CBGB is a weird place. During the day, its appearance from the street makes this underground club look like an abandoned building, especially since the name of the business is drawn on the front door with spray paint. It's one of those places that draws a familiar crowd; everyone knows everyone and newcomers are easily identified and introduced to the rest of the group. The atmosphere can be considered alternative, frequented by hipsters with funky outfits, hairdos and musical interests. The best times to stop by are Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights. Though the ambiance has a distinctly edgy tone, the live music acts that come through are quite diverse and anyone can have a great time at the venue.
One of the better spots in town for beer-snobs and foodies alike, Square One Brewery & Distillery is a must-visit in St. Louis. Located in the heart of the vibrant Lafayette Square, only a short drive from downtown, this fully-functional brewery also seconds as a happening restaurant offering modern American cuisine along with classic standbys. The menu can be described as 'comfort food at its best' with a line-up of signature specialties like Pulled BBQ Pork, Smoked Salmon BLT, Fish & Chips, Crab Cakes, Bacon & Avocado Omelet, Cobb Salad and Buffalo Hot Wings. Post dining, patrons can sample some of the best micro-brews, crafted cocktails, wines and other spirits. The 13 beers on tap feature not only local brews but also a variety of imported ales. The atmosphere is laid-back and the service is top-notch. So, whether you are looking for a night-out destination or just want to venture outside downtown, come down to Square One Brewery.
The Royale is one of the best places in South City to get a bite, have a drink and mingle with a cool and diverse young crowd. The kitchen serves up tasty variations on classic pub food and the bar features a long list of custom cocktails. A large crowd of regulars and a steady stream of lively groups give this place a comfortable and exciting atmosphere unmatched in St. Louis.
This pub is as close to Dublin as you can get in St. Louis. You will find a large selection of beers, including 16 on tap, and live Irish bands frequently perform traditional Celtic music here. If you are looking for comfort food, especially on a chilly evening, try the traditional Irish potato soup, which is thick with potatoes, celery and onions and topped with cheese. If you are looking for the Irish-American favorite of corned beef and cabbage, you can order that, too. McGurk's was named Best Pub by an area publication.
As rated by the St. Louis Post Dispatch, Off Broadway is known for being the area's best place to see live music. The schedule of bands appearing here is always full. This venue is a great place to unwind, let loose and have a great time, whether you are visiting the city or you are a local resident looking to spend a night out. The venue has a funky ambiance with a retro tone. The spacious dance floor is usually packed. The music ranges from folk to rock and draws quite a varied clientele. No one will feel out of place here.
St. Louis has a reputation for fine Italian restaurants, and Marcella's epitomizes that tradition. Located in the south city neighborhood of "The Hill", this unpretentious trattoria serves wonderful food while maintaining a warm neighborhood atmosphere. Appetizers include a marvelous pizza with truffle oil and a four-cheese pizza. The innovative house salad is a delightful mix of greens topped with tomato, red onion, mozzarella and pine nuts with balsamic tomato vinaigrette. This is a great place to hang out with some friends and is also light on the pocket.
Benton Park's San Loo is a cozy, divey venue to enjoy reasonably priced brews and live gigs throughout the week. The laid-back spot does not cash on any bizarre theme to attract patrons; revelers will instead like the mellow vibe, black and blue walls adorned with vintage works of art and other accents. Local ales, imports, domestics and delectable pub grub keep the guzzlers pouring in, while an exciting live music program ensures it remains equally popular with rock and punk music fans. In the past, it has hosted famous DJs, rock troupes and solo musicians, including the likes of DJ Hedge and Lara Hope & The Ark-Tones.
St. Louis has a reputation for fine Italian restaurants, and Marcella's epitomizes that tradition. Located in the south city neighborhood of "The Hill", this unpretentious trattoria serves wonderful food while maintaining a warm neighborhood atmosphere. Appetizers include a marvelous pizza with truffle oil and a four-cheese pizza. The innovative house salad is a delightful mix of greens topped with tomato, red onion, mozzarella and pine nuts with balsamic tomato vinaigrette. This is a great place to hang out with some friends and is also light on the pocket.
Built inside what once used to be a warehouse, The Civil Life Brewing Company has made the space more civilized and turned it into a pub. Brewed onsite, the ten beers on tap cover all the bases: there's a Prairie Pilsner, a Black Ale, an English Pale Ale, and more. Munch on pretzels filled with goat cheese while you play a board game from their selection. They don't accept credit cards, so come prepared with cash.
Bakers & Hale calls themselves a seed to table establishment. They take pride in growing their own ingredients in their garden and procure produce from nearby farms. There is a certain rusticity in the ambience with farm equipment as decorative elements along with vintage family photos of the owner on its walls. The inspired, seasonal menu of American comfort food and classics is delicious and has something for everyone. Enjoy happy hours at either of their bars inside or outside. Warm hospitality and a friendly staff ensure that dining here is a delight. Reservations are recommended.
Urban Chestnut Brewing Company is a brewery and beer garden delighting locals and tourists alike. Come here with your gang to sample a few beers and try their Meat & Cheese Platter with your brews. Some of the must-try beers from their draughts are Hopfen, Urbanator, Half Crown and Stilpa. They also sell a few bottled beers. When there is a nip in the air, patrons can explore their indoor seating which is warm and cozy, and is furnished with simple seating spaces. On a bright day, one must surely explore their gorgeous patio and as the night sets in the twinkling lights outside make an inviting setting altogether. Urban Chestnut Brewing Company is truly a beer paradise.
A retreat for all you gin lovers out there, The Gin Room boasts the largest collection of rare and exquisite gins. The menu specials feature an exciting gin & tonic of the day, Monday Night Bubbles, Tuesday Happy Hour with an unlimited hummus bar, Thursday Wine Down and many other deals at a steal. The bar also hosts special distiller events, gin tastings and workshops for those in interested in getting know their favorite drink a little better. An excellent place to make new friends with similar interests, The Gin Room serves as a perfect spot for casual conversations after work.