I truly wanted to give this place 5 stars, I wanted to come back! But I am more than obligated to share my experience: The vibe of this place and overall idea is fantastic. The staff... wow.. another story.. Outside bar had an AMAZING waitress, Jess, that truely made our nights and was so awesome and fun. Jess deserves a raise and if you go to Venice cafe avoid literally any bar tender except for Jess. The old lady bar tender on inside bar took two extra dollars from me (I guess thinking I wasn't gonna tip? ) despite me leaving three on the bar and me pointing it out to her. Then a very very large brown haired curly bearded man completely ignored me at the bar, at like 4pm it was me standing directly in front of the bar by myself while he had co convos and gave bar backs shots. I couldn't have made this up.. I couldn't think of anything to even say to address that wasnt not kind or out of pocket so I left. It was an unreal experience and from what I've heard about management just from patrons there they wouldn't care anyway, it was alienating and gross behavior. Venice cafe had a good reputation and it was on my list forever, but I've already shared with more of my groups that we can go somewhere else and be treated much better. I'd second guess this option unless Jess is working outside in the bar. read more

Venice Cafe - Pubs Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

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Venice Café is not just a place -- it's an experience. From the moment you walk in, you can tell this spot is different. The space is eclectic, artsy, and full of personality. It feels creative, fun, and unlike anywhere else. They had live music while we were there, which made the whole experience even better. One thing to note: it's cash only, so make sure you come prepared. This is the kind of place you go for the vibe, the music, and a good time -- not just the food. Highly recommend if you're looking for something unique and memorable in St. Louis. read more

Went here after another bar to chill and talk and the whole bar is a an art piece, and we went when they had live jazz funk music and it was great to listen to. We got our drinks out on the patio and the bartender was super friendly and quick. Such a good vibe and it's right outside soulard main bar areas so parking is not that bad. Also this is a cash bar everything cash and they have an atm downstairs. There was a cover of 5$ when we went. read more

Venice Cafe - 2 Moscow mules and 1 tequila sunrise - Pubs Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

Such a fun and interesting bar. It's really unlike any bar I've been to before. The decor is so eclectic, but it creates such a fun environment. The staff was very quick a friendly and the drinks are not too expensive. It is cash only, but there is an ATM in the basement if needed. read more

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I don't know if they have any food. I don't think they do. I think it's just drinks. The inside has live music in the outside is beautiful. It's kind of romantic. There's no live music outside though it is cash only that is a downside. They do have ATM if needed but it's so kind of a inconvenience for some overall really good experience. It's a really nice place. Very good for a date on the outside part. Will definitely be coming back. read more

Venice Cafe is basically like if the City Museum moved a couple of miles south to moonlight as a bar and knew well enough about inebriated people not to have slides and ladders. Plus a little tiki and a little Here Come the Mummies. Or something like that. $5 cover when I was most recently present. But you get so much more. In addition to the live music, we experienced sculptures, mosaics, lights, darkness, plants (outside), fountain(s?), stones, signs... What a place! read more

Venice Cafe should be the top place to visit in St Louis. It is a City Museum on steroid. Drinks, both alcoholic or NA, can be purchased at the bar. No food service is available but you can bring food from outside. Ambience is top-notch. It is a must-visit. read more

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I feel like this place only exists in STL. I loveeee how overcrowded the decor is and how many different spaces there are to hang out (seems bigger inside than outside would suggest). Cash only, but cheap! Occasionally there's live music and cover charges read more

A lovely and maximalist space! I came here one evening for drinks with friends and it was so cool! I had ordered a standard cocktail of 'Sex on the Beach' and it was $4! Tasty and inexpensive! The decor is so fun to look at, everytime you look around, there is always something new to look at! It was quite busy when I came on a Friday night around 10 pm! But bartenders were friendly and responsive, even with the amount of people. I can't speak on parking as I didn't drive, but only street parking was available. Would love to go again! read more

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Stop ittt this bar is amazing! It is jam packed with sooo much to look at. Every inch covered in mosaics or some funky art. This is such a fun spot to grab a drink and meet up with friends. We got lucky enough to arrive when the band was setting up - tons of seating outside since inside main floor can get a bit packed. It's a must try bar! read more

Venice Cafe - Pubs Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

Venice cafe had a beautiful interior, a kind bartender and cool events. Would recommend!

