Andresen's

I was bored, and decided to do the dive bar walking circuit today.......Andresens, Hideaway, Gales......when I walked into Andresen's a little after 4 pm this afternoon, i was the only patron, I was greeted by a lady tending bar who was pleasant and who mixed a pretty decent beverage........bars are or at least were, man caves. Places like this, Fosters Bighorn in Rio Vista, or The French Bar in Gardnerville, Nevada exemplify this. Animals, dead animals that have likely been killed by men with rifles or bow and arrow adorn the walls. Nothing sad or tragic about this, this is life and death, and we will all face it sooner or later.....bless the ownership that says tradition is good, let's leave well enough alone. Great decor, a respectable no bullshit cocktail and a professional, seasoned bartender..........

Best bar in Petaluma and Helga is the best bartender in Petaluma.

They have PBR on tap!
They have PBR on tap!
They have PBR on tap!

Wine you ask? Bahahahahahahaahahahahaahhahahaha....

I dare you to ask Helga about their vintage wines.....

Andresen's is what I love in a bar, but it's perhaps not for everyone.  I have been here a handful of times, and had a blast each time.  One time involved a small group, lots of beer and gimlets, loud conversation and making random friends; another time it was three of us and quieter conversation; you get the picture -- it totally depends on the night and the company.  

Helga, as everyone seems to have noted, is a trip.  The decor is eclectic.  The drink prices are average.  Cash only.  (Relax.  There's a Chase around the corner and a BoA three blocks away.)  You can buy a flask or nip of something to go, if you are so inclined.  

I love that even when it's full, it's never crowded.  I love that there is space to sit and space to stand.  I love that the music is from a jukebox.  I love that it's a mix of curmudgeonly old timey locals and various young folks.  I love that the place is as clean and spotless as it was when it was decorated back in 1960 or whenever.  I love that while everyone there seems to be having a good time, I've not yet seen anyone get sloppy or out of control (though I'm sure it happens on occasion).  Overall, my fav bar in Petaluma.