ST. LOUIS — One third of a popular trio of Spruce Street establishments will close this month as its owners seek to cut costs while focusing on their remaining downtown venues.
Start Bar, an arcade bar located at 1000 Spruce Street in downtown St. Louis, will close its doors on Oct. 14. The restaurant group that owns the bar made the announcement in a post to Facebook that also detailed changes coming to its other nearby establishments, Wheelhouse and Midwestern.
"While saying farewell to Start Bar is difficult we're excited about the opportunities ahead," the owners said. "With multiple venues operating in such close proximity, the costs have become increasingly difficult to manage, especially as foot traffic downtown has shifted over the past few years. By focusing on our two venues, we can now invest in both Wheelhouse and Midwestern, and making significant improvements—both large and small—that will ensure these businesses thrive for years to come."
Starting Oct. 17, the Wheelhouse will adjust its operating hours to be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m.-3 a.m., and Sundays from 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Ladies Nights held at Start Bar will also find their new home at Wheelhouse on Thursdays.
Midwestern will also expand its hours to include a weekend brunch at 10 a.m. and extended hours for Blues games and major downtown events.
"We can't thank you enough for your unbelievable support through the years," the restaurant group said. "We look forward to you joining us for one last round at Start Bar and continue to visit the Wheelhouse and Midwestern for even more great memories."
In January 2021, the Wheelhouse and Start Bar were both ordered to shut down for one year after city officials said they continued to violate public health orders amid the pandemic. After agreeing with the city to a reduced capacity and table service only, the establishments reopened a month later.
