Perfectly situated in the vibrant and walkable downtown Clayton area, High Bar Clayton brings industrial-chic vibes and a fresh take on rooftop dining to the city.

Located on the 11th floor above the AC Hotel by Marriott St. Louis Clayton at 227 S. Central Ave., this elevated spot offers sweeping views of downtown Clayton and a dynamic blend of innovative cuisine, craft cocktails and an ambiance perfect for both casual gatherings and special moments.

The menu at High Bar is a modern twist on American-style tapas with plenty of shareable plates. Highlights include the hangar steak with fries and house steak sauce, pesto rigatoni, and the baked ricotta paired with honey, fig and pistachio. Signature items like truffle fries, seared tuna stacks, and flatbreads ensure there’s something for every palate. The drink menu is a balanced mix of robust cocktails, wine and beer to complement the cuisine. It’s described as “everything you need and nothing you don’t,” by Food & Beverage Operations Manager Chelsey Golbert.

The space itself exudes a polished yet welcoming charm. With seating for up to 120 guests, including 34 bar seats and an enclosed patio, the design fuses dark metals, reclaimed barn wood, warm brick and cognac leather for a sophisticated but approachable feel. The centerpiece is the indoor/outdoor bar, featuring open shelving that provides clear views of the skyline. Guests can relax in soft club chairs or gather at low bar tables lining the balcony for a picturesque view of the cityscape.

High Bar Clayton pays homage to the high standards of Clayton’s business professionals, drawing inspiration from the legal profession’s dedication and achievement. It stands as a symbol of excellence, reflected in every detail, from the design to the service.

Special events like Wine Down Wednesdays invite guests to indulge in half-priced bottles and glasses of wine, offering a midweek escape with elegance. While there’s no live entertainment yet, the venue’s playlist leans into ’90s rhythm and blues and top hits, creating a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere.

Open seven nights a week, High Bar Clayton operates from 4 to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and extends to midnight on Friday and Saturday.

Whether for happy hour, client meetings or an intimate evening with friends, High Bar Clayton raises the standard for rooftop dining, delivering meaningful connections and unforgettable moments.

The post High Bar Clayton: first look at the new rooftop destination appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.

Matt and Jess Longueville, the dynamic duo behind STL Barkeep, are bringing their signature approach to hospitality to Webster Groves with the opening of Off Elm on Friday, Nov. 29. Located at 8709 Big Bend Blvd., this new cocktail bar is the second brick-and-mortar venture for the pair, following the success of The Vandy just outside the Grove in Forest Park Southeast.

Off Elm blends sophistication with approachability, offering guests a cozy yet refined space to unwind. Designed by Brian Leenig, the interior combines the charm of Webster Groves with mid-century modern influences, featuring seating for 16 at the bar, 20 at low-top tables, and an additional 16 at two communal tables in the near future. The result is an intimate yet inviting environment perfect for connecting with friends or enjoying a quality drink by yourself.

Beverage director Pat Gioia, who brings years of expertise from his time at The Block and The Vandy, has curated a menu of classic and specialty cocktails crafted with premium ingredients. From timeless favorites to innovative seasonal creations, every drink is meticulously prepared to delight cocktail enthusiasts and casual sippers alike.

The food menu, designed to pair seamlessly with the bar’s offerings, leans into top-quality seafood, with highlights like tinned fish, creamy dips, charcuterie boards and other seasonal small bites. The menu is intentionally crafted to elevate the cocktail experience, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

“As our company grows, we are excited to expand into Webster Groves,” said Matt Longueville. “We are excited to be in the neighborhood. Everyone has been very welcoming.”

Off Elm is poised to become a neighborhood favorite for pre- and post-dinner drinks, offering an upscale yet relaxed vibe that feels right at home in Webster Groves. Starting Nov. 29, Off Elm will be open from 4 to 11 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 4 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. Happy Hour will be Tuesday to Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. and will feature a separate cocktail menu that’ll feature classic cocktails. Guests are encouraged to use the waitlist via Toast.

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The third St. Louis-area Bartolino’s restaurant opened in late October at 1304 Big Bend Road in Twin Oaks by the Saracino family, offering Italian dining that feels like home. With roots firmly planted by their parents’ philosophy – “Cook good food and give plenty. Basta!” – Bartolino’s Twin Oaks delivers a welcoming and generous experience. 

The new restaurant serves up beloved Italian classics alongside fresh seafood and prime meats. This menu is slightly different from Bartolino’s South & Bartolino’s Osteria, with dinner currently available and plans to roll out lunch service in the near future. Guests rave about the fried calamari with flash-fried spinach, while entrées like chicken Michael and cavatelli alla vodka with the signature pink sauce never disappoint. The full bar features carefully crafted cocktails, highlighted by Michael’s Smoked Manhattan and an espresso martini perfect for a nightcap. Wine lovers can explore the expanded wine selection housed in the dedicated wine room. 

Spanning around 6,600 square feet with seating for up to 250 guests, the space harmonizes modern and timeless design. Rich blue and gold accents, white stone tables, and a lively bar set the scene for an upbeat atmosphere. They will have live music on the weekends in the bar area, adding even more energy to the space.

Hours are currently 4 to 10 p.m. daily with lunch service to be added soon. Follow them on Instagram @bartolinos_stl for updates.

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The post Buddy’s Wine Bar & Bistro: first look at the new spot in downtown St. Louis appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.

Buddy’s Wine Bar & Bistro opened at 1001 Washington Ave., the former home of Farina’s, in downtown St. Louis in mid-October. With 15 years in hospitality, Corey James brings experience from iconic spots like Naughty Bits STL Sexy Waffles and Bella’s FROYO, while Julian Engles, known for Waco Taco and MacShak, adds his own flair. Together, the co-owners have created a space where intention meets innovation.

At Buddy’s, expect a mix of comfort and creativity with shareables and small plates that suit every palate. The Signature Tower is the perfect item to order for a small group of friends as it includes chefs charcuterie board, four tacos and three sliders. From lighter bites to indulgent options, the food menu keeps things fun and approachable while delivering on flavor.

With wines curated in partnership with Bommarito Wines and Spirits, Buddy’s caters to every wine lover, from casual tasters to enthusiasts. Signature cocktails are crafted with stories and experiences in mind, with highlights like The Rabbit Hole, a citrus-forward drink that changes flavors with every sip (also available as a mocktail). For non-alcoholic options, guests can enjoy an incredible NA Riesling alongside other unique offerings.

Amid over 3,500 square feet, Buddy’s offers multiple seating areas for up to 120 guests to match any mood. Whether you’re in for a romantic date night, a solo hang at the bar, looking to watch a black and white film, or a lively evening with friends, Buddy’s versatile setup has something for everyone. Live music fills the space every Wednesday, and Thursday brings the fun of team trivia, making Buddy’s a go-to spot in downtown St. Louis for mid-week excitement.

Buddy’s fills a void in the downtown scene, with every detail crafted intentionally for a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. The décor strikes a balance between comfort and style, creating an inviting setting that feels like home to St. Louis locals.

Buddy’s offers all-day happy hour pricing, featuring house reds, whites, premium cocktails, and select snacks, all for just $8 each. Plus, with the local rewards program, you earn $5 back for every $50 spent.

Buddy’s is open from 4 to 10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 4 to 11 p.m. Friday, and 2 to 11 p.m. Saturday. For updates, follow Buddy’s Wine Bar & Bistro on Instagram at @buddyswinebar.

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