The Best Dive Bars In Saint Louis, Missouri

Chicago, Illinois is only a hop, skip, and a jump away from St. Louis, Missouri, but sometimes it may be inconvenient to travel to the neighboring state. Especially if all you want is a slice of pizza and a beer. Luckily, Black Thorn Pub is a casual hideaway that offers both. Located on the corner of a quiet residential neighborhood, this low-key bar has a retro arcade games, a television, darts, and even shuffle boarding. The beers are inexpensive and pair great with the Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. The super cheesy pizza comes with an array of toppings and styles, including hamburger, black olive, and classic pepperoni. Split a pie with your friends and play some games at Black Thorn Pub.

3735 Wyoming St. Saint Louis, MO, USA, +1 314 776 0534

Named one of the ‘Best Bars in America’ by Esquire in 2011, John D. McGurk’s Irish Pub and Garden offers patrons an authentic Irish pub experience. The brick and wood decor make the interior warm and inviting, while the outdoor garden is airy and casual. The menu features classic Irish dishes, such as bangers and mash, corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew, and whiskey bread pudding for dessert. However, you can also chow down on wings, nachos, onion rings, and other light bar fare. Of course, the pub serves Guinness and other popular Irish ales and ciders. On both weeknights and weekends, you may discover a live performance from a local, or even a traveling Irish band. Sit out on the patio garden, sip an ice cold ale, and enjoy the Irish ambiance.
1200 Russell Blvd. Saint Louis, MO, USA, +1 314 776 8309

If you’re searching for a creative cocktail, look no further – the martinis and cocktails at Van Goghz are both creative and clever. Try drinks such as the Dirty Harry, Ruby Red Drop, Peanut Butter Cup, Siracha Lemon Drop, and Cherry Kamikaze. Whether your taste buds are calling for sweet or tangy, every single drink is infused with explosive flavor. They have both dinner and happy hour specials, so be sure to try their build-your-own-burgers or tasty flatbreads. Come for after work drinks with friends, or even reserve their private space for a family celebration. Van Gogh may have been an artist with paint and a canvas, but the staff at Van Goghz are artists with drinks.
Van Goghz Martini Bar & Bistro, 3200 Shenandoah Saint Louis, MO, USA, +1 314 865 3345

Hair of the Dog is the best place to go in St. Louis for the classic dive bar experience. The hidden bar is dark and drab yet surprisingly cozy, with colorful string lights and a friendly staff. Listen to tunes played from the old-school juke box, cheer on the Rams while watching the big screen, or play games such as darts, foosball, and more. Enjoy a cold beer from an extensive selection, or sample a signature cocktail. The pretzel bites and beer cheese are great pub snacks, but the food menu features even more tasty eats. For an intimate atmosphere, inexpensive food and drinks, and laid-back yet engaging entertainment, visit Hair of the Dog.
1212 Washington Ave. Saint Louis, MO, USA, +1 314 241 3644

When you enter the Silver Ballroom, don’t expect to find chandeliers and people ballroom dancing. This funky bar is far from elegant, though that doesn’t mean it isn’t fun and comfortable. The locale has a run-down industrial vibe that makes it quite charming. Discover more than 15 pinball machines, ideal for both arcade enthusiasts and novices. Many of the machines are themed after some of your favorite television shows and movies. The games create a big draw, and tournaments are hosted often. As for the bar, order a beer, classic cocktail, or seasonal special. The bartenders are very talented and the drinks are always delicious. The Ballroom is also known for their Australian meat pies, which are made fresh and from scratch. Try one of nearly 10 types, including chicken fajita, mac and cheese, Thanksgiving pie, and chicken Parmesan.
4701 Morgan Ford Rd. Saint Louis, MO, USA, +1 314 832 9223