Boasting Happy Hour seven days a week, a variety of food and appetizers and an “energetic” atmosphere, Laclede Street Bar and Grill entertains hundreds of students and other members of the community every week.

Mark Michael, owner and manager of Laclede’s, says that one of the benefits of being near a college campus is the “energy level” of the bar.

He notes that during Happy Hour and sports events, the bar is full of excitement.

Laclede’s, formerly known as Caleco’s for more than 25 years, also features a restaurant open for lunch and dinner, providing some of the best appetizers, burgers and pizzas in the area, according to Michael.

The restaurant takes up the east side of the building, while the bar area covers the west side.

Michael purchased Fat Freddies Pub and Grub last year. The building has bore many different names, including Shagnasty’s, Malarkees, Billiken Bench Club and Pastoris.

Michael attempted to give Fat Freddies both a nostalgic look and a more upbeat modern look.

The bar area includes signage and memorabilia from the building’s past, while the interior lounge area features brighter colors and neon signs.

The upstairs includes a pool table and arcade games.

The difference between the two bars, according to Michael, is one of atmosphere.

“The pub is a quieter place, but Laclede’s is more of a social place,” he said. “It’s like a jukebox compared to a DJ.”

In the future, Michael plans to include take out pizza and wings at Fat Freddies.

Owning two business in the area, in addition to his ownership of Martinis on Broadway, Mickey’s Restaurant and Metropolitan News Deli, Michael has a strong commitment to the Midtown area.

Looking back through Laclede’s and Caleco’s history, Michael notes a good number of celebrities that have stopped by the bar, including Marshall Faulk, Mark Macguire and a lot of other local sports players.