50 Best Cocktail Bars in St. Louis

“I want to extend my deep gratitude to the great Hostess last Saturday afternoon who kindly went above and beyond her responsibilities not only as a host but as a human being by letting me (offering!) charge my lon foot and had a dead phone. It was about 4 pm and the place was slightly busy (almost outside full and inside) but not much else was around the area so my hunch and restaurant experience tells me they’re doing everything right: good food, good prices and good staff. The atmosphere is inviting, unpretentious and sort of a homey, cozy n stylish flair. I would’ve rather stayed and ate but thankfully the hostess helped me on my way. thank you for helping and not being annoyed when I asked for directions twice! (Also,“

“Cocktails. Food. Service. Music. Vibe. Everything was top tier. Had a lovely time and we will be back again. We made a reservation on Google, it was simple and we got sat right away. Can’t wait to go back!“

“This was a wonderful cocktail bar. The mixologists were super personable and so much fun! The drinks were delicious and inventive. Thanks for a great night!“

“Absolutely delightful! The pizza had the best gluten free crust and the Ozark mushrooms on top were so fresh. I will absolutely be back“

“If you’re looking for an experience—not just a drink—run, don’t walk to Vandy Cocktail Bar.

We were gifted tickets to one of their cocktail classes, and I can honestly say it was the best 90 minutes we’ve spent in a long time. From the moment we walked in, the energy was warm, welcoming, and just the right amount of elevated without ever feeling pretentious.

The class itself? Next level.

We tasted eight different vermouths (yes, eight—each with its own personality), explored three amaros that completely changed how I think about flavor and balance, and then rolled up our sleeves to craft two cocktails that felt both approachable and elevated. It wasn’t just a class—it was a journey through flavor, history, and technique.

And then there’s Patrick.

Simply put—he’s phenomenal. Incredibly knowledgeable, engaging without being overwhelming, and clearly passionate about what he does. He has that rare ability to make everyone feel like an insider, whether you’re a cocktail novice or a seasoned enthusiast. You don’t just learn—you get it.

What stood out most was how effortlessly the whole experience flowed. It was educational, interactive, and just plain fun. You leave not only with new skills, but with a deeper appreciation for what’s in your glass.

This wasn’t just a class—it was a memory.

We’ll be back. And next time, we’re bringing friends.“

“Let’s get one thing straight, the Arancini Bites at 360 Westport are not food… they’re a full-blown personality trait.
I ordered them thinking, “Yeah yeah, fried rice balls, how life-changing could this really be?”

Turns out… I was wildly unprepared.
These things show up looking all casual, golden, minding their own business, then you take one bite and suddenly you’re sitting there in silence, questioning why you’ve tolerated lesser appetizers your entire life. Crispy on the outside, molten three-cheese chaos on the inside like it was engineered by someone who clearly understands power.

And then they hit you with the marinara, not some sad side sauce, but a full supporting actor that deserves billing. Pecorino romano comes in hot with that salty punch, and the truffle oil? Just enough to remind you that you’re eating something way out of your league.

Here’s the problem… they only give you so many. Which is bold. Because now you’re sitting there doing math, deciding which “friends” at the table you’re willing to cut out of your life so you can secure one more bite.

By the end, I wasn’t sharing. I wasn’t talking. I wasn’t even pretending to be a decent human being. I was protecting the last arancini like it was my retirement plan.

360 Westport didn’t just make an appetizer, they created a situation.
Order them. And if you don’t… stay home.

You’re not ready.“

“Amazing people, a spectacular Benton Park gem for those located nearby. No fake fancery or pompous attitude, just some awesome people, both bartenders and customers. Also- you can BYO food. And there is a Rallys a block away. So, in essence, they serve rally’s. If that’s your thing.“

“I had a great experience on a Saturday night. Our waiter George was great and made sure our drinks fit the taste we were looking for. The cocktails were great but the food was phenomenal. The shrimp and grits and crab dip were amazing. They have such a great atmosphere, can’t wait to visit again.“

“Always a fun place to go to have a relaxing time!!“

“Silk Road Lounge was really great. The Golden Monkey was the best drink I've had in a very long time. My partner thoroughly enjoyed his as well. Phenomenal balance, vibe was on point, jams were great, and we enjoyed our time. We will stop back thru whenever we visit STL.“

