Bars in St. Louis are a dime a dozen. When one craves the excitement that St. Louis’ nightlife brings, there are many places to choose from. However, great bars are few and far between. Whether you prefer fried pickles, hamburger sliders or toasted ravioli with french fries, here’s a few spots that offer the best bar food in St. Louis. - Stephanie Shepard

John D. McGurk’s Irish Pub and Garden

1200 Russell Boulevard
St. Louis, Mo. 63104
(314) 776-8309
www.mcgurks.com

Located in the delightfully bawdy Soulard neighborhood in St. Louis, McGurk’s offers its patrons some of the best bar food in town. Chow down on the ever-popular fish and chips while you enjoy the atmosphere at McGurk’s large outdoor beer garden. McGurk’s is also one of the best places to people watch in downtown St. Louis. Stop by and see why McGurk’s won “Esquire” magazine’s award for Best Bar.

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m. to midnight.

Atomic Cowboy

4140 Manchester Avenue
St. Louis, Mo. 63110
(314) 775-0775
www.atomic-cowboy.com

Located in the neighborhood many St. Louisans fondly refer to as “The Grove,” Atomic Cowboy serves up delicious bar food with a decidedly Latin-American flair that won’t break the bank. With such a large menu, there is sure to be something for even the pickiest of eaters. Start with the Gaucho Fries; these peppered fries are sure to tickle your taste buds and are served with spicy serrano ketchup and chipotle mayo dip.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 a.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 5 p.m. to 3 a.m.

The Bleeding Deacon Public House

4123 Chippewa Street
St. Louis, Mo. 63116
(314) 772-1873
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This friendly bar in St. Louis serves up appetizers just as unique as its name. With a dark, yet strangely inviting atmosphere, The Bleeding Deacon offers dishes like Southern Corn Fritters and Tequila Lime Chicken that are sure to strike your fancy. Try the Meatloaf Sliders; this easy-to-eat bar food combines The Bleeding Deacon’s famous meatloaf with grilled green beans on sweet rolls. Add a little bourbon ketchup to take this appetizer to the next level.

Hours: Monday, 4 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.; Saturday, noon to 1:30 a.m.; Sunday, noon to midnight.Best