also co-owns both Yellowbelly and Lazy Tiger in the Central West End—two more great spots for craft cocktails.)
Music Bars
Nashville-based Tin Roof and locally owned The Dark Room serve different styles of chef-driven fare and daily music. Expect elevated pub grub and rock/country music at the former and cross-cultural cuisine with jazz at the latter.
See-and-Be-Seen Bar
Patio tables often extend to the curb at Bar Napoli, Clayton’s toniest watering hole. The back bar is noticeably quieter than the main room, where bartender Han Tran serves up his specialty, the Han Bomb, a simultaneous implosion and explosion containing liqueurs and Red Bull.
Late-Night Bars
Spots open till 3 a.m.—and beyond
Par Lounge is the perfect spot for drinks after a movie at Hi-Pointe Theater. Illinois bars often do last call at 2 a.m., but Pop’s, in Sauget, is open 24/7—the ultimate late-night bar.
Beer Bar–Meets–Wine Bar
A venerable favorite, Bridge Tap House & Wine Bar has all the ingredients: a cool atmosphere, a novella’s worth of fine wine and beers, and exceptional food. It’s a downtown institution.
Karaoke Bars
Where to pretend you’re on The Voice
The name tells the tale: Karaoke is the main attraction at Double D Karaoke in Brentwood, which hosts music every night it’s open (9 p.m.–close Monday and Tuesday, 8 p.m.–close Wednesday–Saturday). Carson’s Sports Bar & Restaurant, in Soulard, hosts karaoke five nights a week, Wednesday–Sunday. Take one step inside W Karaoke Lounge, St. Louis' first large-scale karaoke lounge, and you’ll feel like you’ve been teleported to Sin City. (It's actually in U. City.) The high-style, private room concept is common in Southeast Asia, though it's still new to the east and west U.S. coasts—and completely new in the Midwest.
Best Bar Games
Dating back to 1875, The Corner Bar, in downtown St. Charles, is among the last bars on earth to have its own three-pin cocked hat bowling alley. If bocce’s more your thing, make a beeline to Milo’s Bocce Garden on The Hill, a favorite gathering place for local movers and shakers. Westport Social houses live music, shuffleboard, foosball, giant kickball-pool, hoops, darts, ping-pong, huge TVs, sleek lounges, a full kitchen, and an even fuller bar. It’s an entertainment gathering spot for fun, long lunches.
Carondelet
The most under-the-radar bar neighborhood
Soulard gets all the glory, but head farther south in the city for a mix of watering holes. Bar:PM hosts drag shows; Hummel’s Pub has karaoke. The Off-Track Saloon’s sociable bartenders serve daily food specials and weekend breakfast. Freight trains rattle and roll beside Tesson Station. And Red’s Eighth Inning is chockablock with firefighting memorabilia.
VIA FLICKR/QUINN DOMBROWSKI
Bar Crawls
Neighborhoods with no shortage of watering holes
CHEROKEE STREET
Yaquis: Fine wines, cold craft beers, and sophisticated cocktails meet wood-fired pies. 2728 Cherokee.
The B-Side: Live music—and the bathroom’s disco lighting is perfect for a selfie. 2709 Cherokee.
The Whiskey Ring: The whiskey selection and street-side seating make this bar a popular postshow favorite for area musicians and fans. 2651 Cherokee.
The Fortune Teller Bar: Maybe the only local place you can enjoy handcrafted house cocktails, $3 Stag pints, and tarot readings. 2635 Cherokee.
THE GROVE
The U.R.B.: Located across from Urban Chestnut’s primary brewery, the Urban Research Brewery serves pizza and short-run beers. 4501 Manchester.
The Gramophone: The former music venue, now with daytime hours, focuses on sandwiches and drinks. 4243 Manchester.
Taha’a Twisted Tiki: It recalls the tiki-and-coconuts fad with aplomb. 4199 Manchester.
HandleBar: This cycle-themed bar serves Russian food—and becomes a dance club at night. 4127 Manchester.
Just John: With karaoke, bingo, trivia, and show tunes, every night feels different. Don’t miss the patio, among the city’s best. 4112 Manchester.
MORGANFORD
City Park Grill: From pricey signature cocktails to $2 cans of Hamm’s, the street’s newest addition holds its own. 3157 Morganford.
Amsterdam Tavern: Enjoy futbol memorabilia inside and an enclosed patio outside this soccer fan favorite. 3175 Morganford.
Tower Pub: This spot offers a large patio, perpetual drink specials, and free popcorn. 3234 Morganford.
Stella Blues: The “home of the deal” serves affordable pub fare and daily drink specials. 3269 Morganford.
Bootleggin' Bob’s: With new owners at the helm (the crew behind Bootleggin' BBQ), the bar formerly known as Colorado Bob's Ship of Fools recently rebranded. 3457 Morganford.
SOULARD
Nadine’s Gin Joint: Open at 9 a.m. on weekends, the bar hosts the occasional drag show, DJ, and live music. 1931 S. 12th.
Cat’s Meow: This classic dive bar draws regulars who appreciate the cheap beer and laid-back atmosphere. 2600 S. 11th.
Bastille: Enjoy friendly service, heavy pours, and a game of billiards. 1027 Russell.
Big Daddy’s: This popular pre- and postgame hangout has a sprawling patio and generous happy hour specials. 1000 Sidney.
Hammerstones: Open early and late, Hammerstones is a hangout for all shifts, with a pub-style menu and nightly music. 2028 S. Ninth.
1860's Saloon: A bit of a throwback, 1860s is “a shot, a Bud”–type joint, with live blues nightly and multiple rooms. This is a saloon, after all. 1860 S. Ninth.
Molly’s: Go on Mondays if you’re in the industry, Wednesdays if you love beer pong, and Saturdays for live music. 816 Geyer.
Pieces: Pay $5 to play any of 650-plus games, and reduce the cost by $1 every time you order a dish or drink. 1535 S. Eighth.
STADIUM SIDE
Tin Roof: This “live music joint” combines Southern flair and hospitality. 1000 Clark.
Wheelhouse & Start Bar: Wheelhouse is a restaurant, sports bar, and nightclub. Next door, at Start Bar, it’s all fun and games—about 75 of them. 1000 Spruce.
Paddy O’s: The BBQ Madman menu features more than 35 items for less than $5. 618 S. Seventh.
Kilroy’s: This auto body shop–turned–bar is open on game days, with a post-game DJ. 720 S. Seventh.
Three Sixty: Peer into Busch Stadium from 400 feet up. 1 S. Broadway.
Ballpark Village: Watch sports on 12,000-plus square feet of HDTVs, stroll the Cardinals Hall of Fame, and enjoy a range of pregame festivities. 601 Clark.
Broadway Oyster Bar: A taste of New Orleans, BOB offers live music twice a day in a funky, laid-back atmosphere. 736 S. Broadway.