“Great place to connect with friends and family.“

“The food is top tier for me, the environment, the , vibe, the music. it's like one big family reunion everytime we meet.I love Janey she a young black queen with a beautiful soul“

“friendly. neighborhood bar vibe. a place where you can drink and think or laugh and talk. oh, you can smoke in here! small stage for karaoke/live music. no darts or pool table but there is golden tee! smokers can be free here (they have a cig machine.) super friendly service. 5/5 will be coming back here for sure“

“NBC was a really nice place to go and hang out and socialize. It was pretty crowded but the people it was crowded with was pretty cool and laid-back. The drinks was good they weren't to water down and the prices were Fair. My overall experience at NBC was great.“

“Wonderful experience all around. From their delicious unique cocktails at the bar with very knowledgeable staff, to the amazing food experiences we had for dinner. Fantastic wine list with a really unique experience!“

“Really chill and modern spot—I went with a friend for poetry night and it was very high concentrated energy, very community forward. Wasn’t super loud, and was good for a calm check in with friends.

I went 2 days later on a whim, they were charging a cover which I didn’t realize. But it was only $5 per, so better than other places. I’d never been to a dance bar before but this shit was popping like I felt like I was at the Boiler Room with Charli there.

The bartenders are cute, helpful, offer great service. Also they have some delicious NA options — try a raspberry sour. Check their ig for updates.“

“Awesome place!!! they make ANY type of drink, anyway you want it!!! Plus, the main bartender there is amazing!!! 💯“

“My fiancé and I always have such a great time when we visit. We LOVE viewing the latest art being displayed and the Dj/Dance atmosphere. The staff is kind and eclectic and professional. We highly recommend this spot!!“

“Flank steak & Short Ribs!“

“This place was AMAZING!! The food was so thoughtfully creative and prepared with obvious talent and love. We enjoyed meeting owner brothers and hearing their story of bringing their Yucatan culture and roots to the St. Louis food scene. Everything we tried was beyond delicious. This is a must-try for authentic Mexican food inspired by the Yucatan region.“

“Great cocktails, food, and service. Maggie was a great waitress!“

“This is the best burger in the city. I will die on this hill lol“

“I absolutely love The Fountain on Locust! It is by far one of my favorite restaurants in St. Louis! The food is amazing and the dessert is always the perfect way to end the meal! Every time I have been to The Fountain on Locust, I have left happier than when I came in! The staff is very welcoming and they always do a great job, providing top-tier service!“

“Great food, great service, great atmosphere, & great vibes!!!“

“Great drinks. Sting so worth the price“

“The waiter was excellent! The food was amazing. The entire staff did a awesome job with greeting and service! I will definitely be back🎉🥰“

“Great wine, place to lounge and relax with friends . Best bartender and server“

“The food is amazing. The location is great. The service is impeccable. This is THE place to be!“

“While I did not eat there myself, I called in from 600 miles away to surprise my son and his girlfriend! They were there to celebrate his birthday and the news that he had just passed the Bar exam! The staff were just as excited to be in on the plan as I was - they asked all the right questions to make sure it went down exactly as I envisioned and even called me afterwards to let me know it was a success! This South Carolina Mom really appreciated how the restaurant took the extra time on a busy Friday night (Halloween no less) to make patrons feel special! THANK YOU!“

“Fabulous food. So glad they have re-opened“

“This place is so, so cool. My cousin took me out for dinner and I had never even heard of this spot. Wow, it’s such a beautiful and moody spot full of charm!! We had to wait 15 minutes for a booth but I didn’t mind because this place serves LOOKS. The decor was awesome! Everything from the stellar service, crispy and lacey smash burgers and gorgeous dining room(s) made me realize why this spot is always recommended to me. We were very happy with our food and it was under $50 for two people! Check out Golden Hoosier, you won’t regret it.“

“Beautiful place. Excited to try their night time cocktail hour.“

“Bar PM doesnt have food but they make up for it in good vibes!
I truly enjoy the lgbtq+/ all-inclusive atmosphere they provide. The music is always top notch, the staff is extremely friendly and quick to serve! They also have a super cute patio and open-air garage area, giving patrons a variety of areas to hang, dance or socialize. They also host some really unique, fun and exciting events that Ive thoroughly enjoyed attending or vending with my business. This Bar is definitely a hidden GEM in St. Louis!“

