Happy Hour at Heavy Anchor: Get Three Sails to the Wind

By Caillin Murray Thu., Jan. 31 2013 at 10:00 AM

Categories: Drink Drank Drunk, Happy Hour Handbook

RFT Photo

Joshua Timbrook and Jodie Whitworth, co-owners of the Heavy Anchor.

The Heavy Anchor (5226 Gravois Avenue; 314-352-5226)

The Hours: Daily, 5 to 7 pm.

The Deal: $1 PBR, $2 Wells, $1 off any Missouri beers, $8 Dogtown Pizza pies and $8 South St. Louis Pizza Company pizzas.

Caillin Murray

The "Breakfast drink" at the Heavy Anchor, made with orange juice, cider and maple syrup whiskey.

The Scene: The Heavy Anchor is a classic arm-sleeve-tattoo dream come true. The nautical-themed murals adorning the walls might have been copied straight from the arm of a 70-year-old sailor, or anyone working at Trader Bob's (2529 South Jefferson Avenue; 314-776-2307) ink shop. And while you sip on one of the bar's signature cocktails -- quaintly served in Mason jars -- the hypnotic eyes of a gigantic painted octopus look on. The Anchor's impressive beer list is home to a rotating selection of 45 to 60 beers, with some so hip, you might meet 'em for the first time here. While the mixed-drink and beer offerings are many, the only wine option is Franzia. The Heavy Anchor serves bar-food snacks like pretzels chips and pizzas until close at 1:30 a.m. to satisfy late-night cravings. With a dive-y, hipster vibe, the two-year-old establishment is mostly home to a younger crowd -- though on past visits we've spotted a salty dog or two sitting at the bar.

Why You'll Go Back: Beer drinkers will be awed by the impressive draft and bottle selection. Also, the Heavy Anchor has built a community by hosting various events throughout the week, such as trivia nights, movie nights and live music, offering reasons to stick around long after happy hour is over.

The Verdict: Louder than normal music will reduce most communication to hand gestures and slight yelling, but the drinks taste so good you'll hardly mind.