We may not always realize how lucky we are in St. Louis. We live in a top-notch culinary city with award-winning chefs, along with one of the best bar scenes around. Talented bartenders are crafting some of the most innovative cocktails anywhere, and sometimes you’ll even find both under the same roof. Here are six standout bars that have opened in the past year.

Bemiston Cocktail Club
Bemiston Cocktail Club originally opened in 2019 but closed during the pandemic. It reopened less than a year ago, earning its place among the city’s newest bars. Located in Clayton just steps from sister bar Louie’s Wine Dive, guests enter through a large wooden door marked with a “B,” walk a long hallway and turn the corner into a stylish, tucked-away cocktail bar.

Bar manager and mixologist Trisha Wilson brings passion and creativity to her drinks. House specialties include Rosemary’s Garden – gin, lemon juice, rosemary simple and rosewater liqueur – and the Jalisco Stinger with blanco tequila, orange liqueur, habanero bitters and citrus. Classics get a twist too, like the bacon-washed Old-Fashioned. Bemiston shares its kitchen with Louie’s, so many menu favorites are available alongside the cocktails.
14 S. Bemiston Ave., Clayton, bemistoncocktailbar.com

Keep Quiet
After launching Little Lager in South City, a beer bar specializing in lagers, Manny Negron shifted his focus to creating a speakeasy-style cocktail bar called Keep Quiet. Tucked behind the patio of Urban Chestnut’s Midtown location, it offers the rare chance to visit a bar within a bar. Although the two concepts collaborate, they operate as distinct entities.

Keep Quiet serves a rotating cocktail menu that changes monthly, alongside a short list of beers, ciders and NA options. Classics like the Manhattan, gimlet, martini and margarita are always available. For something whimsical, try the Boozy Bears – house-made gummy bear cocktails based on actual drink recipes.
The bar is only open on Friday and Saturday nights with seating for about 30 guests. If you see the red light glowing at the entrance, step inside for an intimate evening of inventive cocktails.
3229 Washington Ave., St. Louis, keepquietstl.com

Off Elm
Webster Groves has quickly become one of St. Louis’ most exciting dining neighborhoods, and among its standouts is Off Elm, a cocktail and bourbon bar with a neighborhood feel.

From the team behind STL Barkeep and The Vandy, Off Elm offers creative drinks such as Rind Beneath My Wings – cantaloupe-infused bourbon with toasted simple and tiki bitters – and the Ibiza Sunset with a blend of gins, pineapple, pineapple amaro, orgeat and citrus. The menu lists about 30 cocktails including several NA options, plus beer and wine.

Off Elm also boasts an extensive bourbon and whiskey selection, from local distilleries like Still 630 and Switchgrass Spirits to Japanese and Scotch varieties, as well as a limited stock of single-barrel bourbons available for purchase by the bottle.

The small food menu includes Union Loafers bagel pizzas, jalapeño popper dip, Red Hot Riplet pimento dip and meat and cheese boards. For parties, the Off Elm at Home program provides cocktails and bartenders for events – or pre-batched drinks for DIY gatherings.
8709 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, offelmstl.com

No Ordinary Rabbit
When Ben Poremba moved his restaurants out of Botanical Heights, it left a noticeable gap in the neighborhood’s bar scene. No Ordinary Rabbit quickly stepped in to fill it, taking over the former Nixta space with inventive cocktails and an equally imaginative food menu.

Most drinks change with the seasons, but standbys like Lillian’s Revenge – made with Plantation pineapple rum, yuzu gin, lemon, orgeat and bitters – and the Jungle Bird – Hamilton Estate black rum, Campari, pineapple, simple syrup and lime – have been on since day one.

Bright, citrusy cocktails pair seamlessly with the Eastern Mediterranean–inspired food, which includes spreads, dips, snacks, shareable plates and desserts. Like the drinks, the menu rotates seasonally, though favorites such as za’atar onion rings with caramelized onion labneh and Aleppo pepper and honey roasted cashews remain constants.
1621 Tower Grove Ave., St. Louis, noordinaryrabbitstl.com

Silk Road Lounge
Located in the heart of the Central West End, Silk Road Lounge offers expertly crafted cocktails and excellent service. As the sister bar to Pagan Wine Bar, it shares a similarly dark and welcoming atmosphere, and with its dim lighting and deliberately unmarked entrance, it has the feel of a classic speakeasy.

The ambiance is one thing, but the cocktails are the real draw. The menu lists more than 20 drinks covering nearly every base spirit. The Quiet Man is made with rye whiskey, bourbon, Drambuie and maraschino cherry liqueur – spirit-forward with notes of anise, a hint of smoke from the Drambuie and a slightly sweet finish from the cherry. For something softer, the Pink Squirrel, made with crème de noyaux, white crème de cacao and cream, tastes like a chocolate-covered cherry. Silk Road Lounge is an ideal spot for a special occasion, a first date or an evening out with close friends.
243 N. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, Instagram: @silkroadloungestl

Bill Moran is the creator of Instagram account @st.louis_taverns, where Moran anonymously reviews bars throughout the St. Louis area. He created the account in March 2021 after seeing many of his favorite bars struggling through pandemic restrictions. It has since evolved into a fun pastime of exploring the many neighborhoods in and around St. Louis.

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We’ve seen some great bars open in St. Louis over the past year, ranging from swanky dives to high-end speakeasies and a Midtown brewery. We have a beer bar that focuses on lagers, a cocktail bar that serves great burgers, an Asian fusion bar serving some of the best cocktails in Soulard, and even a lock and key shop slinging drinks every Thursday night. These are seven of the best new openings of the last 12 months.