**Review:** My wife and I headed to The Venice Cafe for nightcap drinks on our date night. The decor was quirky and interesting, though a bit over the top. Live music added to the lively atmosphere. Since the weather was nice, we opted for the patio, which was a fantastic choice--it was lovely out there. You have to self serve and order the drinks at the bar with cash only. A couple of things to note: the whole place is cash only, but they do have an ATM for convenience. Also, since it was the weekend, there was a $5 entry fee per person. Despite these quirks, we had a great time and enjoyed the unique vibe. read more

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Large parking lot across the street for this establishment and it's clearly marked. Get there by 4:00pn to get parking and a good seat. CASH ONLY NO FOOD. This is an eclectic establishment were drinking, enjoying each other's company, look at unique items and listen to music. It's definitely a sensory overload because every piece and every part of everything has something on it. This is multiple stories and floors so make sure you wear good footwear. Going down to the bathroom had very narrow stairs but it did have a handrail I could hold on to. There's two bathrooms. Very small but clean. The bartender was personable but busy so he was hustling. I enjoyed the outside seating on this day. Still plenty to look at outside as there is inside. Interesting stop definitely need to have an open mind and a good sense of humor to hang.. read more

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Great place to hear some Music and grab a drink!!! Can't wait to go back and enjoy the patio when it opens! read more

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What a GEM! I've heard of this magical place called Venice Cafe, and it definitely lived up to the hype. My friend and I ventured here after eating dinner at Frazier's, which is a hop skip and a jump down the road. This has been one of those spots that has been on my "I must go here list" but was never executed. When we drove by on our way to Frazier's, I knew that it was time. There was live music here on the night that we went, so there may be a cover charge if there is a band. It was $5, so nothing wildly crazy. You walk in and it's like you step into a dram world. The decor is an array of items, spanning from all things shiny, plastic skeletons, sculptures, and mosaic pieces that give it an artsy vibe. Music was solid, definitely unique and it fit the spot. I got a glass of wine and my friend got an old fashioned. We made our way out to the patio and I am so sad it isn't patio season because I can imagine this place is amazing when it is. There are nooks and crannies that make it feel intimate but is still pretty large. It truly is one of a kind! read more

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We stopped by here, one evening for drinks after dinner, and I was truly amazed. Such an eclectic, wonderful, unusual place to get a drink! It is rather small, but it is worth squeezing your way through the crowds to see everything that is on the walls. We were there in the off-season, so we were not able to see their outdoor gardens. We will definitely be going back! read more

So hard to describe the atmosphere in this place, but it a so unique and one of a kind. It is a late night destination . We walked in and was overwhelmed seeing stuff everywhere, Every nook and crany is filled with a knick knack , funky art, or pictures, and you cannot possibly see everything. There was live music playing which was good. We were fortunate to find an area near the bathroom (which is a must see) with cozy couches . Drink selection was very good and decent prices. This is a must visit. read more

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The Venice Cafe is definitely "an experience" to behold! Although the name says Cafe there is no food service. Did have several years ago on the outside patio but just didn't seem to be a main attraction. The live music is always excellent and there are several StL local favorites that perform there frequently. Venice Cafe and its owner, Jeff Lockheed, are an essential foundation of the Benton the Park neighborhood read more

Great place to meet up for a drink and listen to live music. We had a chance to see the opening band S3SOA perform since my friend knew Seth Jacquay. I hope this band gets more invites to perform back at this venue later this year. Drinks are reasonably priced and reminder to make sure you have cash. Only thing that would make this place a true five stars and regular option when visiting the city is if the outdoor area was dog friendly. I know my 18lb 12 year old Shihtzu Teddy would enjoy people watching at this place. I would have no issue keeping him in my sling carrier across my shoulder the whole time in the patio if it allowed well behaved leashed dogs. Bar tender was efficient and good customer service. read more

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Venice Cafe is truly a one of a kind! I feel like I always see something new every time I come here and never get sick of the decor. There are covers some nights when there are bands and they are cash only at the bar so don't forget to bring cash! There are ATMs on site if you need it. Drinks are reasonably priced. This is a really cool place if you want to bring people from out of town or just want a chill place to hangout when the weather is nice read more

Holy cow, if you're looking for eclectic, you found it. In fact, the environment can be a little over stimulating, if you are prone to that. There are Knick knacks EVERYWHERE. But that's a big part of the charm! I've been here a few times and have never been disappointed. I'm a fan of cheap and strong (not just in men), and I found it here. Great prices, good strength drinks. Nothing worse than getting a beverage and wondering, "uh, is there alcohol in here?" I dislike stingy bars. The patio has recently fully reopened and it's pretty darn cool. So much stuff to look at. You could come here 47 times and still not see it all. They do have live music on the weekends. Word of warning- this is a cash only place, and they do not serve food. read more

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i have no words for this bar. it's so eclectic and awesome and just such a vibe. i wish they had more specialized cocktails rather than just the basic stuff but the cool decor makes up for it. a must in stl read more

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I love love love this place! It's my favorite patio in St. Louis. I know it says cafe but there is no food....you can eat next door at Fraser's. Venice is all about the vibe and eclectic decor. They have great bands, great bartenders, and more art to look at than an art museum. Patio opens may 1st. Don't smoke and leave your kids and dogs at home. read more

