Sometimes you just need a drink. And sometimes...you need a drink somewhere beautiful.
We at Gut Check are not immune to the romanticism that comes from a beautifully appointed bar, so we've decided to share our most favorite immersive spots with you. From whimsical to merely gorgeous, here are the ten most beautiful bars in St. Louis.
See also: The 10 Best Places in St. Louis for a First Date
Grand Hall (1820 Market Street; 314-421-6655) The Grand Hall, Union Station's hotel lobby and lounge, just reopened after a major renovation that has restored the space to its original 1894 grandeur. The soaring 65-foot ceiling, Romanesque archways, frescos, gold-leaf details, mosaics and stained glass windows are an art deco feast for the eyes. And if that wasn't enough, every hour brings a "one-of-a-kind" 3-D projection show on the ceiling with imaginative scenes and historical vignettes.
Planter's House (1000 Mississippi Avenue; 314-696-2603) Bartenders Ted and Jamie Kilgore and business partner Ted Charak opened Planter's House in homage to the cocktail. The main room retains the building's original brick archways and large glass windows and is defined by a stately bar. A few steps up is the cozy Bullock Room where bartenders wax poetic about cocktails, their ingredients and history. Just sitting in the room is an experience, surrounded as you are by the dazzling wallpaper.
Blood & Sand (1500 Saint Charles Street; 314-241-7263) The bar at the front of the members-only Blood & Sand was designed to be functional as well as beautiful. From the apron farmhouse sink behind the bar to the shape and dimensions of the granite bar top (designed for optimal height and width for the bartender and the guest), every consideration was given for elegance in the presence of functionality. Likewise, the bar menu has been crafted by TJ Vytacil with the same attention to excellence and beauty. The living wall adds a touch of natural beauty.
