DOWNTOWN. The Beale's exposed brick walls and wooden floors suggest the gritty, earthy music that shakes the house each night: blues, R&B, and soul, loud and live. Christmas lights and candles illuminate the stage, where local and national acts tell it like it is and get the crowd moving. Rock and roots can occasionally be heard, cleansing the musical palate. Dim lighting and semi-comfortable seating add to the spot's low-maintenance appeal. Spirits, wine, and 35 types of bottled beer nicely accompany the tunes.

With its Chuck Berry memorabilia, Howdy Doody collectibles, Elvis souvenirs, vintage posters, lunch boxes, and fabulous old jukeboxes, this St. Louis landmark is a mecca of American pop culture. They also feature fantastic bar food, from burgers, hot dogs, and onion rings to soups, salads, and vegetarian dishes. The St. Louis Walk of Fame is located just outside the door, with stars and plaques honoring such famous St. Louis entertainment greats as Chuck Berry, Josephine Baker, and Tina Turner. Frequent live music makes this an equally popular nightspot.

This popular Soulard neighborhood blues bar is housed in a tall townhouse-style brick building and features live music every day of the week. The exterior wall features a broken glass mural with bits of oyster shells, bottle caps, stained glass, and tile that depicts Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus." On the inside, Mardi Gras beads and trinkets along with the sizzling Creole menu further contribute to the New Orleans feel of this fabulous bar. At Broadway Oyster Bar, listen to the best blues, zydeco, and rock musicians St. Louis has to offer.

Everyone feels at home at this quaint Soulard pub with its comfortable hardwood floors, exposed brick walls, and soothing sounds of live Irish music. Authentic Irish bands regularly entertain the crowds with their Celtic rhythms. The traditional Irish menu features the house signature potato soup, corned beef and cabbage, and County Cork corned beef and barley soup along with pints of Guinness to wash it down.

MIDTOWN. At this relaxed neighborhood nightspot, a rare, exquisite bar fashioned of tiger's-eye oak is a natural focal point where folks congregate and imbibe. In addition, since 2001, oenophiles have been able to slip next door to the connected Gold Star Bar, where a praiseworthy list features 40 wines to enjoy by the half-bottle or glass. It also boasts French doors that open to a patio, perfect for sitting and savoring a great vintage as the sun sets. Whether you opt for the traditional bar experience of the main dining area or the bistro-style Gold Star, you'll find your niche at King Louie's.