Introduction: St. Louis, the Gateway City, Served on a Silver Platter
Imagine a well-aged bourbon: smooth, complex, and layered with history. That’s St. Louis for you. A city where the past and present mingle like a perfectly balanced cocktail, offering a flavor for every palate. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, the St. Louis bar scene is a masterclass in craftsmanship, creativity, and community. From speakeasies tucked into alleyways to rooftop lounges with skyline views, this is a city that knows how to pour a good time—and a great drink.
The Soul of St. Louis: Where History Meets Craft
St. Louis isn’t just a city with a bar scene—it’s a city crafted by its bars. The 19th-century saloons gave way to Prohibition’s shadows, and today’s revival is a renaissance of innovation. The best bars in St. Louis are like a well-made cocktail: they blend tradition with modern flair, often using locally sourced ingredients and techniques passed down through generations. For example, homebrewers in the area often experiment with local grains and herbs, much like St. Louis bartenders who infuse their drinks with Missouri-grown botanicals.
Neighborhoods as Tasting Notes
St. Louis’ neighborhoods aren’t just ZIP codes—they’re flavor profiles. Each has its own vibe, much like the layers of a classic Old Fashioned. From the bold, smoky notes of the Central West End to the crisp, refreshing bite of the Soulard District, here’s how the neighborhoods shape the city’s bar scene:
1. The Central West End: A Symphony of Sophistication
- Bars here are like a well-aged Cabernet—rich, nuanced, and elegant. Think of rooftop lounges with panoramic views and mixologists who treat drinks like art.
- Example: Bar Louie in the Central West End is a standout, offering a menu that’s part culinary journey, part cocktail theater.
2. The Soulard District: Where History Sips Boldly
- This neighborhood is the IPA of St. Louis—bitter, bold, and full of character. Its bars often feature live music and a mix of craft beers and whiskey flights.
- Local Tip: Visit Madison Beer Company for a beer with a story (and a side of bourbon barrel-aged stouts).
3. The Loop: Liquid Gold in the Heart of the City
- If the Loop were a drink, it’d be a Manhattan—classic, timeless, and always in demand. Its bars are a blend of old-world charm and cutting-edge innovation.
- Pro Tip: Hit up Barrymore’s Restaurant & Bar for a whiskey program that rivals any custom beer recipe.
The Bartender’s Toolkit: What Makes a Bar Exceptional?
Great bars are like master sommeliers—they know how to pair a drink with your mood. Here are the key elements that elevate a bar from good to legendary:
- Barcraft: Think of a bartender as a chef. They balance acidity (citrus), sweetness (syrups), and bitterness (bittering agents) to create harmony in every sip.
- Local Sourcing: Just as a craft brewer uses local hops, St. Louis bartenders often source ingredients from nearby farms. The Strategies Beer team recommends bars that prioritize sustainability and community ties.
- Atmosphere: Lighting, music, and even the layout of the bar can transform a drink into an experience. A dimly lit speakeasy feels like a vintage wine cellar, while a sunlit garden bar is the citrus zest in a summer cocktail.
Top 10 Best Bars in St. Louis: A Curated Tasting Menu
Without further ado, let’s dive into the bars that define St. Louis’ liquid legacy. Each entry is a sip of the city’s soul:
1. The Speakeasy at The Ritz-Carlton
Flavor Profile: Velvet and spice. This bar is a nod to the 1920s, with a menu featuring Prohibition-era cocktails like the “Ritz Manhattan” (whiskey, blackberries, and a hint of orange bitters). Reservations are key—think of it as booking a table at a Michelin-starred restaurant for your glass.
2. The Ale House at Schlafly
Flavor Profile: Hoppy, hazy, and unapologetically crafty. As part of Schlafly’s legacy, this bar is a must for beer lovers. The “Schlafly Pilsner” is a classic, but don’t miss their rotating brews inspired by local flavors.
3. Czar Bartlett’s
Flavor Profile: Sweet, smoky, and theatrical. Known for its “Whiskey Room” and inventive cocktails like the “Czar’s Cider” (apple, cinnamon, and a splash of bourbon), this bar is a sensory overload in the best way.
4. Niche
Flavor Profile: Bold, experimental, and a little mysterious. The menu here reads like a poetry collection—each drink is a story. The “Smoke & Mirrors” cocktail (mezcal, black tea, and smoked salt) is a must-try.
5. Bissell Brothers
Flavor Profile: Crisp, clean, and unpretentious. This St. Louis staple is like a Pilsner—refreshing and always reliable. Their beer menu is a masterclass in balance, and the bar snacks? Think of them as the garnish that ties everything together.
6. The Blue Note
Flavor Profile: Smooth jazz and smooth spirits. This Soulard gem is perfect for a date or a quiet night in. Their “Blue Moon” (vodka, lavender, and blueberry) is a crowd-pleaser.
7. The Varnish
Flavor Profile: Sophisticated, with a wink. Hidden behind a bookshelf, this speakeasy-style bar serves up cocktails like the “Varnish Old Fashioned” (whiskey, orange bitters, and a sugar cube soaked in St. Louis’ own citrus). Reservations are like a well-aged barrel—rare and worth the wait.
8. The Saloon at The Grand Hotel
Flavor Profile: Time-travel. This historic bar, part of the Strategies Beer network, has hosted presidents and poets alike. Their “Grand Manhattan” pays homage to the city’s storied past with a twist of modern flair.
9. The Blind Rabbit
Flavor Profile: Playful and quirky. Think of this bar as the IPA of the St. Louis scene—bold, experimental, and full of character. Their “Rabbit Hop” (gin, elderflower, and a splash of St. Louis lemonade) is a fan favorite.
10. The Taproom at The Jefferson
Flavor Profile: Urban and refined. Located in the heart of the Loop, this bar is a blend of old-world charm and modern innovation. Their “Jefferson Porter” (coffee, chocolate, and a touch of local honey) is a revelation for beer enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions: The Pouring of Wisdom
1. What defines a great bar in St. Louis?
A great bar is like a great cocktail: it balances quality, creativity, and atmosphere. Look for places that use fresh ingredients, have a knowledgeable staff, and offer a menu that tells a story. Contact us for a curated list of bars that fit this mold.
2. Are there bars in St. Louis with live music?
Absolutely. The Soulard District is a hotspot for jazz and blues, while the Central West End hosts acoustic sets on weekends. For a taste of St. Louis’ musical history, visit The Blue Note or The Ale House.
3. How can I support local St. Louis bars?
By choosing bars that source locally (like Schlafly or Bissell Brothers) and by leaving positive reviews. You can also explore home brewing to connect with the city’s craft culture. And if you’re a bar owner, consider using Dropt.beer to expand your reach.
Conclusion: Cheers to the Gateway City
St. Louis’ bars are more than just places to drink—they’re cultural landmarks, storytelling salons, and community hubs. Whether you’re sipping a craft beer in the Central West End or a classic cocktail in the Loop, each drink is a chapter in the city’s liquid history. So raise a glass to St. Louis, the Gateway City, where every pour is a celebration of craft, community, and the art of the good life. And remember: the best bars are the ones that make you want to come back for another round.