Blue Jay Brewing Co.
Blue Jay Brewing Co. opened in January and joined Urban Chestnut’s Midtown location, Wellspent Brewing and Schlafly Tap Room to make this part of the city a destination for beer lovers. Jason and Nicole Thompson’s lager-centric brewery carries eight beers on tap along with a small selection of wine, ciders and NA options. The beer selection includes four consistent offerings and four on rotation, with all eight brewed in-house. Their Marzen, named Therese, is highly recommended, but you can’t go wrong with anything here. When the weather is good, the shared biergarten is a perfect space for friends to gather, while Blue Jay is a convenient, three-block walk from CityPark, making the bar a perfect pregame option for soccer fans. Farm Spirit is now running the kitchen, offering smash burgers, a schnitzel sandwich, a vegetarian mushroom and Swiss melt on Union Loafers sourdough, sides like crispy potatoes with chive salsa verde, and snacks like tempura vegetables.
2710 Locust St., St. Louis, bluejaybrewing.com

Good Company
If you frequent local cocktail bars, you’ll probably be familiar with Good Ice’s perfectly formed, perfectly clear custom ice cubes. The Good Ice team brings the same passion to this Grove cocktail bar, which offers handcrafted cocktails created with premium spirits, fresh juices, housemade syrups, and – naturally – good ice. The bar’s 12 house cocktails include the citrusy, well-balanced Groovy Lion, made with bourbon, orange and apricot, or the Good Pals, their take on a Manhattan. While we’re on the subject of classic cocktails, Good Company also offers a list of 10 iconic drinks that includes margaritas, Old-Fashioneds and gimlets. Good Company’s trademark rigor is extended to the kitchen: My personal favorites from the menu include the Brussels sprouts Caesar with lemon-pecorino dressing and the green chile cheeseburger. From the complimentary welcome drink and excellent service to the well-balanced cocktails and delicious food, Good Company is a valuable addition to the Grove’s offerings.
4317 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, 314.405.8333, goodcompany-stl.com

Stews Food & Liquor
At Stews, Nate Burrows has created a cocktail list that not only highlights classics like the Manhattan and Old-Fashioned, but also introduces in-house specialties like the lychee gimlet or the seasonal Liquid Swords (gin, shochu, honey, lemon and akvavit). Chef Brent Petty is creating food that people go out of their way to recommend to friends, like the edamame “hummus” with wonton chips or the housemade longganisa sausage served on a baguette with kimchi-bacon relish, pickled Anaheim peppers, cabbage slaw and sriracha mayo. Most importantly, keeping front and back of house operating as one is Kristin Leahy, a.k.a. Stew. Stews recently updated and expanded their patio to make way for additional seating, but this remains a small, intimate space where the tables can fill up fast. The good news is that service is quick and any wait for a table is usually a short one – a perfect opportunity to grab a cocktail and experience the “free morale” provided by Nate and his crew.
1862 S. 10th St., St. Louis, stewsstl.com

Little Lager
Little Lager is a beer bar that, as you may have guessed, specializes in lager and lager-adjacent beers. They offer a rotating selection of beers on tap and a great variety of Pilsners, Helles and lagers in cans and bottles. Little Lager is out to prove that a foamy head on your beer is actually a good thing: Their side-pour taps allow the bartender greater control over the flow of beer and, ultimately, the ratio of foam to beer. Their pouring style favors the traditional Czech method, which creates a heavier, wetter foam cap that provides a fuller flavor to your beer. Besides beer, you can get a small handful of shots such as the Bitter Bear — a Malort-soaked gummy bear served with a shot of grapefruit soda — or the Split Ferrari, which is equal parts Fernet Branca and Campari. They even serve a nitrogen-infused shot of Malort, and a guest favorite drink is the Spaghett (a Miller High Life with Aperol, orange bitters and lemon slices). Little Lager also regularly collaborates with local breweries like BlueJay Brewing Co., Millpond Brewing, and Urban Chestnut Brewing Co. to create its own original beers.
5848 Hampton Ave., St. Louis, littlelager.com

Kenny’s Upstairs
Kenny’s Upstairs is part-dive bar, part-cocktail bar, part-lounge, all rolled up into a great neighborhood bar. The entire space feels comfortable, with pool table and booth seating throughout and a curved corner bar with red lighting to wrap it all up. The house cocktails include Kenny’s World Famous Pickle Martini, which is based on a homemade pickle recipe, and a nonalcoholic drink called Before the Dawn, made with NA amaro, lemon, hibiscus and cinnamon foam. The bar also has a full assortment of spirits for making classic cocktails along with beer and wine. Speaking of classic cocktails and beer, during the 5 to 7 p.m. happy hour, an Old-Fashioned, Manhattan or daiquiri will only set you back $5.99, while a can of Hamm’s or NA Old Milwaukee is just $1.50. Amid all these delicious cocktails and great deals, however, the most popular drinks at Kenny’s Upstairs are the “baby beer” shots of Licor 43 topped with heavy whipping cream. They look like little beers served in tiny mugs, but they taste like ice cream. There is no food available here, but stop in for happy hour before venturing out to any of South Grand’s plethora of restaurants — then come back to finish the night at Kenny’s.
3131 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, kennysupstairs.com

None of the Above
Reservations are recommended at this speakeasy located in the old tunnels beneath City Foundry STL, but walk-ins are available and usually result in a seat at the bar – arguably the best seat in the house. The bartenders here possess a wealth of knowledge and readily relay the stories behind the drinks, cocktail recommendations and even advice on spirits and techniques for mixing cocktails at home. Their ability also shines through in the bar’s housemade syrups and shrubs, not to mention the finely curated cocktails. The cocktail list takes the classics to another level: Their version of a New York Sour is made with clarified Earl Grey, tart cherry, black lime, yuzu and whiskey, all topped with red wine foam. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the None of the Above cocktail. This bartender’schoice cocktail is created after you answer a 10-question survey to establish your favored flavor profile. My survey resulted in a delicious cocktail made with mezcal and reposado tequila with an ancho-and-bay-leaf syrup and celery root liqueur. The menu also contains a small selection of beer, wine and NA offerings. A small snacking menu includes marinated olives, charred scallion dip and a chocolate ganache sandwich cookie.
3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, 314.656.6682, notastl.com

