What an ideal venue for a milestone Birthday! The Thaxton makes you feel so regal and it's like taking a step back in time exuding sophistication and class with a Gatsby, art deco, sexy speakeasy, modern, inviting vibe. We celebrated my husband's 40th and everything exceeded all our expectations especially during these challenging Covid times! All the staff were so accommodating, endearing, attentive, and made sure every person was having the best experience. Everything was seamless including help with coordinating the caterer (Russo's), music (using Thaxton's sound system and DJ Greasy), and helping with decorations I brought in. A special Cheers! (with my amazing craft cocktails they have) to Kim (owner, point person, and basically a rock star) who coordinates this thing called a safe, memorable, fun, and perfect party! read more

I held a bachelor party at the Thaxton and the staff provided PHENOMINAL hospitality. Tavon gave us the perfect welcome at the door and got all the guys hyped for the night. And the bartenders, Ryan and Sammi Jo, were excellent at checking on us all night. The drinks were extraordinary. This place left a great first impression of STL for the out-of-towners in our group and kicked-off our weekend on a high note. Amid COVID-19, our group was extra cautious about the places we visited. We felt incredibly comfortable at Thaxton Speakeasy because groups were at least 12 feet away, everyone wore masks, hand sanitizer was readily available, and temperature checks were at the door. read more

Tucked away in a dark alley you find the back entrance to the Thaxton Building, a historic treasure with a revamped basement turned into a retro speakeasy. At the entrance you must provide the password. Quite the character is waiting at the door to let you in... A long, grey bearded gentlemen will let you in. You would swear he makes all the hooch that awaits you downstairs. This venue is not PDT-New York nor is it Bourbon & Branch in San Francisco. It doesn't try to be either. The vibe inside is more of a dance speakeasy than a lounge. However, there are many couches and chairs to avoid the dance floor. There was a DJ mixing when we stopped in. The music is loud. They specialize in drinks with moonshine. I had the Mandarine Moonshine. It was actually very good. The drinks come at an extremely good value. $3-5/ea versus $15 at the aforementioned speakeasies. Overall, it is worth experiencing at least once, but I prefer the other speakeasy experiences I've had elsewhere by a long shot! read more

Thaxton Speakeasy - Mandarin Moonshine - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

How could I live in STL this long and not know about this one-of-a-kind treasure. I was bumble-stumbling back from a Cards game to my downtown loft when I saw bright neon lights in an alley. Drawn like a moth to a flame, I lit upon Thaxton, nestled between two dumpsters in an alley. I was mesmerized. I broke the doorbell, that's right, I guess I don't know how to ring a bell anymore. Anyway the gentleman keeping out the local riff raff (Jermain? Jonathan? My true apologies!) ushered me in and kindly explained the rules of engagement. I kept inadvertently straying from local norms and J kept me back on track. To be honest, it was like stepping in a time machine to a more refined era. I expected to see Ezra Pound or Alice B. Toklas sipping absinthe with F. Scott at the bar. I had a stiff drink of whiskey with an "e" and thoroughly enjoyed the ambiance. If you need to forget your troubles or feel like minor royalty, this is the place. Generous pours, fantastic patrons, and service that just does not exist anymore. I give this gem 5.25 out of 5.0 dry Gin martinis. read more

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Bottom Line: Amazing space, Love the Art-Deco nostalgia, Intimate Overview: My friend and I stopped by here after the Freezepop show at the Firebird. What a great surprise this place was for me. I was upset I did not know about this place sooner. Space: As I understand, this used to be the Eastman Kodak building. Much of the main floor (used primarily for events, I assume), which is not where patrons lounge, has been renovated to it's previous grandeur. Being a fan of things old, this was amazing to me. Downstairs is where folks dance, drink, socialize. There apparently is a drink that the Thaxton concocts for folks that is unique to the area. Music was of the dance genre. It would be swell if the management would do some swing nights here. Yeah, I know. I may be one of a handful of folks in STL that enjoys swing music. Summary: For anyone that is a fan of old architecture, it would be a big mistake to not come to the Thaxton Speakeasy. And if you have an event that you want folks to remember, seriously consider this spot. Hint: For those visiting for the first time, be sure to check the website for the password to get in. read more

Thaxton Speakeasy - Building (Front) - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

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A great place for weddings and receptions. Also has a great bar and a lounging room. Ignore the ambulance service part. But people will enjoy this ven. read more

