The old Upstairs Lounge on South Grand was a place of legendarily wild tales, but its fresh new life as Kenny’s Upstairs is a net positive for all. The rehabbed space is an ideal neighborhood hangout, lined with cozy vinyl booths bathed in glowy red light.
The concise cocktail menu belies the expertise of veteran bartender and owner Kenny Marks. Available with either gin or vodka, Kenny’s World Famous Pickle Martini is distinguished by a savory, housemade pickled vermouth. Familiar domestic beers are supplemented by a few wisely chosen craft brews – this is St. Louis, after all. Elevate that Miller High Life by upgrading to the Champagne (of Beer) Cocktail, which adds Aperol, lemon and a dash of bitters to the smooth sipper.
No one can resist the charming Baby Beer Shots, served in tiny beer mugs and topped with heavy whipping cream. Choose between a “lager” with Licor 43 or “stout” with Fernet Branca and coffee liqueur. We look forward to plenty of new – less blurry – nightlife memories.
3131 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, kennysupstairs.com
This article appears in February 2024.