Clements Lock & Security
Perhaps the most unique bar on this list, Clements Lock & Security originally opened in 1973 as a key and lock shop. Five decades on, it specializes in everything from modern keysets and rare, hard-to-find parts for historic locks to, perhaps unexpectedly, great cocktails. In late 2023, the shop was approved for a liquor license, which means you can stop in during regular business hours and enjoy a beer while having a key made or, more importantly, after business hours on Thursday nights, when Clements transforms from key shop to neighborhood bar. This transformation makes the vintage shop feel more like a speakeasy, with the keys and locks forming part of the decor. The drink selection includes a limited variety of beer and wine along with whiskey and prebatched cocktails from Switchgrass Spirits, while entertainment ranges from DJs to live performances.
2626 Cherokee St., St. Louis, 314.865.2242, clementslock.com

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Making a career-altering decision in grad school isn’t easy, but a few words of encouragement from his future mother-in-law persuaded Kyle Matthias to drop a doctoral degree in nutritional biology to focus his energy on brewing. Matthias’ early days in brewing at Morgan Street Brewery and Modern Brewery eventually led to a role as production brewer at Deschutes Brewery in Bend, Oregon, where he designed well-known beers like Fresh Haze and Squeezy Rider. His childhood taught him the importance of giving back and, in his current role as head brewer at Sandy Valley Brewing Co. in Hillsboro, Missouri, Matthias’ mission is to brew delicious and unique beers, support others – his beers have raised funds for suicide prevention, Maui wildfire relief efforts and other causes – and put some good out into the world. 

“I graduated undergrad with a nutrition degree, and a doctorate seemed like the next logical step. I went into it thinking this was a path for me to potentially get into academia and research. My studies at that time were based on nutrition’s effects on stress, and I was going into the stress and mental health side of the trade. But I was also using that year as a stopgap, to figure it out while making progress toward, potentially, what I wanted to do.”

“I had explored brewing as a career option in the past, but never really thought it would amount to anything. I was always drawn to the creativity of brewing, but there was also the part of me that really liked science. When I got into the [brewing] classroom, I quickly realized how much science was involved [in brewing] and how you could manipulate that science to create something, so there was a creative outlet. There was this artistic side that I could express by using science. So both of those things which I really loved came through in the final product of beer.”

“I was back in St. Louis talking about the potential of dropping out to pursue brewing, and my mother-in-law just made a simple comment: ‘If you’re not happy doing what you’re doing, you should figure out what makes you happy and do that.’” 

“I think the first thing I realized at Deschutes is how diverse our beer scene is here in St. Louis. Out there it’s so IPA heavy and, while the beer is good, it kind of felt like every brewery we went to, the lineup was pretty much the same. It’s like, you got 10 taps, here’s six IPAs, a lager, a red and a dark. I really feel like St. Louis has, in my experience, one of the most well-rounded, diverse beer scenes out there.”

“My time at Deschutes influenced how I approach things now. I was the lead R&D (research and development) and new product development brewer, I would be given a cost-of-goods ceiling and be asked to make IPAs that cost $40 or less per barrel. First and foremost, it was important to make the most impactful, delicious IPAs that I could given that cost restraint and capitalize on the trends in the market. At small breweries, like Sandy Valley, how do you make a delicious IPA with hops that aren’t the cool or sexy Citras or Mosaics? There’s a lot of cool hops out there that are public varietals and those are what we use in our IPA, Commons. That’s the idea, that these public varietal hops are just as cool as the expensive hops, but they don’t have the dollar sign associated with it because there’s not these huge marketing campaigns behind them.”

“Philanthropy has always been a part of my life, and I think it comes from my mom, honestly, who instilled in me at a young age that if you can put some good out into the world, you should. There’s this drive in me to do good for people and make sure that people are taken care of.”

“I think, for me, the draw to Sandy Valley was the beauty of the location. I’ve always thought about starting my own place and, in my mind, it was always a place like this. Because that just kind of vibes to me with the beers I like to produce, using foraged ingredients, locally farmed stuff. It just made a lot of sense to me.”

“We’ve used a ton of locally sourced ingredients and we source from local farms too. We’ve used local apples, grapes, maple syrup, pawpaws, black locust flowers, marigolds, clary sage, white pine. There’s a pantry right outside your door.” 

“I guess I just want Sandy Valley to be a place where people can realize what’s possible as a small business or as a person, the things that can happen if you just connect with the community, with the environment. Again, put some good out into the world. With our individual efforts, I think we can make a big difference. Maybe I’m asking a lot for people who just want to come in to drink a beer, but maybe come here and just escape for a bit, learn something from one of our unique beer names, enjoy a beer with weird ingredients that you didn’t know about before you got here and leave just feeling better for it.”

Bill Moran is the creator behind the Instagram account @st.louis_taverns, where he anonymously reviews bars throughout the St. Louis area.

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The last decade has seen huge growth in demand for whiskey, leading to inflated prices and a secondary market for bottles that were once reliably easy to find. Fortunately, the St. Louis area has several bars where you can purchase a pour of hard-to-find bourbon, sample a flight, or even buy a bottle of whiskey from a barrel that was hand-selected by the bar. Every whiskey bar has a huge list of bourbons, but a few boast offerings that help them stand out from the pack. Here are six places you can rely on for a great whiskey experience.

