Meh!

*face in hands*

I am a drinking SLACKER. I heartily apologize. Life and a bit of a tight money situation has left my cocktail and other beverage exploits a bit lacking.

Imbibe Unfiltered asks, "What makes a great bar?"

To me, it's a healthy combination of atmosphere, bartenders, the likelihood of finding a seat at the bar... and bar hooks.

1. A bar must have bar hooks. This requirement MUST be fulfilled for a bar to even be considered for favoritism.
2. If it's gonna be a bar I go to regularly, I want to get to know my bartenders. A seat at the bar is a must for this to happen. (comfy barstools are even better!)
3. Friendly, knowledgeable staff/bartenders. You don't have to be a cocktilian, but don't bite off more than you can chew.
4. I like to hear myself, and others at the bar. I want music, but I want it at a comfortable volume -- even if it's live.
5. Bonus 1: I love old-style decor at a bar. Wood paneling, brass accents... all of that stuff just makes it feel like "home".
6. Bonus 2: Plenty of stuff to look at. I love bars that have funky, weird stuff tucked away in every corner. Great for when your buddy goes to the bathroom and you need to avoid eye contact with that creepy guy in the corner. Plus, if you're tipsy/drunk, finding new stuff is an adventure!
7. Bonus 3: If it's summer, an outdoor bar is wonderful.

Side note: What is it about this Blogger template that screams "COCKTAILS!"? I've noticed most every blog about cocktails that I've encountered on Blogger uses this template (though, generally, the lighter variation - part of the reason why I chose this color scheme). It must be the retro dots.