We decided to check this place out after seeing it on so many lists for "top bars in Saint Louis." This was one of the most unique bars I've been to. When you enter, you are ushered down a couple flights of stairs to a "speakeasy." It definitely looked the part, and it feels like you've arrived somewhere special! The lighting and ambiance are very chill and dim. It's not the right place if you're looking for clubbing and dancing, but it's a great place to enjoy quality drinks and have a good chat with someone. The bartender was very friendly and checked in on us a few times as well. They did a great job with COVID precautions too by spacing parties far apart and by doing temperature screening on everyone as they entered. This is the perfect place for a special date or for anyone looking for a unique and upscale drinking experience! read more

Hosted an engagement celebration at Thaxton. From the ambiance, to the decor, setting and remarkable service.....it was fantastic! It's a great place to host an event or drop by for an interesting cocktail. A must see in STL! read more

Started our experience off with Jamari who is the door guy. He's definitely sarcastic and hilarious. He was perfect. I had no idea what I was doing but he was so great. Then when we got in... our server was Brian. We had so many questions and he was absolutely perfect. We felt embarrassed and shy but he made us feel completely comfortable and he was so kind and cool. I honestly don't think we'd have the same experience without him. When you go- request Brian. I'm not kidding when I say I'd actually follow him to any bar- he's that good. read more

This venue is amazing and the staff is incredible!! Kim, Mad Dog, and Tayvon made our night perfect! I LOVE the fact that you have the entire venue to yourself! This is not a traditional, boring event venue. They help you throw a party that your guests will never forget. read more

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Lovely man who greeted us at the door, was very playful and entertaining. Atmosphere was awesome. Wish there was live music but it might be because of covid. Drinks were amazing. read more

Thaxton Speakeasy - Inside - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

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We held our wedding reception at the Thaxton. Due to Covid, our numbers were greatly reduced. But Kim made the planning easy, even with the dramatic change in numbers. Kim and Mad Dog were so helpful. From setting up the event to breaking it down and everything in between. Mad Dog did an awesome job as our MC. He made sure the events went smoothly and kept everything on time. Kim was amazing keeping all the details together. She clearly knows exactly what she's doing. The building itself is beautiful. It has all the charm of the 20's. If you are looking for uniquely perfect place to hold a wedding reception, rehearsal dinner, or even just a party, this is your place. read more

Kim and Mad Dog and the whole staff were so awesome, helpful, and kind! They went above and beyond on our day. They set up our cakes and desserts, our everything where it needed to be with ease, they were patient and more than accommodating, and they just added a special touch of kindness and empathy that I don't know we would have found anywhere else! They made everything flow and kept us up to date and stayed in contact throughout even the year leading up to our big day! Thank you so much to the coordinators and entire staff at the Thaxton! read more

Thaxton Speakeasy - Wedding at the Thaxton - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

We are still on cloud 9 after our wedding at The Thaxton. This event was a long time coming. After seeing pictures of the venue online, I knew this was the place for our event. It is simply gorgeous. Our original date was postponed multiple times due to the pandemic. Each time, Kim approached us with compassion and understanding. We will never be able to thank her enough for the kindness she showed to us over the course of the last year. I heard awful stories from friends who were in similar situations and felt even more grateful that we chose The Thaxton as our venue. Perhaps my favorite part of The Thaxton (other than Kim) is that it is so unique. Other locations required us to bring in countless decorations and pieces of entertainment. The Thaxton is so beautiful and unique that it required very little decor. We honestly could have gotten away with bringing nothing. Every single picture that was taken by someone, even on their cell phones, looks like a work of art. The drinks at our party were amazing. A month later, people are still commenting on how wonderful the venue was for the event. Multiple people noted that it was the best wedding they had ever been to. The price was extremely affordable. I am not quite sure how they offer all that they do for such a low price point. If you are looking for an event space that is unique, definitely choose The Thaxton. If you are looking for an event space that is affordable, choose The Thaxton. If you are looking to work with a place that treats you more like family than a checkbook, choose The Thaxton. read more

I love speakeasy's and Thaxton was great!!!! This secret downtown location seems to be behind a theatre. You enter through the alley marked by hanging lights. You are greeted by a friendly staff person once you ring the doorbell. You will then be taken to a downstairs location where the decor and music is lively. The bartenders are friendly and they drinks are great. They not only make drinks in the menu but they also make classic cocktails. There old fashioned was delicious. This was a great way to end our Thursday night. Be sure to get your password for a cheaper entrance fee. I believe the fee was for the live jazz band that was playing. I received a password when we signed up on their website. read more

SO SO SO FUN!!! Super fun!! Loved the atmosphere drinks and had good service as well. Went on a date here with my boyfriend. The guy at the front door does heckle you a bit for the experience so don't be scared at all! read more