The Midwestern Meat & Drink
Coming in at around 300 unique bottles, The Midwestern’s whiskey selection is among the largest in the region. However, there’s much more to this place than the sheer volume of choice available. The list is categorized by distillery, with further categories for Missouri, Irish, Scotch and Japanese whiskeys. There is also a section for the restaurant’s private barrel picks, which currently includes over 20 whiskeys exclusively available at The Midwestern. These single barrel picks can be purchased by the pour or by the bottle. The food at The Midwestern is barbecue-focused and includes items like BBQ nachos, brisket mac ‘n’ cheese, and the Buffalo pulled pork dip, which is served with corn tortillas, candied jalapenos and lime. 900 Spruce St., St. Louis, 314.696.2573, midwesternstl.com

Blood & Sand
Complementing Blood & Sand’s impressive range of both cocktails and wine, the restaurant’s incredible whiskey selection features over 280 different bottles. The list includes American bourbons, whiskeys and ryes, but also features selections from Ireland, Mexico, Sweden, India and Japan. Scotch plays a big role too, with selections from the Highlands, Speyside, Lowlands and Islay. The cocktail list includes classics like the whiskey sour, Old-Fashioned and the restaurant’s take on its namesake cocktail, but try something from the restaurant’s “favorites” list like the Big Poppa (bourbon, mezcal, tamarind syrup, mint syrup and lime juice). Also, keep an eye out for Blood & Sand’s spirit pairing dinners, which typically feature a five-course tasting menu with at least one matching whiskey pour or cocktail served with each round of food.
1500 St. Charles St., St. Louis, 314.241.7263, bloodandsandstl.com

City Park Grill
City Park Grill is among South City’s top spots for whiskey fans. The bar’s list of over 150 different bottles is certain to offer something for you, whether it’s an old favorite or a new discovery. However, the big draw here is the variety of flights: The Wheat Your Whistle option includes a selection of four wheated bourbons, while the Car Starter is a sampler of barrel-proof whiskeys. A flight called It’s Not How You Start, It’s How You Finish includes whiskeys finished with toasted French oak staves or in rum, sherry or Armagnac barrels, a process that imparts additional flavor to the whiskey. The selections within each flight are regularly rotated, so your favorite flight may be updated from one visit to the next. Another attraction is City Park Grill’s “tasting hour,” with discounts offered on a select list of whiskeys from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 3157 Morgan Ford Road, St. Louis, 314.899.9338, city-park-grill.com

The Cabin at Judy Creek
Located in Glen Carbon, Illinois, The Cabin at Judy Creek offers a nice beer selection, an impressive wine list and a simple yet delicious food menu. The interior is decorated with rustic elements inspired by the owner’s family cabin, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. If you like whiskey, you’ll love the option to create your own flights. Unlike most bars, The Cabin allows you to build your own flight, enabling you to customize and explore different flavors and profiles. Simply choose one of three price tiers, then select three samples from the relevant whiskey list. If you’re out for a cocktail, try the house Manhattan, made with Minor Case rye, sweet vermouth and bitters, served over a single ice ball.
3730 S. State Route 157, Glen Carbon, 618.205.8556, thecabinatjudycreek.net

Venue on Main
Venue on Main sits on the quiet side of Main Street in downtown Belleville. The building, constructed in 1879, has been renovated to restore its original brick walls and wood floors, creating a comfortable, rustic setting. Owners Bill and Conni Tilley have a passion for bourbon and wine, a detail that is borne out by a great wine list and a collection of about 160 different bottles of whiskey. That selection includes some whiskeys not typically found in the St. Louis area; for example, the bar’s Nulu Whiskey Co. barrel pick, finished in amburana barrels. Another reason to visit is the connection the Tilleys have with Nashville musicians, including a number who have appeared on shows like The Voice. All this makes Venue on Main one of the only places in the bi-state area where you can discover an up-and-coming artist while simultaneously sipping on your new favorite whiskey. 202 W. Main St., Belleville, 618.920.3846, venuebelleville.com

Stubborn German Brewing Co.
This Waterloo, Illinois, venue describes itself as a brewery with a whiskey problem: Yes, Stubborn German makes some amazing beers, but they also have an incredible whiskey menu. With a selection of around 150 different bottles offered at the bar, including around 30 of their own barrel picks, you’re sure to find something that suits your style. Most whiskey bars offer flights of three or four pours, but Stubborn German goes above and beyond with some flights including as many as six samples. Alternatively, check out the bourbon of the week, which is a 1.5-ounce pour offered at half the regular price. Stubborn German also features one of the area’s best bottle shops, so if you find a whiskey you love, you may be able to purchase a bottle for your home bar. 119 S. Main St., Waterloo, 618.504.2444, stubborngermanbrewing.com

Bill Moran is the creator behind the Instagram account @st.louis_taverns, where he anonymously reviews bars throughout the St. Louis area.

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We love hanging at our regular watering holes where everybody knows our name; but sometimes change can be a good thing. St. Louis has seen a slew of new bars open over the past year, including two new gems on Cherokee Street.

