Get your Drink on
The Royale
The St. Louis bar of all bars. A trip home without a trip to the Royale is no trip at all. A communal place to talk politics, watch a baseball game, catch up with the latest gossip, or hear your favorite DJ spin, the Royale is a home away from home. Not divey. The cocktails are here to shine, not the food, but it works when you need it. Conveniently, there is a Courtesy Diner is across the street.
The Whiskey Ring
This was Rebecca’s “Cheers.” Nothing fancy, no expectations, a world of opportunity to meet someone new. Incredible owners, staff who don’t mess around, and a Stag and a shot of whiskey for about $5. Yes please.
Tick Tock Tavern
It looks like your grandma’s basement who loves owls that happens to have a bar inside. Cash only.
Brennan’s
You want a cocktail? You want a whiskey neat? A little class with a little sass? Brennan’s!
Fortune Teller Bar
Three doors down from Whiskey Ring is Fortune Teller. Most people make a night of starting at one and ending at the other. Their kitchen is run by Gooseberries now so you should absolutely get a hand pie.
Planter’s House
Planter’s House is where you take your out of town pals to show off a little but also meet up with friends because you probably know the bartender and the drinks go down a little too easily. Nominated for a James Beard before it was even cool. Order fries for the table.
The Crow’s Nest
This is exactly what you think of when you think of a bar, but they have a truly incredible kitchen to boast. I will admit to never being here during prime bar hours, but if they are doing it right outside of prime time, they must be doing okay then too. Absolutely go to Metal Brunch.
CBGB
The OG may be gone, but STL is holding tight to theirs. All the clocks are wrong, and last call is when they say so. Cash only.