If walls could speak, dive bars would share the most unforgettable tales. Unlike those fancy cocktail spots focused on elaborate drinks, dive bars attract patrons for what Derek Brown, a veteran mixologist and hospitality expert from Washington, D.C., refers to as “time, dirt, and money.” This means you’re there for the history, the character, and the affordable prices.
“I love visiting because the bartenders have a bit of edge, which just feels more genuine. Plus, the regulars create an interesting vibe, and you never know what kind of conversations you might stumble into,” Brown shared.
One of his top choices is Irv’s Basement Bar in Pasadena, Maryland. Brown noted that it’s likely the only licensed house bar in the U.S., located in a 102-year-old home of WWII veteran Irv Koch. “If the door was closed, I’d just knock, and either Irv or my daughter would open it for me,” he reminisced. “It’s truly one-of-a-kind.”
Recently, Tasting Table released a list highlighting the best dive bars across the U.S., defining them as “unapologetically unpretentious.” Their rankings considered various factors like atmosphere, reputation, and affordability, drawing from reviews and social media chatter.
From Alaska to New Orleans, many of these bars are over a century old. Some have resilient backstories; for instance, Little Rock’s White Water Tavern has survived three fires and became a venue for all sorts of events, from weddings to funerals.
1. Harbor Inn Cafe — Cleveland, Ohio
Harbor Inn Cafe is among the oldest listed, having opened in 1895 as a gathering spot for sailors and longshoremen. Originally featuring over 180 beers, sailors would drink a few and leave the rest behind to resell. It’s now down to about 100 options.
2. Snake and Jake’s Christmas Club Lounge — New Orleans, Louisiana
This dimly-lit, windowless dive feels like a cozy cabin adorned with Christmas lights. It’s so dark that when George Clooney dropped by, he went unnoticed until he left. The spot gained attention when Anthony Bourdain filmed there for the Travel Channel.
3. Salty Dawg Saloon — Homer, Alaska
Located at the scenic Kenai Peninsula, the Salty Dawg, built in 1897, has a rich history, previously serving as a post office and more before reopening as a bar in 1957.
4. Saloon No. 10 — Deadwood, South Dakota
Not just any bar, Saloon No. 10 is famed for its place in history. Wild Bill Hickok was shot there in 1876, and the bar still houses the chair he occupied at the time. It’s known for having the largest whiskey collection in the state and offers the town’s only single-deck blackjack.
5. Santa’s Pub — Nashville, Tennessee
This festive bar, situated in an old construction trailer, is set to reopen on October 19 after the passing of its cherished owner. Fans praise it for its cheap drinks and energetic karaoke nights.
6. Hudson House — Beach Haven, New Jersey
A cash-only spot without a website, Hudson House is known for its inexpensive beers and retro shuffleboard, filling local hangout needs.
7. Dave’s Fox Head Tavern — Iowa City, Iowa
This historic bar, opened in 1934, has welcomed famous authors like Kurt Vonnegut. Patrons appreciate its minimalist beer selection and quirky jukebox, along with its laid-back atmosphere.
8. Tikiti — Los Angeles, California
The cozy Tiki-Ti, founded in 1961, offers an easygoing vibe with its classic rum drinks and nostalgic decor. The bar has been nurtured by family members, continuing its legacy long after its founder’s passing.