Saturn Lounge 
Like other vinyl record bars, Saturn Lounge sets the scene with classic cocktails, craft beers and fine wine in a relaxed and spacious setting. Vinyl records fill the back-bar wall, providing an eclectic mix of music, and the volume is set at a level that entertains the listener while still allowing conversation. The main bar room provides booth seating along with a handful of bar stools, and the back room features comfortable couches and chairs surrounding a large coffee table. The brick patio, decorated with string lighting, delivers even more seating for guests to enjoy a drink on the quiet end of Cherokee Street. Wine drinkers can choose from almost 20 different bottles ranging from reds and rosés to whites and bubbly options. There are seven beers on draft and close to 40 in cans and bottles along with a drink list that includes 10 different in-house cocktails and a decent selection of NA spirits. 
1915 Cherokee St., St. Louis, 314.226.9473, thesaturnlounge.com

‘Ssippi Wine Bar 
While there is no official definition for natural wine, this style of wine typically includes hand-harvested grapes grown by small-scale, independent growers; it’s often fermented using natural yeasts without additives and no, or very little, sulfites. This is the type of wine you’ll find at ‘Ssippi Wine Bar; you’ll also find an assortment of cocktails, sake and beer as well as small snacks like cheese, olives and hummus. The bartender recommended we try their house wine, Field Recordings Boxie; with notes of ripe citrus and marzipan; it’s a great wine for a warm summer day. 
2926 Cherokee St., St. Louis, ssippi.xyz

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Well, here we are – already November, with only a few weeks left before patio seating is no longer an option. If you also feel like there’s nothing better than sitting near a fire on a cool night while sipping a stout beer, glass of whiskey or fall cocktail, here are five spots where you’ll want to pull up a fireside seat before winter.

Rockwell Beer Garden
Rockwell Beer Garden is a spacious outdoor patio in Francis Park offering ample seating. Decorated with string lights, this family-friendly beer garden has several heating elements and two fire pits to take the edge off those chilly fall nights. The food menu is simple but satisfying, with options like garlic-cheese bread, a mixed green salad, hummus and pizza. Pizzas include a margherita, pepperoni, supreme, and The Broccwell, made with charred broccoli, caramelized onions and red pepper flakes. The bar menu includes classic and seasonal cocktails and an assortment of spirits and wines, but the real draw is the beer. Rockwell’s list ranges from a light, Belgian-style witbier called Passing Clouds to the dark and malty Foeder Bock or the Moonbase Robust Porter. Rockwell Beer Garden is weather dependent, but they plan to stay open through Jan. 1. If you miss your chance to enjoy a beer at the fire pit before their winter break, you’ll have to wait until they reopen on March 1.
5300 Donovan Ave., St. Louis, 314.788.4849, rockwellbeer.com

Sasha’s on Shaw
Sasha’s has a fabulous indoor space, but their large stone patio with wrought iron tables and accent lighting is the real attraction. This garden-like patio has two fire pits and propane heating elements to keep you warm on a cool, late autumn evening while you sip on a glass of wine. With an amazing selection of sparkling, white, rosé, orange, red and fortified wines by the glass and bottle, there is something for every taste and occasion. But don’t worry if you’re not a wine lover. Sasha’s also has a great beer list and a decent whiskey selection. You can try seasonal beers like the 4 Hands Chocolate Milk Stout, Left Hand Milk Stout Nitro or the Pumpkin Spice Latte Nitro by Left Hand Brewing. Pick from over 20 whiskeys to savor neat or in a classic cocktail like a Manhattan or Old-Fashioned. Sasha’s also has a delicious food menu that includes soups, salads, flatbreads, sandwiches, cheese plates and charcuterie. If it’s too cold for the patio, grab a couch inside by the fireplace. Whatever the weather, Sasha’s has a spot by the fire for you and your friends.
4069 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, 314.771.7274, sashaswinebar.com

The Frisco Barroom
The Frisco Barroom in Webster Groves features two large patios: a rooftop space that offers one of the best sunset views in Webster, and a private, ground-floor brick courtyard with a retractable roof, heaters and a large, four-sided fireplace. The restaurant’s menu features soups, salads, pierogi, burgers, sandwiches and more. The Old Orchard grilled cheese – filled with smoked gouda, cheddar, American cheese, sliced apples and bacon – with a side of fries was a perfect meal. The salty bacon and tart apple were an excellent complement to the gooey, melted cheese. They also have a great bar menu, with seasonally appropriate beers including Sierra Nevada Oktoberfest and Schlafly’s Pumpkin Ale and Oatmeal Stout, as well as cocktails including a Boulevardier, Sazerac and prickly pear margarita. The gas fireplace on the ground-floor patio keeps the cold November nights at bay while you enjoy a stout beer and a pour of whiskey. The rooftop closes for the season in mid-November, but the ground-floor patio remains open through fall and winter.
8110 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314.455.1090, thefriscostl.com

Tower Pub
Tower Pub is a classic pub located on Morgan Ford Road in the Tower Grove South neighborhood. It has two rooms: a main bar and a back game room where you can play pinball, darts and pool. The bar has a rustic and warm feel, with wood floors and classic pub decor. The game room leads out to the patio, where you can play corn hole or sit around the large stone fire pit. The pub offers seasonal beers like Samuel Adams Octoberfest and a variety of bourbons and Irish whiskeys. They also offer a delicious apple pie shot, which pairs perfectly with cool autumn temperatures and the warm patio fire pit. Tower Pub has great prices on beer and happy hour five days a week. They offer limited food options with Andoro & Sons St. Louis-style pizza, hot dogs, beef jerky and popcorn, but also allow you to bring in outside food. Sitting around the fire pit at the Tower Pub with a pint of ale and good company is a perfect way to ride out a crisp November evening.
3234 Morgan Ford Road, St. Louis, 314.771.7979, Facebook: Tower Pub

The Golden Hoosier
The Golden Hoosier combines a Missouri camping trip with a South City bar, making one perfect patio. The state park-themed patio includes an outdoor bar, The Campground, along with covered tables and a fire pit circled by tree stump seats. Smash burgers and sandwiches are the main food items, but salads and appetizers help to round out the menu. The Golden Hoosier also offers a variety of seasonal dishes and drinks. November’s seasonal soup is chicken tortilla, topped with pepper jack and crispy tortilla strips. Meanwhile, the cocktail of the month is Lost in the Sauce, made with apple brandy, vanilla, spiced pear liqueur, yellow Chartreuse, lemon and blueberry syrup. They also offer s’mores kits, which include everything you need to roast your own marshmallows and enjoy s’mores around the fire pit with a cocktail in hand. With a good beer selection and some amazing cocktails, it’s the perfect place to hang out with friends and enjoy the great outdoors in South City.
3707 S. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, 314.354.8044, thegoldenhoosier.com

Bill Moran is the creator behind the Instagram account @st.louis_taverns, where he anonymously reviews bars throughout the St. Louis area.

