A New Hidden Luxury Cocktail Lounge Opens In St. Louis
None of the Above FROM Gerard Craft & Niche Opens at The City Foundry STL
In the heart of the bustling Midtown district lies a secret waiting to be discovered. None of the Above, the latest venture from James Beard Award-winning Chef Gerard Craft and his Niche Food Group, is set to open its doors at City Foundry STL on Thursday, December 14. This upscale speakeasy-style cocktail lounge is not just a place to dine; it's an experience, a journey into the world of high-end spirits and gastronomical delights.
Tucked away behind a hidden entrance in the underground tunnels of the City Foundry STL, None of the Above is an indulgent retreat from the ordinary. The 80-seat lounge is a study in contrasts: the rough, industrial feel of the tunnel entrance gives way to a world of sophistication and luxury inside. The dimly lit space is adorned with wood furnishings, brass, and jewel-tone accents, creating an atmosphere that's both intimate and grand.
The centerpiece of the lounge is a custom-built 10-seat wooden bar, its mirrors reflecting an extensive collection of spirits. The main seating area boasts built-in velvet booth seating and tables, surrounded by monochromatic deep, navy blue walls with art deco designs and an array of art collections. But the true highlight is the Library, a hidden back room with additional seating, a faux fireplace, and a rotating virtual art piece, available for private parties.
Chef Gerard Craft's vision for None of the Above was to create a space that is "special and exploratory," reminiscent of the early days of his first cocktail bar, Taste by Niche. The bar, led by Niche Food Group Bar Manager Fionna Gemzon, focuses on luxury spirits and technique-driven cocktails, complemented by a selection of hors d'oeuvres on their Snacks menu.
The beverage program, a blend of house cocktails and classic favorites, is a testament to the lounge's commitment to innovation. Gemzon's creations, such as the sumac vodka-based "Downpour" and the black sesame rye "In the Mood for Love," are bold and balanced, employing new technology and unique flavor combinations. The rotary evaporator, used for low-temperature distillation, ensures the purest form of flavors, making each drink a distinct experience.
Will Smith, President of New + Found, the development group behind City Foundry STL, proudly states that the lounge is "an experience like no other in St. Louis." None of the Above joins over 40 businesses at City Foundry STL.
As None of the Above opens its doors, it invites the curious and the epicureans alike to explore the depths of its underground haven. With its blend of luxury, mystery, and unparalleled culinary craftsmanship, it stands as a shining beacon in St. Louis' vibrant food scene.
All photography courtesy of None of the Above. For more food news, restaurants, bars and places to check out, visit our EATING section.