This is THE place to go when it comes to martinis in Stl. A few of us came in a small group and with it being late in the night, we still managed to get in on the pool tables and find a place to sit. The list of martinis is extensive and considering they have a martini for every taste profile, you can't go wrong. Even though they all looked good, I couldn't help but go with my favorite Three Olives Grape and Sprite with a lime. The atmosphere was lively as there were pockets of people in deep conversations, people playing pool, and others happy to be there in the moment. I mostly sat on the couch while my boyfriend and his friend played pool. The couch was super comfy, which is always a plus. While we didn't stay long, I certainly enjoyed my there and def intend on coming back to try some martinis! read more

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We went on a Thursday night. It was popping in there. Great drinks reasonably priced. I had a bunch of bloody Mary's. They were all to die for. read more

After enjoying some dinner at a nearby restaurant, I visited Famous Bar with some friends on a Thursday night around 6 PM, and we had so much fun! Definitely has the dive-bar feeling. I ordered an espresso martini, and it was fabulous. One of my friends ordered a margarita. They had lots of other fun drinks and shots on their seasonal menu that I'd like to try sometime. It seems like there's something for everyone! The bartender who took care of us was friendly and welcoming. It was pretty empty when we went, so he was really attentive for us. I absolutely love the atmosphere. Bathrooms were clean. The guys in our group had lots of fun playing pool and arcade games. I love a chill bar scene, so this place was totally my vibe. I'll be back! read more

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Great bar. Lots of selections, pool, games, and good folks. And the Bloody Marys ++ definitely a great place to stop in

I am a sucker for a good Espresso Martini. I have tried them at every bar I have been to that offers them the last year but none come close to The Famous Bar's. They are smooth and taste the same no matter which bartender is making them. The bartenders are always working hard and attentive to who is waiting. Love this bar for a nice night out. My only wish is that there was more seating. However, that doesn't prevent me from standing with my martini! read more

The Famous Bar - Espresso Martini - Bars Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

This South City award-winning jewel is an elevated Cheers where everyone knows your name. Every bartender is a male and they are rocking dapper attire with ties. It's one of the few bars I highly recommend to anyone locally or from out of town. There is street parking up front as well as an alley parking lot with a rear entrance into the building. The inside is low lighting with an array of seating. With bar seating, there is a place reserved for ordering drinks so that patrons can order drinks. Martinis are listed on the wall and run $14.50 currently. I think I've tried most of the martinis here and every single one has been good. My top faves are the Salted Caramel Martini and Blueberry Martini. When I am not wishing to drink alcohol, James makes me a Cold Coffee Mocktini or a Lemonade Mocktini. He even gives it a sugar rim. It makes me still feel social with my friends while having the outward appearance of a martini. Since I've been to this lovely bar many times over the past 5 months, I've included photos from each visit. If I could give this place 10 stars, I would! read more

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I had been wanting to visit the Famous Bar in South St. Louis for a while, especially since they're known for their variety of craft cocktails. I finally went and was impressed by their extensive menu. However, the night took a disappointing turn. I experienced discrimination and was ignored when trying to order drinks. My friend confronted the two bartenders about the situation--one played it off, while the other seemed to recognize what was happening. Needless to say, I won't be returning. read more

Dive bar with lots of martinis and pool tables... sign me up! We came in on a Sunday early evening, and there were about 15 other people in the place. We grabbed martinis, played pool (you need cash for quarters), and hung out for a bit in the A/C (needed to escape the heat and "hydrate"). Bartenders were friendly enough and let us read the small menu they keep behind the bar to help us choose our martinis. We look forward to coming back soon! read more

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Such a fun spot! Chill enough to be able to sit and chat while as busy enough that no one is able to listen in. Great spot for an espresso martini (my friend said it's the best one she has ever had and I think I just have to agree!) and I absolutely loved my gimlet. The bartender was very kind and attentive - I believe his name was Dave! This is quick on its way to being one of my regular spots! read more

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Nice little spot to stop in. Popped by on a Saturday afternoon and snagged a seat at the bar. Requested a mocktail, which was very good. Very chill little spot during the day, but I believe it gets busier at night. Two pool tables if that interests you. read more

Dreamy chocolate martinis and what they say is the best Bloody Mary. I'll take their word on the second suggestion from the man standing just outside the door that explained through his cigarette, "welcome to famous bar" read more