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We love hanging at our regular watering holes where everybody knows our name; but sometimes change can be a good thing. St. Louis has seen a slew of new bars open over the past year, including three new Soulard gems worth working into your normal night-out routine.

Eat Crow
Eat Crow, the sister bar to Maplewood’s Crow’s Nest, opened in Soulard in the old Nadine’s Gin Joint. The building has been updated with a new bar, remodeled kitchen and an enhanced patio. Much like the Crow’s Nest, Eat Crow brings the heavy metal brunch, menus in old record sleeves and self-deprecating humor. The main differences lie in the food menu: While there is overlap, Eat Crow boasts an extensive mac-and-cheese selection as well as chicken wings with four different sauce options. Our favorite menu item, however, is the mini tacos; we’ve been known to stop in just for a beer and a plate of mini tacos with sides of avocado ranch and jalapeno-sriracha sour cream. The bar also has a large screen for projecting classic ’80s and ’90s movies, and the theme carries over to the cocktail menu with drinks like Space Balls The Drink, a mix of 3 Olives Espresso vodka, Tito’s vodka and Baileys Irish Cream, or the Tequila Montoya which includes six fingers of tequila, lemonade and a Grand Marnier float.
1931 S. 12th St., St. Louis, 314.934.1400, eatcrowstl.com

The Hi-Hat
The building that started the greatest party in St. Louis now houses one of the newest bars in Soulard. In 1980, Hilary Clements had recently purchased the building at 1017 Russell Blvd. and used it as both party space and living quarter. One particularly dreary winter day, Clements and his friends held a party in which they dressed up and marched up the street to a tiny Irish pub called John D. McGurk’s. They enjoyed themselves so much they continued the party every year. That first march up Russell Boulevard was the first Grand Parade, and that house party grew into what is now known as Soulard Mardi Gras. Food at The Hi-Hat includes salads, wraps, wings and quesadillas, but the pizza is a must-try. Or just order Pat’s Hamm’s Sandwich: a can of Hamm’s between two shots of whiskey. The Hi-Hat has a good cocktail list with a great espresso martini along with their take on the French 75 with gin, lavender cider, lavender syrup and fresh lemon, aptly named the Soulard 75.
1017 Russell Blvd., St. Louis, 314.802.7517, thehihatstl.com

Calypso
Calypso brings a full cocktail list and a Cajun- and West African-inspired food menu. The remodeled space now features an all-season patio complete with plenty of seating, multiple TVs, a separate bar and a wall of garage doors that can be opened to bring the outside in. There are over 20 whiskeys on the menu and close to 50 rums; the cocktail list includes the classics as well as tropical drinks like the Caipirinha, Hurricane and a spicy pineapple margarita. The barbecue shrimp with Creole cream sauce was cooked perfectly, and the sauce provided just a hint of spice. The ceviche with shrimp and scallops was fresh, and the yuca chips served on the side were crisp and perfectly salted. The friendly staff, great food and well-crafted cocktails make Calypso an excellent stop when in the Soulard neighborhood.
1026 Geyer Ave., St. Louis, 314.448.1516, calypsostl.com

The post 3 new bars in Soulard to check out now appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.

We love hanging at our regular watering holes where everybody knows our name; but sometimes change can be a good thing. From University City to Belleville and points in between, St. Louis has seen a slew of new bars open over the past year. Here are a few we’ve especially enjoyed and recommend working into your normal night-out routine.

Billy’s on Broadway
Billy’s On Broadway is one of the newest additions to the south downtown neighborhood that already includes well-known bars like Broadway Oyster Bar, The Garage and BB’s Jazz, Blues and Soups. You’ll remember this building from its past life as Beale on Broadway, but it won’t look familiar; the building underwent major renovations and came out looking better than ever with a new patio, new stage, new covered outdoor bar, renovated second-floor deck and an interior bar covered in Cardinals baseball memorabilia. With Billy’s being so close to Busch Stadium and a menu featuring Gus’ salsiccia-stuffed pretzels and Clementine’s Creamery ice cream, this is a perfect pre- and post-game stop for a quick beer and a bite to eat. The Billy’s T-Ravs are a must-try dish: The ravioli is a custom blend from Midwest Pasta made with Italian sausage, Provel and Parmesan served with a sausage marinara.
701 S. Broadway, St. Louis, 314.476.0119, billysonbroadway.com

Bonito Bar
When you want to get away without actually getting away, visit the Bonito Bar in University City. Technically, the bar shares the same space as Frida’s restaurant, but the room has been designed to give the bar its own identity, with a curved marble bar, fish scale tile work and gold ceiling. The drink menu includes wines by the glass and by the bottle and a limited selection of beer. The real stars of the show are the cocktails. Sitting at the Bonito Bar gives the sense of being on vacation with fresh, citrusy signature cocktails like the hibiscus margarita or The Bonito, a blend of rums with a blood orange aperitif, pineapple, lime and agave. The classic cocktails include a daiquiri of the week, a black Manhattan, Pisco sour, and a Devil’s Margarita made with tequila, Ancho Reyes, lime, agave and red wine. You’ll also find mocktails available to coincide with the increase in demand for these types of drinks. Food is prepared by Frida’s, so you can expect vegetable- and seafood-forward dishes with items like burrata caprese, Mediterranean salmon, coconut curry and seared ahi tuna salad.
622 North and South Road (inside Frida’s), University City, 314.727.6500, eatatfridas.com