“I stumbled upon this gem on Halloween and it has easy become me and my friends favorite spot to unwind and enjoy a nice cocktail. The Passport is relaxing, family ran , and very intimate, the music is 10/10, the drinks are handcrafted by some amazing Bartenders who knowledgeable and friendly, it’s a must try! I definitely know you won’t be disappointed!“

“Great bartenders, fun cocktails, and overall good time. Highly recommend!“

“Love having more queer, chill spaces ❤️“

“Hi there :)
I had a Great time,It was our first time there,the owners are Ahhhmazing people,outdoor patio looked prettycool,I will absolutely be back so i can enjoy that patio lol.
Met some locals all nice peeps,
all around a GR8 pub. I highly recommend hummels pub for a good time.“

“If you haven’t been to Cellar House yet, you’re missing out. It’s one of those rare spots that feels like a hidden gem — honestly surprised it wasn’t busier on a Friday night.
The bourbon selection is excellent, and they went above and beyond by making a custom Chinese Manhattan for us that wasn’t even on the menu. That kind of flexibility and attention to detail really stands out.
The food is clean, straightforward, and very well executed. The ahi sliders were perfectly seared — wouldn’t change a thing. The fries were crispy, clearly cooked in clean oil, and seasoned just right, paired with a bright, well-balanced aioli. The rigatoni had vibrant, developed flavors — highly recommend keeping it as is without adding meat. It holds its own.
Service was exceptional. We stayed about 30 minutes past closing catching up with a friend and never felt rushed. In fact, they offered another round. That level of hospitality is rare.
The patio ambiance deserves its own mention — relaxing, tucked away, and surprisingly peaceful despite being near a busy road. It’s the perfect spot to sip a bourbon or enjoy a glass of wine and unwind.
They rotate their menu seasonally, and you can tell they genuinely care about what they’re doing.
No notes, no requests — just a great experience all around. From a customer, a chef, and someone who needed a solid night to relax… thank you.“

“Absolutely amazing dining experience. The locally sourced ingredients made every dish feel fresh and thoughtfully prepared. We did the chef’s selection menu and it was hands down some of the best food I’ve had in a very long time — every course was creative, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Our server was incredible as well, attentive, knowledgeable, and made the whole experience even better. One of the best restaurant experiences we’ve had in St. Louis. Highly recommend!“

“Great place to hang with and meet new friends. Owners are great!!“

“I love this restaurant. The menu is eclectic and the food is fantastic and the cocktails are really good. Great atmosphere inside and on the patio. I've been there for both lunch and dinner and the staff is very attentive and super nice. The Chicken Phad Thai Nachos are awesome!“

“great people awesome music“

“I drive past this place a lot and never paid it any attention. My friend and I wanted some frozen drinks and food. When I say this place was a pleasant surprise. From the security to the ladies working at the bar we felt cared for. Even the other patrons were really nice. You can tell they are regulars there and we enjoyed that. The drinks were A1 in taste and buzz level. The only “issue” I had was the menu I read about online wasn’t as extensive. I had my heart set on something I didn’t see in person but that’s not a dealbreaker. They will see us again.“

“what's not to like? Great people, Wonderful cocktails, layed back and relaxed, super wedding venue!!! Need I say more?“

“Incredible food, cocktails and service. Their French onion soup is to die for. Lovely place with great atmosphere, highly recommend!“

“Love for eating and smarter cigars“

“Fantastic as always! Probably the best burger in St. Louis. These 2oz smash burgers are seared to perfection.The Louie was a nice choice with sautéed peppers and onions. Next time I’d add a third party.Pro tip, there’s a gated parking lot but it’s free!“

“My wife and I went to Nixta last light for her birthday. We cannot say enough rave reviews! The atmosphere was romantic, chic and cozy. The food was EXCELLENT considering that I normally do not like Mexican food. The fish tacos and chicken tacos were superb. The tortilla chips were so good and the flan was the topping to a great night.“

“Had a great time playing outside Saturday night at The Little Bar StL 💥 Happy birthday once again to Angel Echevarria!!! 🤘🎂 Special thanks to the owners and staff and to everyone who hung out! 🙂 You guys are awesome! 💚🎶🙏 We hope to be back next year! 😉 We definitely enjoy playing here! 👍“

“Dined here for the first time last night. Salsa was delish, margaritas was fantastic (got the Mezcal. They were out of tajin, but it was still excellent with salt). Enjoyed the tacos and the street corn. 10 out of 10! Looking forward to dining here again.“