What Makes the Best Bars?

From a high-class hotel bar to a low-down dives, there's a favorite haunt out there for everyone. But what is it that makes the best bars?

Of course, the drinks play a big role. Some places choose to go the generic route and keep an extensive wine list and a wide selection of beers on tap, while others choose to specialize in or concentrate on a certain drink. If a bar makes a mean bloody Mary, that can contribute plenty of word-of-mouth appeal. Whether the place offers fancy mixologist-style drinks, great local craft beers, or a traditional selection of cocktails and cheap pitchers of domestic beers, the most important thing is that the menu suits the clientele.

The best bars feature talented, appealing bartenders. Some do tricks with bottles, others invent customized drinks for their favorite customers, and still others serve as provisional therapists for downtrodden barfly’s. The common denominator is that great bartenders engage with their patrons in a way that keeps them coming back for more. Of course, the folks behind the bar should also be expected to make great drinks and serve them promptly.

An amazing staff engages the customers, but the customers create a sense of community. Who frequents the place, and how do they act toward each other? How well do they know each other? If a bar has a number of regulars who are loyal to it, it can serve as a place that offers a spirit of fraternity and friendship. The best bars work to encourage this sense of community by getting involved in local events or sponsoring local sports teams. Others honor their beloved regulars by providing them with customized steins that are kept behind the bar.

There's something to be said for great atmosphere, although it's not always easily achieved. Some historic establishments are truly unique because they give you a sense of legacy and continuity, and they're mainstays of the city's drinking culture. Decor has a significant bearing on an establishment's ambiance as well. Whether it's going for an upscale, classy feel or more of a dimly lit, dive-y kind of mood, it has to really commit to a certain element for the overall atmosphere to be effective. Some places even choose a particular theme, such as sports or a geographic location, and let that dictate the nature of the atmosphere.

The best bars tend to have access to clean, comfortable, well-stocked bathrooms. Especially since bathroom facilities are so heavily used in a bar setting, it's important for the staff to stay on top of cleanup duties. On the other side of things, some seedy, beloved neighborhood dive bars actually seem to add to their reputation and appeal by embracing their lack of sanitation.