Thaxton Speakeasy

Nestled beneath the historic Thaxton Building at 1009 Olive Street in downtown St. Louis, Thaxton Speakeasy is a little piece of vintage glamour carved out for those in the know. Down a discreet entrance, past the neon and shadows, you’ll find an underground cocktail lounge styled with Art Deco flourishes—rich wood, stylised murals, velvet seating and a bar glowing under amber light.

The experience begins with the ritual

you’ll check the weekly password (typically posted on their Instagram @TheThaxtonSTL) and arrive when the space is open—only open when not privately booked, on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays starting around 8 p.m. Once inside, the ambience is intimate—lounge-style, moody, with service that feels personal and cocktails that respect the era. Reviewers the world over comment on how the mixologists craft beautifully balanced drinks with a nod to bygone days.

Though the venue is small—roughly capacity 120 according to event listings—it works both as a romantic date spot and as a quiet night out with friends. The upstairs building is used for events and weddings, but the speakeasy lounge below keeps the secret-door charm alive.