Bar: Fast Eddie’s Bon Air
Location: 1530 E 4th St, Alton, IL 62002
Score: 8.2/10
Today we head to a bar in the heart of Alton, IL. A bar that if you grew up in the St. Louis area, you likely heard stories from your parents and their friends about how magical this place is. And how they couldn’t wait to take you there once you turned 21. Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Fast Eddies.
Originally opened by Anheuser Busch in 1921 as Bon Air, this bar quickly became a hot spot. It was then in 1981, Eddie Sholar Sr. “Fast Eddie” bought Bon Air, and would help grow that bar that we all know as Fast Eddies to what it is today. An all brick building with a single door entrance it what greets you as you walk in. Be ready to hand the bouncer over your ID as they are always carding here. Once inside you’ll be drawn to all the decor. All types of posters and neon signs line the walls from top to bottom. Many of these are retro showcasing an amazing collection that has been gathered throughout the years of their operation. And the fun doesn’t stop here. They also have a large patio area setup outside, which I personally think is the best place to sit. There’s nothing better than an ice cold beer surrounded by great company and enjoying the sun on your skin. Don’t fret though if you plan an adventure and the weather isn’t in your favor. The whole patio can be covered allowing for fun no matter the weather.
Visiting Fast Eddie’s once you turn 21 is a rite of passage. It’s similar to getting called up to the Major Leagues. It’s a great place to go for a birthday party or even just a random visit for the day. Some of my fondest memories are getting all the friends together and doing a party bus trip there for the day. Everyone shows up ready to have a great time. To add to the benefits of this bar, the drinks are very cheap, making this a great place to spend a day. They also claim to have the coldest beer in town. Since I don’t want to cause any controversy, I will neither confirm nor deny this claim. You’ll just have to go and see for yourself.
So if you’re newly 21, or already of age, grab your friends and get over to Fast Eddies. Enjoy the great service and enjoy a few cold, cheap drinks.
**Even though food doesn’t count towards points, I would be doing a huge disservice not to mention Fast Eddies’. The Chick on a Stick, The Big Elwood, burgers, fries, and peel and eat shrimp are all big hitters on this menu. Order one of everything and thank me later.
Decor: Awesome decor. All sorts of posters and neon signs from all through the decades add a great touch to this legendary bar.
Prices: Extremely cheap. Have seen a slight increase in price over the years, but name one place that hasn’t done this. Still terrific deals to drink cheap.
Service: Lots of staff result in getting to all the tables providing great service.
Atmosphere: Very fun bar that’s filled with people. Almost always seem to run into someone you know. The outside seems to be more lively if that’s what your looking for, while the inside is more suitable for smaller groups and closer knit conversations.
Cleanliness: Clean. Nothing to worry about.
Bonus Points: Free salty popcorn to increase your alcohol consumption.