Calypso
Calypso brings a full cocktail list and a Cajun- and West African-inspired food menu. The remodeled space now features an all-season patio complete with plenty of seating, multiple TVs, a separate bar and a wall of garage doors that can be opened to bring the outside in. There are over 20 whiskeys on the menu and close to 50 rums; the cocktail list includes the classics as well as tropical drinks like the Caipirinha, Hurricane and a spicy pineapple margarita. The barbecue shrimp with Creole cream sauce was cooked perfectly, and the sauce provided just a hint of spice. The ceviche with shrimp and scallops was fresh, and the yuca chips served on the side were crisp and perfectly salted. The friendly staff, great food and well-crafted cocktails make Calypso an excellent stop when in the Soulard neighborhood.
1026 Geyer Ave., St. Louis, 314.448.1516, calypsostl.com

Eat Crow
Eat Crow, the sister bar to Maplewood’s Crow’s Nest, opened in Soulard in the old Nadine’s Gin Joint. The building has been updated with a new bar, remodeled kitchen and an enhanced patio. Much like the Crow’s Nest, Eat Crow brings the heavy metal brunch, menus in old record sleeves and self-deprecating humor. The main differences lie in the food menu: While there is overlap, Eat Crow boasts an extensive mac-and-cheese selection as well as chicken wings with four different sauce options. Our favorite menu item, however, is the mini tacos; we’ve been known to stop in just for a beer and a plate of mini tacos with sides of avocado ranch and jalapeno-sriracha sour cream. The bar also has a large screen for projecting classic ’80s and ’90s movies, and the theme carries over to the cocktail menu with drinks like Space Balls The Drink, a mix of 3 Olives Espresso vodka, Tito’s vodka and Baileys Irish Cream, or the Tequila Montoya which includes six fingers of tequila, lemonade and a Grand Marnier float.
1931 S. 12th St., St. Louis, 314.934.1400, eatcrowstl.com

Grüv Bistro and Wine Bar
The front patio at Grüv Bistro and Wine Bar, which looks out on Belleville’s Main Street, is perfect for outdoor seating and people watching on a busy Friday or Saturday night in downtown Belleville. Wine novices can feel comfortable walking into Grüv and confident that they will end up with something they like. After a brief conversation, the bartender recommended a New Zealand sauvignon blanc; it was citrusy, crisp, dry and refreshing – exactly what we’d had in mind. With that said, Grüv is not just a wine bar: The cocktail menu has classics like the Old-Fashioned and Manhattan but also includes a citrusy raspberry margarita and a drink called the Humble Bumble with bourbon, muddled lemon, honey and mint. Standout items from the food menu include the short rib pizza with jalapenos and ricotta cheese and the strawberry goat salad made with spinach, strawberries, walnuts and goat cheese tossed in a strawberry-poppyseed dressing.
223 E. Main St., Belleville, 618.416.2471, Facebook: Grüv Bistro & Wine Bar

The Hi-Hat
The building that started the greatest party in St. Louis now houses one of the newest bars in Soulard. In 1980, Hilary Clements had recently purchased the building at 1017 Russell Blvd. and used it as both party space and living quarter. One particularly dreary winter day, Clements and his friends held a party in which they dressed up and marched up the street to a tiny Irish pub called John D. McGurk’s. They enjoyed themselves so much they continued the party every year. That first march up Russell Boulevard was the first Grand Parade, and that house party grew into what is now known as Soulard Mardi Gras. 

Food at The Hi-Hat includes salads, wraps, wings and quesadillas, but the pizza is a must-try. (Pro tip: Add the garlic-ricotta cream.) Or just order Pat’s Hamm’s Sandwich: a can of Hamm’s between two shots of whiskey. The Hi-Hat has a good cocktail list with a great espresso martini along with their take on the French 75 with gin, lavender cider, lavender syrup and fresh lemon, aptly named the Soulard 75.
1017 Russell Blvd., St. Louis, 314.802.7517, thehihatstl.com

New Society
Walk into Grand Spirits and you’ll be led to the bar’s secret entrance, reminiscent of an old storm shelter, that goes down to the basement. It’s tiny and dark, but with a seat at the bar, you’ll know you’re in for a special evening. If you are at all familiar with the cocktails made at Platypus and The Gin Room, then you have an idea of the knowledge that owners Meredith Barry and Michael Fricker bring to the table; part of the fun was having Barry make the drinks and to see the smile on her face when she saw the look on yours after the first taste. At our seating, cocktails ranged from a take on a peanut butter and jelly sandwich to a drink served with a lettuce leaf filled with shrimp. There is a drink with mozzarella foam and a drink served with savory gummies. There is a story behind each cocktail and, when your drink is served, they’ll explain the ingredients and how they work together. There’s a reason it’s called an experimental cocktail lab; more than a cocktail bar; New Society is a whole experience.
3194 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, newsocietystl.com

Saturn Lounge
Like other vinyl record bars, Saturn Lounge sets the scene with classic cocktails, craft beers and fine wine in a relaxed and spacious setting. Vinyl records fill the back-bar wall, providing an eclectic mix of music, and the volume is set at a level that entertains the listener while still allowing conversation. The main bar room provides booth seating along with a handful of bar stools, and the back room features comfortable couches and chairs surrounding a large coffee table. The brick patio, decorated with string lighting, delivers even more seating for guests to enjoy a drink on the quiet end of Cherokee Street. Wine drinkers can choose from almost 20 different bottles ranging from reds and rosés to whites and bubbly options. There are seven beers on draft and close to 40 in cans and bottles along with a drink list that includes 10 different in-house cocktails and a decent selection of NA spirits. 
1915 Cherokee St., St. Louis, 314.226.9473, thesaturnlounge.com