The famous bar is the worst..... ! I have given this place chance after chance . The first time I wentthe bartender looked at me, turned his head and ignored me. My girlfriend and I just looked at each other and laughed . I was not belligerent, drunk or disrespectful .The bartenders are smug ,all male ,weird introverts . They only pay attention to the female patrons .They think they are some sort of mixology specialist in a southside tavern . Never go there you will be disappointed! read more

My friend I hopped over to Famous Bar (not to be confused with your Mom's favorite South County shopping spot) one Sunday afternoon. The ambiance is absolutely everything you'd want in a classic Midwestern bar. No food needed...just a gorgeous unassuming bar with a "Welcome Home" vibe. Cocktails are made the right way, staff is so friendly and attentive! As always, another low key StL Gem that I never knew existed. Will be back for another flawless Old Fashioned and Sunday rant session. read more

The Famous Bar - Cocktails made the right way. Old school - Bars Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

Oh, Famous..'How do I love thee. Let me count the ways.' Delicious cocktails Beautiful bar Lovely, dark interior No TouchTunes & fabulous playlists TV's to catch the game sans sound Friendly and fun bartenders Pool tables Famous checks all the right boxes in my book. The cocktails are meticulously crafted - every one has a specific recipe, glass and garnish but if you're just looking for a bottle of beer and a shot, they've got you covered too. From the outside, you'd never guess what a classy yet low key bar awaits. You're not going to find a happy hour or food (except for a few bags of chips or jerky) but you will find a warm atmosphere, delicious drinks and a fun vibe. Mark (owner) doesn't cycle through bartenders and invests significant effort into finding the right people. His whiskey/bourbon selection is top notch and he hosts a premium tasting event a few times a year. Friday and Saturday nights are usually busy, so be prepared if that's your plan but other days are often comfortably filed with regulars chatting away and enjoying the evening. There's a parking lot in the back and you can have food delivered, if you need a little something to soak up the booze. ;) Stop in and make some friends! read more

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Fun moody martini bar in south city! I had a few espresso martinis and they were delicious!

Fun place to go and enjoy. Don't believe they serve food except for chips so don't go there hungry. Bartenders were great.

A great time was had by all! I love the Famous Bar, a martini bar that has two pool tables! Yes, please! The bartenders are great! Always friends and attentive. The martinis were superb! I always love bringing new friends here to experience this hidden gem! read more

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All I can tell you is The Famous Bar was fantastic. My wife, and I both wanted a chocolate martini, but she wanted hers a little more chocolatey. When I brought back the martinis, my wife tasted hers, and immediately cringed because it had a strong vodka taste to it. The bartender because he knew my wife specifically wanted something chocolatey actually looked in my direction and asked how was and I let him know that she probably wanted a creamy chocolate martini. He apologized, walked back behind the bar and made a chocolate martini that had Bailey's in it and it was perfect. He took the offending martini away and did not charge us for the correct martini. After I finished my martini, I wanted to have one more drink and I asked the other bartender what his smoothest bourbon was. He chuckled and asked me how much did I want to spend? I laughed, but he said that price did play a role. I told him I did not want to break the bank, so we settled on four roses bourbon over rice. It was such a rich, smelling drink with a smooth, smooth finish. All of the bartenders were friendly, funny and knowledgeable. I would recommend this is a must stop for anyone who enjoys a good cocktail. read more

The Famous Bar - Just a glimpse at the bar. - Bars Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

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Nice bar to unwind after a long day. Two pool tables and Golden Tee. Weekends are a bit roudy but always safe and a great time read more

The Famous Bar - Full bar - Bars Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

Great service and great mixed drinks. Friendly patrons. Would love a wider variety of craft brews, and some food or snack options would pop this up to a 5 star. read more

The Famous Bar - Part of the whiskey/bourbon selection - Bars Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

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Great service and expertly made martinis and other cocktails! I've been coming here for more than 25 years (whenever I am in town now) and the relaxed, authentic atmosphere has never changed. Thank you for keeping this classic south St. Louis establishment going for all this time! read more

I absolutely love this bar, hands-down, one of my favorite place to go in St. Louis for drinks, atmosphere, and just an overall good time. My boyfriend and I have been coming here for years. The drinks are phenomenal, and the bartenders are amazing and attentive, true mixologist at work here, people best drinks in town. One thing I will say, is they took out the duck hunter game which my boyfriend and I loved to play, but hopefully they'll bring that back soon! read more

Fun vibes, fun people and different from a lot of the other places around Saint Louis. The drinks are good and so was the service.