It has been a few years since I've been here. The live music and dancing has never disappointed. Very low key but "secretive" and classy place to see some amazing talent. read more

Thaxton Speakeasy - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

Honestly I am incredibly disappointed with my experience at Thaxton. In my experience, the bouncers were quite rude/sexist. The bouncer continuously refused to address me and treated me like I did not understand what he was saying. Instead, he repeatedly tried to speak to my male colleagues, as if I didn't not understand the situation. I really would not recommend going here. read more

This is the most amazing place to host an event!!! I had my 30th birthday party here and wow was it amazing. The staff was unbelievably kind and helpful! The drinks were fun and very on brand with the bar. My guests and I had the best time and I am beyond thankful for such an unforgettable experience! If you're considering booking here for your next event don't hesitate!!! read more

Great staff. Fun bar. Lots of space. Plenty of parking. Just a really chill hole in the wall casual place to hang.

Pretty busy location. I only had drinks but o felt it was a good location that I would definitely return. Definitely worth a try if in the area. read more

The Thaxton is best place for any event. My sons wedding was perfect. I have never seen such coordination from wedding vowels to converting main floor for serving Dinner. They have 4 floors for entertainment making social distancing so easy. The basement Speakeasy room was perfect for first dance for the bride and groom. Kim's staff trained to perfection for complete customer experience. Thank you so much Kim for wonderful time I will be back. Phil T. read more

Super chill vibes and fun little speak easy! Interesting drinks also. We did have to wait to get in but not too long.

I felt like I entered into a different world the drinks were amazing in the atmosphere was electric there was something about it that was warm and inviting a place that she wanted to stay and talk and hang out absolutely love this place. read more

My law firm booked the Thaxton Speakeasy for a holiday party for our attorneys, last Friday, and we had a blast. We had delicious barbecue catered from Salt + Smoke, accompanied by terrific cocktails by Thaxton Speakeasy, which also has a decent beer list. All in all, it was the perfect event space for us to unwind after a long year of work litigating our cases. Thaxton Speakeasy is a located downtown, below what appears as a vintage theater. You can enter from the street or if you are feeling whimsical, from the alleyway. You can check your coat on the ground level, but the bar is underground. Once underground, you'll greeted to a spacious room with a large fully stocked wet bar, luxurious seating, and plenty of space to dance. We had a blast. I would recommend Thaxton Speakeasy to anyone looking for a unique St. Louis event space. read more

We stopped in during a short trip to St.Louis. The bartenders are absolutely fantastic and their drinks were great. The well stocked bar is extremely clean and pretty laid back. We were in town for guys trip and it was a perfect setting. Good music, we could talk, get a little obnoxious and put away some great drinks. None of us are mixed drink people. We are much more of a beer and occasional whiskey group, but the bartenders were so knowledgeable they always had something new to suggest after asking a few questions. So we drank cocktails for 3 hours! I would highly recommend for any occasion. read more

Perfect blend of authentic speakeasy and faux speakeasy. The front entrance literally does not function, despite appearing to be legitimate with a doorbell and all. You have to go around the building to a back alley, where a fairly serious and authentic doorman subtlely asks you for the password and chareges you a 3 dollar cover. Once inside, you go down to a darkly lit basement area with authentically dressed bartenders and a variety of traditional cocktail options. There is authentic 20s style music and swing dance lessons. Overall, very cool spot for a novel night out, with great drinks. Make sure to check the website before you go for the password and to make sure its not closed for a private party (which it often is!). PS- if you check in with yelp, you can get a free drink! read more

Everything about The Thaxton was awesome. Kim was very helpful and responsive from the very first meeting. She answered every question we had throughout the planning. Mad Dog was awesome to have as an additional guide on our wedding day. The whole venue was perfect for us. The decor at the Thaxton is perfect/beautiful. I would also recommend using the house DJ - DJ Uptown - if you are looking for a DJ. read more

Thaxton Speakeasy - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

We held a corporate event at the Thaxton & it was incredibly last minute. Not only did Kim at the Thaxton have everything put together within a week but it was A+ and incredibly popular event that all of our guests have still be raving about. Thank you so much!! read more