‘Ssippi Wine Bar
While there is no official definition for natural wine, this style of wine typically includes hand-harvested grapes grown by small-scale, independent growers; it’s often fermented using natural yeasts without additives and no, or very little, sulfites. This is the type of wine you’ll find at ‘Ssippi Wine Bar; you’ll also find an assortment of cocktails, sake and beer as well as small snacks like cheese, olives and hummus. The bartender recommended we try their house wine, Field Recordings Boxie; with notes of ripe citrus and marzipan; it’s a great wine for a warm summer day.
2926 Cherokee St., St. Louis, ssippi.xyz

Tim’s Chrome Bar
The original Tim’s Chrome Bar was a great dive bar in the Bevo neighborhood, and while the new owners planned to clean the place up and continue business as usual, upon taking over they realized the place needed to be completely gutted. Updates include an expansion into the next-door space, a vintage fireplace, pastel flowers on the ceiling, vintage wallpaper, TV trays and a classic Bingo scoreboard. Drinks at Tim’s Chrome Bar include a large list of cocktails and a good selection of local canned beers with eight others on draft. You can also get a Jello shot for yourself or a bowl of punch for the whole table. Food options include housemade pizza rolls with jalapeno ranch and crab Rangoon nachos made with wonton chips, crab Rangoon filling and sweet chile sauce. There are vegetarian dishes like cheese-and-veggie rolls, housemade garlic hummus and portobello fries. They also serve a sandwich called The King made with peanut butter, jam , banana and crispy bacon on buttery bread.
4736 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, timschromebar.com

The Vandy
The team behind pop-up bar STL Barkeep is now creating amazing cocktails at their new brick-and-mortar location, The Vandy. Along with the classics, you’ll find an assortment of in-house cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients, fresh syrups and housemade bitters. A quick review of the cocktail list turns up ingredients like pineapple rum, burnt red wine reduction, coconut syrup and a habanero tincture. They also have over 90 whiskeys on the menu along with beer and wine. The Vandy’s food program has recently received a glow-up compliments of chef Alec Schingel (The Robin Project), who’s put together a tight list of mostly shareable items like pimento cheese dip and a charcuterie board featuring meats sourced from Farm Spirit; on Mondays, Schingel will switch over to red beans and rice (a nod to the New Orleans tradition). On Tuesdays, chef Alex Henry (Sureste, El Molino del Sureste) takes the wheel, offering a pair of tacos – one meat, one veggie – on Sureste’s housemade tortillas.
1301 S. Vandeventer Ave., St. Louis, 314.472.5321, thevandystl.com

Bill Moran is the creator behind the Instagram account @st.louis_taverns, where he anonymously reviews bars throughout the St. Louis area.

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From dive bars to lounges, cocktail bars to taverns, St. Louis has a bar to satisfy all types. I am usually pretty confident when making bar recommendations, but when asked to name my favorite, I stumble: There are so many great bars, and I keep adding more to my evolving list of top spots. With that in mind, here are five recommendations from my rotating list of favorites.

The Crow’s Nest
This Maplewood bar can satisfy any hungry crowd. The diverse menu includes meat and vegetarian options, and the weekend’s Metal Brunch is a hangover-busting breakfast serving cocktails and classic heavy metal music. Enjoy service inside or on the large, covered deck out back.
7336 Manchester Road, Maplewood, 314.781.0989, crowsneststl.com

Jack Nolen’s
This Soulard staple has an elevated tavern vibe. Come for the burgers and stay for the friendly crowd. The patio is comfortable, and the inside bar is great for watching a game or chatting with the many regulars. For whiskey fans, keep your eye out for some surprises: I’ve seen pours of Thomas H. Handy, Van Winkle 12 Year, Weller Full Proof and Antique 107, to name a few.
2501 S. Ninth St., St. Louis, Facebook: Jack Nolen’s

The Silver Ballroom
The Silver Ballroom is an iconic dive bar with pinball machines and punk rock music. There are as many as 20 new and vintage machines, and the collection rotates regularly. Hungry? Order a housemade Australian meat pie or dine on some incredible Korean food created by Melanie Meyer of The Tiny Chef.
4701 Morgan Ford Road, St. Louis, 314.832.9223, thesilverballroom.com

Tick Tock Tavern
For a classic tavern feel and decor unlike any other in the St. Louis area, check out this Tower Grove East neighborhood bar. The theme here is great service, craft beers and owls. The large front patio is dog-friendly and perfect for people watching.
3459 Magnolia Ave., St. Louis, Facebook: Tick Tock Tavern

The Vandy
If craft cocktails and a diverse whiskey selection are more your speed, then look no further than The Vandy. Not only does this bar serve cocktails created with housemade mixers and locally sourced ingredients, but their curated list of single-barrel whiskeys can also be purchased by the bottle. Boss Taco provides tacos and dips Tuesday to Saturday while Pizza Politano serves up Neapolitan-style pizza on Sunday nights.
1301 S. Vandeventer Ave., St. Louis, 314.472.5321, thevandystl.com

Bill Moran is the creator of Instagram account @st.louis_taverns, where Moran anonymously reviews bars throughout the St. Louis area. He created the account in March 2021 after seeing many of his favorite bars struggling through pandemic restrictions. It has since evolved into a fun pastime of exploring the many neighborhoods in and around St. Louis.

The post St. Louis tavern expert Bill Moran shares 5 of his top local bars appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.