Stopped by on a Wednesday night and had no issues finding a seat or receiving great service. The bartender made a fantastic Old Fashioned and Manhattan. After having been to four other bars around down, The Famous, thus far, has the highest quality mixed drinks. read more

The Famous Bar - the interior of a restaurant - Bars Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

I really love coming here. It's been a staple of mine for a while. When I'm in South City, more often than not I end up at The Famous Bar. This recent trip my friend mentioned he liked how especially dark/tinted the lights were, and it dawned on me that's one of the reasons why I like it too. The drinks here range from crafted cocktails and martinis to your classic beers. There's easily something for everyone - which makes it the perfect place to take a friend or a date if you looking for variety. It's usually quiet the nights I come in, but the busy nights are fairly entertaining when it comes to people watching. I usually prefer the quiet nights, though, cause it makes it more of an intimate atmosphere. The bartenders are always nice and make you feel comfortable, kind of like being in someone's home. Can't go wrong here if it fits your vibe. read more

If no stars was an option I'd chose it. Cool place but the bartenders are creepy or rude. Only James is consistently good but the others will regularly refuse to serve for no reason read more

There is only one thing to order at the Famous Barr, and that is DRINKS! They are really straight forwArd at this place with wide drink selection. Great atmosphere, great variety of music, always a fun time. All are welcome at the Famous Bar. Although a solid following of locals, they are friendly enough to endorse newcomers. I hate when a local type bars are sometimes hostile when a new crew rolls in. ***My money is worth the same as your's people, so wipe that death stare off your face!*** The bartenders are super friendly and even put on a performance sometimes, if your watching closely. You have your local pool sharks and your standard Buck Hunter fanatics to fill the crowd. Great place to stop and have a drink, definitely a place I recommend to my friends. ™ read more

I really like this bar. It is way classier than it looks from the street. I like the mid century vibe of the place and the old pan am art. I felt like I was in a Mad men episode and kept looking up at the copper ceiling while drinking classic cocktails. Don't get me wrong I can be a bit pretentious, but legitimately this place is a hidden gem (and the price is unbeatable). I will definitely become a regular. They also do classes for groups and I had a good time and enjoyed the owner and head bartenders creations. 10/10 will go again! read more

The Famous Bar is a fun little South City dive. I haven't been in a couple of years since I left the neighborhood but I joined some friends for some drinks to celebrate a birthday. They're known for their martinis which they have a fairly large list of but none of them seemed unique or interesting to me so I had a Black and Tan. It tasted good but it was difficult to get anyone to serve me. Bartenders were more interested in helping people they knew at the bar and not anyone else waiting. Both times I got a drink they helped everyone around me first. But I'm not the person to be pushy so I just waited. The drinks tasted good and I had a nice time with friends. I would definitely come back again sometime. read more

The Famous Bar is a low-key South City heavily wooded bar where the bartendars wear ties and know their stuff. Whether you are looking for a good martini or a good cigar (a drawback for me), You will get quality at a decent price. The weekend entertainment is up close & personal. If you get a seat at the bar, you're in good shape, if you don't, it's a little loud. There are a few tables in the back. It can be a good looking crowd, mainly upper 20's to 40. If you're hungry, they are great about letting you order in. read more

Smoking is allowed at The Famous Bar and you'll know that the moment you enter the door. The smell of smoke immediately hits your sense of smell. However, it doesn't take long for your to realize the smell of smoke is really the smell of fun. Okay, it is a smokey smell and your clothes will smell like smoke when you get home, but all of that can be overlooked because of all the fun you will have while drinking in this classic dive bar. The bartenders know their craft and produce some amazing cocktails in a comfortable, unpretentious atmosphere. The original tin ceiling is a you must see for its beauty. Let your hair down, be adventurous and come have some fun in a smoke filled dive bar. read more

This place has a really cool vibe! The bartenders a great and really know their stuff! I really love it when you can take a seat at the bar, not have a clue what you want to drink...you take a leap of faith and place your palate in the hands of a man you've just barely met and he wows you with an amazing drink you've never heard of before! That's this kind of place!!! These guys have never let me down, real talk folks! If Flynn is there he has the best playlist you've ever heard...the guy has everything! They could easily rest on their laurels and just be a solid go to neighborhood bar,but they are always trying something new and doing something a little bit different...for God's sake they served me a cocktail made with aloe water, gin (I'm more of a vodka girl, but this drink was so freaking smooth!) St. Germaine, probably some other stuff and garnished with a lemon cherry, the drink was so light, refreshing and just all around delicious! Really dig this place! read more