My wife and I love this place. We go dancing there once a month for "Throwback at the Thaxton". DJ Forensic spins 80s and 90s tunes with some vintage movies playing for background. The Art Deco vibe is authentic; this used to be the Kodak Building which was built in 1928 and served as the hub of the St. Louis Photography district. It has been lovingly restored and the reproductions of Lempicka paintings were hand done by one of the owners. The bar makes their own "Moonshine" in various flavors for 5 bucks a glass. They have all the other stuff you might want to drink as well. There are two VERY important things to keep in mind if you plan to visit the Thaxton. The first is that you cannot enter from the main entrance on Olive street. You have to go into the alley one block behind the building. The other is that it is NOT open to the public except for DJ nights and Thursday evenings when Miss Jubilee plays. It is usually rented out for private parties and receptions... so if you try to crash one of those you will not be allowed in. The best bet is to check their website and see what evenings they are open to the public. http://www.thaxtonspeakeasy.com The Speakeasy Bar is downstairs but you can look around the main floor of the building if they don't have tables set up for a reception. The bar doesn't serve food but they have tables and a comfy couch lounge area to sit and sip your Moonshine or cocktails. It's definitely worth a trip to see one of only two authentic Art Deco buildings built in St. Louis. read more

Thaxton Speakeasy - Some of the art deco glass work and lighting downstairs in the Speakeasy bar. - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

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During a recent pub crawl, we decided to check this place out. What a find! We got lucky that they were open when we dropped by. If you plan on visiting, check out their website first. They aren't always open and admittance requires a password... although the doorman will let you in if you don't know it after hassling you a bit. On Thursday it was $3 per head to enter. There is a ballroom on the main floor, but the action when we were there was in the basement. We found out it was Prohibition Era night. There was a band that fit the genre, and dancers dressed up in 20's era garb. It was a trip. At the bar, the bartender offered old style drinks, and the Yelp check-in allowed my buddy a free shot of cherry moonshine. He described the shot experience as painful but fun. This would be a great place for a date as I'm sure most people haven't experienced anything like this, and there is plenty of entertainment with the band and dancers. I wished we were dressed up a bit more, but casual dress is not discouraged. read more

When a friend suggested we go to a speakeasy, my response was hell yes! And immediately images of flappers, gangsters, bootleg hooch and jazz music filled my head. Oh, it sounded so amazing. Pulling up at the front, walking around to the alley and going to the door seemed so cool and a little exclusive. The man who looked like Yosemite Sam who answered the door made me giggle a little, but he didn't ask for the password - he just asked for $5 from each of us. Womp womp... there popped the bubble of my idea that we'd be stepping back into some prohibition-era themed fun. The decor was amazing, I was willing to overlook that they were playing modern dance/electro music and that the bar on the main level was working with a few rail bottles and things in a big blue cooler. Going downstairs to the "speakeasy" section was neat, again the decor was awesome. But the bartenders were terribly slow and serving patrons in no sort of order. My friends and I waited 1/2 hour just to order a drink, by that point I was over being there. The only really exciting thing that happened was that my check in on Yelp yielded a free drink/shot of moonshine. A friend and I claimed this free shot and it was pretty yucky - the cherry tasted like cough syrup. Thaxton, play up the speakeasy bit - turn it up to 11 and I'll be back. Can a girl get a little jazzy booze den feeling up in this? It was just so dull and not at all speakeasy-esque other than the decor. The fact that the place started to empty out at 11:30pm was a little sad, too. read more

I feel like a cool kid now that I've been to the Taxton Speakeasy. What a fun Thursday night was had by a bunch of girlfriends! Miss Jubilee, unknown to me before this evening, was a delight! Her performance of period music was fantastic as was the combo performing with her. Although I didn't dance, I certainly enjoyed watching new and experienced dancers take to the floor. My friends even took the complimentary dance lessons. The building is beautiful, an Art Deco gem. Other Yelpers have commented on the conventions of the speakeasy, e.g. the password, etc. This is a great place to go when you feel like doing something out of the ordinary---interesting people watching, cool drinks, and lively music. I don't know how interested I'd be in coming for the D.J.----I like the Thaxton for the time-travel experience. read more

Awesome speakeasy-style bar/lounge downtown. The experience kind of starts a like a horror film -- we walked around the building, down an alley to find the back door. We rang the doorbell and and waited until a man (Mad Dog, I think he is referred to) answered. Mad Dog had a mustache that rivaled Yosemite Sam's--it was impressive (full disclosure: I was a couple beers in, so this might be exaggerated). He asked for the password and the cover ($3). Knowing we were first timers there, Mad Dog told us the deal: "Get the moonshine shot--don't get the mixed drink. And when you take the shot, eat the fruit first. Don't eat it after...you'll regret it." Confused at what he was talking about, we nodded and headed inside, down a dark staircase into the basement. The best way to describe it would be an unpretentious lounge...if there is such a thing. The had several couches and a small dance floor, with a DJ spinning some music. We each ordered a shot of the cherry moonshine. The bartender gave us 2 shot glasses each, one with the moonshine, and one with a cherry. The bartender reiterated what Mad Dog said, "Eat the fruit first." After biting in, we quickly learned why we wanted a chaser after the fruit -- it tasted like the cherry had been sitting in moonshine for months. After forcing down the moonshine-soaked cherry, we welcomed the moonshine (as strong as it was) as a chaser. Needing a reprieve from the shots, I tried the pineapple mixed drink which was good as well. They're booked for private events often, so check the website to make sure the night is open to the public before you go. But, it's definitely a really cool experience. Pros: really cool experience, good atmosphere Cons: not open too often (closed for private parties frequently) read more

