Gamlin Whiskey House and Sub Zero Vodka Bar in the Central West End to close permanently

Sub Zero Vodka Bar and Gamlin Whiskey House both announced on social media that they are closing for good today, Friday, May 22. Gamlin Whiskey House will be open 3 to 6 p.m. for its final curbside pickup service, and customers are welcome to use any Sub Zero or Gamlin gift cards on to-go cocktails.   

For more than 15 years, the Gamlin Restaurant Group has dominated the nightlife scene at the corner of Maryland and Euclid avenues in the Central West End. Derek and Lucas Gamlin opened Sub Zero Vodka Bar at 308 N. Euclid Ave. in 2004 and Gamlin Whiskey House at 236 N. Euclid Ave. in 2013.  

The restaurant group had a rough start this year, closing its third concept, 1764 Public House, at 39 N. Euclid Ave. in January after less than three years in business. When the coronavirus hit St. Louis, the group launched a GoFundMe page and started a rare whiskey bottle raffle to raise funds. Unfortunately, those measures were not enough. For the Gamlins, the closing was not a shock. “It’s been a 65-day process,” Lucas Gamlin said. “Now it’s done.”  

Gamlin said he’s not ready to announce any immediate plans. “I would prefer to spend some quiet time with my family to reflect on what’s happened,” he said. 

But in the way of good news, those who entered the whiskey raffle may still win - announcements are being made soon. The Gamlins’ Sub Zero branded vodka will continue to be available at local retailers. “Our hope is to keep that brand going,” Gamlin said. 

The Missouri Whiskey Society, an enthusiast group launched through Gamlin Whiskey House in 2014, will also continue. Gamlin said the group has more than 1,500 members and has been hosting virtual tastings since the pandemic began. “It’s a popular thing, and Derek’s going to keep that going,” he said.