It’s about time we write a blog about one of our new favorite places in downtown Maplewood: The Blind Tiger. It’s been open for only a few months and is already creating quite a presence in the local St. Louis editorial scene (see below for links). Good food and good drinks, with an emphasis on top shelf whiskey, sounds likes a recipe for success!
A quick Google search for “Blind Tiger” will tell you the technical definition is an “illegal bar” or “speak easy”. While The Blind Tiger is neither of these, its owners have done a good job of transforming the former Jive and Wail (and later Jumping Jupiter) space to incorporate a speak easy theme without coming off as “douchey”. The lights are dim with a combination of small low level over head fixtures and a vast array of candles and oil lamps. The space is spacious with a sizable seating area as well as a full stage for shows/events (remember this space used to be a piano bar). The bar is sophisticated, with a wide assortment of whiskeys, craft beer, and wine. No vodka or gin though as this is a whiskey bar.
Since it opened, I’ve been fortunate to visit twice: one time with friends for a casual night out and the other with friends and co-workers for a birthday get-together. While the whiskey selection is vast, the other highlight to this establishment is the menu. The Blind Tiger advertises itself as “pizza, ribs, and whiskey.” I have yet to try the ribs, but if they’re even half as good as the pizza, I’ll be satisfied. Four different pizzas are available on either New York- or STL- style crust. Denise and I have tried two of the four, the cheese and “hog mess,” a mixture of vegetables and numerous meat toppings, and both were outstanding. I wish I could speak for other menu items, but the pizza is so good that I’m afraid to switch things up!
Now on to the whiskey. If I had to guess, the bar is home to at least 30 or 40 top shelf whiskey varieties. If I remember correctly Maker’s Mark is the “cheapest” whiskey on the menu… the selection is that good. Drinks can be ordered to your liking, and the bar manager has recently rolled out a few high end cocktails. However, if whiskey isn’t your thing there is always beer and red and white wine available. While one may wish for spirits, this is a whiskey bar, so no clear options. You may be surprised what a good Kentucky bourbon or blended scotch can offer!
The Blind Tiger gets an A in my book. Not because it filled the prime spot on Manchester and Sutton in Maplewood, but because they really have a winning combination: Delicious food, inviting environment, and sophisticated bar. Stop in sometime and try it out! I know Denise and I will be back again soon.
Links to third party reviews:
http://www.alivemag.com/blog/index.php/2014/02/destination-the-blind-tiger-at-sutton-place/
Facebook site: https://www.facebook.com/blindtigersuttonplace
Thanks for reading!
Dan
WeDo 