West County:
The Village Bar (12247 Manchester Road, Des Peres; 314-821-4532)
The Village Bar's candy-stripe exterior (plus plenty of beer signs) is Christmas-ready, making this traditional neighborhood bar the perfect place to sip on a few holiday drinks, wolf down a "Better Burger," the bar's signature dish, and even play some shuffleboard. Nicknamed the Villagio, regulars enter through the back door, and everyone knows your name...and your drink. Elephant Bar (1085 West County Center Drive, Des Peres; 314-835-0545)
Embrace the flavors of Southern California-based Elephant Bar. Yes, it's a chain, but it's situated right inside West County Center, and you can hide in the separate bar area. There's a pretty solid happy hour that includes "Skinny Cocktails" if you're trying to keep off the pounds. Or just drink draft beer and white whiskey Old Fashioneds until the edges start to blur -- that's how you'll know you're ready to shop.
