Schlafly Bankside Brewing Co

About Schlafly Bankside Brewing Co
Schlafly Bankside Brewing Co was a riverside brewpub in St. Charles, Missouri, operated by Schlafly Beer, Missouri’s original independent craft brewery. It opened in early 2020 in the historic Trailhead Brewing building and served locals and visitors until its closure in January 2024. The name “Bankside” nodded to both the English brewing tradition and the spot’s location along the Missouri River.

Essential Info
– Location: 921 S Riverside Dr, St. Charles, MO
– Status: Permanently closed as of January 2024
– Parent Brand: Schlafly Beer, founded in 1991
– Parking: Easy street and nearby lot parking
– Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with some stairs between levels
– Family Friendly: Yes, full-service restaurant with seating for all ages
– Pet Friendly: Likely allowed on outdoor patio, but not confirmed

Highlights
– Known for blending Schlafly’s wide beer variety with a historic, riverfront setting
– Offered site-specific brews like Bankside Lager and rotating seasonal or experimental releases
– Housed in a restored building with exposed brick and original brewing features, dating back to 1995
– Standout menu item: Cajun turkey sandwich, praised for its spice and portion

Beer Selection
Bankside featured more than a dozen taps ranging from Schlafly flagships to limited-run beers exclusive to the location. Styles included IPAs, English ales, lagers, sours, and Belgian brews. Visitors often called out the freshness and balance of beers like the Bankside Lager and seasonal stouts. Ciders, seltzers, and non-alcoholic options were occasionally available, mostly from Schlafly’s broader lineup.

The Experience
Set just off Main Street with river views and a bustling patio, Bankside had a lively, warm vibe. Indoors, high ceilings and wood accents gave it a classic brewpub feel. Families, groups, and solo drinkers all felt at home. Staff was generally described as friendly and knowledgeable, though some guests noted slow service during peak hours. Best enjoyed on a sunny weekend with a riverside table and a fresh pour.

Food and Drink
Full kitchen with a menu that went beyond typical bar food. Fried pickles, Cuban sandwiches, and soft pretzels were crowd favorites. Dishes were generous, with several vegetarian-friendly options. Takeout was available, and prices were reasonable. Kids’ meals and family seating made it an easy choice for groups.

Events and Community
Though not heavily advertised, the space likely hosted private events and group reservations, similar to other Schlafly locations. Trivia nights and live music were occasional but not regular. Schlafly is known for being community-focused, often supporting local events and charities.

Cleanliness and Comfort
Clean and well-kept with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating. The patio was a major draw in good weather. Restrooms were indoors and standard. Temperature inside stayed comfortable year-round.

What Visitors Loved
“Beer was great, patio had a view, and the staff made us feel welcome.”
– Loved for its beer variety, warm atmosphere, and riverside charm
– Standout reviews praised the site-exclusive beers and historic building
– A go-to for casual afternoons or evening meetups with friends and family

Schlafly Bankside Brewing Co offered a mix of local brewing heritage and fresh craft beer in a scenic, historic setting. Though now closed, it remains a memorable chapter in Missouri’s craft beer story.