Two simple enough words with two simple enough definitions. Ask two people where the closest dive is and you won't get the same answer.

Should a dive bar have a velvet rope? Most likely not, but I would hate to limit anyone's vision of an alcoholic arcadia existing somewhere in this expansive fabric of society.

Should a dive bar have to smell bad? Most likely not, but it would help. Imagine a bar that smells like liquor and beer... now imagine a bar that smells like milk and toast. Which one pours the better drink?

Should a dive have windows? Most likely not, but you could paint them black or cover them with plywood to help the ambiance along a bit. If you are somewhere where there use to be a window and its been covered with posters and hand bills, that's a very good sign your in a dive bar.

Should you be afraid to enter? Most likely not, but your mother should be. Fear is always a great motivator. My point is this... it is all about perspective and style. One man's dive bar is another's sanctuary. Different strokes for different folks.

One thing that is true about all dive bars... they should make you feel like you just came home (or at the very least that you just entered a friends well stocked basement).

With that said, our purpose here isn't to define the dive bar, rather we want to guide you to the dive bar that can make you just have to visit for a drink or two, or three, or four... maybe more.