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Ok ya I'm obsessed with this place. Patio vibes A+. We stopped in based on a recommendation, and were so happy we did. It was quiet on a Wednesday afternoon, but honestly such a relaxing vibe on their patio. Friendly locals, comfortable seating, lots to look at. The boat bar was super unique and everywhere you look, there's more and more to look at. It's honestly just amazing how much work must have gone into this place. It's hard to explain it without photos, so just take a look! I ordered the Bloody Mary (and later a wine) and my friend got a rum punch. All drinks were great and we felt welcome to stay as long as we wanted. Would for sure recommend this place to anyone in town looking for something out of their comfort zone to check out! read more

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TLDR: cash only bar with funky decor, great live music, and cheap drinks! We were drawn into Venice Cafe by the energetic live music spilling out into the street. We'd just finished stuffing our faces at Frazer's so we decided to get a night cap here and it didn't disappoint! The band was awesome and the crowd was great too. Not gonna lie, I was pretty hammered so I don't remember a lot but I know I had a blast! read more

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Cool place good environment but the drinks could use some help and they switch there prices up on the reg. 7 for a drink and over 10 for one beer is a bit confusing I'd come here for the music but go somewhere else to drink read more

Venice Cafe in Benton Park, St. Louis, is a cash-only gem that seamlessly blends a watering hole with a vibrant performance venue. The funky folk art and lively mosaics, both inside and outside, create an atmosphere that's as eclectic as it is welcoming. The wacky, goofy charm extends to the live music, playing from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am, Monday through Saturday. This vivid burst of color everywhere is everything I needed. read more

Venice Cafe - Pubs Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

Cool place to go see good music for cheap. An institution, at this point. Bring cash!

So i came here because i searched dinner and live music and apparently they don't serve food anymore, but I'm so glad i came because this place is simply amazing. They said in the weekend the upstairs bar is open and you can look down on the live music. I wish i were here for the weekend, but I'll have to remember it and come back. Ice cold Labatt Blue. Where else can you sip a Canadian pilsner while looking at the spectacle that is this bar?!? Lol If you come make sure you go outside and check out the outdoor bar. Simply astonishing! read more

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Are you looking for a quirky spot with some amazing live music? This is the spot! I've been wanting to go to this place for so long! It was everything that everyone has described and so much more. The outdoor area is a one of a kind spot and will have you playing I spy. The drinks come quick and the music is fantastic! This is a perfect spot for drinks and great music. read more

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This place was just SO neat. Every where you turn there is something decorated or on the walls to look at. There was a good band playing and the service was great. I love how one of the bars on the patio is out of an old boat. Can't wait to come back here again. I don't think they serve food but certainly a fun place to grab drinks and enjoy the atmosphere. read more

Great hangout for select drinks (check online for options). Cash only. No one under 21 at anytime. Inside is pretty cool and eclectic. Different bands all the time. Coverage charge at the door; which varies depending on the band. Overall, it's a pretty cool place to hangout but fairly small so go early if you want seating; especially in the outside garden area. read more

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One of the coolest blogs in STL (tie with the city museum). I love that there are hidden rooms. Has to be the best patio in STL. I'm a credit card girlie so I find the cash only - bummer (From a business standpoint I get it) read more

This is a fun place to grab a drink with friends ! Love the back patio's creative decorations.

This place definitely had a NOLA vibe to it and I was transported to a different place when I walked in. There are so many things to look at and the decor is wild. There are lots of art and tiles to amuse your eyes. There was live music from 5p - 8p when I was there on a Saturday. Only the garden area was opened because they haven't reopened the inside due to COVID-19. ....| \ _ , , , - - , , _ , .../ , ` . - ' ` ' . _ \ - ; ; ; , _ ..| , a - ) ) _ . ; . ( ` - ` - ' - ' ' - - - ' ' ( _ / . _ ) - ' ( _ \ _ ) 2020 read more

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So, the building itself is amaaaaazing! Words canNOT describe!!! The service was good and fast. Prices seem very reasonable. The cocktails were only so-so though. I know they're basic, and that wasn't really my problem with them. Just thought they could've been better. That, and NO food service! When I'm drinkin', I really could use some sort of food. You can order out, and have food delivered, but that's just not as user friendly. Would definitely come back though! read more

Venice Cafe - Pubs Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

Bring people from out of town but don't expect a seat as it gets busy during peak hours.

Definitely the most eclectic bar you'll ever visit. I spent most of my time just looking around the walls and ceiling admiring the tile work and everything they have hung up. Plus, they have live music pretty much every night! If you're visiting or have someone coming to town, definitely check this place out! read more

Venice Cafe - Pubs Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

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Really funky place... there's so much history on those walls. Really interesting. The place is cash only (which means, really good prices). The menu is really simple, not many options but enough if you're not too picky, if you are maybe the drinks menu won't be enough. Food wise they have this small menu (sandwich mostly) that's from a place across the street (I think). Didn't get any so, no opinion on that. The night I went the band was a blues one, entertaining for sure. read more

Go for the space, period. The employees were rude af and cranky for no reason. Don't even go to the bar if you can help it. It's very basic, just really watered down mixed drinks and beer. Go in and enjoy the vibes of the space and that's it! read more