2008 Woodie Awards
Chocolate Bar is pretty sweet
Ashley Jelks
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Bailey's Chocolate Bar, located in St. Louis' oldest historical district, Lafayette Square, is one of the city's up-and-coming hot spots.
Lafayette Square, roughly a five- minute drive from Saint Louis University, is home to some of the city's most revered architectural masterpieces and dozens of businesses, including three bed and breakfasts, nine restaurants, two boutiques, 20 professional services including, a yoga studio and massage therapist, numerous churches, and a slew of miscellaneous but equally unique establishments such as the up-and-coming WireWorks and Mississippi Lofts.
Lafayette Square has an interesting history in St. Louis, as it was originally a French settlement established in 1764. The area experienced an economic downfall during St. Louis' urban exodus, but in the past three decades has undergone extensive rehabilitation and has even been listed on the National Registry of Historical Places.
Chocolate is believed to have aphrodisiac and mood-enhancing qualities, making Bailey's a great place for a first date or have a good time with friends.
It has a very posh, contemporary vibe, from the dim lighting, plush, velvet-lined walls, and the down-to-earth staff, creating an inviting atmosphere from the moment you walk inside.
There are no age restrictions to enter, so it's perfect for those under 21. Also, generous happy hour specials until 7 p.m., and a closing time of 1 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday make it a great late-night hot spot. The inside is completely nonsmoking, but there is heated seating on the outdoor patio to appease the smoking crowd.
Since it is a chocolate bar, I wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for a complete meal, as the food menu offers mainly appetizers and desserts.
The menu is categorized into five areas: chocolates, cheeses, caffeine, libations and pizzetas. It is literally a chocolate-lover's paradise, as they offer items that one would probably only find at Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory prior to its existence.
Imagine if you can: Chocolate Stout, Salad Chocolat, and their Signature Chocolate Martini, all in one place!
The staff is well-versed, so don't be stunned if you find yourself overwhelmed by the selection, as they are more than happy to make recommendations.
No worries for those of you who don't particularly care for chocolate, because while it is indeed a chocolate bar, you won't have any trouble finding a variety of non-chocolate items to suit your tastes.
With that, the best advice I can give is when in doubt-if it sounds good to you, it probably is.
Bailey's is located right across from Lafayette Park, so for anyone out there watching their weight, taking a walk around the park, which is particularly beautiful at night, is an excellent way to burn off some of those calories and finish off the night.
I implore you to give this place a try, as it is one of St. Louis' many hidden treasures. No more of that, "There's nothing to do in this city," because Bailey's Chocolate Bar is proof that that is simply not true.