Went here recently on a weeknight. They really do a good job making it feel like you've stepped back in time. You have to go through the alley to enter and it's completely underground. I felt like I was sneaking into some private club. When I was there they had an awesome 1920's style swing band playing which really set the mood. The building itself is impressive with a lot of character and awesome photography everywhere. If you checked in on yelp you got a free drink as well! Will absolutely go again, probably on a Friday or Saturday night to see this place at its prime. read more

Here is a simple place with lots of potential to be great. We came for a few drinks in the underground bar area. The building is gorgeous. You enter from the back down a shady looking alleyway and supposedly need to know the password (I have no idea. Others did). They charged a very small cover, which I don't think is appropriate. The reason? They are small and very rarely known. To get people to come and liven up the place, they need to make it free for a good stretch of time until a solid patronage has been build up. The bar/lounge is fairly small (think the front room of Pepper Lounge). There were some comfy looking sofas. The bartenders were nice and they have Schlafly on tap (!!!!!!!! A lounge that has Schlafly on tap! How freaking cool is that?). The crowd was mixed...folks of different age groups. The music was eh...Kudos to the DJ for playing more obscure songs/tracks but they could benefit with a few familiar songs (yes, the crap on the radio, which does get people moving sadly) thrown into the mix. We left early to go dance at a busier place, but overall, my experience was positive here. They need to do more PR to get people to show up, drop the cover charge, mix up the DJ choices, and hopefully the place will become more popular then to pop up on people's radar when they are on Wash Ave. read more

Update: The shindig has passed, and I am happy to increase my stars from 4 to 5. Peter and the staff at The Thaxton Speakeasy could not have been any better or more accommodating. All of our guests had a great time and loved the atmosphere. If I'm ever in the position to throw another party, I would not hesitate to choose The Thaxton again. Even through the alcohol, it was an evening we will never forget. Watch out for the cherries! They'll catch ya! We will be back this fall and winter when it's open to the public on the weekends! _________________________________________________________ My husband and I found The Thaxton building while at the Off White Wedding Show earlier this year. We did a destination wedding, but will be having a small after-party at The Thaxton towards the end of July with our family and some close friends. We've been working with Peter to plan the party, and he's been great. So accommodating and very informative. I'll be able to post more details once the date has passed and let you know how the experience was as a whole. Can't wait! read more

The Thaxton is amazing! Recently booked the speakeasy for a company holiday party. Kim was really responsive to all questions and made the booking process seamlessly easy. It was so much fun! Our group got into the spirit with full '20's dress! Our bartenders and doormen, David and Brian were awesome! The moonshine and bathtub gun were delicious. We didn't bring a band, but they choose the best music and kept the group really entertained. The area fit our group comfortably... lounge areas, table tops, plenty of room at the bar. Close restrooms. They helped with food presentation and handled all the cleanup, too. Will definitely be back! People are saying this was the best company party yet :) read more

When I had visited the Thaxton in past, it was only as a patron at their speakeasy bar in the basement. I had heard that they were also an event space, so my fiance and decided to check them out to host our rehearsal dinner. The Thaxton did not disappoint. They were a perfect venue to host our 50 person dinner. The staff was courteous, friendly, and professional. Terry was a perfect MC that entertained our guests. The general manager, Kim, was always nearby to answer any questions. Kim was also great with coordinating with the caterers and very responsive to my emails. The venue was accommodating to my wheelchair-bound mother. The building is absolutely stunning. We had a lot of out of town guests that were in awe of how lovely the room was. I would highly recommend The Thaxton for any event. And they are still a great spot to stop and grab a drink any time. We will definitely be back. read more

I really wanted to give a 5, but the music is way too loud. You can only talk with your friends, and hear them, if you sit in the back corner. If the sound was just lowered a little. But it has a great vibe. Good music--i guess I'd say a mix of world, electronica, lounge. Great non pretentious crowd too. Give it a try. read more