The Famous Bar - I know you can't tell in the dark, but a Red Velvet Martini! Flynn is the man! - Bars Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

This is, by far, my favorite St. Louis bar -- primarily because you can get a perfect martini or a generous glass of good wine without pretentious environment that usually comes with it. The bartenders are the most knowledgeable that I've encountered. The martinis are always spot-on (I've never had to request my dirty to get a little dirtier, like most places) and I love the seasonal martinis (especially the pumpkin in the fall). I gave Famous 4 stars instead of 5 for one reason only -- I wish it was larger. The narrowness of the bar makes it hard to not spill about $4 of your martini as people navigate around you and bands (although welcome) can make it pretty loud. Solve both problems by getting there early to grab a spot. You'll have a place to rest your martini and, with the extra drinking time, you'll welcome the live band by the time they go on! read more

The Famous Bar - Inside - Bars Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

I first learned of The Famous Bar from a show called Drinking Made Easy, however I avoided it because it has been a smoking establishment but recently that has changed ant TFB is now smoke free. The Famous Bar is an old school bar which is widely known for their Bloody Mary's, and Martini's so on a lazy Saturday I decided to stop in early one evening for a drink or two. I took a look at the martini list and decided to go for something different and went with the Apple, the taste was good however I will admit that I prefer other Martini bars, like Sub Zero, Crafted, and the recently closed Absolutely Goosed. The inside is dark and casual, offering the perfect casual ambiance, but don't worry about missing the Blues or Cardinals because there are two tv's at both ends of the long bar. The bartender was friendly and fast with the drinks, which is always a plus. Inside is casual and there seemed to be a regular crowd. I also noticed a pool table that was being used during my short visit. Overall I am likely to return, as The Famous Bar seemed to focus on a slightly older crowd when compared to The Mack just down the road, so it's perfect for more quiet evenings with a 30+ crowd. read more

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One of my favorite bars, the bartenders actually know how to make mixed drinks, can generally come up with any concoction you're in the mood for and the drinks are reasonably priced. The stereo is a little loud for my taste, that and the lack of seats when it's busy would be my only two complains but the former might be something that other people like. Overall, this is a pretty great bar. read more

Love this place and I'm so glad they are open again. They make the best dirty martini around! I look forward to when they have live music again. My boyfriend and I like to go here after dinner for a few cocktails. Perfect way to end an evening! read more

I would give zero stars if I can. This place has the worse service ever. My husband, brother-in-law and I are in town for thanksgiving. We picked this place because it's near my in-laws. We arrived at 11:30pm for a couple of drinks. We were playing a game of pool not causing any trouble. We haven't yet finished the first drink, the rude bartender already called for last drink and it was only 11:35PM. They supposed to close at 1:30AM. After another five mins, he came over again and said he is kicking us out. The service is unbelievable. read more

I love this place! I have lived around the corner for over a year and never ventured in. I love the pool tables and games. However, I ordered an Aperol Spritz and let's just say... I found mold in my drink. I ended up drink Ming wine - but I will probably not order another mixed beverage when I go back. read more

This place makes the best Old Fashioned on earth. I didn't even know I liked old fashioneds until I came here and had one. Now I'm a snob about it. This is my favorite bar during the week. You couldn't drag me in here on a weekend, though. The live music is just too much for such a small space. The martinis and bloody mary's are perfect every time. The bartenders are the best. I love when they create new recipes, and I'm always willing to be a guinea pig for their ideas. I've never had a bad drink here, and the price is right for the quality. I highly recommend the: Peach Penguin, Cajun Mary, and of course...the Old Fashioned. read more

The beautiful wife and I hit the Famous Bar before the International Supper Club this Tuesday. Major pros: 1) Guinness on tap (really great pour). 2) Decent selection of cigars for purchase. I forgot to include the best part -- they have (nailed to the wall) a Swisher Sweets box. Price for one of these? $25.00. Love it. 3) Giant, cigar-friendly ashtrays (you really have no idea how many places have/had cigar unfriendly ashtrays) 4) And because we were there early on a Tuesday night, it was neither crowded, nor loud. 5) Very friendly staff Minor con: Well, it's obviously still a smoking place, which doesn't bug me, but later that evening, I noticed just how smoky I smelled. Oh well, that's the price of doing business. We'll definitely be back. read more